285/55/R20 Geolander G015 Terrible traction in rain and snow!

AFournier · February 2, 2020

I have 285/55/R20 Geolander G015 (rated with three peak mountain for snow) tires and they have poor traction in rain, snow and icy conditions. I live in Vancouver and drive into the mountains regularly for ski and adventure days. I slip and slide in snowy conditions. They got great reviews on TireRack.com (8/10 for snow, plenty of users says they are great in snow in their reviews, 8.8 for wet traction) which boggles my mind. So one thing I can think of is that I've got terrible traction because they are wider than Chevy's stock size of 275/55/20 by about half an inch. Does this make sense?

Is it possible that certain tire sizes are not built to the same specs as others? Maybe because 285/55/20 is less common, they use inferior rubber? I find that a silly proposition but have to ask...

I also have them inflated to 38 psi, a bit over recommended pressure. Perhaps I should decrease pressure a bit below 35psi for winter months?

durandetto · February 2, 2020

The wider the tire the worse it will be in the snow.

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14GMCZ71 · February 3, 2020

Maybe air down to 30 or 32 psi. The sticker on the door jam of my 2014 GMC Sierra indicates 32 psi.

Donstar · February 3, 2020

Does the slipping and sliding occur while in 4WD?

L86 All Terrain · February 3, 2020

You went a little wide on your tire that's all. I run a 275 on a 2500 which is about 2,000lbs heavier with 600lbs in the bed. It will go just about anywhere in 2wd. Anything over 275 on a 1500 will offer diminishing returns on snow and ice unless you have payload all the time. The wider your tire is, you effectively reduce the ground pressure of the vehicle offering less traction. Your front tires will also have more rolling resistance trying to roll or push through the snow, leading the rear to want to spin easier. I have 12.5's (315ish) on my 1500, it is literally undriveable in snow or ice, I park it in the winter. 285 is a great size for summer and off road use, but not the best width for winter. I would add a few sandbags and air the rears down to about 35psi. Or buy a set of 245 - 265's for the winter.