Most people don’t realize tire choice can change your Explorer Sport’s braking distance by several feet in wet conditions. You’ll want tires that balance grip, comfort, and wear for both highway miles and occasional off-road trips. Below I’ve ranked versatile options—from quiet all-seasons to rugged ATs—and noted what each does best, so you can pick the right fit for how and where you drive.
Starfire Solarus HT All-Season 245/65R17 107T Tire
If you want a budget-friendly, long-lasting highway tire for daily driving, the Starfire Solarus HT 245/65R17 107T is a strong choice—its 50,000-mile warranty, symmetrical 5-rib pattern, and Wet Grip Grooves give your Explorer Sport steady highway handling and reliable all-season traction without breaking the bank. You’ll get a 245 mm section width, 10.5/32nds tread depth, M+S rating, and a 2149 lb load capacity, all on a 17-inch rim. It’s radially constructed, weighs about 30.2 lbs, and fits universally across SUVs, CUVs, and pickups, with easy warranty support if needed.
Best For: Budget-conscious SUV, CUV, and pickup owners seeking a long-wearing, highway-focused all-season tire with reliable wet and light snow traction.
Pros:
- 50,000-mile warranty offers strong value and confidence in tread life.
- Symmetrical 5-rib pattern with Wet Grip Grooves and traction sipes for stable highway handling and improved all-season grip.
- M+S rated, universal fit for 17-inch rims, and a high 2,149 lb load capacity suitable for many light trucks and SUVs.
Cons:
- Designed primarily for highway performance, so off-road or aggressive winter performance may be limited.
- Tread depth of 10.5/32nds is moderate; long-term performance depends on driving conditions and maintenance.
- Positioned as a budget tire — may lack the premium ride comfort, noise control, or advanced compound benefits of higher-end brands.
NEWHOW TPMS Sensors Set of 4 for Ford/Lincoln 315MHz (F2GZ-1A189-A)
NEWHOW’s set of four TPMS sensors is ideal for Explorer Sport owners who want a direct, OEM-compatible replacement that installs quickly and self-learns while you drive. You’ll get pre-programmed 315MHz sensors (F2GZ-1A189-A/Motorcraft TPMS35) that fit 2015–2021 F‑150/Explorer/Mustang and many Lincoln models. They’re IP67 submersible, epoxy-encapsulated, salt-spray tested, and dyno-validated to SAE standards. Reinforced stems handle up to 80 PSI; operating range is −40°F to 257°F. Each sensor includes a CR2032 battery, self-learns within eight miles (some vehicles may need a relearn tool), and comes with a three-year warranty and bilingual guides.
Best For: Owners of 2015–2021 Ford F‑150, Explorer, Mustang and compatible Lincoln models who need an OEM-compatible, quick-install TPMS sensor replacement that self-learns while driving.
Pros:
- Pre-programmed 315MHz OEM-fit (F2GZ-1A189-A/Motorcraft TPMS35) for plug-and-play installation and self-learn within ~8 miles.
- Durable IP67 submersible design with epoxy encapsulation, 500-hour salt spray (ASTM B117) and SAE J2657 dyno validation.
- Reinforced stems rated to 80 PSI, wide operating range (−40°F to 257°F), includes CR2032 batteries and bilingual installation guides plus a 3-year warranty.
Cons:
- Some vehicle/ECU combinations may still require a separate TPMS relearn tool for proper registration.
- Pre-programmed 315MHz frequency limits compatibility to supported Ford/Lincoln models (2015–2021); not universal for other makes/years.
- Bulk/fleet pricing available but single-unit cost may be higher than non-OEM or aftermarket sensors.
Goodyear 255/50R20 ASSURANCE FINESSE 105T SL VSB 540AA
The Goodyear Assurance Finesse 255/50R20 is a smart pick for Explorer Sport owners who want a quiet, comfortable ride without sacrificing all-season traction—its patented tread and wide grooves deliver confident grip in wet, dry, snow, and slush while keeping road noise low. You’ll appreciate its low rolling resistance and fuel-saving compound, plus multiple biting edges and large shoulder blocks for stable handling. This 255/50R20 radial carries 1,609 lb load capacity, 10/32″ tread depth, 30.1″ diameter, and 32.3 lb weight. UTQG 540AA and universal fit make it a reliable, efficient upgrade with standard SL load range.
Best For: Owners of mid-to-large SUVs like the Ford Explorer Sport seeking a quiet, comfortable all-season tire that balances fuel efficiency with dependable wet, dry, and light snow traction.
Pros:
- Patented tread pattern and wide grooves deliver a quiet, comfortable ride with improved wet and slush evacuation.
- Low rolling resistance and fuel-saving compound help improve fuel economy while providing all-season grip.
- Large shoulder blocks and multiple biting edges give stable handling and confident traction in varied conditions.
Cons:
- Load range SL and 105T rating may be limiting for heavy towing or very high-load applications.
- Tread depth of 10/32″ is standard for all-season tires but offers less longevity than some touring/high-mileage specific tires.
- Universal fit may not be optimized for performance-focused vehicles that require ultra-precise fitment or handling characteristics.
BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 Radial Tire LT265/65R17 for Light Trucks and SUVs
For drivers who need dependable year-round traction and rugged durability, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 LT265/65R17 is a top pick for a 2017 Ford Explorer Sport—it’s built to handle mud, snow, sand, and rocky trails while still delivering a comfortable on-road ride. You’ll get a severe-weather three-peak mountain snowflake rating, interlocking tread elements for strong grip, and an advanced footprint that evens stress for longer, uniform wear. Designed for 4x4s, light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers, this LT265/65R17/E 120/117S tire balances off-road toughness with on-road control and comfort for year-round driving.
Best For: Drivers of 4x4s, light trucks, SUVs, and crossovers who need durable, year‑round traction and off‑road capability (including severe winter performance) while retaining on‑road comfort.
Pros:
- Severe‑weather three‑peak mountain snowflake rating ensures reliable winter traction.
- Interlocking tread elements and advanced footprint provide strong off‑road grip and even tread wear.
- Built for durability on mud, sand, rocks and pavement while maintaining on‑road comfort and control.
Cons:
- All‑terrain tread can be noisier and offer slightly less fuel efficiency than highway/touring tires.
- Heavier construction (LT load rating) may reduce ride refinement compared with passenger tires.
- Higher upfront cost than standard passenger tires due to rugged design and winter rating.
TPMS Tire Pressure Sensors 315MHz for Ford F-150, Ford Edge, Lincoln MKX (4-Pack)
If you often swap wheels or use aftermarket rims on your 2017 Explorer Sport, these TPMS Tire Pressure Sensors (315MHz, 4-pack) give you a direct, pre-programmed replacement that fits many Ford and Lincoln models and saves you a trip to the dealer for programming. You’ll get four sensors compatible with numerous vehicles (2015–2017 F-150, 2015–2025 Edge, 2016–2024 MKX and more) and replacement part numbers F2GZ1A189A, F2GT1A180AB, F2GT1A150AB. They meet or exceed OEM standards, measure 20–100 PSI, and tolerate up to 180°F. Install and perform OBD learning to activate. Includes 12-month replacement/refund and Amazon returns.
Best For: drivers of compatible Ford and Lincoln models (for example 2015–2017 F-150, 2015–2025 Edge, 2016–2024 Lincoln MKX and other listed models) who swap wheels or use aftermarket rims and want pre-programmed, direct-fit TPMS sensors to avoid a dealer programming visit.
Pros:
- Pre-programmed direct replacements that fit many Ford/Lincoln vehicles, saving time and dealer programming fees.
- Meets or exceeds OEM standards with 20–100 PSI range and up to 180°F temperature tolerance.
- Includes a 4-pack, 12-month replacement/refund policy, and Amazon 30-day return protection.
Cons:
- Requires OBD learning/activation after installation (not truly plug-and-play for all vehicles).
- Compatibility limited to vehicles using 315MHz sensors and the listed model years—may not work on other models/years.
- Aftermarket sensors may not be accepted by all dealerships or tire shops for warranty/service diagnostics in some cases.
Set of 4 Fullway PC369 All-Season Truck/SUV Performance Radial Tires 225/65R17 (102H)
Drivers who want a budget-friendly all-season tire that balances tread life and traction will find the Fullway PC369 a solid choice for a 2017 Explorer Sport. You get a set of four 225/65R17 PC369 tires with a 4-ply SL rating, 28.5″ diameter, and 6.5″ rim width compatibility. UTQG 400/A/A promises decent wear and wet grip, and each tire supports up to 1,874 lbs at 44 PSI. The symmetrical tread and black sidewall suit daily driving without frills. Fullway offers an Amazon 30-day return window; check the detailed warranty before buying.
Best For: Drivers seeking an affordable, long‑wearing all‑season tire for daily driving on a 2017 Explorer Sport or similar midsize SUVs/trucks.
Pros:
- Good treadwear rating (UTQG 400) and A/A traction/temperature for decent longevity and wet grip.
- Budget‑friendly option with universal fit for 6.5″ rims and common 225/65R17 sizing.
- Each tire supports up to 1,874 lbs at 44 PSI and comes as a set of four with a 30‑day Amazon return window.
Cons:
- 4‑ply SL rating may offer less load capacity and durability than higher ply or reinforced tires for heavy towing/loads.
- Symmetrical tread design prioritizes economy over high‑performance handling or off‑road capability.
- Brand and model are mid‑rank in market popularity (#50,960 overall), which may indicate limited dealer support or fewer reviews.
Hankook Kinergy ST (H735) all_ Season Radial Tire-235/75R15 105T
The Hankook Kinergy ST (H735) is a strong choice for owners who want long-lasting, quiet touring performance—its 70,000-mile warranty and low rolling-resistance dual-filler system give you extended tread life and better fuel economy. You’ll appreciate the 235/75R15 size’s 1201-pound load capacity and 11/32″ tread depth for durability and stability. A rigid center rib and optimized tread block stiffness boost dry handling and braking, while four circumferential grooves improve wet evacuation. The tire’s UTQG 680/A/A rating, 30-day trial, road-hazard coverage, and reduced road noise make it a practical, comfortable option for Explorer Sport drivers.
Best For: Owners of SUVs or light trucks (like Explorer Sport) seeking a long‑lasting, quiet all‑season touring tire with good dry/wet handling and a high mileage warranty.
Pros:
- 70,000‑mile warranty with road‑hazard coverage and a 30‑day trial for confidence in longevity.
- Dual‑filler design reduces rolling resistance for improved fuel economy and extended tread life.
- Rigid center rib, optimized tread block stiffness, and four circumferential grooves deliver strong dry handling, braking, and wet evacuation.
Cons:
- Standard touring performance may not satisfy drivers seeking high‑performance or winter‑specific traction.
- 11/32″ tread depth and 235/75R15 sizing limit fitment to certain vehicles and may not offer the deepest all‑terrain capability.
- At 24.9 lb per tire and a 28.7″ diameter, weight/size could marginally affect unsprung mass and handling compared with lighter performance tires.
Mastertrack Badlands AT All Terrain 265/70R17 SUV Tire (Set of 4)
Built for owners who want rugged off-road capability without giving up highway comfort, the Mastertrack Badlands AT 265/70R17 delivers deep 12.8/32nds tread and an XL load rating that supports heavy loads on a 2017 Ford Explorer Sport. You’ll get a set of four radial Badlands AT tires sized 265/70R17 with a 115 load index (2,679 lbs per tire) and T speed rating. Each tire weighs about 40.8 lbs and measures 31.65 x 10.71 x 31.65 inches. The symmetrical tread suits mixed surfaces, shipping may be staggered, and a 2-year road hazard warranty covers early wear.
Best For: Owners of mid-size SUVs (like a 2017 Ford Explorer Sport) who need rugged off-road capability with highway comfort and extra load capacity.
Pros:
- Deep 12.8/32nds all-terrain tread offers strong off-road traction while remaining comfortable on pavement.
- XL load rating and 115 load index (2,679 lbs per tire) supports heavier loads and towing.
- 2-year road hazard warranty covers repair or replacement for early tread wear (within first 4/32nds).
Cons:
- Tires are relatively heavy (about 40.8 lbs each), which can affect fuel economy and require careful handling during installation.
- Speed rating T (118 mph) is lower than some performance-oriented tires.
- Shipping may be staggered due to size/weight and wheels/rims are not included.
Set of 4 Finalist Terreno A/T 255/70R16 All-Terrain SUV Tires (255/70/16)
If you want a durable, all-terrain tire that balances on-road comfort with off-road capability, the Finalist Terreno A/T 255/70R16 is a strong fit for your 2017 Ford Explorer Sport. You get a set of four tires sized 255/70R16 (dimension 30.08 x 10.24 x 30.08 in), each weighing 34.02 lbs, with a 111 load index (2,403 lbs) and T speed rating (118 mph). Rated SL with 44 psi max, they’re all-season, all-terrain tires designed for SUVs and varied conditions. A 50,000-mile limited tread warranty and road hazard coverage add useful protection. Wheels not included.
Best For: Drivers of SUVs (like a 2017 Ford Explorer Sport) who want an affordable, all-season all-terrain tire that balances on‑road comfort with off‑road capability and includes a 50,000‑mile limited tread warranty.
Pros:
- All‑terrain, all‑season design suitable for varied driving conditions and light off‑road use.
- Comes as a set of four with a 50,000‑mile limited tread wear warranty plus road hazard coverage.
- Strong load capacity (Load Index 111 = 2,403 lbs) and standard 44 psi max pressure for SUV use.
Cons:
- Tire only — wheels/rims are not included.
- Speed rating T (118 mph) and Load Range SL (standard load) may be limiting for heavier loads or high‑performance needs.
- Relatively heavy (34.02 lbs each) and larger dimensions (30.08 x 10.24 x 30.08 in) may affect fuel economy and fitment on some vehicles.
Set of 4 Finalist Terreno A/T 235/75R15 109S XL All-Terrain All-Season Tires
For drivers who tackle mixed roads and need dependable load capacity, the Finalist Terreno A/T 235/75R15 is a solid choice—its 109 load index and XL rating support heavier SUV loads while the all-terrain, all-season tread handles rain, light snow, and dirt. You get a set of four tires sized 235/75R15, each 28.86 x 9.25 x 28.86 inches and weighing about 29.54 lbs. They’re rated S for up to 112 mph, accept 50 psi, and carry 2,271 lbs per tire. The package includes a 50,000-mile limited tread warranty plus road hazard coverage. Wheels aren’t included.
Best For: Drivers of SUVs who need durable, higher-load-capacity tires for mixed on- and off-road conditions, including rain, light snow, and dirt.
Pros:
- 109 load index with XL (Extra Load) rating supports heavier SUV loads (2,271 lbs per tire).
- All-terrain, all-season tread offers versatility across pavement, light off-road, rain, and light snow.
- 50,000-mile limited tread warranty plus road hazard coverage provides added protection and value.
Cons:
- Speed rating S limits sustained speeds to 112 mph, not suitable for higher-performance driving.
- Tires are sold without wheels/rims, so additional purchase may be required.
- At ~29.5 lbs each and relatively large dimensions, they may be heavier and bulkier than some alternatives, affecting handling and installation convenience.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Tires For 2017 Ford Explorer Sport
When picking tires for your 2017 Explorer Sport, you’ll want to check correct tire size and fitment first to avoid rubbing or speedometer errors. Pay attention to load and speed ratings, and choose between all-season or specific terrain tires based on how you drive and where you live. Also weigh wet and snow traction against ride comfort and road noise so you get the balance you need.
Tire Size Fitment
Choosing the right tire size for your 2017 Ford Explorer Sport starts with the factory-recommended 255/50R20, which guarantees proper fit, handling, and speedometer accuracy. When choosing alternatives, keep diameter consistent so your speedometer and stability remain accurate. Check tread width: a wider tread can boost traction and cornering but may slightly reduce fuel efficiency and increase road noise. Verify recommended tire pressure for the specific size you pick to preserve tire life, ride comfort, and braking performance. You’ll also need a compatible load index and speed rating that match vehicle specs—don’t ignore the placard or owner’s manual. Finally, confirm wheel clearance and suspension compatibility when considering nonstandard sizes to avoid rubbing or handling issues.
Load & Speed Ratings
Start by matching tires to the Explorer Sport’s required load and speed ratings so you don’t compromise safety or handling: pick a load index around 111–115 (or higher) to support the vehicle’s weight and a speed rating of T or better to meet performance needs, and always confirm the exact specs on the tire placard or owner’s manual before you buy. You should choose tires whose load index equals or exceeds the listed requirement so you won’t overstress the sidewalls under heavy loads or towing. Likewise, select a speed rating that matches your driving style and the vehicle’s capability; higher ratings give better heat resistance at speed. Correct ratings prevent premature wear and preserve handling, braking, and stability across driving conditions.
All-Season Vs Terrain
If you mainly drive on highways and city streets, all-season tires will give you the balanced traction, quieter ride, and longer tread life you need; but if you regularly tackle dirt, mud, or rocky trails, terrain tires deliver the aggressive grip and tougher sidewalls that keep you moving off‑road. You should pick all-season tires for everyday commuting and mixed weather because they use symmetric tread patterns that improve handling, even wear, and often carry higher mileage warranties around 50,000 miles. Choose terrain (all-terrain or mud-terrain) when you need bite on loose surfaces and durability against impacts; expect more aggressive tread blocks and faster wear. Base your decision on where and how you drive most — urban/highway or off‑road/adventurous — to match performance and longevity.
Wet/Snow Traction
When you drive a 2017 Explorer Sport in rain, slush, or light snow, pick tires that prioritize wet‑grip grooves and traction sipes to evacuate water and bite into slippery surfaces; look for tread designs with multiple biting edges, wide circumferential channels, and deeper tread depth to cut hydroplaning risk and maintain stability. You’ll want M+S‑rated all‑season tires for balanced year‑round use, but pay attention to actual tread pattern and siping density rather than label alone. Deeper tread generally improves grip and stability on wet or snowy roads, so choose tires with robust voids and channels to move water and slush away. Also consider higher UTQG traction ratings — they usually correlate with better wet performance and sharper vehicle control in adverse conditions.
Ride Comfort & Noise
After considering wet and snow traction, you’ll want tires that also keep highway and city rides quiet and comfortable. Choose tread patterns optimized to cancel harmonic noise—closed shoulder ribs and asymmetric designs often cut road roar and smooth airflow. Prefer radial construction for greater flexibility and reduced vibration; radials generally deliver a softer, more controlled ride than bias-ply options. Watch tread depth and block size: deeper, aggressive treads boost traction but can raise noise on smooth pavement, so balance grip needs with cabin calm. Lower rolling resistance tires typically transmit less vibration, improving long-distance comfort. Finally, maintain proper tire pressure—underinflation makes rides harsh and amplifies noise. Combine these factors to pick tires that match your comfort priorities without sacrificing safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are These Tires Compatible With the 2017 Explorer Sport’s Staggered Fitment?
Yes — you can fit those tires if they match the Explorer Sport’s staggered sizes (front 255/50R20, rear 275/45R20) and load/speed ratings; you’ll also want matching rim widths and proper alignment for safe, even wear.
Can I Keep the Stock TPMS Sensors When Changing Rim Sizes?
Yes, you can usually keep the stock TPMS sensors if the new rims accept the same sensor type and valve stem; you’ll need proper mounting, possible valve changes, and TPMS relearning or reprogramming to guarantee accurate readings and functionality.
Which Tires Offer the Best Fuel Economy Improvement?
Low rolling resistance tires like Michelin Energy Saver, Bridgestone Ecopia, and Continental PureContact typically give the best fuel economy improvement; you’ll see modest gains by choosing those, keeping proper inflation and alignment for maximum benefit.
Do Any Options Support Snow Chains Legally in My State?
I couldn’t find local records, but one winter my neighbor nailed chains to an SUV — yes, some tire models allow chains; you’ll need to check your state’s chain laws and the tire sidewall for chain-safe markings before you install them.
What Is the Expected Treadwear Mileage Warranty for Each Tire?
Treadwear warranties vary: you’ll see about 40,000–60,000 miles for all-season performance, 50,000–70,000 for touring tires, 30,000–50,000 for performance summer, and 40,000–60,000 for all-terrain tires depending on brand.
Conclusion
You’ve got a lineup that fits your Explorer like a glove — from quiet highway cruisers to mud-slaying all-terrain beasts — so pick the tire that matches how you drive. Whether you crave silky pavement grip or dirt-road dominance, these options keep you safe and confident. Think of your Explorer as a chameleon: swap tires, change its nature, and hit the road knowing grip, comfort, and durability are working in concert for every mile.
