The Maxxis Carnivore is one of the most popular and respected all-terrain tires in the UTV world, especially among riders who want strong performance without spending premium prices.
Built with an 8-ply radial construction, the Carnivore strikes an excellent balance between durability, weight, and ride quality. It’s designed primarily for aggressive trail riding, rocky terrain, desert running, and hill climbs, but it handles mixed conditions surprisingly well—including moderate mud and even some highway driving when needed.
The tread pattern features deep, widely spaced lugs with sharp edges and reinforced shoulders. This gives it outstanding bite in loose dirt, gravel, and rocks, along with solid side-hilling grip in ruts and off-camber sections. The center tread is aggressive enough to self-clean in mud but not so open that it sacrifices stability on harder-packed surfaces. Many riders describe the ride as smooth and predictable for an 8-ply tire, with noticeably less vibration and rolling resistance compared to heavier mud-focused options.
Durability is another strong point. The thick sidewalls and tough compound hold up well against sharp rocks and repeated trail abuse. On average, riders report getting 2,500–4,000+ miles of hard use before significant wear sets in, depending on weight of the machine, driving style, and terrain. It’s not the absolute longest-lasting tire for constant pavement pounding, but for real off-road work, it delivers excellent longevity for the price.
What really sets the Carnivore apart is its versatility and value. It’s capable enough for serious trail riding and rock crawling, yet it doesn’t feel overkill or punishing on faster, smoother sections. This makes it a favorite for people who use their UTV for everything from weekend trail runs to hunting trips and utility work. It’s also one of the more affordable high-performance options in the 27- to 35-inch range, typically landing in the mid-to-upper $300s per tire depending on size.
If you’re looking for a do-it-all tire that punches above its price in traction and toughness without being too specialized, the Maxxis Carnivore consistently ranks near the top of the list for good reason. It’s a tire that simply works well for a huge range of riders and conditions.
