Tube and Tyre Basic Guides By Carter Hayes June 22, 2026 9 min read

How Tall Is a 315 70 17 Tire? Exact Height, Width & Dimensions

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A 315/70R17 tire is about 34.4 inches tall overall, with a section width near 12.4 inches and a sidewall height of about 8.7 inches. You’re looking at a radial tire designed for a 17-inch wheel, and real-world size can vary slightly by brand, wheel width, pressure, and load. If you need fitment, load ratings, or alternate sizes, there’s more useful detail ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • A 315/70R17 tire is about 34.4 inches tall, or roughly 874 mm in overall diameter.
  • Its section width is 315 mm, which equals about 12.4 inches when mounted and inflated.
  • The sidewall height is about 220 mm, or 8.7 inches, based on the 70% aspect ratio.
  • Actual size can vary slightly by brand, wheel width, and inflation pressure.
  • This size is common on heavy-duty trucks and lifted SUVs, so verify clearance at full lock and compression.

What Does 315/70R17 Mean?

tire size specification explained

A 315/70R17 tire size tells you four key measurements. The 315 tells you the tire’s width in millimeters, so you’re looking at a 315 mm tread section across. The 70 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height equals 70% of that width. That ratio helps you understand how much rubber supports the wheel without guessing. The R means radial construction, which you’ll find on most modern tires because it improves handling and safety. The 17 shows the wheel rim diameter in inches, so this tire fits a 17-inch wheel. When you read the code correctly, you control the spec instead of letting it control you. You can compare fitment, clearance, and performance with confidence. This naming system gives you direct, practical information, so you can choose gear that matches your vehicle and your freedom needs. Additionally, understanding tire selection criteria can help enhance your overall driving experience.

How Tall Is a 315/70R17 Tire?

At about 34.4 inches tall, a 315/70R17 tire stands roughly 874 mm high overall. That Overall Height is what you use when you’re checking fitment, clearance, and gearing impact. In Tire Size terms, the 70% aspect ratio produces a sidewall of about 8.7 inches, or 220 mm, giving you a tall stance without guesswork. You’ll often see these Dimensions on trucks, SUVs, and other larger vehicles that need ground clearance and load-ready presence. Additionally, selecting the right tire can greatly impact safety, comfort, and efficiency for your driving experience.

  • Overall Height: 34.4 in / 874 mm
  • Sidewall Height: 8.7 in / 220 mm
  • Typical Use: trucks, SUVs, larger vehicles

Keep in mind that brand and model differences can shift the exact measurement slightly, so you should verify the manufacturer’s spec before you buy. If you want a clean, technical baseline, this size gives you a reliable height reference for planning a freer, more capable setup.

How Wide Is a 315/70R17 Tire?

A 315/70R17 tire has a nominal section width of 315 mm, which is about 12.4 inches, so that’s the starting point for its width. You’ll often measure a slightly different actual width once the tire’s mounted and inflated, since brand and model tolerances can shift the dimension a bit. For fitment, you should check inflation pressure and wheel width, because both can affect the tire’s final measured width and clearance. Additionally, tire construction and ply ratings can significantly impact performance and durability.

Nominal Section Width

A 315/70R17 tire has a nominal section width of about 12.4 inches, or 315 mm, measured sidewall to sidewall when it’s mounted and inflated. This nominal section width helps you match tire construction to the diameter of the wheel and keep performance predictable.

  • Wider footprint can improve traction on loose surfaces.
  • Width supports stability when you run rough trails.
  • Fitment still depends on rim compatibility and vehicle clearance.

You should treat this number as the design width, not a guarantee of exact physical size. Manufacturers may vary slightly within their tolerances, but the specification gives you a reliable baseline. If you want confident control and off-road freedom, use the section width to verify that your setup fits cleanly and performs as intended.

Actual Measured Width

The actual measured width of a 315/70R17 tire is about 12.4 inches, or 315 mm, though the exact figure can vary slightly by brand and model. You read the first number in the tire size to get this width in millimeters, so 315 tells you the tread’s nominal span. In practice, the actual measured width may shift a bit because each manufacturer shapes the casing differently. For your setup, that matters because width affects clearance, contact patch, and the tire’s overall profile. A 315/70R17 also carries a sidewall height of about 8.7 inches, reinforcing its tall, planted stance. If you want a precise fit and confident handling, you need to verify the real width, not just the label, before you lock in your wheel and vehicle combination.

Inflation And Fitment

At about 12.4 inches wide, a 315/70R17 tire needs the right inflation and fitment to work properly on your vehicle. You’ll want to keep inflation in spec, because low pressure can blur steering response, while excess pressure can reduce grip and unevenly load the tread. Its 34.4-inch diameter also demands enough wheel-arch and suspension clearance.

  • Check the recommended pressure for your load.
  • Verify fender, control arm, and liner clearance.
  • Confirm wheel width and offset suit the tire’s size.

If you’re fitting these tires on a truck or SUV, measure the available space at full lock and full compression. Proper fitment lets you move freely, avoid rubbing, and preserve the tire’s intended footprint, giving you stable, confident control on- and off-road.

315/70R17 in Inches

all terrain tire specifications

A 315/70R17 tire measures about 34.4 inches tall overall, so you can expect a 17-inch wheel with a large all-terrain profile. When you evaluate this Tire Size, focus on Overall Height first, because it defines clearance, stance, and fit freedom. You’re also working with about 12.4 inches of section width and roughly 8.7 inches of sidewall. That combination gives you a tall, planted footprint without giving up the 17-inch Wheel format. Additionally, this tire size is popular among all-terrain tire enthusiasts for its strong balance of clearance, traction, and control.

Measure Inches Notes
Overall height 34.4 Tire’s total diameter
Width 12.4 Section width
Sidewall 8.7 70% of width

You should still check brand specs, since actual dimensions can shift slightly. For your build, this size offers a strong balance of clearance, traction, and control.

315/70R17 in Millimeters

Looking at 315/70R17 in millimeters gives you the metric dimensions behind that 34.4-inch tire size. You can read the Tire Size directly: 315 means the Width is about 315 millimeters, or 12.4 inches. The 70 aspect ratio means your sidewall measures roughly 220.5 millimeters tall, which helps define the tire’s Overall Diameter of about 874 millimeters. That diameter confirms the fit on a 17-inch wheel rim and keeps the package compatible with many trucks and SUVs.

315/70R17 in millimeters means a 315 mm width, 220.5 mm sidewall, and 874 mm diameter.

  • Width: 315 mm
  • Sidewall height: 220.5 mm
  • Overall Diameter: 874 mm

When you want exact metric numbers, this format gives you a clear, practical reference. You’re not guessing—you’re using the specification as written. Small brand-to-brand differences can occur, but these figures give you the standard baseline for fitment, clearance, and tire selection freedom. Additionally, tire performance in rain and snow is an essential consideration when selecting tires for varied driving conditions.

What Changes Real-World Tire Height?

Several real-world factors can move a 315/70R17 tire away from its nominal 34.4-inch height. Tire pressure matters first: if you run lower pressure, the sidewalls flex more and the tire sits shorter; higher pressure can restore or slightly increase height. Your load also counts, because heavier weight compresses the carcass and reduces rolling radius more than a light load does. You’ll also see small differences between brands and tread designs, since manufacturers don’t build every “315/70R17” to exactly the same measured height. Environmental factors matter too. Cold air drops pressure, which can trim height, while heat can raise pressure and alter shape. Road surfaces, off-road use, and wear patterns can shave off measurable height over time. If you want the most accurate setup, measure your tire at your own pressure, with your own load, in your own conditions, so you keep control instead of accepting a brochure number. Additionally, tire construction materials can significantly impact overall height and performance characteristics.

Which Vehicles Fit 315/70R17 Tires?

heavy duty truck tire compatibility

Which vehicles fit 315/70R17 tires depends on factory clearance, suspension, and wheel-well space, but this size is commonly found on heavy-duty trucks and full-size SUVs like the Ford F-250, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, and Toyota Tundra. You’ll also see it on lifted rigs built for trail freedom, where the 34.4-inch Tire Size clears rocks and ruts. If your Tacoma runs aftermarket suspension and wider fenders, it may accept this fitment too.

  • Check clearance at full lock and compression.
  • Confirm your wheel width and offset match the Tire Size.
  • Verify Load Capacity for towing, hauling, and recovery gear. Durability Features make these tires suitable for demanding conditions.

Because this tire carries serious Load Capacity, it suits work trucks that need strength without surrendering control. Aftermarket wheels can improve stance and performance, but you still need enough space to avoid rubbing. Measure carefully, compare specs, and choose a setup that keeps your vehicle independent on pavement and dirt.

Which Load and Speed Ratings Matter?

For a 315/70R17 tire, you need to match both the load and speed ratings to your vehicle’s demands, since these specs directly affect safety and performance. Check the sidewall and verify that the load ratings, often 121/118S through 126/123S, meet your axle weight and cargo needs. If you haul gear, tow, or run a heavy truck or SUV, underspec’d tires can overheat, flex too much, and reduce control. Speed ratings matter too: Q supports 99 mph, while R supports 106 mph under ideal conditions. You shouldn’t ignore either rating, even if the tire dimensions fit perfectly. Proper ratings keep your setup compliant with vehicle specs and help you drive with confidence. When you choose tires, compare the label against your manufacturer’s requirements, not just the size. Durability ratings indicate how well tires can handle wear over time, which is crucial for maintaining performance. Freedom on the road starts with equipment that can carry the load and handle the speed you demand.

What Are Good Alternate Tire Sizes?

If the 315/70R17’s load and speed ratings don’t line up with your setup, you can look at alternate sizes that keep the overall diameter close and preserve drivability. A smart alternate size lets you keep clearance, gearing feel, and tread behavior under control while staying within your vehicle’s limits. Check the load rating first, then match the tread pattern to how you drive.

  • 35×12.50R17: about 35 inches tall, a strong off-road pick with a bold footprint.
  • 275/70R17: about 32.2 inches tall and 275 mm wide, a practical, economical fit for many trucks and SUVs.
  • 325/70R17: about 34.4 inches tall, wider for extra traction and stability.

You’ll get the best results when you verify wheel width, suspension space, and manufacturer specs before swapping. Additionally, all-season tires are often recommended for maintaining performance across various weather conditions while ensuring safety and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 315 70 17 the Same as 35 12.50 17?

No, you shouldn’t treat 315/70R17 and 35×12.50R17 as the same tire. In tire sizing, a 315/70R17 is about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, while a 35×12.50R17 is 35 inches tall and 12.5 inches wide. That metric conversion shows the 315 usually fits slightly shorter and a bit wider. For off road performance, you’ll notice different clearance, gearing, and handling.

Is a 315 Tire Equal to a 35?

Yes, you can usually treat a 315 as a 35 in tire conversion, but it isn’t exact. You’ll measure about 34.4 inches of overall diameter, so tread depth and brand can shift the true size a bit. You should check load index too, because fitment and capacity matter more than marketing labels. If you want freedom from guesswork, compare actual specs before you buy, mount, or clear your fenders.

Which Tire Is Taller, a 65 or 70?

A 70-series tire is taller than a 65-series tire. In this tire height comparison, you gain about 1 inch of extra sidewall, which can add roughly 34.4 inches overall versus 33.4 inches. That aspect ratio impact changes ride, clearance, and gearing. When you read tire size terminology, the second number shows sidewall height as a percentage of width, so a higher number means a taller tire and more freedom off-road.

Is 315 a 37 Inch Tire?

No, you’re not looking at a true 37-inch tire. A 315/70R17 measures about 34.4 inches tall, with a 315 mm width and a 70% aspect ratio, so your tire sizing won’t match a 37-inch setup. You’ll still get strong off road performance, but you shouldn’t expect the clearance, gearing, or stance of a real 37. Check the actual spec, not the label, and you’ll choose freely.

Conclusion

So, if you’re sizing up a 315/70R17, you’re looking at a tire that’s about 34.4 inches tall and 12.4 inches wide, with a section height near 8.7 inches. I once watched a truck gain just half an inch of lift from tire pressure alone—proof that small changes matter. When you’re comparing fitment, don’t guess: check actual mounted dimensions, wheel width, and load rating. Those details decide whether the tire clears or rubs.

Carter Hayes

Carter Hayes

Author

Carter Hayes is the founder and lead automotive editor of TubeTyre, an online resource focused on tyre reviews, buying guides, and practical automotive maintenance. With more than ten years of experience in the automotive field, Carter guides the site’s editorial strategy and review process. His work centers on making tyre and vehicle-care information easier for everyday drivers to understand, while maintaining a strong focus on testing standards and editorial trust.

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