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If you own a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester and face cold, icy, or snowy roads, choosing the right winter tire matters for safety and day-to-day drivability. The wrong tire can compromise traction, increase stopping distance, and reduce steering confidence in the kinds of weather Forester owners often encounter.This guide covers our six shortlisted winter tire options for the 2009-2013 Forester and explains the real-world tradeoffs you should weigh. We focus on traction on packed snow, wet braking, durability, and fitment considerations so you can pick the tire that matches your driving needs and local winter conditions. Read on for the criteria we used and practical fitment and installation guidance before you make a decision.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 Winter Tire 225/55R18 |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | MICHELIN X‑ICE SNOW 215/55R17 98H Winter Tire |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Lexani Quattro Tempo Tour AW All-Weather P215/65R16 98H Tire |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Studdable Winter Tire (195/65R15) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 Winter Passenger Tire 225/55R17 |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Cooper Discoverer True North Winter Tire 215/55R17 94H |  |
1. Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 Winter Tire 225/55R18
| Size | 225/55R18 |
|---|---|
| Tread Depth | 10 32nds |
| Load Index | 102 |
| Speed Rating | V |
| Seasons | Winter |
The Bridgestone Blizzak LM001 is a winter passenger tire built to prioritize grip and predictable handling in cold-season conditions. It uses a directional tread and winter-specific compound to improve traction on snow, slush, and thin ice while maintaining competent wet- and dry-road control for spirited driving. Typical use is seasonal mounting on a vehicle that needs sure-footed braking and cornering in winter; it is not intended as an all-season daily tire. Notable features include a 10/32" tread depth, an XL load range with a 102 load index, and a V speed rating to support higher-speed stability on highway runs. Practical benefits are improved braking and confidence in winter storms and on treated winter roads, plus compatibility with 18-inch rims. Important limitations are that winter compounds wear faster in warm weather and the directional tread requires correct rotation and mounting orientation, and this specific size must match the vehicle's wheel and speed/load requirements.
Best for: Drivers who want a winter-focused tire that balances confident snow and ice performance with responsive handling during spirited driving in cold conditions.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking a year-round tire or those who rarely encounter winter weather should consider all-season or touring alternatives instead.
- Strong winter traction on snow, slush, and thin ice thanks to a winter-specific compound and directional tread
- Deep 10/32" tread for extended winter grip and improved snow evacuation
- XL load rating and 102 load index support heavier loads and stable high-speed behavior
- Designed for performance-oriented driving with a V speed rating for highway use
- Winter compound will wear more quickly if used year-round in warm temperatures
- Directional tread requires attention to correct mounting and rotation
Verdict: Choose the Blizzak LM001 if you want a winter tire that prioritizes dependable grip and handling for confident winter driving.
2. MICHELIN X‑ICE SNOW 215/55R17 98H Winter Tire
| Rim Size | 17 inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 98 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Type | Directional |
| Seasons | Winter |
The MICHELIN X‑ICE SNOW in 215/55R17 is a directional winter tire built to prioritize cold-weather traction and tread life on passenger cars and small SUVs. It uses a winter-specific compound and directional tread pattern to improve grip on snow and slush, while a relatively deep initial tread (listed at 10.5/32nds) helps maintain bite as it wears. Typical use is seasonal fitment for drivers who need confident stopping and cornering in winter conditions rather than year-round performance. Notable features include a high load index and a 50 psi maximum inflation rating that support heavier loads and higher inflation pressures when required, and Michelin's reputation for consistent construction. Trade-offs are that it is a dedicated winter tire so it will wear faster and be noisier in warm weather compared with all-season or touring tires, and the directional design requires consistent rotation patterns or remounting if fitment is changed. For a Subaru Forester from the 2009 to 2013 model years the tire size matches common factory fitments and delivers strong winter handling and durability for drivers focused on confident seasonal performance.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize confident winter braking and cornering for their Subaru Forester and want a durable, performance‑focused seasonal tire.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a single tire to handle both warm‑weather commuting and winter conditions or those who prefer the lowest possible road noise for daily highway driving.
- Directional tread and winter compound improve traction on snow and slush
- Deep initial tread depth offers longer useful life in winter conditions
- High load index supports heavier loads and stable handling
- Manufactured by Michelin, known for consistent construction and durability
- Designed for winter use so it will wear faster and be louder in warm conditions
- Directional tread limits rotation options and may require remounting if reoriented
Verdict: Choose this tire if you want a performance‑oriented winter tire that gives your Forester confident traction and durable winter tread life.
3. Lexani Quattro Tempo Tour AW All-Weather P215/65R16 98H Tire
| Size | P215/65R16 |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 98 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Construction Type | Radial |
| Seasons | Year Round |
The Lexani Quattro Tempo Tour AW is an all‑weather touring tire sized P215/65R16 intended for passenger cars and sedans, and it can be used on a 2009–2013 Subaru Forester with that factory tire size. Its tread pattern combines multiple sipes and three wide circumferential grooves to evacuate water and slush, which improves wet grip and resistance to hydroplaning. The tire is also Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certified, so it provides usable traction in moderate to severe winter conditions compared with highway all‑seasons. Lexani backs the tread life with a long limited warranty, which signals a focus on longevity for drivers who want predictable replacement intervals. Tradeoffs are typical for an all‑weather touring design: it balances comfort and tread life over maximum winter performance, so very aggressive winter driving or deep snow excursions will still favor a dedicated winter tire. For everyday Forester owners seeking a practical, year‑round solution that handles snow and wet roads better than a standard all‑season, this tire is a reasonable choice.
Best for: Practical Forester owners who want a single tire that delivers improved winter and wet traction while keeping ride comfort and tread life predictable for year‑round driving.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently face deep snow, long mountain passes in severe winter storms, or who need maximum ice grip should choose a dedicated winter tire instead.
- Three Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for credible winter traction
- Multiple sipes and wide circumferential grooves improve wet and slush evacuation
- Long manufacturer limited tread life warranty for predictable longevity
- Designed for comfortable touring ride suitable for daily driving
- Not as capable as a dedicated winter tire in very deep snow or extreme icy conditions
Verdict: If you want a single, practical tire for a 2009–2013 Forester that improves winter and wet performance without sacrificing comfort or tread life, this all‑weather touring tire is a solid choice.
4. Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 Studdable Winter Tire (195/65R15)
| Size | 195/65R15 |
|---|---|
| Tread Type | Directional |
| Tread Depth | 11 32nds |
| Load Range | XL |
| Special Features | Studdable |
The Nexen Winguard Winspike 3 is a studdable winter tire engineered to improve grip and control in snow, ice, slush, and wet conditions. It uses an advanced winter rubber compound and dense siping to keep the tread flexible in sub-freezing temperatures and to increase road bite. The directional tread with deep grooves helps evacuate water and slush, reducing the risk of hydroplaning in mixed winter weather. Optional TSMI #12 studs can be fitted for extra bite on hard ice, which is useful if you frequently encounter icy roads. The tire is Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified, indicating suitability for moderate to severe winter driving, and Nexen provides a 36-month roadside assistance warranty. Trade-offs are typical for winter tires: you can expect firmer, noisier behavior and faster wear if used year-round or on warm pavement, so reserve these for the cold season to get the best life and performance.
Best for: Buyers who need an affordable, capable winter tire for regular cold-season driving and occasional icy roads, prioritizing traction and reliability over year-round comfort.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who plan to run the same tires year-round, those who rarely encounter snow or ice, or buyers who prioritize the quietest possible ride on dry pavement.
- Studdable design with optional TSMI #12 studs for improved ice traction
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for proven winter performance
- Directional tread and deep grooves that help evacuate water and slush
- Dense siping and winter compound maintain flexibility in very cold temperatures
- Backed by a 36-month roadside assistance warranty
- Not intended for warm-weather use which can shorten tread life and increase noise
Verdict: A budget-friendly, studdable winter tire that delivers strong ice and snow traction for cold-season use on a Subaru Forester.
5. Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 Winter Passenger Tire 225/55R17
| Seasons | Winter |
|---|---|
| Rim Size | 17 Inches |
| Load Index | 97.0 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Tread Type | Asymmetrical |
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is a studless winter tire built to deliver confident braking and stable handling in snowy and icy conditions. Fit and used like any seasonal tire, it replaces all-season rubber for cold months and is intended to be swapped back for warmer weather. Notable features include a winter-specific tread compound and asymmetrical tread design with fine tread particles to boost ice traction, plus a deeper tread depth for seasonal longevity versus prior Blizzak generations. In practice that translates to shorter stopping distances on packed snow and a more secure feel on slippery surfaces, especially when temperatures drop below freezing. The WS90 is optimized for seasonal use and provides a predictable, confidence-inspiring feel, but is not a year-round tire and will wear faster and lose grip in warm conditions. Expect a premium winter tire experience with a focus on safety in ice and snow rather than low rolling resistance or long summer tread life.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize reliable stopping and predictable handling in icy and snowy winter months and who rotate to dedicated winter tires each season.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a year-round tire or who drive primarily in warm climates where winter traction features are unnecessary.
- Designed specifically for winter conditions with a compound that improves grip on ice and snow
- Asymmetrical tread and fine tread particles increase traction and stopping power on icy surfaces
- Deeper tread depth for extended seasonal life compared with the previous generation
- Well suited to passenger cars and minivans in cold climates
- Not intended for warm-weather driving so tread life and wet performance decline in higher temperatures
Verdict: Choose the Blizzak WS90 if you want a purpose-built winter tire that maximizes control and stopping power on ice and snow for seasonal winter use.
6. Cooper Discoverer True North Winter Tire 215/55R17 94H
| Rim Size | 17 inches |
|---|---|
| Load Index | 94 |
| Speed Rating | H |
| Seasons | Winter |
The Cooper Discoverer True North is a studless winter tire designed to deliver confident winter traction for daily commuting and highway driving. It uses a winter-specific compound, dense siping, and Snow Groove Technology to trap snow in the tread for improved snow-on-snow grip, while tread noise dampening features help keep cabin noise down. The tire is Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certified, which means it meets the industry severe-snow standard and should shorten stopping distances on snow and ice compared with an all-season tire. Typical use would be on plowed and treated roads as well as occasional deeper snow; it is aimed at drivers who need reliable winter braking and handling rather than off-road winter use. Expect good wet and slush performance and a quieter ride than many winter tires, but bear in mind it is a winter-only compound so it will wear faster and feel less precise in warm weather compared with an all-season tire.
Best for: Drivers who prioritize verified winter traction and quieter on-road performance for regular winter commuting and highway use on a Forester.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need year-round tires or who frequently drive off-road in deep, unplowed snow should consider a different tire or a studded option.
- Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for verified severe-snow performance
- Snow Groove Technology and high-density siping improve snow-on-snow and ice traction
- Tread noise dampening structures reduce road noise for a quieter winter commute
- Designed compound improves wet and slush braking compared with typical all-season tires
- Winter-specific rubber compounds wear faster and perform poorly in warm temperatures
Verdict: If you want a proven, quiet winter tire with certified severe-snow capability for regular Forester winter commuting, this is a strong choice.
Choosing the Right 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Winter Tire: Key Factors to Consider
Snow and Ice Traction
How a tire grips packed snow and icy surfaces is the single most important factor for Forester owners who drive in winter. Tires designed with aggressive siping, open shoulder blocks, and winter rubber compounds remain flexible at low temperatures and bite into snow rather than riding on top. That translates directly to shorter stopping distances and more confident acceleration on hills.
Consider how you drive: frequent steep hills or unplowed roads demand a higher-traction pattern than mostly plowed suburban streets. Also remember that studded options can increase ice bite in consistently icy areas, but they may trade off some dry-road comfort and can be restricted by local laws.
Tread Pattern and Water Evacuation
Winter tread design affects how effectively a tire channels slush and standing water away from the contact patch. Directional or asymmetric patterns with wide circumferential grooves reduce hydroplaning risk and improve lateral bite when carving through slush.
Because the Forester often encounters mixed winter surfaces, a tread that balances snow-traction features with robust water evacuation will help maintain control during freeze-thaw cycles. Look for stable center ribs for highway tracking along with open outer grooves for slush clearing.
Tire Compound and Cold-Weather Flexibility
Rubber compounds formulated for winter remain pliable at low temperatures so the tire can conform to road irregularities. A compound that stiffens too quickly in cold weather loses grip and increases braking distance. Conversely, overly soft compounds can wear faster if driven frequently on clear pavement.
For the Forester, which may split time between city roads and rural winter routes, choose a compound that preserves flexibility down to typical winter lows in your region while still offering reasonable treadwear across a season.
Size Fitment and Load Rating
Ensuring the correct winter tire size and load rating is essential for safe handling and accurate speedometer readings. The 2009-2013 Forester commonly uses a range of wheel diameters and aspect ratios; selecting a size that matches the vehicle's factory specifications or a documented alternate fitment prevents rubbing and preserves steering geometry.
Also check load index and speed rating minimums. Winter tires with insufficient load capacity can overheat under heavier loads and compromise control. If you plan to carry cargo or tow light loads, choose a tire with a suitable load rating.
Treadwear and Expected Season Life
Winter compounds wear faster than all-season tires, but meaningful differences exist between winter patterns. Consider typical driving mileage and whether you will use the tires only seasonally or more extensively. A tire with better treadwear characteristics can reduce the number of winter sets you need over several years.
Bear in mind that more aggressive winter treads and softer compounds usually mean shorter life. Match the expected tread life to your budget and how often you drive in severe conditions.
Installation and Maintenance Practicalities
Ease and cost of mounting, balancing, and storing a winter wheel set are practical considerations for Forester owners. Some tire designs require different balancing weights or specific rim types for best results. Regular maintenance such as rotation and checking tread depth will prolong performance and is especially important in winter conditions.
Factor in how often you will switch between summer and winter wheels, whether you will balance and store wheels yourself, and local service options so the tires perform consistently throughout the season.
Choosing Between Studded and Studless Options
Studded and studless winter tires both serve the goal of improving winter traction, but they do so in different ways. Studded tires add metal inserts for mechanical bite on hard-packed ice and can dramatically improve straight-line braking on persistent ice patches. However, studs can reduce traction on wet pavement and may increase road noise.
Studless winter tires rely on advanced rubber compounds and siping geometry to create many tiny biting edges. Modern studless designs often perform very well on both snow and variable winter roads and are a practical choice if you encounter mixed conditions rather than continuous glare ice. Check local regulations before choosing studs, and weigh the tradeoffs between ice performance and ride comfort.
- Studded tires excel on frequent, thick sheet ice but may be restricted by law.
- Studless options are quieter and often better on wet or slushy roads.
- Consider local road conditions and legal restrictions when deciding.
How to Confirm Proper Winter Tire Size Fitment
Confirming the right winter tire size for your Forester means checking the placard inside the driver door, the owner manual, or the tire sidewall for factory sizes. Using a size within the factory-approved range preserves speedometer accuracy and steering geometry.
If you plan to use a different diameter for winter use, ensure the overall rolling circumference stays within a safe tolerance so ABS and traction control systems continue to function correctly. Also verify the load index meets or exceeds the vehicle requirement.
- Check the vehicle placard and owner manual for factory sizes.
- Maintain similar overall diameter if upsizing or downsizing rims.
- Confirm load index and speed rating minimums are met.
Tread Depth: When It Matters and How to Check
Tread depth is a key indicator of winter performance. New winter tires typically start with deeper treads and aggressive siping to evacuate snow and slush. As depth decreases, performance on packed snow and in slush diminishes and stopping distances increase.
Measure tread depth regularly with a gauge. Replace tires before they fall below the manufacturer or regional recommended winter depth thresholds. Keep in mind that effective winter tread depth is more critical than simple percentage wear because siping and block edges create the biting action.
- Use a tread depth gauge rather than relying solely on visual cues.
- Replace winter tires before depth approaches threshold levels recommended for cold-weather driving.
- Inspect for uneven wear which can indicate alignment or pressure issues.
Installation Timing and When To Switch To Winter Tires
A common guideline is to switch to winter tires when temperatures regularly fall below about 7 degrees Celsius because rubber compounds in all-season tires stiffen above that threshold and lose traction. For many Forester owners, that means mounting winter tires in late autumn and keeping them on until conditions reliably stay above that range.
Also consider local weather patterns and forecasts. If your area experiences frequent freeze-thaw cycles, it may be worth installing winter tires earlier in the season. Coordinate installation with balancing and a basic inspection so the set performs as intended from the first mile.
- Switch when average temperatures drop below roughly 7 degrees Celsius.
- Factor in early-season snow events or late-season cold snaps.
- Have tires mounted and balanced by a technician familiar with Forester fitment to avoid issues.
Budgeting for Installation and Seasonal Maintenance
Beyond the tire purchase itself, account for mounting, balancing, and potential wheel costs if you plan to run a separate winter wheel set. Periodic rotations and inspections during the season will extend tire life and safety. Some service centers offer seasonal storage, which may be convenient if you lack space.
When comparing options, weigh expected tread life and fuel economy impacts against upfront costs. A longer-lasting winter tire or one with lower rolling resistance can offset higher initial costs through reduced replacement frequency or modest fuel savings over multiple seasons.
- Include mounting, balancing, and valve replacement in your budget calculations.
- Consider a dedicated winter wheel set to simplify season swaps.
- Plan for mid-season inspections and rotations to maintain even wear.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Forester configuration to see the most relevant Winter Tires recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2013 Subaru Forester Winter Tire
To create this list we prioritized attributes that matter most for a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester in cold climates. We evaluated candidates across traction on packed snow and fresh powder, wet-ice braking performance, and handling stability in slush. Rolling resistance and treadwear were considered to balance winter grip with reasonable wear over a season. Compatibility with typical Forester wheel sizes and recommended load ratings was checked to ensure proper fitment and safety.We also considered noise and ride comfort because many Forester owners use their vehicles for daily commuting as well as winter recreation. Where relevant, we noted options that support studding, but we did not prefer studded designs over high-performance studless patterns; instead we weighed their suitability based on expected road conditions. We excluded any tires that do not meet accepted winter performance markings or that lack recommended speed or load ratings for the vehicle. Finally, availability of sizes that match the Forester's common wheel diameters and common winter tire tread depth specs were used as practical filters.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
What winter tire size should I pick for my 2009-2013 Forester?
Use the factory-recommended sizes listed on the door placard or in the owner manual as your starting point. If you consider a different diameter, keep overall rolling circumference similar and verify the load index meets or exceeds the vehicle requirement.
Are studded winter tires legal everywhere and are they necessary?
Legality of studded tires varies by region, and they are often limited by season. Studs provide extra bite on persistent ice but are not necessary in all conditions. For mixed snow and slush, modern studless tires often deliver excellent performance without studs.
When is the best time to switch to winter tires on a Forester?
A practical rule is to install winter tires when daily temperatures consistently fall below about 7 degrees Celsius. Local weather patterns and early-season snowfall may justify fitting them earlier.
How deep should winter tire tread be to stay effective?
New winter tires start with deeper tread than all-season tires; monitor tread depth with a gauge and replace before it approaches the lower thresholds recommended for winter driving. Shallower tread reduces slush evacuation and traction on packed snow.
Will winter tires reduce my Forester's fuel economy?
Winter tires can slightly increase rolling resistance due to softer compounds and aggressive tread, which may modestly affect fuel economy. Differences are usually small and are often an acceptable tradeoff for improved safety in winter conditions.
Do I need to rebalance or realign when installing winter tires?
Have tires mounted and balanced when installing to ensure smooth operation. An alignment check is recommended if you notice uneven wear or handling changes, but it is not always necessary with every seasonal swap.
Final Verdict
For a 2009-2013 Subaru Forester, prioritize winter tires that provide strong snow traction, reliable wet and slush handling, and proper size fitment for safe operation. Expect tradeoffs between ultimate ice bite, tread life, and on-road comfort; choose based on the typical severity of your winters and how often you drive in unplowed conditions.Focus on options that preserve ABS and traction control function through correct sizing and load rating, and plan for professional mounting and seasonal maintenance. That approach will give you the best balance of safety and durability across winter seasons.
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