General Tires in Calgary: History, Best Models, and How They Hold Up
General Tire has been around since 1915, and while the name sounds generic, the brand has a real following in Calgary — especially the Grabber line on trucks and SUVs, which delivers a lot of all-terrain capability for the money.
Here's where General came from, the models worth knowing, and how they hold up through our winters and gravel season.
The short version
- General Tire was founded in 1915 in Akron, Ohio.
- Its best-known line is the Grabber family for trucks and SUVs.
- For Calgary, the Grabber A/TX all-terrain is the one that comes up most.
- General is part of Continental, with the engineering depth that brings.
A quick history of General Tire
General Tire & Rubber started in 1915 in Akron, Ohio, originally focused on replacement tires rather than supplying automakers. It built a reputation for tough, value-oriented tires, and in 1987 it became part of Continental, the major German tire maker. That pairing gives General access to serious engineering while keeping its own value identity.
What General is known for
- The Grabber line. A capable, value-priced truck and SUV family covering all-terrain, mud, and highway.
- Value for money. General consistently delivers strong performance below premium prices.
- Continental engineering. Technology shared with a top-tier parent brand.
The General tires we see most in Calgary
| Model | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Grabber A/TX | All-terrain (3PMSF) | Trucks/SUVs year-round |
| Grabber X3 | Mud-terrain | Serious off-road |
| AltiMAX RT45 | All-season touring | Daily commuters |
| AltiMAX Arctic 12 | Dedicated winter (studdable) | Ice and packed snow |
The Grabber A/TX is the General most Calgary drivers ask about — a winter-rated (3PMSF) all-terrain at a value price. Compare options in the all-terrain range. For a dedicated winter set, the AltiMAX Arctic 12 is built for ice and snow and can be studded (winter tires). For a daily commuter, the AltiMAX line lands in all-season touring.
How they hold up on Calgary roads
- Strong value for trucks. The Grabber A/TX is a frequent pick when budget matters but you still want real all-terrain capability.
- Year-round option. The 3PMSF rating lets a lot of truck owners skip the seasonal swap.
- A capable winter specialist. The studdable AltiMAX Arctic is a genuine cold-weather tire.
If budget is the priority, our guide to budget tires that actually work in Calgary weather is worth a read.
Frequently asked questions
Are General tires any good?
Yes. General offers strong value, and the Grabber line is well regarded on trucks and SUVs. Continental ownership brings real engineering behind the value price.
Is the Grabber A/TX good in snow?
It carries the 3PMSF winter rating, so it's capable in snow for an all-terrain. For dedicated winter grip on ice, the studdable AltiMAX Arctic is the specialist.
Who makes General tires?
General Tire has been part of Continental since 1987, so it shares technology with one of the largest tire makers in the world.
Is General a budget brand?
It's value-oriented — priced below premium names — but backed by Continental engineering, which makes it a strong value pick rather than a bottom-tier brand.
Does Prince Tires carry General?
Yes — browse the lineup at princetires.ca/collections/general or call (403) 452-4283.
Not sure which tire fits your vehicle and budget? Book a visit or call our Calgary shop for honest, no-pressure advice. Prince Tires · 111 42 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2G 0A4 · (403) 452-4283 · Book online.
Posted by the Prince Tires team. Calgary tire specialists since 2021. Last updated: June 2026.
Sources: General Tire, Tire and Rubber Association of Canada.
