by Matt Konkle
Managing Editor
Some wheels are made to look good in the driveway. Others, well, they are engineered to shine on the trail, shrug off abuse, and look even better covered in a bit of mud and dust.
The new Quadratec Hardrock 2 Alloy Wheels are firmly in that second camp—built from the bead up with a rugged design and off-road-ready details that enhance both form and function.
We ran the original Hardrock wheels in our Project Grey Wolf for years and loved the lightweight durability they provided, and the Hardrock 2 version moves the protection and functionality level even higher.
Whether you're running a JK, JL, or Gladiator JT, the Hardrock 2 delivers a fresh evolution of that popular original Hardrock design, with key improvements that make it an ideal match for oversized tires and trail adventures.
At first glance, the Hardrock 2 wheels channel serious ability — especially the satin black version with a machined simulated beadlock ring. That ring, complete with real bolt heads, isn’t removable, but it adds protection and helps prevent trail damage in rockier environments.
The newest version is also slightly lighter and more durable than the previous edition, and includes a recessed valve stem for added protection, as well as oversized lug pockets that deftly fit the larger JL and JT lugs.
Buyers can choose from three finishes to match any build aesthetic: Gunmetal Gray, Satin Black and Satin Black with that Machined Beadlock Ring. All are available in 17x8.5” sizing, with 5.2” of backspacing and a +10 offset, making them ideal for up to 12.5”-wide tires. This pushes the stance outward slightly for improved clearance and a wider, more planted look. That means flush-fitment on JKs and a slight poke past the fenders on some JL and JT models.
Additionally, their Hub-centric construction ensures a secure fit and better load distribution across JK, JL, and JT platforms, while the included color-matched "Q" center cap is interchangeable if you want something else in the middle of those wheels.
And if you want to personalize further, the Hardrock 2 Wheels wheels pair perfectly with satin black or chrome acorn-style lug nuts, or spline-drive lug nuts for added security and style.
As far as performance, we recently tested the Hardrock 2s during the 2025 Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, pairing them with 37" Nitto Recon Grapplers in our 2024 Wrangler Rubicon 4xe. Between easier trails like Fins and Things, to more aggressive obstacles such as Metal Masher, Hell's Revenge and Wipeout Hill, these rims handled it all without flinching.
So, yeah, the Quadratec Hardrock 2 Alloy Wheels are more than just a facelift for your vehicle — they’re a thoughtfully engineered and updated take on a proven favorite. With aggressive styling, trail-tested performance, and compatibility across the JK, JL, and JT lineup, they strike the perfect balance between rugged capability and everyday practicality.