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If you drive a 2019-2024 Subaru Forester and want greater capability on dirt roads, muddy tracks, or snowy drives, choosing the right all terrain tires matters. The wrong tire can reduce wet traction, increase road noise, or shorten tread life; the right one balances on-road civility and off-road grip while matching the Forester's load and speed requirements. This guide shortlists the top all terrain tires for the 2019-2024 Forester and explains the practical tradeoffs of tread design, compound, and tire construction.Below we cover the shortlist and our evaluation criteria so you can pick the best option for your driving mix, whether you spend most miles on pavement or need more capability on trails.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Nitto Nomad Grappler All-Terrain Tire 225/60R17 103H XL |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT All-Terrain Tire 225/60R17 XL 103H |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Nexen Roadian ATX 225/55R18 All-Terrain Tire |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | VENOM POWER Trail Hunter ATS 225/60R17 103H XL All-Terrain All-Season Tire |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire — 225/60R17 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A All-Terrain Tire, 225/60R17 99H |  |
1. Nitto Nomad Grappler All-Terrain Tire 225/60R17 103H XL
| Rim Size | 17 inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 103 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Type | All-Terrain |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Nitto Nomad Grappler is an all-terrain tire engineered to give Forester drivers a mix of on-road comfort and light off-road capability. It uses a special rubber compound, triangular sipes, and a variable-pitch tread to improve wet and snow grip while lowering road noise for daily commuting. Staggered sidewall lugs and tapered tread blocks add bite and stability on dirt or gravel without making the tire feel overly busy on pavement. The 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty underscores its intended long-term use, and the 103 load index plus XL rating provide higher load capacity and sidewall support for heavier loads or roof cargo. Trade-offs are typical for all-terrain designs: you get improved traction off pavement at the cost of slightly higher rolling resistance and a tread pattern that is not as quiet or as fuel-efficient as a dedicated touring tire. For 2019–2024 Subaru Forester owners seeking a durable, confident all-terrain tire that still behaves well on the road, the Nomad Grappler is a practical choice.
Best for: Forester owners who want a durable, year-round tire that balances competent off-pavement traction with comfortable on-road manners and long tread life.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize the lowest possible road noise, maximum fuel economy, or purely highway/touring comfort should consider a dedicated touring or highway tire instead.
- All-terrain tread and staggered sidewall lugs for improved off-road traction
- Compound and triangular sipes enhance wet and snow grip
- Variable-pitch tread reduces road noise for more comfortable daily driving
- 60,000-mile limited treadwear warranty for long-term use
- 103 load index with XL rating gives extra load capacity and sidewall support
- All-terrain tread will have higher rolling resistance and slightly lower fuel economy than touring tires
Verdict: A solid all-terrain choice for 2019–2024 Forester owners who need confident wet, snow, and light off-road performance without sacrificing everyday comfort.
2. Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT All-Terrain Tire 225/60R17 XL 103H
| Rim Size | 17 inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 103 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Load Range | XL |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Cooper Discoverer Road+Trail AT is an all-terrain tire that aims to deliver predictable handling on pavement while still offering capable traction off-road and in snow. It uses interlocking tread blocks and a continuous tread wrap that extends down the sidewall to improve grip on soft surfaces and resist cuts and tears on rough trails. The connected center lugs help with stability and snow traction, and the design emphasizes even tread wear for longer life backed by a 65,000-mile treadwear description. For day-to-day use on a Subaru Forester, this tire provides a quieter, more comfortable ride than aggressive off-road tires and offers confidence in wet and winter conditions thanks to the severe snow designation. Expect slightly reduced sharp-cornering precision versus sport-oriented touring tires and a modest weight penalty from the XL load rating, which can affect fuel economy and steering feedback for drivers prioritizing crisp performance.
Best for: A Forester driver who wants a versatile tire that handles daily driving, occasional trail routes, and winter roads without sacrificing ride comfort.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize maximum dry-road handling precision, ultimate fuel efficiency, or a true performance tire for spirited driving should consider sport or all-season performance alternatives.
- Balanced on-road comfort with reduced road noise compared with aggressive ATs
- Tread design that extends onto the sidewall for added off-road grip and protection
- Severe snow designation and connected center lugs for improved winter traction
- Engineered for even tread wear with a long treadwear backing
- Not as sharp in high-speed cornering or steering feedback as sport/touring tires
Verdict: Choose this tire if you want a quiet, durable all-terrain option that adds off-road and snow confidence to a Forester while still providing comfortable daily driving.
3. Nexen Roadian ATX 225/55R18 All-Terrain Tire
| Size | 225/55R18 |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 98 |
| Speed Rating | V |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Construction Type | Radial |
The Nexen Roadian ATX in 225/55R18 is a versatile all-terrain tire built for year-round use on compact SUVs like the 2019–2024 Subaru Forester. Its non-directional tread and 12.5/32" tread depth aim to balance on-road comfort and traction on loose surfaces, while the V speed rating and 98 load index support typical Forester loads and highway speeds. The tire is a standard-load radial with a 4-ply construction and a 51 psi max inflation, which helps maintain stability under light towing or roof load. Expect improved grip on gravel and dirt compared with highway tires and reasonable wet traction for rainy conditions, though it is not a full mud-terrain for heavy off-road work. Installation is straightforward as a universal-fit replacement for Forester models that use 225/55R18, but real-world noise and ride refinement will vary compared with softer touring tires. For drivers seeking a durable, budget-friendly all-terrain that handles mixed paved and unpaved roads, this Roadian is a practical option; drivers prioritizing the quietest possible highway ride or aggressive off-road capability should consider other specialized tires.
Best for: Practical Forester drivers who want a single tire that handles daily highway commuting and occasional gravel or forest roads without frequent swapping between road and off-road tires.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize the quietest possible highway ride or need aggressive off-road traction for rock crawling or deep mud should look at touring or dedicated mud-terrain options instead.
- Year-round all-terrain tread suitable for mixed pavement and light off-road surfaces
- 98 load index and V speed rating match typical compact SUV requirements
- 12.5/32" tread depth and 4-ply construction for durable wear on rough surfaces
- Universal fit in 225/55R18 makes it a direct replacement for Forester tires of that size
- Not optimized for extreme off-road or deep-mud conditions compared with mud-terrain tires
Verdict: A budget-conscious, year-round all-terrain tire sized for the Forester that balances on-road manners with capable light off-road traction.
4. VENOM POWER Trail Hunter ATS 225/60R17 103H XL All-Terrain All-Season Tire
| Rim Size | 17 inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 103 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Load Range | XL |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The VENOM POWER Trail Hunter ATS is an all-terrain, all-season 17-inch tire built to give Subaru Forester owners a versatile option for daily roads and light off-road trails. It uses a symmetrical, aggressive block tread and shoulder pattern to improve traction on loose surfaces while a variable block pitch aims to reduce road noise for more comfortable highway driving. The tire carries a 103 load index and XL construction, so it supports heavier loads without needing a specialty tire. In practice this tire works well for mixed use where occasional dirt roads, gravel drives, or light mud meet routine commuting. Expect good wet performance from the tread compound and reduced stone retention from the tread layout, but be aware it is a budget brand so long-term wear and consistent winter performance may lag premium all-terrain options. Installation is straightforward and it is sold as single tires for staggered replacements or swaps.
Best for: Forester drivers who prioritize an affordable, do-it-all tire for commuting plus occasional dirt roads and light trail use and who want a quieter on-road ride than many aggressive AT tires.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need maximum longevity, intensive off-road capability, or top-tier winter traction should consider premium all-terrain or dedicated winter tires instead.
- All-terrain tread pattern provides capable traction on loose and uneven surfaces
- All-season compound and tread design improve wet-road performance and hydroplaning resistance
- XL load rating and 103 load index support heavier loads and roof/gear cargo
- Variable block pitch helps reduce road noise for more comfortable highway driving
- Budget-focused brand, so tread life and long-term durability may be inferior to premium tires
- May not match dedicated winter or severe off-road tires in extreme conditions
Verdict: A cost-conscious all-terrain, all-season tire that gives Subaru Forester owners capable mixed on/off-road grip and a quieter highway ride without a premium price tag.
5. Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail All-Terrain Tire — 225/60R17
| Size | 225/60R17 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1709 Pounds |
| Tread Depth | 11 32nds |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| UTQG | 680AA |
The Wildpeak A/T Trail is built for crossover use, offering a balance of rugged off-road traction and predictable on-road behavior for daily driving. It uses a crossover-specific construction and a silica-based compound to resist uneven wear while maintaining grip in dry, wet, and winter conditions; the 3D Canyon Sipe Technology creates biting edges that retain traction as the tread wears. A reinforced upper sidewall and 2-ply polyester carcass improve resistance to punctures from rocks and trail debris, which makes the tire more durable on gravel or light off-road routes. Falken backs the design with a 65,000 mile limited tread-life coverage, which supports long-term reliability for drivers who want fewer replacements. Expect slightly firmer ride feel and modestly higher road noise than touring tires because of the aggressive tread, and peak on-road comfort will not match a dedicated highway tire. For a Subaru Forester driver prioritizing dependable year-round traction and tougher sidewall protection on occasional trails, this is a sensible, longevity-focused choice.
Best for: Forester owners who prioritize long service life and year-round dependable traction, and who occasionally take their vehicle onto gravel or light trails.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who want the quietest, softest ride and maximum fuel economy on long highway trips should choose a highway or touring tire instead.
- Crossover-specific construction tuned for higher center-of-gravity vehicles for stable handling
- 3D Canyon Sipe Technology and silica compound for consistent wet and winter traction as tread wears
- Durable 2-ply polyester carcass and reinforced upper sidewall for improved off-road puncture resistance
- 65,000 mile limited tread-life backing that supports long-term reliability
- More aggressive tread means firmer ride and higher road noise compared with highway-focused tires
Verdict: Choose the Wildpeak A/T Trail for reliable, long-lasting all-weather traction and tougher sidewall protection for crossover SUVs like the Forester.
6. BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A All-Terrain Tire, 225/60R17 99H
| Size | 225/60R17 99H |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 99 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Seasons | Year Round |
| Construction Type | Radial |
The BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A is an all-season all-terrain tire built to give confident everyday performance on paved roads while handling occasional gravel and light off-pavement trails. Its optimized footprint and Full-Depth 3-D Locking Sipes are engineered for stable treadblock performance, which promotes even wear and a quieter ride compared with more aggressive off-road tires. Expect reliable wet and light snow traction for year-round driving and a serrated shoulder pattern that helps with traction on soft soils without a big noise penalty. Practical benefits include long tread life backed by a 60,000-mile treadwear warranty and resistance to chipping and tearing in modest gravel use. The tire is sized here for 225/60R17 fitment, so it suits Subaru Forester owners who run that factory or equivalent wheel size. Limitations are that it is not a heavy-duty mud or rock tire, so drivers who regularly tackle severe off-road terrain or need extreme self-cleaning tread should look at more aggressive mud-terrain options.
Best for: Forester owners who want a durable, quiet all-terrain tire that performs well on pavement and occasional gravel roads while prioritizing longevity and proven customer satisfaction.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently do serious off-roading, rock crawling, or need a tire optimized for deep mud and extreme trail conditions should choose a more aggressive off-road tire.
- Balanced on-road comfort with reduced road noise for everyday driving
- Full-Depth 3-D Locking Sipes promote even tread wear and extended tread life
- All-season traction that handles rain and light snow reliably
- Serrated shoulder and reinforced construction resist chipping on gravel roads
- Backed by a 60,000-mile manufacturer's treadwear limited warranty
- Not suited for severe off-road use or heavy mud and rock crawling
Verdict: A dependable all-terrain choice for Forester owners who want quiet, long-lasting year-round performance with light off-road capability.
Choosing the Right 2019-2024 Subaru Forester All Terrain Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Tread Pattern And Compound
Tread design determines how a tire sheds mud, grips loose surfaces, and channels water on wet roads. For the Forester, choose a pattern with staggered shoulder blocks and multiple biting edges to improve traction on gravel and dirt without making highway noise unbearable. The compound formula affects grip at different temperatures. Softer compounds increase short-term traction in cold or loose conditions but can wear faster during highway miles.
Consider how aggressive you need the pattern to be based on your typical routes. If most driving is paved with occasional forest roads, a moderately aggressive all terrain tread gives the best balance between longevity and capability. If you regularly carry cargo or tow light loads, look for compounds designed to resist heat and wear under heavier usage.
Tread Life And Warranty
Treadwear affects long-term ownership cost and convenience. Tires with reinforced constructions and harder compounds tend to deliver longer tread life, but that can come at a small cost to low-temperature traction. Look for published treadwear ratings, mileage warranties, and real-world wear feedback that reflect mixed driving conditions similar to those a Forester will see.
A clear warranty can protect against premature failure, but pay attention to prorated miles and conditions that void coverage. For Forester owners who log high annual mileage, prioritizing tread life helps reduce replacement frequency and total cost of ownership.
Wet, Snow, And Ice Performance
The Forester is commonly used in regions with rain and snow, so traction on low-adhesion surfaces is critical. Siping, groove design, and rubber formulation influence wet braking distances and snow traction. Tires with deeper circumferential grooves and multiple lateral sipes evacuate water effectively and bite into snowpack better than flatter designs.
If you live where winters are severe, verify the tire carries appropriate snow traction markings and consider a model with proven winter capability. For mixed climates, prioritize tread patterns that maintain predictable handling and controlled braking in wet and icy conditions.
Noise, Ride Comfort, And Handling
All terrain tread blocks can introduce road noise and harsher ride feel compared with highway tires. For a Forester owner who uses the vehicle for daily commuting, ride comfort and cabin noise are important. Look for tires engineered to minimize harmonic tread noise and those that balance shoulder stiffness for predictable cornering with compliant center ribs for a smooth highway ride.
Handling characteristics also matter. Tires that maintain a stable contact patch under cornering preserve the Forester's composed handling. If you value steering precision and a calm ride, prioritize models with engineered tread block phasing and reinforced carcasses that reduce vibration transfer to the steering wheel.
Load Rating, Speed Rating, And Fitment
Ensure any all terrain tire you consider meets or exceeds the Forester's factory load and speed ratings. Under-rated tires can overheat or fail under load, while incorrect rolling diameter can affect speedometer accuracy and vehicle stability systems. Check the size options that maintain correct overall diameter and rolling circumference for your Forester's suspension and clearance.
Also verify wheel width compatibility and recommended inflation ranges. Proper fitment preserves handling, braking, and fuel economy while keeping electronic systems functioning as intended.
Durability And Sidewall Protection
Trail encounters often put sidewalls at risk from rocks and roots. Tires with reinforced sidewalls, protective ribs, or scuff guards reduce the chance of punctures and cuts when driving off pavement. Reinforced constructions may weigh more but often provide long-term value through fewer field repairs and longer service life.
Consider whether you need additional puncture resistance based on the types of trails you frequent. For light overlanding and backroad exploration, moderate sidewall reinforcement is often sufficient; for rockier routes, prioritize stronger constructions.
Sizing And Fitment For The Forester
The 2019-2024 Subaru Forester commonly uses several factory tire sizes depending on trim and wheel options. When selecting all terrain tires, match the tire diameter and load rating to the Forester's specified sizes to maintain speedometer accuracy and avoid rubbing. Upsizing beyond factory diameter can change gearing, suspension clearance, and steering feel.
If you plan to move to a slightly larger diameter for extra ground clearance, check wheel well clearance and suspension travel under full articulation. Keep overall tire diameter within the manufacturer-recommended tolerance to avoid electronic stability system errors and ensure proper ABS operation.
- Confirm OEM speed and load ratings before buying replacement tires.
- Avoid extreme upsizing that can alter gearing or cause rubbing on full lock.
- Consider professional mounting and alignment after changing tire sizes.
Winter Use And Seasonal Considerations
All terrain tires can improve winter capability compared with summer highway tires, but not all AT patterns perform equally in heavy snow. Look for winter-appropriate siping and the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol if you expect prolonged icy or snowy conditions. That marking indicates the tire meets industry snow traction criteria.
Some Forester owners prefer to run dedicated winter tires in severe climates and reserve ATs for shoulder seasons. This approach preserves tread life and ensures maximum safety when temperatures drop consistently below freezing.
- Check for snow-specific ratings if you drive in sustained winter conditions.
- Rotate and check pressures more frequently in winter to manage uneven wear.
On-Road Behavior And Everyday Driving
All terrain tires that strike a good balance will feel secure on highways while still providing confidence on gravel roads. Pay attention to steering response, braking distances in wet conditions, and mid-corner stability. These are the performance attributes you will notice day to day.
If most of your mileage is commuting, prioritize lower cabin noise and predictable handling over extreme off-road traction. Proper inflation and regular rotations preserve ride quality and reduce odd wear patterns that amplify noise.
- Monitor tire pressures regularly to maintain comfort and efficiency.
- Choose tires with engineered tread phasing to reduce pattern noise.
Tire Maintenance And Rotations
Regular maintenance extends tread life and keeps handling predictable. Rotate tires at recommended intervals and inspect for uneven wear, sidewall damage, and embedded debris after off-road trips. Maintaining correct air pressure prevents early shoulder wear and improves fuel economy for the Forester.
Balancing and periodic alignment checks are important after swapping tires or after hitting significant off-road obstacles. Proper balancing reduces vibration and uneven wear that can shorten tire life.
- Follow a rotation schedule every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or per manufacturer guidance.
- Inspect tires after trail use and remove embedded stones to slow wear.
Load Carrying And Towing Impacts
Many Forester owners carry gear for camping or occasional light towing. Additional weight increases tire load and heat build-up, which can accelerate wear and stress sidewalls. Select tires with load ratings that comfortably exceed the maximum load you intend to carry to maintain longevity and safety.
If you frequently carry heavy gear, adjust pressures according to the tire manufacturer's load tables. Underinflation under load is a common cause of premature belt separation or sidewall failure.
- Verify load range when choosing tires for cargo-heavy use.
- Increase pressure as recommended when carrying heavy loads to avoid overheating.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant All-terrain Tires recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2019-2024 Subaru Forester All Terrain Tires
We evaluated tires using criteria that reflect real-world needs for 2019-2024 Subaru Forester owners. First, we prioritized wet and dry traction performance on both pavement and loose surfaces because the Forester is often used for mixed commuting and light off-road trips. Second, we considered tread life and wear consistency since owners expect longevity from all terrain tires without excessive replacement cost. Third, we assessed noise and ride comfort because aggressive tread blocks can affect daily driving refinement. Fourth, load rating and speed rating compatibility with the Forester's axles and factory specifications were checked to ensure safety and legal compliance. Fifth, we looked at winter performance and siping effectiveness for drivers in snowy or icy climates. Finally, we examined construction features such as sidewall reinforcement and puncture resistance for trail durability.We excluded ultra-aggressive mud-terrain patterns and tires designed for heavy trucks, focusing instead on all terrain designs compatible with compact crossover weights and handling. Tires missing adequate load or speed ratings for Forester applications or lacking consistent traction data were not considered. The result is a curated selection that balances on-road manners, off-road capability, durability, and fitment requirements specific to the 2019-2024 Subaru Forester.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I put all terrain tires on my Forester year-round?
Often yes. All terrain tires are designed for mixed conditions and can perform year-round in many climates. In regions with severe winter conditions, dedicated winter tires may still be safer during prolonged cold spells.
Will all terrain tires reduce fuel economy in my Forester?
Usually there is a small fuel economy penalty compared with highway-focused tires due to increased rolling resistance and tread aggressiveness. Proper inflation and alignment help minimize the impact.
How do I know what size all terrain tire will fit my Forester?
Check the placard on the driver door or the owner manual for factory tire sizes and recommended load ratings. If considering a different size, ensure the overall diameter stays within acceptable tolerance and confirm clearance for full suspension travel.
Do all terrain tires last as long as highway tires on the Forester?
It depends. Some modern all terrain compounds offer comparable tread life to highway tires, but more aggressive patterns typically wear faster. Tread life also depends on driving style, road surfaces, and maintenance.
Are reinforced sidewalls necessary for Forester trail use?
Often they are beneficial if you encounter rocky or root-strewn trails frequently. Reinforced sidewalls improve resistance to cuts and bruises but can slightly increase ride harshness and weight.
How important is tire rotation with all terrain tires?
Very important. Regular rotation evens out wear across the tire set and extends usable tread life. Follow the rotation interval recommended by the tire maker or your service professional.
Final Verdict
Prioritize the attributes that match how you use your 2019-2024 Subaru Forester. If you spend most miles on pavement with occasional unpaved roads, favor all terrain tires that emphasize lower noise, predictable handling, and longer tread life. If you frequently tackle mud, snow, or rough trails, prioritize tread bite, siping, and reinforced construction even if that costs a bit of comfort.Balance load rating, proper fitment, and maintenance habits when making your selection. With those tradeoffs in mind, you can confidently pick an all terrain tire that improves capability without compromising the Forester's daily drivability.
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