Winter Set-Up

[Heide264]

Smaller diameter rims will not lower your car if you go with a higher profile tire. For a 16" rim try and find a 70 series tire and you will gain ground clearance as well as have taller tire sidewalls for better bump absorbtion.

I'd imagine there are (quality) high profile snow tires out there? I don't mind losing the performance if they are only going on the car for the winter months.

What would I need offset wise?

[rage-wrx]

I run a 55 instead of the stock 45.Gives you a bit more height.

[SamXp]

Tire Rack has 17 and 18 inch wheels listed for the 2011 WRX, but if you select the Winter Tire/Wheel package, they recommend a 215/55R16, which has the same 25.3" diameter as the OEM 235/45R17's.

I think I'm going to try these 215/60R16's, though. 26.0" diameter (so 0.35" closer to fenderwell). I think with the narrower width, it might just fit.
http://www.tirerack.com/tires/tires....WS70&tab=Specs

[rage-wrx]

Tire Rack has 17 and 18 inch wheels listed for the 2011 WRX, but if you select the Winter Tire/Wheel package, they recommend a 215/55R16, which has the same 25.3" diameter as the OEM 235/45R17's.

I think I'm going to try these 215/60R16's, though. 26.0" diameter (so 0.35" closer to fenderwell). I think with the narrower width, it might just fit.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS70

You can post all your questions about winter tire sizes here & it will be answered by Luke from Tire Rack.

The Winter Tire thread- all winter tire questions go here !!! - NASIOC

[Officer Cartman]

Smaller diameter rims will not lower your car if you go with a higher profile tire. For a 16" rim try and find a 70 series tire and you will gain ground clearance as well as have taller tire sidewalls for better bump absorbtion.

Wonder if that will cause any fender rubbing.. I run 16" Dunlop WinterSport 3Ds in 205/55.