Radial skid steer tires maximize traction, stability, and durability for diverse workloads. This guide highlights five top picks to help buyers choose the right tires for common skid steer needs, from heavy lifting to terrain challenges. The featured options suit contractors, farm operators, and rental fleets seeking reliable performance and easier maintenance. The brief buyer table below summarizes the core specs of the five selected tires.
| Product | Ply | Tire Size | Rim Pattern | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forerunner CST76 On Wheels | 12 | 10R16.5 | 8 lug | General skid steer work, wide-fit applications |
| HORSESHOE NHS 12-16.5 | 14 | 12-16.5 | Rim-Guard-Wall | Heavy-duty applications with high load |
| Forerunner SKS-1 On Wheels | 14 | 12-16.5 | 8 lug | Medium to heavy-duty use with Case/Bobcat fit |
| HORSESHOE 2-Packs On Wheels | 16 | 10-16.5 | 8 lug | Two-side replacement, heavy load, durability |
| HORSESHOE Haflinger Trac-King 2 | 14 | 12-16.5 | Rim-Guard-Wall | Stability and resistance to gouging |
Forerunner CST76 Radial Skid Steer Tires On Wheels
Product overview: Set of 4 heavy-duty 10R16.5 CST76 radial tires on 8-lug wheels. The tire is described as non-directional tread, designed for Bobcat and similar machines, with a 12-ply rating. It notes fitment for multiple Bobcat models and other brands, emphasizing interchangeability of rims across manufacturers. This option is best for users needing a ready-to-install, robust radial tire package suitable for a wide range of skid steers.
Who this is best for and why: Ideal for operators who want a complete wheel-and-tire package with broad compatibility and a high ply rating for demanding jobs. The 8-lug rim configuration helps fit many common skid steer configurations, offering straightforward replacement without separate mounting hardware.
Limitation: Data emphasizes compatibility with many models, but offset differences and exact fit should be confirmed for specific machine series to ensure proper clearance and mounting alignment.
HORSESHOE NHS 12-16.5 Skid Steer Tires With Rim
Product overview: A four-pack of 12-16.5, 14-ply tubeless tires with rim-guard-wall, designed for heavy-duty G-load applications and compatibility with many skid steer brands. The package targets operators who require strong, high-load tires with protective wall features to guard rims during aggressive use.
Who this is best for and why: Best for crews needing maximum load capacity and durability in a single purchase. The rim-guard-wall feature adds sidewall protection, beneficial for rough terrain and rocky jobs.
Caution: The listing emphasizes a wide fit, but users should verify compatibility with their specific rim width and offset before purchase to avoid clearance issues.
Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires On Wheels
Product overview: Set of 4 tires on 8-lug wheels, sized 12-16.5 and rated at 14-ply. This SKS-1 model targets Bobcat and similar machines, with a note about fit for several Case, Bobcat, and other brands. It emphasizes a standard 8-on-8 bolt pattern and a backspacing offset for compatibility across multiple skid steers.
Who this is best for and why: Suitable for operators who need a robust 14-ply setup with a broad compatibility range and a straightforward wheel-to-tire substitution path for common models.
Limitation: Offsets vary by manufacturer; verify that the wheel backspacing and rim width align with your machine’s hub and fender clearance.
HORSESHOE 2-Packs 10-16.5 Skid Steer Tires On Wheels
Product overview: A two-pack comprising 10-16.5 tires with 16-ply rating, mounted on 16.5×8.25 wheels with an 8-lug pattern. The listing specifies 30.67″ overall diameter and a relatively thick rim-guard-wall construction. It targets Bobcat, New Holland, and other popular brands, with a note about the offset and backspacing to accommodate various models.
Who this is best for and why: Choose this if you need a high-load, heavy-duty pair for a two-axle replacement or a spare pair for an ongoing fleet. The thicker 16-ply construction supports demanding tasks and longer service life.
Limitation: By listing includes two tires on wheels; ensure the overall machine width and fender clearance are compatible with the added wheel width.
HORSESHOE Haflinger Trac-King 2 12-16.5 Skid Steer Tires On Wheels
Product overview: Haflinger T168 Trac-King 2 model in 12-16.5 with 14-ply, rim-guard-wall design. Aimed at skid steer loaders and AG tractors, this tire emphasizes deep tread, sidewall protection, and stable traction. It lists a substantial maximum load and 90-102 psi range depending on model specifics.
Who this is best for and why: Best for operators prioritizing aggressive traction and tire longevity in rugged environments, with additional protection to rims during tough cuts and gouges.
Caution: Exact machine fit depends on rim width and offset; verify against your loader’s wheel specifications before ordering.
Buying Guide: Radial Skid Steer Tires
What should you consider when selecting radial skid steer tires?
- Load capacity and ply rating: Higher ply ratings (12-16 ply) provide better load support for heavy work but can affect ride comfort. Match the rating to your typical lift requirements.
- Tire size and rim compatibility: Ensure the tire size (12-16.5, 10R16.5, etc.) and the rim pattern (8 lug) align with your machine’s hub, offset, and mounting capabilities. Interchangeability varies by manufacturer.
- Rim-Guard-Wall and tread patterns: Rim-protective features help extend wheel life in harsh environments. Deep or aggressive tread patterns improve traction on loose or uneven surfaces but may wear differently on hard surfaces.
- Fitment and model compatibility: Listings often specify compatible brands and models. Always double-check the exact model numbers and years to avoid mounting issues.
- Usage scenario: For general fleet use, a balanced tire with solid load capacity and predictable wear is ideal. For rough terrain or heavy demolition tasks, prioritize higher ply and rugged tread designs.
- Maintenance and replacement: Consider whether you want tires sold as complete wheels or as tires only. Wheels add mounting convenience but weigh more and may limit interchangeability with existing rims.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does a higher ply rating indicate for skid steer tires?
Higher ply rating indicates greater load-carrying capability and durability, which is beneficial for heavy-duty applications and longer service life under demanding conditions.
- Are all 8-lug rims compatible with most skid steer tires?
No. While many tires use an 8-on-8 bolt pattern, offsets, backspacing, and center bore must match your machine’s specifications for proper mounting and clearance.
- Should I choose a rim-guard-wall tire?
Rim-guard-wall tires protect the wheel rims from sidewall damage, which is advantageous on rough terrain or when working near obstacles.
- What is the difference between radial and bias tires for skid steers?
Radial tires typically offer longer tread life, better traction, and heat dissipation, while bias tires may provide stiffer sidewalls and different wear characteristics. Radials are generally preferred for versatile, long-life performance.
- How do I verify fitment for my specific skid steer model?
Check the tire size, ply rating, rim pattern, backspacing, and offset in the product listing, then cross-check with your machine’s manual or manufacturer specifications.