Will deflated All-Terrain Tires be less puncture resistant?

[lucius]

To improve comfort and traction during off roading, deflating tire pressure by about 20% is common. But does this reduce puncture resistance?

 

[cruiserpilot]

I'd say it can effect the ability to resist punctures. It reduces the tension within the sidewall, creates
a bulge from being softer. The bottom of this bulge is now at a more direct angle with rocks, sticks and sharper items.
I don't have any idea to input on how it effects the actual tread which is now far more active. Others will have
opinions I'm sure. I had issues with old BFG ATs but they don't make that model tire any more. I even went thru the
side of 'indestructible' TSL SX's with broken sticks, in fact destroyed sidewalls of 2 tires on FJ40 on one trail and was bummed.
Tire construction and quality of product now is far superior to those tires.

 

[lucius]

Thank you. An additional point I found in my research is that aired down tires are better able to conform to the shape of sharp objects rather than being punctured by them.

 

[pb4ugo]

I air down for the trail, I probably deflate 50% or more. You' generally get better tractionand a better ride. On any trail you can cut a tire. I typically run bias-ply tires they are usually are more aggressive and have stronger sidewalls. I don't think I've ever cut a side wall on bias plys. I have to plug a tire or two. I have cut and witnessed other folks cut radial tires many times.