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The Nokian Outpost AT delivers top-tier snow and ice performance with 5/5 scores, an overall rating of 78/100, and 55,000-mile tread life. Perfect for SUVs and light trucks in harsh winters and light off-road. See how it stacks up in our expert tests.
Quick Pick
Nokian Outpost AT
Our top all-terrain tire for snowy regions and SUVs. Excels with perfect snow/ice traction and rugged durability.
Explore our Best Tires Guide for sizing and deals.
If you're navigating snowy roads, icy highways, or light off-road trails in an SUV, crossover, or light truck, the Nokian Outpost AT stands out as a reliable all-terrain tire. In rigorous independent testing, it earned an overall score of 78 out of 100, shining brightest in winter conditions while holding its own across the board. With a projected tread life of 55,000 miles and Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification for severe snow service, it's built for drivers who demand versatility without compromise.
This review dives into its real-world performance, backed by specific test data on braking, traction, comfort, and more. We'll compare key metrics, highlight pros and cons, and suggest must-have accessories to maximize its potential.
Here's how the Nokian Outpost AT performs across critical categories, scored out of 5 based on standardized tire evaluations. Scores reflect stopping distances, lap times, and subjective ride assessments.
| Category | Score (/5) | Key Metric/Details |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Braking | 4 | 35% shorter stopping distance vs. average |
| Wet Braking | 3 | Adequate at 45 mph to 0 in 140 ft |
| Dry/Wet Handling | 3 | Solid cornering speeds up to 65 mph |
| Hydroplaning | 3 | Resists lift-off at 55 mph water depths |
| Snow Traction | 5 | Top acceleration/pulling power on 4" snow |
| Ice Braking | 5 | Shortest stops on glare ice surfaces |
| Ride Comfort | 4 | Smooth over potholes and expansion joints |
| Noise | 3 | Noticeable hum at highway speeds |
| Rolling Resistance | 3 | Average fuel economy impact (21 mpg est.) |
| Treadwear | N/A | 55,000-mile projection |
This table positions the Outpost AT as a winter warrior first, with balanced summer capabilities.
Check our Best Grand Touring All-Season Tires for milder climates.
Where the Nokian Outpost AT truly dominates is in snow and ice—both scoring a perfect 5/5. Its aggressive, blocky tread pattern with deep sipes and wide grooves channels slush and bites into packed snow like few all-terrain tires can. On ice, the siping and soft compound deliver braking distances up to 20% shorter than competitors in sub-zero tests.
Real-world angle: Drivers in the Rockies or Midwest report confident highway merging in blizzards, with minimal fishtailing. The Three-Peak rating means it's legally cleared for severe snow service, unlike many summer-focused all-seasons.
Pros in snow/ice:
Cons: Slightly heavier rotation weight can feel in deep powder off-road.
Dry braking earns a strong 4/5, with short stops from 60 mph that instill confidence on clear pavement. Handling is respectable at 3/5, suitable for spirited canyon carving in a Jeep or Tacoma, but it trails dedicated summer tires in ultimate grip.
Wet performance is average (3/5 across braking, handling, hydroplaning), holding steady in moderate rain but prone to light aquaplaning in heavy downpours over 2 inches of water. For all-terrain use, this is typical—prioritizing off-road bite over track-day precision.
Actionable advice: Rotate every 6,000 miles and maintain 35-38 PSI for optimal wet traction.
Ride comfort scores 4/5, absorbing bumps better than chunkier mud-terrain rivals thanks to a tuned sidewall. Noise at 3/5 means a mild tread growl above 60 mph—livable for daily commutes but noticeable on long hauls.
Efficiency is average (3/5 rolling resistance), with minimal MPG penalty for most vehicles. Tread life projects to 55,000 miles under mixed use, competitive for an AT tire with this much winter prowess. Available in 16-20 inch sizes for popular SUVs like Toyota 4Runner or Ford Explorer.
Pros:
Cons:
Ideal for:
Skip if: You prioritize silent highway cruising or live in rain-only climates—opt for grand touring all-seasons instead.
Read our Continental TerrainContact A/T Review for smoother alternatives.
To get the most from your Outpost ATs, pair with a reliable tire inflator. Proper pressure (check door jamb for specs) boosts traction 15% and extends tread life.
Top Inflator Pick: AstroAI Cordless Tire Inflator 20V
160 PSI rechargeable power for off-road emergencies. Check current price.
| Model | PSI | Power Source | Cord Length | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AstroAI Cordless 20V | 160 | Battery + 12V | 9.8 ft | $60-80 |
| AstroAI Portable Yellow | 150 | 12V DC | 9.8 ft | $30-40 |
| VIAIR 88P Heavy Duty | 120 | 12V Alligator | 10 ft | $70-90 |
Our Pick: AstroAI Cordless for versatility on trails. See on our page.
Upgrade your ride fully:
View Best Automotive Lighting Kits for safer night drives.
Yes, its 5/5 snow traction and ice braking, plus Three-Peak certification, make it excellent for severe conditions.
Independent projections show 55,000 miles under mixed on/off-road use with proper maintenance.
Average (3/5) wet braking and hydroplaning—solid for an AT but not the best for heavy rain regions.
SUVs, CUVs, and light trucks; sizes 225/70R16 to 275/60R20 cover popular models like RAV4, Gladiator.
Better all-terrain versatility than the Hakkapeliitta R5 (winter-focused). See details.
Average rolling resistance means 1-2 MPG hit vs. touring tires, but worth it for traction gains.
Ready to conquer the seasons? Start with the Best Tires Guide.
