I have 35" good year duratracs right now. Nice tire but I have no lift and they are wider than the look I want. 12.5's width. I have a 17"rim. 37's will fit but I want a thinner look. Also, is the tow out at the bottom of the tire fixable without a lift?

 

Quickest way I have found to compare specs is:
www.tirerack.com
Do a search by size.
Then compare specs on all tires listed (it helps to have pen and paper)

 

saw some 285/70/17 today

 

I would stick with the 12.50" width. With 37s it will appear to be skinnier than the 35x12.50". Plus you will maintain the stability you have come to know with the 35x12.50s and the 37s will have a slightly longer contact patch vs the 35s.