Lift Height and Tire Size Combinations!

August 28, 2025

Jeep Lift Kit Height vs. Tire Size: What Works Best?

One of the most common questions we get is, “What tire size works best with my Jeep lift kit?”

It really just comes down to finding a balance between clearance for off-road performance and achieving a desired stance or look that you like. Too small of a tire leaves large gaps between the fenders, the classic “skipped leg day” look, while oversized tires can rub and damage your fenders when flexing out on the trail.

Clearance Comes First

When off-roading, your suspension flexes. If your tire is too large for your lift, it can slam into the fender or inner wheel well, damaging both the tire and body. Proper lift height ensures full suspension travel without interference.

Looks Are a Close Second

Even if you don’t plan to take your Jeep JL or JT rock crawling every weekend, most Jeep owners want a proportional look and stance, and a properly sized tire fills the wheel well without leaving too much empty space.

Recommended Lift & Tire Size Combinations:

These guidelines apply to both the JL Wrangler and JT Gladiator, and they’re split between Rubicon models (which come with higher-clearance factory fenders) and Sport/Sahara style models (which have less fender room from the factory).

JL Wrangler & JT Gladiator Tire Size Chart

Rubicon Models

1.5" lift → 35" tires
2.5" lift → 37" tires
3.5" lift → up to 39" tires

Sport & Sahara Models

1.5" lift → 33" tires
2.5" lift → 35" tires
3.5" lift → up to 37" tires

Following this progression will keep your Jeep functional on the trail while maintaining an aggressive, well-proportioned stance. If you’re looking to mix it up, however, we’re here to help with that as well!

Can You Run Bigger or Smaller Tires?

Yes, but there are some trade-offs:

One Size Up

With aftermarket high-clearance fenders or even minor trimming, you can usually fit one tire size larger than recommended.
Alternatively, if your Jeep rarely sees off-road use, you can get away with bigger tires under stock fenders.

One Size Down

Dropping down one size is also completely fine if you prefer a slightly more conservative look or want to maximize tire clearance in certain situations.
Going down more than one size usually will leave the Jeep looking disproportionate.

Final Thoughts: The Best Jeep Lift Kit & Tire Size Combinations

At the end of the day, the “best” Jeep lift kit height and tire size combination depends on how you use your Jeep, and there is no one size fits all solution or combination. However, in order to help out with some of the questions we get on how certain combinations look or compare, we wanted to showcase some of the pictures sent in from various customers so that you can see for yourself which set-up you like the best!