Best Tires for Subaru Outback in 2025
Last updated on November 16th, 2025
Choosing the right tires can make a huge difference in how your Subaru Outback handles on the road, whether you’re commuting through city streets, cruising highways, or heading off the beaten path. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which tires provide the best combination of safety, comfort, and performance.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best tires for Subaru Outback, including all-season, winter, and all-terrain options. You’ll also learn how to select the right tire based on your driving style, climate, and budget, so every drive feels smooth, secure, and confident.
Who this guide is for
Imagine this: You’re driving your Subaru Outback down a winding country road. Maybe it’s raining, or maybe the pavement has that slick shine after the first snow. You feel your tires grip the road—and that’s when you realize how much they matter.
This guide is for anyone who wants their Subaru Outback to feel safe, steady, and ready for anything.
- Maybe you’re a daily commuter who spends hours on the highway and just wants a quiet, comfortable ride.
- Or maybe you live somewhere with cold, snowy winters and need tires that can handle ice and slush without slipping.
- Perhaps you love weekend adventures—gravel roads, mountain trails, beach trips—and you’re looking for tires that can keep up.
- And if you’re simply trying to get the best value for your money, this guide will help you understand what matters most before you buy.
No matter your driving style or where you live, this article is written to help you make sense of your options, avoid common mistakes, and choose tires that fit your life—not just your car.
How to Choose the Best Tires for Subaru Outback
Before buying new tires, think about how and where you drive most often. The right tires depend on your daily habits, the weather in your area, and what you expect from your car.
Imagine this: You’re driving through the city one day, heading into the mountains the next. Your Subaru Outback can handle both—but only if the tires match your lifestyle.
Here are the key things to consider:
- Climate: If you face rain or snow often, look for tires with strong grip and traction. For mostly dry, mild weather, all-season tires work best.
- Driving habits: City drivers may prefer quiet, comfortable tires. Highway commuters need long-lasting ones. Off-road adventurers should choose tougher, all-terrain options.
- Tire size and trim: Check your owner’s manual or the sticker inside your driver’s door to find the right size for your specific Outback model.
- Budget and tread life: Premium tires often last longer and perform better, but there are reliable mid-range options if you’re watching costs.
| Driver Type | Best Tire Type | Key Benefit |
| City/Highway Commuter | All-Season | Smooth, quiet ride |
| Snowy Climate Driver | Winter Tire | Better grip on ice/snow |
| Outdoor Adventurer | All-Terrain | Extra traction off-road |
Choose tires that fit your driving life, not just your vehicle. The right match keeps your Outback safe, smooth, and ready for every road ahead.
Best All-Season Tires for Subaru Outback
All-season tires are like the “do-it-all” shoes for your Subaru Outback — good in rain, dry roads, and even light snow. They’re built for drivers who don’t want to swap tires every season but still want safety and comfort year-round.
Here are our top picks for 2025.
1. Michelin Defender LTX M/S — Best Overall
Tread-life Warranty: 6 years / 70,000 miles
Tread Depth: 12/32 in
UTQG Rating: 800 A B
Noise Level (Highway): Quiet, around 68 dB
Made in: USA / Canada
The Michelin Defender LTX M/S is the all-around champion for Subaru Outback drivers. It’s built for long life, quiet rides, and confident traction in almost any weather.
Picture yourself driving through steady rain on the highway — the car feels planted, not floaty. Or taking a curve on a dry, winding road — the steering feels smooth and steady. That’s what the Defender does best: it makes every drive feel safe and predictable.
Its tread design channels water away efficiently, helping reduce the risk of hydroplaning. And unlike many long-wear tires, it doesn’t feel stiff or noisy on rough roads.
You’ll pay a bit more upfront, but it often lasts 10,000–15,000 miles longer than mid-range brands — saving you money in the long run.
Pros:
- Excellent wet and dry grip
- Very quiet and comfortable ride
- Long tread life (up to 70,000 miles)
- Great for mixed weather and highway driving
Cons:
- Pricier than average
- Not ideal for deep snow or off-road use
Best For: Drivers who spend most of their time on highways or city roads and want a tire that feels solid in any weather.
2. Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady — Best Touring Option
Tread-life Warranty: 6 years / 60,000 miles
Tread Depth: 10/32 in
UTQG Rating: 700 A A
Noise Level (Highway): Low, about 69 dB
Made in: USA
The Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is a smart choice for Outback owners who value comfort and confidence in unpredictable weather. It’s one of the few all-season tires that performs impressively in rain and light snow — perfect for drivers who don’t want to switch to winter tires every year.
Its tread pattern uses small “bites” called sipes that flex in cold weather, keeping traction even on frosty mornings. The result? Smooth handling, quiet performance, and reliable braking — whether you’re cruising through summer rain or late-fall slush.
The WeatherReady also earns high marks for comfort. It absorbs bumps and rough roads gracefully, making long drives noticeably quieter and more relaxing.
Pros:
- Excellent grip in wet and light-snow conditions
- Comfortable and quiet ride
- Great value for all-weather reliability
- Trusted by many Subaru Outback owners
Cons:
- Slightly shorter tread life than the Michelin
- Performance drops in deep snow
Best For: Drivers who experience all four seasons and want a smooth, quiet tire that handles changing weather without sacrificing comfort.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Michelin Defender LTX M/S | Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady |
| Tread-Life Warranty | 70,000 miles | 60,000 miles |
| Road Noise | Very quiet | Quiet |
| Wet Grip | Excellent | Very good |
| Snow Performance | Moderate | Good |
| Comfort | High | Very high |
If you drive mostly on paved roads and want a tire that lasts, go with the Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
If you live where weather changes often — rain, slush, or light snow — the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady offers year-round comfort and safety at a more affordable price.
Both are excellent choices for making your Subaru Outback feel steady, quiet, and confident on every trip.
Best Winter Tires for Subaru Outback
Winter tires are like the snow boots of your Subaru Outback — designed to keep you safe and confident when the roads are icy, snowy, or just really cold. Unlike all-season tires, they stay soft in freezing temperatures, giving your car grip when you need it most.
Here are our top picks for 2025.
1. Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 — Best for Ice and Snow
Tread-life Warranty: 6 years / 50,000 miles
Tread Depth: 11/32 in
UTQG Rating: N/A (special winter tire)
Noise Level (Highway): Quiet, around 69 dB
Made in: USA
The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is built specifically for serious winter conditions. Imagine driving on icy roads or fresh snow — the Blizzak grips the surface with confidence, helping your Subaru Outback stay steady through slippery turns and sudden stops.
Its special tread pattern and winter rubber compound are designed to bite into ice, giving shorter braking distances and better control than most all-season tires. Even on packed snow, it keeps your car feeling stable, reducing the anxiety of winter driving.
While it excels in snow and ice, it’s still comfortable on dry roads and surprisingly quiet for a winter tire. Just remember, it’s not meant for warm-weather driving, so it’s best to swap them out when spring arrives.
Pros:
- Excellent traction on ice and snow
- Shorter braking distances in winter conditions
- Stable and predictable handling in cold weather
- Quiet and comfortable for a winter tire
Cons:
- Not suitable for warm weather
- Premium price point
Best For: Drivers in snowy or icy regions who need maximum winter performance and safety.
2. Michelin X-Ice Snow — Best for Performance and Durability
Tread-life Warranty: 6 years / 60,000 miles
Tread Depth: 11/32 in
UTQG Rating: N/A (winter-specific)
Noise Level (Highway): Low, about 68 dB
Made in: USA
The Michelin X-Ice Snow is perfect if you want a winter tire that lasts longer while still offering excellent performance in snow and ice. Its rubber compound stays flexible in freezing temperatures, keeping traction high without feeling stiff or rough.
This tire shines for Outback owners who do a mix of city, highway, and snowy mountain driving. On icy mornings, it grips confidently. On long highway drives, it stays quiet and smooth. And with its durable tread, it’s designed to go further than many other winter tires, which can save you money over time.
The X-Ice Snow also handles wet roads in cold weather well, making it a versatile choice for regions where winter weather can be unpredictable.
Pros:
- Long-lasting winter tire
- Excellent snow and ice traction
- Quiet and comfortable for highway drives
- Reliable on wet, cold roads
Cons:
- Higher price than entry-level winter tires
- Not for year-round use
Best For: Drivers who want a durable winter tire that performs well on snow, ice, and cold wet roads, without sacrificing comfort.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 | Michelin X-Ice Snow |
| Winter Grip | Excellent | Very good |
| Tread-life | 50,000 miles | 60,000 miles |
| Highway Noise | Quiet | Low |
| Comfort | High | High |
| Price | Premium | Premium |
| Best For | Maximum ice & snow grip | Durability & winter performance balance |
If icy roads are your biggest concern, go with the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 — it’s a top performer in snow and ice.
If you want a winter tire that balances long life, comfort, and snow performance, the Michelin X-Ice Snow is a strong choice.
Both options give your Subaru Outback the confidence you need to drive safely all winter long.
Best All-Terrain Tires for Subaru Outback
If you love weekend adventures — exploring trails, gravel roads, or backcountry paths — all-terrain tires are like the rugged boots for your Subaru Outback. They give you extra grip and durability on rough surfaces while still performing well on paved roads.
Here are our top picks for 2025.
1. Falken WildPeak A/T Trail — Best for Adventure & Durability
Tread-life Warranty: 60,000 miles
Tread Depth: 12/32 in
UTQG Rating: 700 A B
Noise Level (Highway): Moderate, around 70 dB
Made in: USA
The Falken WildPeak A/T Trail is built for drivers who want to take their Outback off the beaten path. Imagine hitting a gravel trail or muddy forest road — these tires grab the surface with confidence, helping you stay in control even on loose or uneven terrain.
The WildPeak is tough. Its reinforced sidewalls resist cuts and punctures, making it perfect for adventurous drivers who spend a lot of time off-road. Despite its rugged design, it’s still comfortable and reasonably quiet on highways, so daily driving isn’t a sacrifice.
Pros:
- Excellent grip on gravel, dirt, and muddy trails
- Durable construction resists punctures and cuts
- Comfortable and manageable on paved roads
- Long tread life for an all-terrain tire
Cons:
- Slightly louder on highways than all-season tires
- Premium price compared to mid-range options
Best For: Drivers who frequently take their Outback on off-road adventures and want a tire that can handle rough conditions without failing.
2. Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT — Best Mid-Range Option
Tread-life Warranty: 55,000 miles
Tread Depth: 11/32 in
UTQG Rating: 700 A B
Noise Level (Highway): Low, about 68 dB
Made in: USA
The Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is a solid choice if you want a balance between off-road capability and everyday comfort. It handles dirt roads and light trails well but doesn’t sacrifice smooth, quiet driving on pavement.
Picture taking a weekend camping trip: the TrailRunner grips gravel roads confidently, yet your highway drive home feels relaxed and comfortable. It’s slightly less aggressive than the WildPeak, which makes it a great option for drivers who want adventure-ready tires without the extra road noise or price.
Pros:
- Reliable off-road performance for trails and dirt roads
- Smooth, quiet ride on highways
- Affordable mid-range option
- Good tread life for the price
Cons:
- Less aggressive tread for extreme off-road conditions
- Slightly shorter lifespan than premium all-terrain tires
Best For: Drivers who want some off-road capability but prioritize comfort and value for everyday driving.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Falken WildPeak A/T Trail | Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT |
| Off-Road Grip | Excellent | Very good |
| Highway Comfort | Good | Very good |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Low |
| Tread-Life | 60,000 miles | 55,000 miles |
| Price | Premium | Mid-range |
| Best For | Serious adventure & rough terrain | Everyday off-road + highway comfort |
If you regularly explore trails or off-road paths, the Falken WildPeak A/T Trail gives maximum durability and grip.
If you want a tire that balances off-road capability with a quiet, comfortable highway ride, the Goodyear Wrangler TrailRunner AT is an excellent mid-range choice.
Both tires make your Subaru Outback more versatile, confident, and adventure-ready.
Tires Maintenance Tips for Subaru Outback Owners
Think of your tires like the shoes of your Subaru Outback. The better you care for them, the longer they last, and the safer your drive. Small maintenance steps go a long way in keeping your car steady, comfortable, and ready for any road.
Rotate Your Tires Regularly
Rotating your tires means moving them from front to back (or side to side) so they wear evenly. Front tires usually wear faster because they handle steering and most of the braking.
Tip: Most Subaru owners should rotate their tires every 5,000–8,000 miles, or as recommended in the owner’s manual. Even wear means longer tire life and better traction.
2. Check Tire Pressure Often
Underinflated or overinflated tires can wear unevenly, hurt fuel economy, and reduce safety.
Tip: Check tire pressure once a month and before long trips. The correct pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door — not the number on the tire itself. Always check pressure when tires are cold for an accurate reading.
3. Keep Your Wheels Aligned
If your car pulls to one side, your steering feels off, or your tires are wearing unevenly, it may be time for an alignment check. Proper alignment keeps your Outback driving straight and reduces unnecessary tire wear.
Tip: Alignment should be checked every 12,000–15,000 miles or whenever you notice uneven wear or handling issues.
4. Seasonal Tire Swaps
If you live in a region with snowy winters, consider swapping between winter tires and all-season or summer tires. Winter tires stay soft in cold temperatures, giving better grip on ice and snow, but they wear faster in warm weather.
Tip: Switch to winter tires when temperatures drop below 45°F (7°C) and back to all-season tires in spring.
What Subaru Outback Owners Are Saying About Their Tires
Imagine you’re shopping for tires and want to know how they really perform. Listening to other Outback owners can help you see what works—and what doesn’t.
All-season tires: Drivers love the Michelin Defender LTX M/S for its quiet ride and long life. The Goodyear WeatherReady gets high marks for handling wet roads and light snow.
Winter tires: The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 earns praise for gripping ice and snow, while the Michelin X-Ice Snow stands out for lasting longer and staying comfortable on highways.
All-terrain tires: The Falken WildPeak A/T Trail shines off-road, and the Goodyear TrailRunner AT is praised for balancing off-road capability with a smooth highway ride.
Tip: Check multiple sources like Tire Rack, forums, and verified reviews to get a balanced picture. Look for recurring positives and negatives to make a confident choice.
Real-World Testing & Validation
Imagine taking your Subaru Outback out for a drive and wanting to know how your tires will really perform. Real-world testing shows how tires handle everyday conditions like wet roads, snow, or gravel, beyond what manufacturers’ claims say.
Start by checking what matters most: braking performance, grip in different weather, road noise, comfort, and tread wear. These are the factors that affect your daily driving safety and comfort.
Simple, safe tests include visual inspections for cuts or uneven wear, checking tire pressure, and driving familiar routes to note comfort, handling, and noise. Wet-surface braking can be tested safely in empty, controlled areas to feel traction differences.
For more precise results, rely on published tests from trusted sources or professional shops. These measure braking distance, handling, and treadwear under controlled conditions.
Record key details like tire model, miles, tire pressure, road type, and temperature. Present results clearly with labels like “quiet,” “firm,” or “excellent wet grip” so readers can understand the practical impact.
Finally, combine testing data with owner feedback to give a complete picture. If lab results are excellent but owners report early wear, note both. Always prioritize safety: never perform risky maneuvers on public roads.
Real-world testing gives readers confidence in their tire choice, showing how each option performs in situations they actually encounter.
Read More: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Review
Final Thoughts — Which Tire Is Right for You?
Choosing the right tire for your Subaru Outback comes down to your driving style, climate, and priorities. If you spend most of your time on paved roads and highways, the Goodyear Assurance WeatherReady is an excellent choice. It offers a smooth, quiet ride with reliable traction in rain and light snow, making it perfect for daily commuting.
For drivers who face icy or snowy winters, the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 delivers unmatched grip and confidence. Its winter-specific design ensures shorter braking distances and stable handling when roads are slick, keeping you safe through cold months.
If your Outback sees off-road trails, gravel roads, or weekend adventures, the Falken WildPeak A/T Trail is the tire for you. It combines durability, strong traction, and control over rough terrain while remaining reasonably comfortable on highways.
For a balance of winter performance and long-lasting durability, the Michelin X-Ice Snow is ideal, while the Michelin Defender LTX M/S is perfect for drivers seeking long tread life and all-season reliability.
Choose the tire that fits your driving lifestyle — your Outback will reward you with better comfort, grip, and safety year-round.
FAQs — Subaru Outback Tires
1. How long do Subaru Outback tires last?
Most tires for the Outback last between 40,000 and 70,000 miles, depending on the type, driving conditions, and maintenance. All-season tires tend to last longer on paved roads, while winter or all-terrain tires may wear faster if used year-round. Regular rotations, proper inflation, and alignment checks can help extend tire life.
2. What tire size does a Subaru Outback use?
Tire size depends on your Outback’s model year and trim. To find the correct size, check the door placard on the driver’s side — it lists the recommended tire size and pressure. You can also confirm in your owner’s manual, which provides model-specific guidance. Using the correct size ensures proper handling, safety, and speedometer accuracy.
3. Can I put all-terrain tires on my Outback?
Yes, all-terrain tires are compatible, but there are tradeoffs. They offer better grip on gravel, dirt, and trails, but they can be noisier on highways, slightly reduce fuel economy, and may affect ride comfort. Make sure you choose the right size and consider how often you’ll drive off-road versus paved roads.
4. Do winter tires improve safety on an AWD Outback?
Absolutely. Even with Subaru’s AWD, winter tires provide better traction, braking, and handling on ice and snow. The special winter rubber stays soft in cold temperatures, giving your Outback grip that all-season tires can’t match. This improves safety in winter conditions, especially on slippery roads.
