I never cheap out on tires. If you know Maxxis are the best, then you should have your answer. "Cost" is relative to all the other factors and expenses when the other tires fail. I have Maxxis on my trailer since I bought it and they don't even look like they've lost any tread depth. Normally I'm a Michelin kind of guy.
Scott S wrote: What are you towing and what tire size? I think that would effect my decision more.
Its a 31' box fleetwood toyhauler - triple axle w/ 225-75-15. It came w/ load D marathons on it. I run about 10-12,000 lbs fully loaded, so i would assume the 'D's should be adequate since they're good up to just about 14,800.
If $ was no object I would get the maxxis no question, but I have a hard time believing they're worth nearly twice as much. Another bonus of Costco is they all come w/ a warranty based on tread depth - and these tires will surely fail for age before mileage with the little bit of towing I do and the dry AZ air.
What is the psi rating of your wheels? If your OEM was load range D I suspect the wheels have a max psi of 70 lbs. The Maxxis load range D tires are still a good option if you don't want to buy new wheels.
The prices you mentioned are good, and I am hoping they include mounting, new high pressure valve stems, and balancing. If so, your local Maxxis tire dealer is giving you a very good price. Most places don't balance trailer tires, but it won't hurt to ask.
One of the questions I ask myself when faced with decisions like this is - What is the safety of my family worth? If you believe Maxxis to be the best of your options, I suspect you already have your answer.