Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
Choosing the right tires for a Subaru Outback shapes ride comfort, traction in mixed conditions, and long-term ownership costs. The Outback's combination of daily road use and occasional rough surfaces means tires must balance grip, durability, and noise control. This guide shortlists the top options for Subaru Outback tires, each selected for real-world performance factors like wet traction, tread life, and comfort. Below you will find the best picks and the criteria used to evaluate them, to help you match a tire to how you drive and the conditions you face.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Outback parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Goodyear Wrangler AT/S All-Terrain Tire — 265/70R17 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Milestar MS932 Sport All-Season Radial Tire (225/60R17) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | SunF A033 ATV/UTV All-Terrain Tire Set (26×9-12 front, 26×11-12 rear) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Sailun Atrezzo SH408 All-Season Passenger Tire (225/55R17) |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car Radial Tire (205/55R16) – Set of 2 |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Hankook Kinergy ST H735 All-Season Touring Tire (225/60R17) |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Tire (205/55R16) — Set of 4 |  |
1. Goodyear Wrangler AT/S All-Terrain Tire — 265/70R17
| Size | 265/70R17 |
|---|---|
| Tread Depth | 13.6 32nds |
| Maximum Pressure | 44 PSI |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Special Features | tread_wear_indicator |
The Goodyear Wrangler AT/S is an all-terrain radial tire intended to deliver dependable year-round traction and extended wear. It is typically used on light trucks and SUVs and for this article should be considered only for Subaru Outback owners who run 265/70R17 sizing. The tread features wide lateral grooves and dual traction lug channels that help evacuate mud, water, and snow, while a wraparound shoulder improves off-road bite and appearance. A tread-wear indicator and a 360-A-B UTQG rating point to above-average longevity and predictable wear for drivers who prioritize reliability. In practical use the tire provides a comfortable ride and generally quiet highway manners for daily driving, with tougher compound and deeper grooves available when occasional light off-road or snowy conditions are encountered. Limitations include a modest increase in road noise compared with highway-focused touring tires at sustained high speeds and the more aggressive tread will not match the fuel economy and wet-road braking of dedicated touring or all-season passenger tires.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who prioritize long, predictable tread life and consistent all-weather traction for daily driving and occasional light off-road use on their Subaru Outback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking the quietest, most fuel-efficient highway ride or the shortest wet-braking distances should consider a dedicated touring or premium all-season tire instead.
- All-terrain tread with wide grooves for mud, snow, and water evacuation.
- Durable tread compound and tread-wear indicator for predictable longevity.
- Wraparound shoulder improves off-road traction and visual appeal.
- Comfortable ride and generally quiet for daily highway driving.
- More road noise and slightly lower fuel efficiency than highway touring tires.
- Not optimized for maximum wet-braking or fuel economy compared with passenger all-season tires.
Verdict A reliable, long-wearing all-terrain tire that suits Subaru Outback owners who want dependable year-round traction with occasional off-road capability.
2. Milestar MS932 Sport All-Season Radial Tire (225/60R17)
| Size | 225/60R17 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | All Season |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Load Capacity | 1709 Pounds |
| UTQG | 540AA |
The Milestar MS932 Sport is an all-season performance touring tire built to provide steady traction, a comfortable ride, and low road noise for daily driving. It is typically used as a factory-replacement or upgrade on sedans and crossovers, and on a Subaru Outback it serves as a cost-conscious option for year-round commuting and light touring. Notable features include an advanced silica tread compound for improved wet grip, a 10/32nds new tread depth and a 50,000-mile limited treadwear backing in many sizes, which translate to predictable wear and respectable mileage for the price. Buyers will appreciate the quiet, comfortable highway manners and stable handling in rain, while installers report straightforward mounting and balancing. Limitations are that this is not a dedicated winter tire and it is not optimized for aggressive performance driving or severe snow conditions, so drivers in heavy snow should consider winter-specific rubber. Tire longevity and ride quality also depend on proper rotations and alignment.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize convenience and a low-cost, low-fuss replacement tire for daily use and highway commutes on a Subaru Outback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly encounter deep snow, prolonged icy conditions, or demand high-performance handling for spirited driving should choose winter-specific or premium performance tires instead.
- Designed for quiet, comfortable highway driving with reduced road noise
- Advanced silica compound improves wet traction compared with basic budget tires
- Wide availability of sizes and a 50,000-mile limited treadwear warranty on many sizes
- Simple mounting and balancing for quick installation at a shop
- Not certified as a winter/snow tire and not ideal for heavy snow or ice
- Not engineered for track-level or aggressive high-performance driving
Verdict A practical, budget-friendly all-season touring tire that delivers quiet, predictable daily performance for convenience-minded Subaru Outback drivers but is not a winter or high-performance tire.
3. SunF A033 ATV/UTV All-Terrain Tire Set (26×9-12 front, 26×11-12 rear)
| Size | 26×9-12 front, 26×11-12 rear |
|---|---|
| Tread type | Non-Directional |
| Load capacity | 739 Pounds |
| Construction type | B (bias ply) |
The SunF A033 is an aggressive all-terrain tire built to handle mud, sand, rocks, and mixed trail surfaces. In use it provides deep tread bite and reinforced ply construction intended to resist punctures and impacts during off-road riding. Notable features include pronounced shoulder lugs for cornering grip, non-directional tread for versatile mounting, and availability in heavier ply counts for tougher conditions. In practice these tires deliver strong traction in soft and loose surfaces and feel stable at moderate speeds on uneven trails. The construction leans bias-ply, which contributes to toughness off-road but can feel stiffer and wear faster if used extensively on pavement. These tires are labeled for off-road use and are not DOT-approved for road registration in some regions. For buyers seeking factory-quality road manners and long tread life on paved highways, a steel-belted touring tire would be preferable. For trail-focused performance at a lower cost, the A033 provides solid capability and value.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize off-road traction and durability over highway refinement and want an affordable way to upgrade capability for trail driving and recreational use.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a tire optimized for highway comfort, long tread life on pavement, or tires that must meet DOT registration requirements should consider a factory-quality, steel-belted alternative.
- Aggressive tread and shoulder lugs deliver strong off-road traction in mud, snow, and loose terrain.
- Available 6- and 8-ply construction increases resistance to punctures and impacts.
- Non-directional design lets you mount tires in either orientation for easier installation and rotation.
- Deep tread pattern improves self-cleaning in soft conditions, reducing clogging during muddy runs.
- Bias-ply construction means these are not steel-belted DOT road tires and may be unsuitable for extended highway use.
- Aggressive tread wears faster when driven frequently on pavement and can produce a stiffer ride.
- Tire stiffness can make mounting slightly harder in cold or unheated shop conditions.
Verdict Strong off-road grip and reinforced ply construction make the SunF A033 a value pick for trail-focused riders but not for regular highway driving.
4. Sailun Atrezzo SH408 All-Season Passenger Tire (225/55R17)
| Size | 225/55R17 |
|---|---|
| Load Range | SL |
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| UTQG | 420-A-A |
The Sailun Atrezzo SH408 is an all-season passenger tire intended for daily road use on vehicles like the Subaru Outback. Its asymmetrical tread and four circumferential grooves are designed to shed water and reduce hydroplaning, while a staggered lug layout aims to lower road noise for a comfortable ride. Sailun backs the design with a 55,000-mile limited tread-life figure, which positions this tire as a value choice for drivers who want decent longevity without a premium price. In real-world use you can expect predictable handling on wet and dry pavement and a quieter cabin compared with more aggressive performance tires. Reported softness in the compound can improve grip and ride comfort, but may increase wear rate compared with harder touring tires. There is no indication of specialized winter certification, so winter performance may be limited on snow and ice. For owners of a Subaru Outback seeking an affordable, comfortable all-season replacement, this tire balances traction and comfort at a budget-friendly level.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize low upfront cost and a comfortable, quiet all-season tire for everyday driving on a Subaru Outback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently encounter heavy snow, ice, or who demand maximum tread life and high-performance summer handling should consider higher-spec or winter-specific alternatives.
- Asymmetrical tread with four circumferential grooves improves wet traction and reduces hydroplaning risk
- Staggered lug design and softer compound deliver a quieter, more comfortable ride
- 55,000 mile limited tread-life rating suggests reasonable long-term value
- Radial construction and UTQG 420-A-A indicate balanced durability and traction
- Softer compound may wear faster than harder touring tires
- Not indicated as a winter-specific or snow-rated tire, so performance in severe winter conditions is limited
Verdict A budget-friendly all-season tire that delivers quiet, comfortable daily driving and decent wet traction for Subaru Outback owners, with some compromise on wear and winter performance.
5. Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Car Radial Tire (205/55R16) – Set of 2
| Size | 205/55R16 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Load Capacity | 1356 Pounds |
| Construction | Radial |
| UTQG | Treadwear 380, Traction A, Temperature A |
The Fullway HP108 is an all-season radial tire sold here as a set of two in the 205/55R16 size and intended for everyday driving on paved roads. It uses an asymmetrical tread and a 4-ply SL load rating to balance grip, comfort, and durability for commuter and family cars. For a Subaru Outback with factory wheel and size compatibility, this tire provides predictable wet and dry traction thanks to an A traction and A temperature UTQG rating and a relatively high treadwear number. Installation is straightforward at any tire shop and the tires are marketed as universal fit for passenger cars. The practical benefits are good value per mile and a quiet, comfortable ride for daily highway and city driving. Limitations include that these are budget-priced tires from a lesser-known brand, so long-term wear, high-speed stability, and winter snow performance for an Outback used in severe winter conditions may not match premium OEM-quality all-season or dedicated winter tires.
Best for: Practical, risk-averse drivers who prioritize a low-cost, reliable replacement tire for routine commuting on paved roads and want a straightforward, value-focused option for their Subaru Outback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need best-in-class high-speed stability, aggressive handling, or dedicated winter traction should consider premium all-season or purpose-built winter tires instead.
- Budget-friendly option that delivers good value for everyday driving
- All-season asymmetrical tread designed for predictable wet and dry traction
- UTQG 380/AA indicates higher treadwear and solid traction and temperature resistance
- Sold in matching pairs which simplifies partial replacement when only two tires are needed
- Brand and long-term durability are less proven compared with established premium tire makers
- Not optimized for heavy snow or severe winter conditions compared with dedicated winter tires
Verdict A cost-conscious all-season tire that offers solid everyday wet and dry performance for an Outback but falls short of premium tires for severe winter or high-performance needs.
6. Hankook Kinergy ST H735 All-Season Touring Tire (225/60R17)
| Size | 225/60R17 |
|---|---|
| Load Capacity | 1709 Pounds |
| Tread Type | Symmetrical |
| Maximum Pressure | 51 PSI |
| UTQG | 680AA |
The Hankook Kinergy ST H735 is a touring all-season tire focused on everyday driving comfort and longevity. It uses stiffened tread blocks and a dual filler system to improve grip and even wear while three wide circumferential grooves help evacuate water for better wet traction. Multiple sipes and traction grooves add biting edges for light snow and shorter braking distances, and the tread compound is formulated for abrasion resistance to extend mileage. In regular use it provides a quiet, predictable ride with stable dry handling from a rigid center rib and reduced road noise thanks to a pitch-varied tread sequence. The practical payoff is a durable, confidence-inspiring tire for commuting, highway miles, and occasional winter slush. Limitations are that it is a highway/touring design rather than a performance or dedicated winter tire, so expect reduced extreme-winter and spirited-handling capability compared with specialized alternatives.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize long mileage, low cabin noise, and reliable all-season performance for daily driving and highway commutes on an Outback.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently encounter heavy snow or who want maximum cornering grip at the limit should choose a dedicated winter tire or a performance summer option instead.
- Balanced wet and dry traction aided by three wide circumferential grooves
- Quiet ride thanks to specific pitch sequence and multiple sipes
- Long tread life from abrasion-resistant compound and stiffened tread blocks
- Predictable handling with a rigid center rib for stable steering response
- Not a dedicated winter tire so performance on deep snow or ice is limited
- Touring focus means less sharp handling for high-performance driving
Verdict A value-oriented touring tire that delivers quiet, long-lasting all-season performance for everyday Outback driving but not for extreme winter or high-performance use.
7. Fullway HP108 All-Season Passenger Tire (205/55R16) — Set of 4
| Size | 205/55R16 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Load Capacity | 1356 Pounds |
| UTQG | Treadwear 380, Traction A, Temperature A |
The Fullway HP108 is an all-season passenger tire sold as a set of four and designed for everyday road use. It uses an asymmetrical tread and a radial construction to provide predictable handling in dry and wet conditions, and the UTQG rating (380/AA) suggests reasonable treadwear and good traction and temperature resistance for typical commuting. In practice this tire is best for drivers who want a quiet, comfortable ride and reliable wet-weather performance without paying premium brand prices. Buyers should expect straightforward installation and a factory-replacement fit when the 205/55R16 size matches the vehicle. Limitations include lower brand recognition and less comprehensive support compared with mainstream OEM-replacement tires, and performance in severe winter or high-speed track use will lag premium all-season or dedicated winter tires. Consider professional mounting and balancing to get the best ride and wear.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants dependable, cost-conscious tires for daily driving and commuting on a Subaru Outback and values comfort and predictable wet-weather performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prioritize top-tier brand backing, extended mileage warranties, aggressive winter traction, or track-capable handling should consider premium or dedicated seasonal alternatives.
- Affordable set pricing compared with premium brands
- Asymmetrical tread and radial construction for balanced wet and dry grip
- UTQG 380/AA indicates reasonable treadwear and good traction/temperature ratings
- Designed for a quiet, comfortable everyday ride
- Not from a widely known mainstream tire brand so long-term reliability data is limited
- Not optimized for severe winter conditions or high-performance driving
Verdict A budget-friendly all-season tire that delivers comfortable, reliable everyday performance for Outback drivers but falls short of premium or specialized seasonal options.
Choosing the Right Subaru Outback Tires: Key Factors to Consider
Tread Compound And Durability
Tread compound determines how a tire grips different surfaces and how quickly it wears. Softer compounds usually offer better grip, especially in cooler temperatures, but they often sacrifice longevity. Harder compounds can extend tread life but may reduce traction in wet or cold conditions. When choosing for an Outback, look for a compound tuned to give a reasonable balance between grip and wear. Durable compounds help reduce replacement frequency and maintain consistent performance over tens of thousands of miles.
Wet Traction And Hydroplaning Resistance
Wet traction affects braking distance and steering response in rain, which is critical for safety. Tread pattern, siping, and groove design influence how effectively water is evacuated from the contact patch. Wider circumferential grooves and well-placed lateral channels help channel water away and reduce hydroplaning risk. For frequent rain or slushy conditions, prioritize tires with tested wet-braking and hydroplaning resistance ratings to preserve control during sudden stops and turns.
Seasonal Performance And Temperature Range
Tire performance changes with temperature. All-season options aim to handle a broad temperature window, while winter-specific tires are formulated for cold and snow and summer tires optimize dry and warm-weather grip. Consider the typical climate where you drive when selecting tires for an Outback. If you experience regular snow or prolonged subfreezing conditions, a dedicated winter tire will usually outperform all-season designs. For mild climates, a high-quality all-season tire can provide adequate year-round performance.
Treadwear Rating And Expected Lifespan
Treadwear ratings and manufacturer longevity estimates give a sense of how long a tire will last under normal use. Higher treadwear ratings generally indicate a tougher compound and longer life, though driving habits and alignment affect real-world results. Think about annual mileage and prioritize tires whose expected lifespan matches your replacement planning. Longer-lasting tires can lower total ownership costs even if initial expense is higher.
Comfort, Noise, And Ride Quality
Ride comfort and cabin noise vary by tread design and sidewall construction. Symmetric and quieter tread patterns reduce airborne and structure-borne noise, improving long drives. Softer sidewalls can improve comfort but may slightly affect steering precision. If you spend a lot of time on highways or long commutes in your Outback, favor tires engineered for low noise and a compliant ride to reduce fatigue and enhance perceived quality.
Size, Load Rating, And Fitment
Choosing the correct tire size and load rating is essential for safety and handling. The right sidewall height and wheel diameter maintain speedometer accuracy and suspension geometry. Load rating must meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer recommendations to support weight and cargo. Always confirm the tire size and load index appropriate for your Subaru Outback model and trim. Incorrect fitment can impair handling, cause premature wear, and may affect warranty or vehicle systems.
FAQ
How do I know which tire size fits my Subaru Outback?
Check the placard inside the driver door jamb or the vehicle owner's manual for the factory-recommended tire size and load index. That information specifies tire width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. If you are unsure, a qualified tire professional can confirm fitment and recommend sizes that preserve handling and clearance.
Are all-season tires good enough for winter in snowy areas?
All-season tires can handle mild winter conditions but usually do not match the traction of dedicated winter tires in heavy snow or sustained subfreezing temperatures. Winter tires use specialized rubber and tread patterns for ice and deep snow. In regions with regular severe winters, switching to winter tires for the cold months often improves safety and control.
How often should I replace Subaru Outback tires?
Replacement depends on tread depth, wear patterns, and driving habits. Many tires need replacement when tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch, though safer replacement is often recommended earlier around 4/32 for wet traction. Regular inspections, rotation, and alignment help extend life and reveal when replacement is necessary.
What does a tire tread wear indicator mean?
Tread wear indicators are molded bars within the grooves that become flush with the tread surface as the tire wears. When these indicators are level with the tread, the tire has reached the minimum safe depth. Use them as a visual cue and check tread depth periodically with a gauge for more accuracy.
Should I worry about balancing and alignment when buying new tires?
Yes. Proper tire balancing reduces vibrations and uneven wear, while alignment ensures the tires meet the vehicle's intended geometry for predictable handling. Both services improve ride quality and extend tire life, so have them checked when new tires are installed or when you notice vibrations or uneven wear.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Outback Tires
To build this list we evaluated tires for the Subaru Outback using criteria that matter to owners who drive on paved roads, wet surfaces, and light unpaved routes. Key factors included wet and dry traction across typical temperatures, treadwear expectations and material durability, road noise and ride comfort, and compatibility with common Outback wheel sizes and load ratings. We also considered braking distance in wet conditions and how tire design affects steering response and stability. We excluded tires intended exclusively for heavy off-road, racing, or commercial truck use, as well as specialty winter-only models that do not provide balanced year-round performance. The final selections emphasize practical, all-season capability, consistent wear characteristics, and suitability for the vehicle's weight and intended uses.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Pick tires for a Subaru Outback by matching performance to the seasons you drive in, the surfaces you encounter, and how many miles you cover annually. Balance wet traction, tread life, and comfort according to your priorities, and verify correct size and load rating for safe fitment. Regular maintenance such as rotation, balancing, and alignment will preserve handling and extend service life. Prioritize the factors that most affect your everyday driving to find the best long-term solution.
Explore More:
- Check out all Subaru Outback parts & accessories
- Explore Wheels & Tires
- Browse all Auto Parts
