A vehicle is more than an asset; it is a means of transportation. Its only mode of locomotion is the spinning wheels. However, if you own a car, you are well aware of your difficulties in keeping it in good working order. It’s crucial to look after the most exposed parts of it.
Every time you get on the road, your vehicle’s tires put in much effort. They become more and more worn down as they age, especially if you use the same set of tires all year. As a result, you’ll need to change your tires.
Getting the correct set of tires for your car, on the other hand, might be a challenging undertaking. This is especially true when it comes to selecting the appropriate tire brand. Sumitomo and Falken are two of the most frequent tire brands you’ll come across in your search for the proper set of tires for your vehicle. We’ll compare two tires from these brands in this article so you can choose the best one for your car.
Sumitomo Encounter AT vs Falken Wildpeak AT3W: Quick Comparison
Sumitomo, a Japanese firm, makes Sumitomo Encounter AT tires. The Sumitomo Encounter tires are made to provide the traction that both on-road and off-road drivers seek. A special compound is used to create their vast tread patterns. These tires have biting edges for slippery surfaces thanks to lateral grooving and 3D sipes. Large grooves running through the middle of the tire drain water away from the tire and give some hydroplaning resistance. The tread on their sidewalls is meant to keep stones and other debris from becoming stuck in the tires.
On the other hand, Falken Tire Company, based in Japan, the United States, and Germany, produces the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W tire. The tires are designed for adventure in any weather, at any time. The A/T3W combines strong off-road ability and challenging terrain driving without compromises on the pavement. They excel in three areas: winter, wear, and wet performance, thanks to an improved tread design mixed with a silica tread.
The table below compares the two tires according to their performance ratings:
| Features | Sumitomo Encounter AT | Falken Wildpeak A/T3W |
| Dry | 5.0 | 4.8 |
| Wet | 4.9 | 4.6 |
| Winter | 4.3 | 4.5 |
| Comfort | 4.8 | 4.8 |
| Noise | 4.2 | 4.3 |
| Treadwear | 3.1 | 4.5 |
Sumitomo Encounter AT vs. Falken Wildpeak A/T3W: Detailed Analysis
On-road performance
Both tires shine when it comes to on-road performance. However, the Falken Wildpeak AT3 tires outperform the Sumitomo Encounter AT tires. The 3D Canyon stripes on these tires bring extra safety and stability by protecting the tires from torque damage. The tires’ sidewalls also contain Heat Diffuser Technology, which keeps them cool and adds sturdiness, especially while carrying heavy loads.
On the other hand, the Sumitomo AT tires have an aggressive tread pattern to bite and grip the road more effectively.
Off-road Performance
The Falken Wildpeak AT3 tires are the best in terms of off-road performance. Their side bites are quite sharply angled. Solid shoulder blocks and full upper sidewalls protect them from the harsh conditions of the road. The shoulder blocks also protect the tires from road hazards such as wear, sharp pebbles, and other road hazards. They also help keep stones out of the tires and provide exceptional off-road traction. The biggest fault with the Falken Wildpeak AT3 is that the treading is very close together, allowing mud to get in faster than it can be cleared out.
On the other hand, Sumitomo Encounter AT has an aggressive tread design with well-defined edges and variable-width shoulder lugs. The shoulder lugs are designed to evacuate sand, rock, and other off-road debris for better off-road grip.
Snow Performance
Both tires function admirably in the snow, with neither surpassing the other. On the shoulder blocks of the Sumitomo Encounter AT, 3D wave sipes improve traction and performance on snow. The tires are also marked with a 3-peak mountain snowflake symbol and certified for use in winter.
The Falken Wildpeak A/T3W tires, on the other hand, are snowflake-rated tires that are excellent for winter grip. The silica tread compounds are responsible for this. Deep grooves in the tires also ensure that water and snow deposits are directed away from the tire.
Noise Level
Due to their Silent Core Noise-cancelling Technology and giant contact patch, the Falken Wildpeak tires provide the quietest ride.
On the other hand, the Sumitomo Encounter AT lacks advanced noise-reduction design components. This tire, however, cannot be deemed excessively noisy, and its noise rating is slightly closer to that of the Falken Wildpeak A/T3W.
Comfort
As previously indicated, the noise-canceling feature of the Falken Wildpeak AT3 tires improves their comfort, making them category champions. Their silica tread compound and smart groove also provide superior traction and comfort on the road.
On the other hand, while the Sumitomo tires are comfortable, they are not as comfy as the Wildpeak AT3W tires. Compared to the Wildpeak A/T3W, these tires are a little heavier and noisier.
Price
When it comes to pricing, these two tires are both reasonably priced. The Falken Wildpeak AT3 tires are priced at $137 to $500, while the Sumitomo Encounter AT tires are priced at $102 to $210.
Warranty
The Sumitomo Encounter AT will offer you a better tread warranty when compared to Falken Wildpeak AT3W. The Falken Wildpeak offers a 55,000-mile tread guarantee in all sizes, while the Sumitomo Encounter AT offers a 60,000 miles tread warranty.
Sumitomo Encounter AT Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offer great control on wet weather
- Perform well on snow
- They are budget-friendly
Cons
- They are a little noisy on paved road
Falken Wildpeak A/T3W Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent on and off-road performance
- Easily navigates both dry and wet terrains
- Exceptionally durable tread structure
Cons
- They do not navigate well on softer terrains
Sumitomo Encounter AT vs. Falken Wildpeak AT3W: So Which One Is Better?
The Falken Wildpeak AT3 is your best bet if you are looking for a tire with good on-road and off-road performance. However, if you’re looking for a tire that matches your budget and has a good treadwear warranty, the Sumitomo Encounter AT is a good option.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
How Long Do Tires Last On Average?
On average, most tires will last between three to five years depending on their maintenance, condition they are exposed to, and the driving style of the driver utilizing them.
When Should You Replace Your Tires Mileage?
Most tires last between 25,000 to 50,000 miles before requiring a replacement.
How Many Miles Are Sumitomo Encounter AT Tires Good For?
Sumitomo Encounter AT tires can last between 60,000 to 70,000 miles.
Should You Replace Your Tires At 3/32nds?
If your tread depth is at 6/32nds, then it is sufficient. However, you should consider replacing your tires if your tread depth is5/32nds and you drive on snow-covered roads, or if it is 4/32nds and you drive on wet roads frequently. If your tread depth is 3/32nds, then it is time for you to start shopping for new tires.
How Do You Know That Your Tires Need To Be Replaced?
To confirm if your tires need to be replaced, place a penny head into multiple grooves across the tire. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your treads are too shallow and worn. You will need to replace your tires in this scenario.
What Are Some Of The Signs That You Are Driving A Bad Tire?
The signs that you are driving a bad tire include uneven tread wear, cracks and bulges on your tire’s sidewalls, nails, and other foreign bodies lodged in your tires, vibrations in your steering, and persistent tire pressure warnings.
What Are the Most Common Tire Problems?
The most common tire problems include bald tires, uneven tread wear, flat spots, choppy wear, squealing when taking corners, and vibrations at freeway speeds.
What Can Bad Tires Cause?
Bad tires are more prone to lose air pressure, which negatively affects the braking, fuel economy, and steering. Low tire pressure is also a common cause of tire blowouts, resulting in a vehicle losing control.
Final Take
We hope this article has provided you with all of the information you require regarding the Sumitomo Encounter AT vs. Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires. However, judging one is superior to the other is a matter of personal taste and preferences.