33s vs 35s: What Tire Size Should You Actually Run?
- BDM Customs
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Most truck owners eventually ask the same question:
Should I run 33s or 35s?
The answer isn't as simple as "bigger is better."
While 35-inch tires have become the go-to upgrade for many lifted trucks, they're not always the right choice. Depending on how you use your truck, 33s may actually provide a better driving experience, lower costs, and fewer compromises.
Let's break down the real differences.
First Things First: What Does Tire Size Really Change?
When you jump from a factory tire to a larger tire, you're changing much more than appearance.
Larger tires affect:
Ground clearance
Off-road capability
Ride quality
Acceleration
Braking performance
Fuel economy
Fitment requirements
That's why choosing the right tire size should be based on how you use your truck—not just what looks good on Instagram.
Why Truck Owners Love 33s
33-inch tires are often considered the sweet spot for daily-driven trucks.
Benefits of 33s
✔ Better fuel economy
✔ Less strain on factory drivetrain components
✔ Minimal impact on acceleration
✔ Easier fitment with leveling kits
✔ Lower overall cost
✔ Comfortable highway driving
For many truck owners, 33s provide the aggressive look they're after without requiring major modifications.
If your truck spends most of its life commuting, towing, road-tripping, or making occasional off-road adventures, 33s are hard to beat.
Why Everyone Wants 35s
Let's be honest.
35s simply look incredible.
The larger sidewall, wider stance, and increased ground clearance instantly transform the appearance of a truck.
Benefits of 35s
✔ More aggressive appearance
✔ Increased ground clearance
✔ Better obstacle clearance off-road
✔ Larger contact patch available
✔ Improved capability on trails and rough terrain
For many truck owners, 35s are the point where a truck truly starts looking "built."
The Trade-Offs of Running 35s
This is the part many people don't consider before ordering tires.
35s are heavier.
That additional weight affects:
Acceleration
Braking distance
Fuel economy
Steering feel
Drivetrain wear
Depending on the truck, 35s may also require:
A lift kit
Trimming
New wheels with proper offset
Alignment adjustments
A poorly planned 35-inch setup can result in rubbing, poor ride quality, and expensive headaches.
That's why proper fitment matters.
Which Tire Size Looks Better?
If we're talking pure appearance?
Most truck enthusiasts would choose 35s.
They fill the wheel wells better and create a more aggressive stance.
However, a properly built truck on 33s often looks better than a poorly fitted truck on 35s.
The goal isn't running the biggest tire possible.
The goal is building a truck that looks great and drives correctly.
Our Recommendation
Choose 33s if:
Your truck is a daily driver
You tow frequently
You want minimal modifications
You care about fuel economy
You want the best balance of performance and appearance
Choose 35s if:
You want maximum visual impact
You spend time off-road
You're installing a lift kit
You're willing to make supporting modifications
You want your truck to stand out
The Real Answer
There isn't a universal winner.
The best tire size depends on your goals.
For some truck owners, 33s are the perfect combination of practicality and appearance.
For others, 35s are worth every compromise because they completely transform the truck.
At BDM Customs, we help truck owners choose the right wheel, tire, and lift combination based on how they actually use their vehicle—not just what looks good online.
If you're debating between 33s and 35s, stop by the shop and we'll help you build a setup that fits correctly, drives correctly, and looks exactly how you want it to. What size tires you running?
37s all day