Pathfinder tires are made by Kumho Tire, manufactured as a private label exclusive brand for Discount Tire and America’s Tire.
Pathfinder is known for offering affordable all terrain, mud terrain, and highway tires exclusively through Discount Tire stores.
Discount Tire owns the Pathfinder trademark, but the tires themselves are produced at Kumho Tire factories, giving the brand access to established manufacturing quality.
Knowing that Pathfinder is a Kumho built private label helps explain why the tires perform well above their budget price point.
This guide covers who owns Pathfinder, where the tires are manufactured, the brand’s background, and how Pathfinder compares to Rocky Mountain in the Discount Tire exclusive lineup.
So let’s get started.
Quick Answer: Pathfinder tires are made by Kumho Tire as a private label exclusive brand for Discount Tire. The tires are not sold anywhere except Discount Tire and America’s Tire stores, and the lineup focuses on light truck and SUV applications.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Pathfinder Tires and Who Owns the Brand?

Pathfinder is a private label brand owned by Discount Tire, with current products listed on the Discount Tire Pathfinder brand page.
Discount Tire, also known as America’s Tire in some regions, is the largest independent tire retailer in the United States.
Rather than manufacturing its own tires, Discount Tire contracts production out to established tire makers, with Pathfinder built by Kumho.
This exclusive arrangement means Pathfinder tires cannot be purchased at any other retailer.
Where Are Pathfinder Tires Manufactured?

Pathfinder tires are manufactured at Kumho Tire facilities, based on markings customers have identified on the sidewalls of purchased sets.
Kumho operates plants across South Korea, China, Vietnam, and the United States, so exact factory origin can vary by model and size.
Because Pathfinder is a private label rather than its own manufacturer, Discount Tire sets the specifications while Kumho handles production.
This arrangement lets Discount Tire offer a budget option backed by a major manufacturer’s quality control systems.
What Is the Background of the Pathfinder Brand?
Pathfinder was created specifically to meet Discount Tire’s internal standards for a value priced light truck and SUV tire line.
The brand has been sold through Discount Tire stores for well over a decade, building a loyal following among off road and daily driving customers alike.
Pathfinder’s lineup includes all terrain, mud terrain, and highway terrain models designed for trucks and SUVs.
Discount Tire periodically updates the Pathfinder lineup to keep pace with newer tread technology from its manufacturing partners.
How Does Pathfinder Compare to Rocky Mountain Tires?
Pathfinder and Rocky Mountain are both Discount Tire exclusive brands, sitting alongside each other in the retailer’s private label lineup.
Pathfinder leans more heavily into off road and light truck applications, while Rocky Mountain focuses on crossover and SUV all season tires.
Both brands benefit from established manufacturing partners rather than in house Discount Tire production.
Drivers choosing between the two typically base their decision on vehicle type rather than brand reputation, since both are backed by Discount Tire’s warranty support.
Are Pathfinder Tires a Good Value?
Pathfinder tires are generally seen as a solid budget option for truck and SUV owners who want off road capability without a premium price.
Because Kumho handles manufacturing, quality control tends to be more consistent than many unaffiliated private label brands.
Owner feedback on all terrain and mud terrain models is generally positive for the price, though wet weather handling can vary by model.
For drivers already shopping at Discount Tire, Pathfinder offers a practical way to save money without sacrificing basic reliability.
Where Can You Buy Pathfinder Tires?
Pathfinder tires are sold exclusively through Discount Tire and America’s Tire locations across the United States.
The Discount Tire website allows customers to check local inventory and schedule installation.
Because the brand is exclusive, Pathfinder tires are not available through other tire retailers or online marketplaces.
Shoppers comparing exclusive retailer brands may also want to read Who Makes Kumho Tires and Who Makes Rocky Mountain Tires.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pathfinder Tires
Who owns Pathfinder tires?
Pathfinder is a private label brand owned by Discount Tire, one of the largest independent tire retailers in the United States.
Is Pathfinder made by Kumho?
Yes, sidewall markings on Pathfinder tires have traced production back to Kumho Tire facilities.
Can you buy Pathfinder tires anywhere else?
No, Pathfinder is sold exclusively through Discount Tire and America’s Tire stores.
Are Pathfinder tires good?
Yes, Pathfinder tires are generally considered a good value option, especially for off road and light truck use.

I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.