Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires

For off-road enthusiasts and those who work in the most demanding environments, a standard tire simply won't cut it. You need a mud-terrain tire that can bite into deep silt, climb over jagged rocks, and survive the punishing conditions of the trail. The Kumho Road Venture MT71 and the Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT are two top-tier contenders designed to do exactly that.

Choosing between these two off-road giants involves looking at how they balance traction with modern durability. In this head-to-head comparison of the Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires, we use our SimpleScore system to determine which mud-terrain tire is the best fit for your truck or SUV.

Kumho Road Venture MT71 tires

The Kumho Road Venture MT71 is a maximum-traction mud-terrain tire engineered for off-road performance without completely abandoning on-road stability. Kumho utilized high-void tread blocks and a high-stiffness compound to ensure the tire maintains its shape under heavy loads and aggressive use.

A standout feature of the Road Venture MT71 tires is the zigzag groove design combined with stone ejectors. This prevents stones from drilling into the carcass and ensures the tread remains clear of mud for consistent grip. With an overall SimpleScore of 8.8, the Kumho proves to be a robust, high-value choice for those who demand performance on a budget.

Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires

The Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT is a premium entry in the mud-terrain category, built for those who take their off-roading seriously. It was designed with a focus on a big-block build to maximize the contact patch for rock crawling while maintaining the deep-cleat design necessary for mud and sand.

Goodyear utilized their TractiveGroove Technology and a specialized Durawall 3-ply sidewall to ensure these tires can withstand trail hazards. The Wrangler Boulder MT tires are for drivers who want a no-compromise tire. Boasting an overall SimpleScore of 9.2, the Goodyear positions itself as a leader in the segment.

Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires on traction

In the world of mud-terrain tires, traction is king. Comparing the Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires on traction reveals two different approaches to grip. The Kumho Road Venture MT71 uses its massive lug blocks to dig into soft surfaces, earning a traction score of 8.5.

The Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT, however, takes the lead with a traction score of 9.3. It utilizes large-block tread elements and a specialized compound that is exceptionally "sticky" on wet rocks and slick surfaces. The TractiveGroove technology also provides enhanced traction in deep mud and even light snow, giving it a broader range of capability.

ADVANTAGE: Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT

Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires on handling

Handling for a mud-terrain tire is defined by steering precision and the ability to maintain stability across unpredictable surfaces. The Kumho Road Venture MT71 utilizes a high-stiffness tread block design and a reinforced carcass to minimize block squirm, earning a solid handling score of 8.9. This rigid construction ensures the tire remains responsive and predictable, whether you are navigating a tight trail or a winding highway.

The Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT delivers a similarly focused performance, resulting in a handling score of 9.3. The tire’s large-block architecture and optimized footprint provide a stable contact patch that enhances control during technical maneuvers. This heavy-duty construction is essential for drivers who need precise steering feedback while rock crawling or maintaining lane stability at highway speeds.

ADVANTAGE: Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT

Kumho Road Venture MT71 vs Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT tires on longevity

Longevity is often the Achilles' heel of mud-terrain tires, as the soft, aggressive compounds tend to wear quickly on hot pavement. The Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT performs admirably here with a longevity score of 9.1, which is exceptionally high for this category. Its optimized footprint helps distribute weight evenly to slow down the wear process.

The Kumho Road Venture MT71 is a strong competitor, offering a longevity score of 9.1. While it is a durable tire that holds its own on the highway, it tends to wear slightly faster than the Goodyear under heavy on-road use. For a tire in this price range, however, its tread life remains very competitive.

ADVANTAGE: tie

When to use each

Understanding the environment you drive in most will help you decide between these two. Use the Kumho Road Venture MT71 if you are looking for a rugged mud-terrain tire that provides excellent off-road performance without the premium price tag. It is a fantastic choice for weekend adventurers and work trucks that spend significant time in the mud or on gravel paths.

Use the Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT if you demand the absolute best in rock-crawling traction and sidewall protection. Its superior traction and longevity scores make it the better choice for dedicated off-road builds and luxury trucks that require a tire that looks aggressive but can still handle long-distance highway hauls with ease.

Which one should you choose?

When comparing the SimpleScores, the Goodyear Wrangler Boulder MT is the highest-rated tire across traction, durability, and longevity. It represents the pinnacle of Goodyear’s off-road technology. However, the Kumho Road Venture MT71 remains a favorite among many drivers because of its incredible price-to-performance ratio. If you want a tire that dominates the trail and lasts longer on the road, the Goodyear is the winner. If you want a tough-as-nails mud-terrain tire that keeps more money in your pocket, the Kumho is the way to go.

Still not sure which tire to buy? Fortunately, SimpleTire is here to help as our helpful agents are more than happy to assist you in selecting the right tire for your ride and budget.