Looking for a reliable tire brand that won’t break the bank? Kelly Tires might be just what you need. As one of the oldest tire companies in the U.S. and now owned by Goodyear, Kelly offers a line of budget-friendly tires designed for everyday drivers. But are they any good? In this in-depth review, we’ll look at performance, comfort, longevity, and value to help you decide if Kelly Tires are the right fit for your vehicle.
Who Makes Kelly Tires?
Kelly Tires is a subsidiary of Goodyear, one of the largest and most trusted tire manufacturers in the world. That means you’re getting Goodyear’s manufacturing quality at a more affordable price point. Most Kelly tires are built in the same facilities as Goodyear tires and meet similar quality standards.
Kelly Tires Product Line Overview
Kelly offers a focused lineup of tires for passenger cars, SUVs, trucks, and light-duty commercial vehicles. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Model | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Kelly Edge A/S | All-Season Touring | Sedans, coupes, everyday commuters |
| Kelly Edge HP | Performance All-Season | Sportier sedans and small cars |
| Kelly Edge AT | All-Terrain | Trucks, SUVs, light off-roading |
| Kelly Safari ATR | All-Terrain | Older model, still found on some trucks and Jeeps |
Performance Breakdown
Dry Handling
Kelly Tires perform well on dry roads, offering predictable handling and decent cornering stability. The tread patterns on their all-season models like the Edge A/S deliver solid grip and responsive braking, especially at lower speeds. They’re not performance tires, but they handle daily driving with ease.
Wet Traction
Wet grip is average to slightly above average, depending on the model. Most Kelly tires feature wide grooves and sipes to disperse water and reduce hydroplaning, though they don’t match the grip of premium rain-focused tires like Michelin or Continental. Still, for normal rainy conditions, they offer adequate safety and control.
Snow and Ice
Most Kelly tires are not designed for harsh winter conditions. However, the all-season models can manage light snow. The Edge A/S, for example, has multiple biting edges for added winter traction, but it’s not a substitute for a true winter tire.
Ride Comfort
One of Kelly’s strengths is comfort and road smoothness. The ride is generally soft and quiet, especially on the Edge A/S and Edge HP. Noise levels are low, making them ideal for commuting and highway cruising. Even on rough pavement, vibrations are minimal.
Tread Life and Durability
Kelly Tires offer solid longevity for the price. Models like the Edge A/S come with a 55,000 to 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, which is competitive in the mid-tier market.
- With proper rotation and inflation, many users report getting 50,000+ miles.
- Even wear and consistent tread performance are highlights.
While they may not last as long as high-end tires, they deliver reliable value for everyday driving needs.
Cost and Value
Price is one of the biggest advantages of Kelly Tires. Most models fall into the budget-to-mid-range price bracket. You’ll typically spend between $80 and $130 per tire depending on size and type, making them a smart choice for cost-conscious drivers.
Considering their Goodyear backing, decent tread life, and daily performance, Kelly Tires offer excellent value.
Real Customer Feedback
What Drivers Like
- “Smooth ride and very affordable.”
- “Perfect for commuting and weekend driving.”
- “Quiet on the highway and handles well in the rain.”
Common Complaints
- “Not great in snow—had to switch to winter tires.”
- “Tread wore faster on heavy vehicles.”
- “Not as sporty as performance-focused brands.”
How Kelly Tires Compare to Other Brands
| Brand | Price | Warranty | Performance | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kelly | $ | 55,000–65,000 miles | Good | Very Good |
| Michelin | $$$ | 60,000–80,000 miles | Excellent | Excellent |
| Goodyear | $$ | 60,000–75,000 miles | Very Good | Very Good |
| Hankook | $$ | 50,000–70,000 miles | Good | Good |
Who Should Choose Kelly Tires?
Kelly Tires are a great fit for drivers who:
- Need affordable, everyday tires for city or highway driving
- Prioritize comfort and quiet ride over high-speed performance
- Drive sedans, minivans, crossovers, or light trucks
- Want dependable quality backed by a major brand
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
You may want to skip Kelly Tires if you:
- Live in areas with harsh winters or heavy snow
- Drive aggressively or own a sports car
- Need top-tier grip and advanced performance handling
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Conclusion
Kelly Tires strike a solid balance between quality and affordability. Backed by Goodyear’s manufacturing expertise, they deliver dependable performance for drivers who want long tread life and comfort without premium pricing.
If you’re a daily commuter or casual driver who values value and safety, Kelly Tires are a smart buy. And while you’re making smart choices, don’t forget to recondition your old batteries too. Check out the Battery Reconditioning Course and stretch your budget even further.