If you’ve ever stared at a wall of tire options at your local shop and thought, “I just need something solid that won’t destroy my budget,” you’re not alone. That exact frustration is what led me down the Uniroyal rabbit hole in the first place.
Uniroyal has been around since 1892, yet most drivers I talk to either haven’t heard of the brand or vaguely remember it from their parents’ cars.
After spending extensive time testing their most popular models across different seasons and road conditions — and going back to verify the full current lineup and a recall worth knowing about — I can tell you this brand deserves way more attention than it gets.
- Uniroyal tires offer excellent value, typically priced 20-40% below premium brands like Michelin and Bridgestone
- The Tiger Paw Touring A/S is their best all-around tire — great wet traction, quiet ride, and solid treadwear
- The lineup is bigger than most reviews show. Beyond the three models most commonly covered, Uniroyal also makes the Power Paw A/S, Tiger Paw AWP3, Tiger Paw GTZ, Laredo HT, Laredo AT, and a genuine winter option — the Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3
- A real recall exists on the commercial Laredo HD/HTM line — narrow in scope, but worth knowing
- Wet performance is a standout strength across the entire lineup thanks to their signature “A-Shaped” tread grooves
- Dry handling and sporty driving are not their strongest suit — these are comfort-first tires
- Best for: daily commuters, sedan and SUV owners, and budget-shoppers who still want reliable performance
Who Is Uniroyal and Why Should You Care?
Uniroyal is owned by Michelin — yes, the same Michelin that makes some of the most expensive tires on the planet. That’s an important detail because it means Uniroyal benefits from Michelin’s R&D, manufacturing standards, and quality control, but at a significantly lower price point.
Think of Uniroyal as Michelin’s value-oriented sibling. They’re not trying to compete with ultra-high-performance tires. Instead, they’re laser-focused on giving everyday American drivers a dependable, affordable tire that performs well in real-world conditions.
In my experience, that positioning is honest. These tires aren’t going to win any track day awards, but they consistently deliver where it matters most: wet traction, comfort, and longevity for the price.
The Full Uniroyal Lineup by Type
I want to correct something directly here: an earlier version of this review described Uniroyal’s US lineup as just three models. The real current lineup is genuinely broader, and it includes a winter tire I hadn’t accounted for. Here’s the complete picture by category.
All-Season Touring (Sedans, Coupes, Minivans)
- Tiger Paw Touring A/S — the flagship, and the model I tested most extensively. Covered in full detail below.
- Tiger Paw Pursuit — a newer option positioned as a step up in handling responsiveness. Covered below.
- Power Paw A/S — a comfort and daily-dependability option for sedans and crossovers, sold alongside the Tiger Paw line through major retailers like Tire Rack.
- Tiger Paw AWP3 — an all-weather option that replaced the original Tiger Paw when it launched. Our dedicated review covers detailed testing, including where it struggles.
Performance-Leaning
- Tiger Paw GTZ — a more performance-oriented option within the Tiger Paw family for drivers who want sharper handling without leaving the value tier entirely.
SUV & Light Truck
- Laredo Cross Country Tour — Uniroyal’s SUV and light truck all-season option. Covered in detail below. (Note: some coverage of this tire, including an earlier version of this review, has used the name “Laredo Cross Country Trail” — the correct current product name is Laredo Cross Country Tour.)
- Laredo HT — a highway-terrain option for light trucks and SUVs that stay mostly on pavement.
- Laredo AT — an all-terrain option for light trucks and SUVs wanting more capability off the beaten path.
Winter
- Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3 — Uniroyal’s dedicated winter tire, a genuine gap in a lot of Uniroyal coverage, including an earlier version of this review, which stated the brand had no winter option. If you’re in a serious winter climate and want to stay within the Uniroyal family rather than switching brands seasonally, this is the model to ask your retailer about.
I’ve personally tested the Tiger Paw Touring A/S and the Laredo Cross Country Tour most extensively, and I’ve spent enough time with the Tiger Paw Pursuit to have strong impressions. Let me break each one down.
1. Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S: The Everyday Champion
This is the tire most people reading this review will care about, and for good reason. The Tiger Paw Touring A/S is Uniroyal’s bread and butter — it covers the widest range of vehicle fitments, and it’s the model I’ve spent the most time with.
First Impressions
I had a set installed on a 2019 Toyota Camry, and the difference from the worn-out OEM tires was immediately noticeable. The ride was quieter, the steering felt more connected, and braking confidence improved from the very first drive.
The tread pattern features Uniroyal’s signature “A-Shaped” grooves, designed to channel water away from the contact patch. It’s not just marketing — I could visually see how aggressive those channels are compared to similarly priced competitors.
Wet Performance: Where Uniroyal Truly Shines
I have to be blunt here: wet traction is where Uniroyal separates itself from the pack at this price point. During my test period, I drove through several heavy rainstorms, including some serious downpours on the highway, and the Tiger Paw Touring A/S felt remarkably stable.
There was no hydroplaning sensation, even at highway speeds in standing water. The steering remained responsive, and braking distances felt noticeably shorter than what I’ve experienced with other budget-friendly all-season tires.
Uniroyal has marketed itself as a wet-performance brand for decades, and in my experience, that reputation is fully earned. If you live in a rainy climate — the Pacific Northwest, the Southeast, anywhere with frequent storms — this tire deserves serious consideration.
Dry Performance
On dry roads, the Tiger Paw Touring A/S is perfectly adequate but not exceptional. Straight-line stability is good, and highway cruising is comfortable and quiet. I had zero complaints during daily commuting.
However, push it through a twisty back road or take a highway on-ramp aggressively, and you’ll feel the limits. The sidewalls are softer than performance-oriented tires, which means more body roll feel and less razor-sharp turn-in response. For 90% of drivers, this won’t matter at all. But if you enjoy spirited driving, you’ll notice it.
Comfort and Noise
This is another area where I was pleasantly surprised. The Tiger Paw Touring A/S is genuinely quiet on the highway. After several days of long commutes, I noticed that road noise was lower than I expected for a tire in this price range.
Ride comfort is also solid. The tire absorbs small imperfections well, and expansion joints on concrete highways don’t produce the harsh “thump” that some cheaper tires deliver.
Treadwear and Longevity
Uniroyal backs the Tiger Paw Touring A/S with a 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, which is competitive for this price class. During my extended testing, the tread wore evenly and at a rate that seems consistent with reaching that warranty figure, assuming proper rotation and alignment.
Winter / Light Snow Performance
The Tiger Paw Touring A/S is an all-season tire, not a winter tire, so I want to set realistic expectations. I tested it during a light snow event, and it handled fine — cautious acceleration, reasonable braking, adequate grip for a few inches of snow.
But if you regularly deal with serious winter weather, invest in dedicated winter tires — or, if you want to stay within the Uniroyal family, ask about the Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3 covered above.
2. Uniroyal Tiger Paw Pursuit: The Newer Option
The Tiger Paw Pursuit is a relatively recent addition to the lineup, positioned as a step up from the Touring A/S in handling responsiveness.
The Pursuit uses a slightly different tread compound and pattern designed to offer more confident cornering and better dry grip. In practice, I noticed a modest improvement in steering feel compared to the Touring A/S. The tire feels a touch more planted during lane changes and moderate cornering.
The difference isn’t dramatic, though. If you’re choosing between the two, I’d base your decision on fitment availability and price rather than expecting a night-and-day performance gap. Both are excellent everyday tires.
3. Uniroyal Laredo Cross Country Tour: For SUV and Truck Owners
I tested the Laredo Cross Country Tour on a mid-size SUV, and it largely mirrors the strengths and characteristics of the Tiger Paw line — just in a larger, more robust package designed for heavier vehicles.
On-Road Performance
Highway comfort is the Laredo’s strongest suit. It’s quiet for an SUV tire, rides smoothly over rough pavement, and provides excellent straight-line stability even in crosswinds. Wet traction is — unsurprisingly — very good, maintaining the Uniroyal tradition.
Off-Road Capability
Let me be clear: this is not an off-road tire. The Laredo Cross Country Tour is designed for paved and well-maintained gravel roads. I took it down a few hard-packed dirt roads, and it handled fine, but anything beyond that isn’t what this tire is built for.
If you need legitimate off-road capability, look at the Laredo AT covered above, or a dedicated all-terrain option from another brand.
Uniroyal Recalls — What Every Buyer Should Know
This is a section I think deserves honest treatment, even though it’s narrow in scope and doesn’t affect any of the models tested above.
Uniroyal issued a voluntary safety recall covering certain Laredo HD/HTM tires — a commercial-grade line typically found on light trucks and full-size heavy-duty vans, produced between April 2010 and the end of July 2012.
Affected sizes were LT235/85R16 and LT245/75R16, and the recall covered approximately 800,000 tires. The issue involved potential tread loss and rapid air loss resulting from tread belt separation. Uniroyal recommended removal of affected tires as soon as possible.
This is a genuinely large recall by volume, though it’s specific to a commercial truck/van line from over a decade ago — not the Tiger Paw or Laredo Cross Country Tour models covered in this review.
If you own an older commercial Uniroyal Laredo HD/HTM tire, check your DOT code against Uniroyal’s own safety recall page or NHTSA’s SaferCar.gov database.
How Does Uniroyal Compare to the Competition?
I’ve tested dozens of tires in this price range over the years, so let me put Uniroyal in context.
| Feature | Uniroyal Tiger Paw Touring A/S | General Altimax RT45 | Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring | Michelin Defender 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range (per tire) | $75 – $140 | $80 – $145 | $90 – $155 | $150 – $250 |
| Treadwear Warranty | 65,000 mi | 75,000 mi | 70,000 mi | 80,000 mi |
| Wet Traction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dry Handling | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Ride Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Road Noise | Low | Moderate | Low | Very Low |
| Light Snow | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Uniroyal vs. General Altimax RT45
Both are budget all-season tires from parent companies with strong reputations (General is owned by Continental). In my testing, Uniroyal has a clear edge in wet traction, while General offers a slightly longer treadwear warranty. Our full General Tires Review covers their broader lineup.
Uniroyal vs. Cooper CS5 Ultra Touring
Cooper’s offering is a step up in price and offers slightly better dry handling, but the Uniroyal matches or beats it in wet conditions at a lower price. Our full Cooper Tires Review has the details.
Uniroyal vs. Michelin Defender 2
Not entirely a fair fight given the price gap, but the Uniroyal delivers roughly 80% of the Michelin’s real-world performance at 50-60% of the cost. Our full Michelin Tires Review covers their premium lineup directly.
What I Like About Uniroyal Tires
- Outstanding wet traction — Genuinely best-in-class for the price segment. I felt confident in heavy rain, which is not something I can say about every budget tire.
- Excellent value — You’re getting Michelin-family engineering at prices that compete with no-name imports.
- Quiet, comfortable ride — Road noise and ride harshness are well-controlled for everyday driving.
- Simple lineup — No confusing model names or overlapping products. You can find the right tire in minutes.
- Strong warranty support — The 65,000-mile treadwear warranty on the Tiger Paw Touring A/S is backed by a reputable parent company.
- Wide availability — Available at Walmart, Discount Tire, Tire Rack, Costco (select sizes), and most independent shops across the US.
What I Don’t Like About Uniroyal Tires
- Mediocre dry handling — If you push these tires hard in corners, you’ll find their limits sooner than with performance-oriented options.
- Limited performance options — There’s no UHP (ultra-high-performance) tire in the lineup. If you drive a sports car, Uniroyal doesn’t have a tire for you.
- Average winter capability — Fine for light snow, but you’ll need winter tires for anything serious.
- Brand perception — Some drivers are hesitant because they don’t recognize the name. This is unfounded, but it’s a real barrier for some buyers.
- Sidewall aesthetics — I’ll be honest, the tire sidewall design isn’t as visually appealing as some competitors. It’s purely cosmetic, but if looks matter to you, it’s worth noting.
Who Should Buy Uniroyal Tires?
Based on my testing, I recommend Uniroyal tires for a specific — and large — group of drivers. Here’s who I think benefits most:
Daily Commuters
If your driving life consists of getting to work, running errands, and the occasional road trip, Uniroyal is an excellent fit. These tires are built for exactly this type of use, and they do it well.
Budget-Conscious Families
When you’re buying tires for a family sedan, minivan, or crossover, you want something safe and affordable. Uniroyal checks both boxes emphatically. The wet traction alone makes these a smart family tire choice.
Drivers in Rainy Climates
If you live in Florida, the Gulf Coast, the Pacific Northwest, or anywhere else where rain is a regular part of your driving life, Uniroyal’s wet performance advantage makes them a standout pick. I’d choose these over many tires that cost $30-50 more per tire for rainy-climate driving.
First-Time Tire Buyers
If you’ve never shopped for tires before and feel overwhelmed, Uniroyal’s simple lineup and straightforward value proposition makes the decision easy. You’re getting a quality tire without the anxiety of overspending or the risk of buying garbage.
Who Should Skip Uniroyal?
I want to be equally honest about who shouldn’t buy these tires:
- Performance driving enthusiasts — If you enjoy spirited driving, autocross, or track days, these tires will hold you back. Look at Continental ExtremeContact, Michelin Pilot Sport, or similar options.
- Severe winter climate drivers — If you regularly face ice, packed snow, and sub-zero temperatures, invest in dedicated winter tires regardless of brand.
- Full-size truck owners with heavy towing needs — Uniroyal’s truck/SUV options are fine for daily driving, but if you’re regularly towing heavy loads, I’d recommend looking at LT-rated tires from brands like BFGoodrich or Firestone Transforce.
- Drivers who prioritize longevity above all else — While 65,000 miles is respectable, brands like Michelin and Continental offer warranties pushing 80,000+ miles. If maximum treadlife is your top priority, you may want to spend more upfront.
Pricing and Where to Buy
Uniroyal tires are widely available across the United States, both online and in stores. Here’s what you can expect to pay as of 2024-2025:
- Tiger Paw Touring A/S: $75 – $140 per tire (depending on size)
- Tiger Paw Pursuit: $80 – $145 per tire
- Laredo Cross Country Trail: $110 – $175 per tire
For a full set of Tiger Paw Touring A/S tires in a common sedan size (like 215/55R17), you’re typically looking at $400-$480 installed, including mounting, balancing, and disposal fees. That’s a very competitive price for a tire with this level of performance.
Best Places to Buy
- Tire Rack — Widest selection, detailed specs, and they’ll ship to a local installer near you
- Discount Tire / America’s Tire — Competitive pricing with excellent in-store service
- Walmart Auto Center — Often has the lowest per-tire price, though installation quality can vary by location
- Costco — Available in select sizes, and Costco’s installation package is one of the best values in the industry
- Local independent tire shops — Don’t overlook these; many can match or beat online prices and offer personalized service
I always recommend getting quotes from at least two sources before purchasing. Prices can vary by $10-20 per tire between retailers, and installation package costs differ significantly.
Installation Tips and Maintenance Advice
No matter which Uniroyal model you choose, here are some tips I always share based on my experience:
- Buy a full set of four. Mixing tire brands or models can compromise handling and safety. Uniroyal tires are affordable enough that there’s no reason not to replace all four at once.
- Get an alignment with new tires. A proper four-wheel alignment (typically $80-$120 at most shops) ensures even tread wear and maximizes your tire investment.
- Rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles. Regular rotation is critical for even wear, especially with front-wheel-drive vehicles. This is the single most important maintenance task for tire longevity.
- Check tire pressure monthly. Uniroyal tires, like all tires, perform best at their recommended inflation pressure. Under-inflation kills tread life and fuel economy.
- Don’t forget the spare. While you’re at the shop, have them check your spare tire’s condition and pressure. It’s a detail most people forget until they actually need it.
My Overall Verdict on Uniroyal Tires
After extensive testing across multiple models and driving conditions, I can confidently say that Uniroyal is one of the best values in the US tire market today. These aren’t flashy tires. They don’t have exotic compound names or celebrity endorsements. What they have is honest, reliable performance at a price that respects your budget.
The wet traction is genuinely impressive — I’d stack the Tiger Paw Touring A/S against tires costing $40-60 more per tire in a rainstorm and feel confident about the outcome. The ride comfort and noise levels exceed expectations for the price class. And the Michelin parentage gives me confidence in quality control and warranty support.
Are there better tires out there? Absolutely — but they cost significantly more. Are there cheaper tires? Sure — but they come with real compromises in safety and performance that I’m not comfortable recommending.
Uniroyal sits in a sweet spot that makes sense for millions of American drivers. If you need a reliable, safe, comfortable tire and you don’t want to overpay for a premium brand name, I recommend giving Uniroyal serious consideration. After testing them myself, I’d happily put them on my own family’s vehicles without hesitation.
My rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars. Outstanding value, excellent wet performance, and perfectly suited for everyday driving. Loses a star for limited performance driving capability and a slightly shorter treadwear warranty compared to some competitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Uniroyal tires any good for everyday driving?
Yes. They’re a solid budget-friendly option for everyday commuting and highway driving. Owned by Michelin, they benefit from proven manufacturing standards without the premium price tag, delivering reliable traction in both dry and wet conditions.
How long do Uniroyal tires last compared to other budget tire brands?
Most Uniroyal all-season tires carry a 50,000 to 65,000-mile treadwear warranty, competitive with Cooper and General Tire in the same price range.
Are Uniroyal Tiger Paw tires good in rain and wet road conditions?
Yes — this is the brand’s signature strength, achieved through their “A-Shaped” tread grooves designed to channel water and reduce hydroplaning risk. In my experience, they perform above average in rain compared to other budget all-season tires.
Does Uniroyal make a winter tire?
Yes — the Tiger Paw Ice & Snow 3, a genuine dedicated winter option that’s easy to miss since it’s not part of the more commonly discussed Tiger Paw touring lineup.
Has Uniroyal ever had a tire recall?
Yes. Uniroyal issued a voluntary recall covering certain Laredo HD/HTM commercial tires (produced 2010-2012) over a tread belt separation risk affecting roughly 800,000 tires. This does not affect the Tiger Paw or Laredo Cross Country Tour lines covered in this review.
What is the correct name for the Laredo Cross Country tire?
Laredo Cross Country Tour is the correct current product name. Some coverage of this tire has used “Laredo Cross Country Trail,” which is inaccurate.
How does Uniroyal compare to Michelin and BFGoodrich tires?
All three are part of the Michelin family targeting different price points. Michelin sits at the premium tier, BFGoodrich targets enthusiasts and off-road drivers, and Uniroyal is the budget-conscious option — delivering roughly 70-80% of Michelin’s performance at nearly half the cost.
Disclosure: Testing observations for the Tiger Paw Touring A/S, Tiger Paw Pursuit, and Laredo Cross Country Tour reflect personal, real-world driving. Coverage of additional lineup models and recall information is drawn from manufacturer documentation and verified retailer listings, clearly noted throughout. I was not compensated by Uniroyal, Michelin, or any retailer for this review.
