For people working in parks, farms, construction sites, and other jobs sites that require a skid steer as an essential part of their equipment. The large and versatile machine features a compact design, maneuverability and easy operation. One of the greatest concerns and differences in skid steers are the tires. The type of tire you get should depend on the quality, price and the type of work or landscape you are working with. So what do the best skid steer tires look like? Keep reading.
Tire Terms
Understanding the few common tire terms will help you get the right tire. First, treat patterns is a term used to describe the lugs or groove design of the tire. The 4 types of tire patterns include swept lugs for dirt, diamond lugs for hard surfaces, and button lugs for smooth and smooth tires made for hard surfaces. Next, the tread depth is basically how deep the groove on the lugs goes. The ply rating helps understand how much load a tire can carry.
Top 10 Tire Reviews
1. New ZEEMAX Heavy Duty
The Zeemax is very popular for producing brand new tires. The tires are high quality and have truly been mounted on lots of vehicles. The new Zeemax heavy duty has become very popular to dealers around the nation and trailer manufacturers. The deep thread design on the Zeemax prevents any form of cutting or gauging which promotes durability and allows the tire to work at its maximum capacity.
It is made with a 10-ply heavy duty rim guard that protects your wheels. Besides, its tread pattern allows durability, maximum performance, and super stability while the skid steer is on the landscape. The sidewall on the Zeemax is reinforced to for damage protection.
Specifications
- Brand: ZEEMAX
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 23/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30.4″
- Section Width: 10.4″
- Ply Rating: 10
- Max Load: 4,707lbs @75psi
- Perfect for soft surfaces
- Heavy side walls and deep thread
- Heavy duty compound for damage protection
- Difficult to mount on rims
2. Carlisle Trac Chief Industrial Tire
The Carlisle tract chief industrial tire is an all-season tire. It is manufactured for industrial applications. You can use it in industrial applications like compact tractors and sturdy duty skid streets.
This tire ensures traction on all forms of weather. The all tire season compound and the aggressive lug pattern upgrade the winter, wet and dry weather grip. This ensures the wheel is in constant road contact. This increased road contact allows the vehicle at hand to perform to its maximum ability. It has a lag design which is responsible for keeping contact with the surface of the road. So it improves stability while driving and the steering responsiveness. To elaborate, the steering is now more responsive to your commands while you are driving. Additionally, the structure is stabilized against the pressure of driving that is affecting it.
The tire also features a reinforced sidewall. It functions to optimize the shape of the tire and prevent any form of deformation due to load pressure that affects it and the driving. This means that the tire does not deform, creating a safe performance. It has a strong structure that resists damages, the structure prevents tearing, punctures, bruising and cuts from damaging the tire. This, in turn, lengthens its use.
Specifications
- Brand: Carlisle
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 19/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30.5″
- Section Width: 10.7″
- Ply Rating: 8
- Max Load: 4,140lbs @60psi
- All weather traction
- Enhanced controllability
- Damage resistance
- The tread bars seems thin
3. Carlisle Ultra Guard Industrial Tire
The Carlisle Ultra Guard Industrial Tire is engineered for different demanding skid steers. It is designed with an open shoulder that displays a lug void. This is essential for an abrasive surface or landscape. The extra tread depth of 44/32 inches on the tread provides close to a 70 percent increase in depth compared to other skid steer loader tire brands. So the tread increases the lifespan of the tire to more than 14%.
The thick sidewalls of the tire act as a buff bar which provides extra protection to the tire. It prevents any exhaustion from a tear, cutting or pocking. The ultra guard is proven to increase the durability of the tire. It is designed with a large angle, unique structure, and a nondirectional center lug tread design. These features work to improve performance on both hard and soft surfaces.
Specifications
- Brand: Carlisle
- Tire Size: 12-16.5
- Tread Depth: 44/32″
- Overall Diameter: 32.7″
- Section Width: 12.1″
- Ply Rating: 12
- Max Load: 6,320lbs @80psi
- Massive sidewall guard to protect against abrasions
- Features rim guard protection against work-site debris
- Unique tread design for increased performance on soft and hard surfaces
- Reinforced sidewall provides added stability and puncture resistance
- Performance on mud is wanting
4. Galaxy Beefy Baby II R-4
The Galaxy Tires is known to produce high standard tires. They have a service that is very demanding on tires. The main special features on their Galaxy and Primex skid tires include the heavy-duty sidewalls, steel reinforcement, and rim guard protection. Skid produces tires that have the ability to outperform anyone’s expectations; they are available for multiple applications.
The beefy baby II has been the center of attraction for Galaxy for more than 2 decades now. There are multiple things to consider when it comes to choosing the right skid steer tire for any machine. The performance, cost, tread depth, and supplications need influence greatly the type of tire you go for.
The tire is considered the most versatile and durable skid street R-4. This tire has the lowest cost per hour in the skeet steer tire measurements. This position is due to the beef baby’s superior thread design, the rim shield protector, superior sidewall, and wear resistant compound. It is engineered with a wear resistant premium rubber to increase the tread life. This feature also provides an exceptional puncture resistance against jagged and hazardous terrains.
Specifications
- Brand: Galaxy
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 25/32″
- Overall Diameter: 31.4″
- Section Width: 10.2″
- Ply Rating: 8
- Max Load: 3,500lbs @45psi
- Offers great traction on all surface types
- Durable and versatile
- Superior tread design
- Pricey
5. Galaxy XD2010 R-4
Another product comes from Galaxy Tires. Their products get the best reviews from industry professionals. The Galaxy XD2010 R-4 is one of the toughest tires, especially on uniloaders. This is another skid steer tire that is on popular demand. It is extremely durable and can last you up to a decade while on the road.
The Galaxy XD 2010 is made with a solid center, which enables longer wear on rough and hard surfaces. The deep and open shoulders on this tire are designed for traction when you are driving off-road. They are designed with a highly abrasive tread resistant compound that serves the same purpose.
The tires have a heavy sidewall and rim shield protector. The Galaxy XD 2010 is also designed with a contour that is neutral; this makes the inflated and uninflated shapes almost identical. This is to reduce the amount of stress and distortion on the inflated tire. This works to enhance the tread wear’s reliability.
Specifications
- Brand: Galaxy
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 22/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30″
- Section Width: 10″
- Ply Rating: 8
- Max Load: 4,140lbs @59psi
- Solid center
- Open, deep shoulder design
- Highly abrasion resistant tread compound
- Rim shield protector and heavy sidewall
- Difficult to mount on rims
6. Titan HD2000
The Titan is known as one of the largest off-highway tire manufactures in North America. They make tires for forestry, construction, mining, and agriculture. Goodyear and Titan are both manufactured by the Titan International that makes a line of tires and wheels for an extremely wide variety of off-road equipment. This global brand offers products for operators and equipment manufacturers. You can definitely count on them for quality services and durable products.
The Titan HD 2000 is a premium skid steer tire created with a shallow tread depth and small rim guard with a sidewall. It is the original design used to create the HD 2000 II. The Titan international created the Titan HD 2000 as the original tire equipment for multiple skid steer manufacturers. It is created with a heavy duty sidewall which prevents any form of punctures, tears, and abrasions. It also features a dual tapered step lug that helps extend the life span of the tire and improve the tread wear. The deeper undertread helps improve penetration and puncture resistance. You can apply it on the mini-skid steers, skid steers, subcompact tractors, backhoes, and small industrial appliances.
Specifications
- Brand: Titan
- Tire Size: 12-16.5
- Tread Depth: 23/32″
- Overall Diameter: 32.7″
- Section Width: 12.8″
- Ply Rating: 10
- Max Load: 5,600lbs @65psi
- All weather traction
- Decent performance
- Created with a heavy duty side walls
- Short lifespan
7. Deestone D304
The Deestone is a tire manufacturer for industrial vehicles and they work all season. The Deestone D304 features a heavy-duty sidewall construction that maintains an optimal shape for the tire. This feature works against the load of the vehicle and the pressure while you are driving. It has a high-speed rating which indicates that this tire can achieve a really high speed under extremely heavyweights.
The large tread lugs on the Deestone D304 help to maintain contact with the surface. This increases the wet, winter and dry weather traction on while providing a great performance on various terrains simultaneously. The tread will ensure a fast rate of driving and safety in a whole year.
The footprint on this tire is kept clean through the high void ratio by the thread. The high void ratio and directional lug placement eject rocks between the thread and eliminates snow or mud on the grooves. Basically, this helps prevent or avoid any stone retention on the tire’s casing while drilling which may cause great harm. Snow, stones, and mud can block the contact of the tire and road surface.
Specifications
- Brand: Deestone
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 16/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30″
- Section Width: 10″
- Ply Rating: 10
- Max Load: 4,710lbs @75psi
- Created with a heavy duty side walls
- Unique tread design for increased performance on soft and hard surfaces
- Heavy side walls and deep thread
- Not properly functional on an extremely rocky terrain
8. BKT SKID POWER HD
The BTK Skid Power is an industrial tire manufactured by the BTK industry. They have created the BKT SKID HD in a variety of sizes. It is basically a premium industrial tire and created with extra deep treads that provide puncture resistance and superior traction. Therefore, it is preferred for the underground mining operation and industrial functions.
The treads on the BKT Skid Power HD have a unique design that composes of large tread lugs. The lugs are placed in a directional pattern. They also have a large road contact and steep walls that work to perform its capability on loose and soft terrains. It performs well on mud, sand, and dirt because the lugs help to propel it forward rather than backward. The steeped lugs and high void ration maintain a clear footprint and eliminate snow/mud while also ejecting rocks that are stuck between the treads
The tires are made of silica-based compounds that slow the wear and tear offering a long-lasting service. The compound resists cuts and chipping from causing damage and shortening the usability in the long run. It also features a heavy-duty construction which upgrades the load withstanding and carrying capability. The construction helps to maintain the optimal shape and prevents the deformation.
Specifications
- Brand: BKT
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 24/32″
- Overall Diameter: 31″
- Section Width: 11″
- Ply Rating: 10
- Max Load: 4,720lbs @75psi
- Provide better traction
- Puncture resistant
- Enhance durability
- Longer life span
- Ensures protection against flap and wheel damage in the rim flange area
- Pricey
9. CAMSO SKS 332
The tile industry has evolved so fast in the past few years. While general jobs have become more specialized, the skid steer is now more versatile to respond to reality. The Camso has introduced a new skid tire CAMSO SKS 332 to cater to a specific need for people in the construction industry. Its performance on both hard and mixed surfaces is very commendable.
The CAMSO SKS 332 came up with a non-directional and innovative tread pattern that works to optimize versatility and durability. The high lug void on the CAMSO SKS 332 provides you with puncture resistance and better wear on soft surfaces. The designed focuses on soft soil and digging for landscaping and construction applications.
This tire features curved lugs and extra deep directional treads that creates in a stepped pattern for an excellent mud clean out. The void guard included on the CAMSO SKS 332helps to protect and reinforce the carcass to prevent any form of flats. It incorporates a sidewall design together with an impact guard protect it from damage and deflect objects away, therefore, extending its lifespan.
Specifications
- Brand: CAMSO
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 19/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30.1″
- Section Width: 10.8″
- Ply Rating: 8
- Max Load: 4,150lbs @60psi
- Premium tyre with extra deep tread and thick sidewalls
- Compounded with a superior blend of silica and natural rubber
- Specially designed rim guard
- Provide better traction
- Shorter lifespan
10. DURAFORCE DT
Loader, backhoe, and skid steer tires need to be rugged and durable. The Firestone line of construction caters to these two necessities. As you know, the Firestone has been famous for over a decade in the production and supply of innovative and good quality products. They have a wide range of tires and tire related products that cater to all kinds of vehicles.
The DURAFORCE DT – skid steer tire was build to withstand all types of challenges on the quarry, road or any other job. The tire has a deep tread design that is built for aerial lift machinery. The large curb rib and heavy-duty sidewall give more puncture resistance and more stability. It is also built with complete sidewall protections, deep thread, and buttressed lugs.
Specifications
- Brand: Firestone
- Tire Size: 10-16.5
- Tread Depth: 26/32″
- Overall Diameter: 30.4″
- Section Width: 10″
- Ply Rating: 8
- Max Load: 4,140lbs @60psi
- Resists punctures and flats
- Gives lengthy lifespan
- Can handle the most demanding conditions
- Has more stability and great puncture resistance
- Not great on all terrains
Things to Consider When Buying Tires for Skid Steer Loaders
1. Types
While different companies or brand have variations in product names, there are only two main types of skid tires. You have to choose between air-filled and flat-proof skid steer tires.
Flat Proof Tires
Unlike the traditional tires, these ones do not have the inner tubes. This means that you will not experience any form of pleasure leak. They cannot be punctures and they have a strong resistance to snags and tears.
The flat proof is impenetrable; sharp objects like rocks, nails, screws, glass, and rebar cannot get through to the tires. Even when you have some missing chunks within the flat proof tire, it will continue to perform perfectly. You can find this kind of tires commonly in hardware and job sites like the demolition zone, job site cleanup, construction zone, and waste management and landscaping. It is for being and heavy duty applications. Despite all the benefits, you can only use the flat proof on a flat surface.
Air Filled Tires
They are pneumatic tires. So they can handle rough and uneven terrains. Compared to the flat proof, they are more affordable. You have the option of foam filled tiled which are puncture resistant to some extent. Foam is heavy and a little more expensive.
2. Consider Your Needs
Landscaper’s needs are very different, which is why not all tires are universal. So you should select the tire based on the work of the skid loader and the working environment. For instance, using a skid steer on hard cape projects during winter will need a completely different tire to a skid steer used for transporting heavy loads on a turf regularly. Meanwhile, some people need tires that can work on universal surfaces. For some, the skid steer is used for unloading trucks, pushing snow, transporting heavy loads, and hardscape summer projects.
You should look for tires that have fewer voids between the tread blocks to give you the perfect contact with the ground. Once you are settled on the design, you can start to think about the quality and price of the tires. While different brands may look the same, the quality may actually be different. This determines how long the tire will last and how they function.
Landscape Tires
A typical landscape uses the skid steer loader in multiple environments; this makes it challenging to find the perfect tire. Turf tires have been designed to maximize the amount of contact with the surface and reduce the damage to the tire while it is turning. The tread design on a turf tire is not that good for dirt and mud. This means that they will not fair as well as they do on hard surfaces.
Nondirectional tires have deep voids and larger tread blocks. They have great inflation and shed mud and dirt better. They are less expensive and perfect for hard surfaces. The block directional patterns are also great for mud and dirt. The design has superior traction to maximize the pushing power of the machine.
Final Word
Buying skid street tires will take you more effort than just purchasing it on an online store or going to the local distribution and picking one pair out. You will need to have knowledge of what you are looking for. Getting the right tires for your application is very critical; picking the wrong tires could lead to issues like flat tires, unnecessary downtime and stuck or spinning in the mud. To minimize mistakes in the search process, you can see the list of the best skid steer tires shared above for reference purposes.