Should You Run Negative or Positive Offset Wheels On Your Truck?

If you're new to the truck game, you've probably looked at a wheel size, seen the offset rating, and closed the tab because the sizes got a little bit too intimidating to figure out. We don't blame you, man - we've all been there.

To the untrained eye, the differences between negative and positive offsets can be tricky to figure out, and even trickier to know what to run on your truck. But we want to help you out. Today, we'll show you how to calculate offset and backspacing numbers, the benefits of positive and negative offsets, and more, so you can ride on in confidence that your wheels will fit and your truck will look great - let's dive in!

Table Of Contents

-Quick Overview of Offset and Backspacing

-Benefits of Running Negative Offset Wheels On Trucks

-Benefits of Running Positive Offset Wheels On Trucks

-Can You Run Zero Offset Wheels On Your Truck Instead?

-Shop Aftermarket Truck Wheels For Your Pickup

Quick Overview of Offset and Backspacing

Offset and backspacing are crucial measurements for truck wheels. Offset refers to the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline, influencing how far the wheel sits inside or outside the fender. Positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the wheel face, pushing the wheel inward, while negative offset pulls it outward.

Backspacing measures the distance from the wheel's mounting surface to the back edge of the wheel. It affects tire clearance and alignment. Correct offset and backspacing ensure proper fitment, prevent rubbing, and enhance handling and aesthetics, which is why these numbers should always be top of mind before you begin your search.

Benefits of Running Negative Offset Wheels On Trucks

Now, for the most part, the dudes you'll see at the show will be running negative offset wheels on their trucks, and these can range from relatively conservative figures like -25 to more aggressive fitments like -51mm and above, for more stance-worthy looks. We all know that negative offset wheels will make your truck look much beefier, but what other advantages do negatives provide?

Running negative offset wheels on your truck can also enhance performance. The extra clearance allows for larger tires, suspension components, and brake upgrades, which enables greater customization and performance enhancements.

The wider stance also helps distribute the vehicle’s weight more evenly across the tires, which can improve grip and handling in various driving conditions. Overall, negative offset wheels can contribute to a more stable and capable truck if done correctly, so there's much more than meets the eye with a lot of these setups.

Benefits of Running Positive Offset Wheels On Trucks

For the sake of honesty, we'd say that negative offset wheels make up about 80% or greater of all the wheels we sell - you won't find many positive offset sizes in our store outside of popular sizes like +12mm, +27mm and others like this, but positive offset wheels definitely still provide some benefit.

By positioning the wheels further inside the fenders, positive offset setups can also help maintain proper vehicle dynamics, contributing to more predictable handling and enhanced stability, particularly at higher speeds. Additionally, positive offset wheels reduce strain on suspension components and wheel bearings, potentially extending their lifespan. Overall, positive offset wheels offer a balance of improved fitment, reduced wear and tear, and better on-road stability, making them the more practical choice if you want function and clean design.

Can You Run Zero Offset Wheels On Your Truck Instead?

We've talked quite a bit about positive and negative offsets today, but you're probably noticing that there's something missing - zero offset wheels. What about them?

Basically, a zero offset wheel means the wheel's mounting surface is exactly in line with its centerline. In this configuration, the wheel's hub mounting surface is centered, neither pushed outward nor inward. This balance ensures the wheel sits evenly within the wheel well, providing equal clearance on both sides.

Whereas negative offset wheels can help you get some aggressive poke and positive offset will help keep the wheel flush or even tucked inside your wheel well, zero offset is commonly used to achieve a neutral stance, maintaining factory alignment and avoiding issues like tire rubbing or suspension interference. This makes it a popular choice for many truck enthusiasts seeking a balanced look and performance, and these sizes make up some of the most popular sellers we have in our store.

Shop Aftermarket Truck Wheels For Your Pickup At Custom Offsets

All told, no matter what you want to run with on your truck, we have everything you need to get your setup looking as badass as it can be. Check out our store today and build your wheel and tire package online - we have plenty of negative, zero and positive offset wheels to help you begin your search, and we offer financing, free shipping and quick delivery on everything in stock. Let us know if you have any questions on your search!