Few people know this, but my first real off-road vehicle was a 1991 Jeep Wrangler. Well, technically, if we’re getting into details, my first actual off-road rig was a black 1988 Suzuki Samurai—but let’s just say that Samurai and I had a complicated relationship! Let’s be honest; it wasn’t exactly known for tearing up the trails…
I actually found an old photo of myself with that Samurai, and let me tell you, I want to kick my own butt for how I looked in it. Not only am I pretty sure my hair was permed, but the mud you see caked on the side of that wanna-be truck? Yeah, that mud stayed there for almost two weeks just so I could pretend it was an off-road warrior. Truth is, I probably just ran it back and forth through a large mud puddle. Poser! But moving on to that 1991 Wrangler—that was where my off-roading journey really began.
Back then, when I was deciding on tires, my choice was based more on how cool they looked and less on brand reputation or performance reviews. Enter the Super Swampers. They had this rugged, aggressive tread pattern, and, well, the name just sounded cool—Super Swamper! I’ll be honest: I had zero clue who Interco Tires was at the time. I wasn’t buying into any brand loyalty; I was just a guy with a Jeep, drawn to some epic-looking tires with a name that practically screamed “off-road beast.”
Those Super Swampers, though, ended up setting the bar incredibly high. Once I got a taste of that insane traction, I knew I’d found something special. They gripped rocks, chewed through mud, and handled almost anything I threw their way. They became a benchmark in my mind, one that I would compare every other tire against from that point on.
Fast forward to today, with a lot more trail time and tire testing under my belt, I’ve run through more brands and models than I can count. But on my Gladiator, there are three that stand out: the Nitto Trail Grapplers, Milestar Patagonia MT 2s, and now, these Interco Tires IROKs. I’ve been running the IROKs for nearly 10 months now, both on-road and off, and naturally, that bar set by my first set of Super Swampers has been in the back of my mind every step of the way.
The big question is, did these IROKs live up to those memories from nearly 25 years ago? And would I recommend them today, now that I’m making choices based on performance and reliability rather than just cool looks or names? This review breaks it all down, with an honest take on how they’ve held up, how they compare, and whether the IROKs might be the next go-to tire for your off-road adventures. Read on to see if they’re worth the spot on your rig!
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Interco Tires IROK Model
- On-Road Performance of the Interco Tires IROK
- Off-Road Performance of the Interco Tires IROK
- Air Down Performance and Compressor Recommendation
- Interco Tires IROK Comparison with Nitto Trail Grappler and Milestar Patagonia MT 2
- Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Overview of the Interco Tires IROK Model
Image credit: Interco Tires
Before we get into my thoughts on this tire, let’s discuss a little bit about who this company is and some basics about the IROK tire itself…
If you’ve followed my articles for any period of time, you’ll know I’m a huge advocate of supporting family-run businesses, which, unfortunately, I think are becoming a dying breed. Family-run businesses often bring a closer, more personal connection to customer satisfaction—when you get a great product, it’s not just a win for the brand; it’s a reflection of the family’s legacy and commitment to quality. Interco Tires fits that description to a tee. On top of that, these tires are manufactured right here in the USA. This means each time you purchase these tires, you are supporting not only jobs but also the US economy.
Interco Tires has built a strong legacy in the off-road tire world, solidifying itself as a reliable and performance-focused brand since the mid-1960s. Based in the heart of Cajun Country in South Louisiana, this family-owned business spans three generations and has been instrumental in shaping off-road tire technology and design. Interco’s breakthrough came with the creation of the L78 Original Swamper, the first-ever light truck tire explicitly designed for off-road use. This innovative move set a new standard for what off-road tires could accomplish, introducing a category that remains popular among enthusiasts to this day.
Image credit: Interco Tires
Interco’s commitment to providing specialized solutions for serious off-roaders has only grown. Today, the brand offers nearly 500 different light truck tire models, addressing the needs of folks who tackle everything from mud and snow to rocky trails. Let’s be real, that’s a lot of tires!
Beyond trucks, Interco Tires has also ventured into the powersports sector, creating over 175 models specifically for the ATV and UTV markets. This diversity and specialization are why Interco remains a trusted name among off-road enthusiasts worldwide, with a reputation for designing tires that excel across challenging terrain.
The IROK Radial tire is a testament to Interco’s dedication to superior off-road performance. Engineered with a range of features meant to tackle tough environments, the IROK has become a favorite among people who demand both durability and versatility.
Image credit: Interco Tires
One of its standout attributes is Interco Tires’ signature Three-Stage Lug (TSL) design, which provides exceptional traction on loose surfaces like mud, snow, and rock. The IROK’s scooped lugs and blade sipes allow it to dig deep and grip confidently, while its cut-resistant compounds minimize damage from rough terrain.
Additionally, the IROK includes specialized sidewall reinforcements that protect against punctures and abrasions from rocks, roots, and other trail hazards. With D.O.T. approval on most sizes, these tires offer the versatility of on-road legality, making them suitable for drivers who need a tire that can handle the drive to the trailhead and then conquer the trails themselves. Despite their off-road prowess, the IROK tires also deliver a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride, which is a rare find in high-performance off-road tires and an advantage for those long hauls to remote destinations.
If you’re looking for customizable options, the IROK is available in both bias ply and radial construction, with nearly 50 size combinations to fit various vehicle types. Whether you’re after a directional tread for specific off-road situations or a non-directional model, Interco Tires has thought of nearly everything to ensure the IROK meets the needs of off-road enthusiasts. And as I mentioned earlier, these tires are proudly made in the USA. That means these tires embody Interco’s commitment to quality and performance, offering a tire choice that off-roaders like you and me can depend on no matter the terrain.
On-Road Performance of the Interco Tires IROK
Image credit: Interco Tires
When you first see the Interco Tires IROK, you might expect it to sound like a herd of stampeding elephants on the highway, given how aggressive that tread pattern looks. But, surprisingly, while these tires do give off a bit of a hum on pavement and at highway speeds, it’s not nearly what you’d expect from something with such a gnarly look. Of course, we all have different tolerances when it comes to noise, but from my experience testing a wide range of off-road tires, I’d rate the IROK’s road noise as a solid “8” out of 10 for an aggressive tread like this.
One tire I’d compare here is the Milestar Patagonia MT2. Fresh out of the box, the Patagonias were impressively quiet for a mud-terrain tire because of their hybrid design, but they got louder over time. In contrast, these IROKs have stayed consistently tolerable noise-wise, and that’s been a pleasant surprise over the 5,000 miles I’ve put on them.
Image credit: Interco Tires
Handling-wise, the Interco Tires IROKs bring some unique strengths to the table, especially with their sidewall stability. I found that the solid sidewalls provide incredible support, even on quick turns, which is a real plus when running an off-road tire on-road. The sidewalls’ stiffness keeps the Jeep Gladiator firmly planted on the pavement, avoiding any unsettling body roll, which is key for stable handling.
Now, in terms of durability and wear, these tires have really impressed me. After 10 months and nearly 5,000 miles, the IROKs have held up remarkably well. For a mud-terrain tire, the wear rate has been excellent, and I’d rate it another “8” in terms of long-term durability. They’ve kept a solid level of grip across dry, snowy, and rainy conditions, which adds to their appeal as a dual-purpose tire for daily drivers who spend some time off-road.
Image credit: Interco Tires
That said, durability and grip come with some heft. The Interco Tires 37×12.5R17LT model weighs in at 83 pounds per tire—not the heaviest I’ve tested, but far from the lightest. Naturally, this impacts fuel efficiency, and I’d give it a “6” on that front. But let’s be real: when you’re investing in an off-road tire like this, fuel efficiency probably isn’t at the top of your list of concerns.
Overall, the IROK exceeded my on-road expectations, providing stability, grip, and even comfort without compromising on that rugged, aggressive look. It’s a tire that performs across the board in dry, snow, and rain conditions, proving itself more than capable of handling both the trails and the trip back home.
Off-Road Performance of the Interco Tires IROK
Off-road is where the Interco Tires IROK truly shines. This tire’s design, from its tread to its sidewalls, was crafted to tackle the toughest terrains, and in my experience, it handled everything I threw at it with ease—whether it was snow, mud, desert sand, or large rocks.
As I noted earlier, the tread pattern on these tires features Interco’s iconic TSL design, which has built a reputation among off-roaders for a reason. With each test, I felt the TSL lugs bite into loose ground, providing insane traction where other tires might hesitate. This design isn’t just for show; it delivers in every sense, gripping the mud and snow with an aggressive, all-or-nothing approach that you want in a true off-road tire. I tested these in the sand dunes of Death Valley and deep snow up in Big Bear, and every time, the IROKs proved their mettle.
In softer terrain like sand and mud, the scooped lugs and blade sipes of the Interco Tires IROK come into play. These features work together, digging deep to keep the vehicle moving forward even when it feels like you’re about to get bogged down.
In fact, I didn’t have to worry about getting stuck in the mud and in loose sand; the IROKs just kept pulling. They maintain enough surface contact to prevent sinking, yet they dig in when you need that extra push. While sand can be tricky for certain tire types, especially when it comes to maintaining stability, the IROKs handled it like pros, delivering control without any real struggle.
When it comes to rocky terrain, the Interco Tires IROKs are in their element. I’ve taken them over some rugged, rocky trails, and the grip is exceptional. The IROK’s sidewalls deserve a lot of credit here; with the enhanced protection against punctures and abrasions, they gave me peace of mind in rocky environments where sharp edges could be a risk.
The sidewalls are reinforced with cut-resistant compounds and extra protection against punctures from rocks and roots, making them a perfect fit for technical rocky trails. Every time I pushed the Gladiator over boulders or gravel-covered paths, I felt the tires confidently hugging the terrain, with just the right amount of flex to keep a stable grip.
Overall, I give the IROKs a solid “10” for off-road performance. They handle mud, snow, sand, and rocks with remarkable ease, adapting to different terrains and conditions without breaking a sweat. These tires are built to conquer whatever the trail throws at you, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to truly push their vehicle’s limits off-road.
Air Down Performance and Compressor Recommendation
Airing down is a game-changer in off-roading, and with the right tires, it’s where you can unlock the full potential of your rig’s performance. Lowering tire pressure increases the tire’s contact patch with the ground, which improves traction on challenging surfaces like snow, mud, and sand.
I’ve had my Interco Tires IROKs down to 8 psi on the snowy and muddy trails of Big Bear and through the sandy dunes of Death Valley, and I can tell you—these tires are built to handle it. Even without beadlock wheels, I felt confident, thanks to the solid construction of the IROK’s sidewalls and the extended tread that wraps partially onto the sidewall, which adds extra grip and protection where it’s most needed.
Image credit: Interco Tires
This performance can be attributed to the features I mentioned before, like the scooped lugs, blade sipes, and cut-resistant compounds. Together, these design elements allow the IROKs to dig deep into loose surfaces, providing excellent traction and stability. The special sidewall features protect against punctures and abrasions, even in rugged terrain with sharp rocks or gnarly roots. It’s this kind of design that makes it possible to rate the Interco Tires IROKs as a “10” for off-road performance because airing down is what really takes it to the next level.
But here’s the thing: when you air down, you’re going to need to air back up before hitting pavement, and that’s where a reliable air compressor becomes essential. Over the years with 4wdTalk, I’ve heard way too many horror stories from fellow off-roaders who got stranded because their compressors failed. Trust me, a good compressor is worth its weight in gold.
Now, there are plenty of options out there. In fact, if you search “off-road air compressor” on Amazon, you’ll find over 685 listings! With that much noise, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. I’ve tested several compressors over the years, and my go-to used to be the ViAir 440—a solid choice, no doubt. However, my current favorite is the MORRFlate TenSix PSI Pro Gen2. I started with the original model and was immediately impressed, but the latest version has truly taken it to a new level.
What sets the TenSix PSI Pro Gen2 apart is its speed…
It inflates tires faster than anything else I’ve used, which is a real time-saver on the trail. The durability and technology are impressive, too, but the speed is what sold me. Another huge plus is the team behind the brand; I’ve gotten to know the owner, and he’s the real deal—an outdoors enthusiast who shares a love for the trails.
MORRFlate also supports the off-road community by donating to causes that keep trails open and actively participating in trail maintenance on iconic paths like The Rubicon Trail, Fordyce Creek Trail, and Barrett Lake Trail in Northern California.
There are certainly other good compressors out there, but MORRFlate gets my enthusiastic thumbs up and a permanent spot in my rig. If you’re as passionate about having the right gear as I am, check out my recent article, 5 Reasons Why the MORRFlate TenSix PSI Pro Gen2 is a Must-Have Overlanding Air Compressor. It’ll give you a deeper look into why this compressor has become my go-to recommendation.
Interco Tires IROK Comparison with Nitto Trail Grappler and Milestar Patagonia MT 2
When it comes to off-road tires, the Nitto Trail Grappler and Milestar Patagonia MT2 both bring a lot to the table and are worthy competitors to the IROK…
As many of you know, I’ve been a fan of Nitto tires since my Corvette days. Nitto’s reputation for performance and durability is solid, so it’s no small feat for a tire to compete with them. The Trail Grappler, in particular, has set a high bar in the mud-terrain category with its impressive construction and grip. Then there’s the Milestar Patagonia MT2, which caught my attention as a budget-friendly option with a hybrid MT design that performs surprisingly well for the price.
If you’re interested in a deeper dive into each of these, check out my reviews here:
Side-by-Side Performance
My Jeep Gladiator outfitted with the Nitto Trail Grappler tires.
Breaking down the essentials, price and weight are key factors. The Nitto Trail Grappler is the heaviest at 84.8 lbs, the IROK follows closely at 83 lbs, and the Milestar is the lightest at 73.8 lbs. When it comes to price, Milestar is the most budget-friendly at around $380, Nitto comes in at $484, and the IROKs are the premium option at $663. Here’s how each tire stacks up across several vital categories:
- Price: The Interco Tires IROKs score a “6,” Nitto a “7,” and Milestar an impressive “9” for affordability. Milestar is a clear winner here if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much performance.
- Off-Road Prowess: The IROK stands supreme with a perfect “10” for off-road traction and stability, especially with its TSL design and sidewall features that give it unmatched grip on challenging terrain. The Nitto Trail Grappler comes close with a “9,” handling mud and rocks extremely well, but it lacks some of the hardcore grip that the IROK offers. Milestar Patagonia MT2 scores a “7” here; while it’s versatile, it doesn’t offer quite the same performance level in extreme off-road situations.
- Noise Levels on the Road: Here, the Milestar shines with a “9” for road noise, thanks to its hybrid design that provides a quieter ride. The Interco Tires IROKs score an “8”—surprisingly quiet for such an aggressive tread—and the Nitto Trail Grappler trails with a “6,” as it tends to generate more noise at highway speeds.
- Construction and Materials: The IROK’s build quality is top-notch, scoring a “10” with its robust construction and reinforced sidewalls that can take on rough terrain. Nitto scores an “8” for its durable design, while the Milestar’s lighter build puts it at a “6.”
Personal Preference
My Jeep Gladiator outfitted with the Milestar Patagonia MT2 tires.
Each of these tires has met my expectations in different ways. The Nitto Trail Grappler remains a favorite for its reliability and durability—it’s what I’d call a “set it and forget it” tire, able to handle a range of off-road challenges with minimal wear and tear. However, the weight and road noise are definite considerations if you’re using it as a daily driver.
The Milestar Patagonia MT2, on the other hand, offers great value for money. Its hybrid tread design makes it an ideal choice for someone who splits their time between on-road and off-road driving, and its lightweight construction means it’s easier on fuel. It doesn’t offer the same level of off-road traction as the IROK or the Nitto, but it’s a solid choice for a more casual off-road enthusiast or those on a budget.
As for the Interco Tires IROKs, they’ve impressed me across the board. While they come with a higher price tag, you’re getting what you pay for: unparalleled off-road performance, durability, and stability in challenging terrains. For hardcore off-roaders, the IROK is the tire I’d recommend without hesitation, especially for those tackling rocky or muddy terrain where grip and sidewall strength are key.
In the end, I’d recommend all three tires, depending on your needs. The Nitto Trail Grappler for tried-and-true reliability, the Milestar Patagonia MT2 for budget-conscious versatility, and the IROK if you want the absolute best off-road performance and aren’t afraid to invest a little more for it.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Looking back over my experience with the Interco Tires IROK, it’s clear that this tire embodies the best of what Interco has built its legacy on: durability, exceptional off-road performance, and rugged, no-compromise design. This tire may not be the most affordable nor the quietest on the road, but for those looking to tackle some of the toughest terrains with absolute confidence, it’s a standout choice.
The IROK’s Three-Stage Lug design, reinforced sidewalls, and cut-resistant compounds make it an off-road powerhouse. It grips in mud, bites through snow, and glides across sand, all while standing up to sharp rocks and tough trails. On-road, it’s surprisingly comfortable for an aggressive mud-terrain tire, with noise levels that are more than manageable for everyday driving, even at highway speeds. This blend of rugged capability and reasonable on-road comfort makes the IROK a versatile option for off-roaders who need a tire that can also handle daily driving.
Now, I want to emphasize that each of these companies sent me their tires to test, and as you can see, I pull no punches in my reviews. I give you my thoughts unfiltered, helping you make smart, informed decisions. My history with Interco Tires goes back long before I fully understood the “why” behind the brand, and now, with the IROK, I see that same level of dedication to quality and performance.
For those of you who want a tire built like a tank and don’t mind paying for a premium product, the IROK is one to seriously consider. This is a tire that doesn’t just look aggressive—it performs just as impressively. It’s a top recommendation for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who demand reliability and resilience on every adventure. If that sounds like you, then the Interco Tires IROK might just be the perfect match for your rig.
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