The popularity of the skid steer has increased in recent years, largely due to its versatility. While the skid steer is also recognized for its strength and durability, the tires are the true workhorses. They allow the machine the ability to traverse a variety of terrain and withstand several types of debris. With four different types of skid steer tires available, how do you know which to choose? The following information will introduce you to the four different types of skid steer tires and point out the features, benefits and drawbacks of each.

Pneumatic
Pneumatic, or air-filled, tires are the most commonly used and least expensive. They also provide the smoothest ride. They are designed with treads, which allow them to provide traction on different types of terrain. But these tires come with the biggest liability on the jobsite - flats.

Solid Rubber
Solid rubber tires eliminate the possibility of flats because compressed air is replaced with an all-rubber composition. Because of its treadless design, wear is distributed across the entire surface of the tire. This leads to a longer service life. But the lack of tread also means the tire provides no traction, limiting the terrain it can work on. Also, solid tires are the most expensive and the solid construction provides little flex, resulting in a rough, uncomfortable ride.

Foam-Filled
The next tire consists of a polyurethane foam interior instead of air or rubber. This makes foam-filled tires virtually resistant to flats, while providing more comfort and flex than solid tires. Foam-filled tires offer treads, making them more effective on rough terrain than solid tires, but more susceptible to wear.

Semi-Pneumatic
The newest tire, the semi-pneumatic tire, offers a flat-proof design that provides a more comfortable ride than solid tires. Semi-pneumatic tires have strategically placed holes in the rubber to provide the same shock absorption effect as pneumatic tires. While semi-pneumatic tires cost more than pneumatics, most manufacturers agree that they last at least three times as long. This is due to deeper treads, which also provide better traction.