The importance and effectiveness of skid steers on the job site has grown exponentially since their inception in the 1950s (See The Skid Steer Revolution). The advent of the compact track loader (CTL) has increased the available options for operators interested in these versatile machines, which can be found on farms and job sites in every corner of the world. If you’re in the market for a compact loader but can’t decide between a skid steer or track loader, here are 10 reasons why we think rolling with wheels is the way to go.

One of the defining characteristics of skid steers—and reasons for their popularity—is their versatility; they are capable of handling a wide variety of jobs and terrains, ranging from light-duty landscaping to demanding demolition work. As the applications in which skid steers are used has expanded, so has the number of tire choices available to today’s skid steer owners. While severe duty solids (SDS) tires are growing in popularity for the harshest jobs, many skid steers will be best served by an R-4, L-4, or L-5 tire. Keep reading to learn the difference between these tires and discover what the right tire choice is for your application.

The fantastic versatility of skid steers has led to their use in numerous applications across a broad spectrum of industries. Because of this, skid steer tires are now offered in different constructions and a wide variety of patterns. One of the best steps you can take to maximize the productivity of your skid steer—and your entire operation—is to make sure your machine is equipped with a tire designed to handle the terrain where it will operate and the tasks it will be asked to perform. Keep reading to learn how to choose your next skid steer tire by application.

Whether it’s sharp turns, harsh conditions, or spinning wheels, skid steers are tough on tires. While it can be tempting to try to get every last hour out of your skid steer’s tires, the fact is that being proactive with replacement can save time, money, and aggravation caused by downtime and inefficiency. With that in mind, here are a few tips for knowing when it’s time to replace the tires on your skid steer.

The use of solid tires continues to become more widespread within the waste, recycling, and construction industries. As margins get tighter, wages rise, and qualified employees become more scarce in these fields, the need for businesses to reduce downtime and increase productivity is more important than ever. By reducing the risk of sidelining a machine due to tire damage—whether from a chunk of metal or employee inexperience—solid tires can quickly prove themselves to be a solid investment. And with the option to choose designs with shock-absorbing apertures, driving on solid tires has become less jarring.