Whether pushing, lifting or hauling a load, traction is critical to maximizing the performance of your skid steer loader and is one of the main advantages they have over compact track loaders. Unlike CTLs which are limited to a few track types, miniature tires are available in a wide spectrum of tread patterns and constructions, allowing operators to choose a tire specifically tailored to their application.
Tread patterns and construction for traction
A tire’s tread pattern is the most obvious predictor of the type of traction it will provide on various terrains. That said, to really maximize the traction (and overall performance) of your skid steer, you’ll also want to consider tire construction when choosing a tire. Below is a cheat sheet for tread patterns and construction types tailored to your ideal applications:
| application | Attributes | Recommended tires |
| Recycling/transfer stations (dry improved surfaces) |
On a flat, even, dry man-made surface, such as the concrete floor of a recycling center or transfer station, a smooth tire provides more traction than a tire with a stud pattern. Solid construction is the way to go for tires that work in environments like this: they resist chafing, spin easily, and have plenty of rubber to wear out, all of which translates into a more durable tire. |
SDS Galaxy Super Smooth |
| Recycling / transfer stations (wet improved surfaces and non-improved surfaces) |
Whether working in the dirt of a junkyard or navigating the wet floors of a waste transfer station, deep-tread, large-block tires provide the traction needed while delivering long-lasting performance. Operators who work in severe applications where punctures are a constant threat will want to look at solid construction, while those with machines that work in less hostile terrain or travel longer distances may favor severe duty pneumatics. For example, machines working in glass recycling where crushed glass is unlikely to penetrate the tread of deep blocks could benefit from a tire. Conversely, in applications where penetrating debris such as nails and rebar are present, a puncture-proof solid is a more ideal choice. |
Galaxy Hulk Galaxy Hulk SDS |
| Construction / Agriculture |
There’s a reason many skid steers come equipped with traditional R-4 bar-type treads: they provide good traction in a wide range of conditions, making them well-suited to the needs of many construction companies and farms who may be working on an earth construction site or feedlot one day and asphalt or concrete the next. As diverse as the uses of these tires is the terrain they operate on. Minicarts doing demolition work are best served by a solid, while the farmer who travels long distances or simply wants a more comfortable ride should consider a tire. |
Galaxy Beefy Baby III Galaxy Beefy Baby SDS |
| Smooth / Muddy | Skid steer operators working in extremely slippery and muddy terrain will want to look at a super deep R-4 tire. Popular with dairy farms and other livestock operations, the extra tread depth gives machines working on manure or mud farms the traction they need. Since punctures are less of a concern for those working on soft surfaces, pneumatic construction is favored. | Galaxy Muddy Buddy |
| Specialized features |
Not all operations have clearly defined applications for their skid steers; that’s why we continue to roll out specific tires for the winning application. The Alliance 550 MultiUse is a tire for multipurpose applications. Utilizing radial construction, the 550 places a wide, flat footprint on the ground for superior traction, longer service life and improved operator comfort in a wide range of applications. The new Galaxy Mighty Trac ND is just what our construction customers have been looking for. With a block tread, the Mighty Trac ND adapts to dirt and loose soils as well as snow, making it a winning choice for construction companies transitioning to snow removal in the winter. |
Alliance 550 multipurpose Galaxy Mighty Trac ND |
Why Choose Application-Specific Miniature Tires?
The benefits of choosing an application-specific miniature tire are numerous: they can improve your machine’s performance, improve its productivity, increase its uptime and last longer.
Contact your local dealer or representative today to learn more about our extensive line of miniature tires and find out which one is best for your application.
