ForConstructionPros.com

Like the skid-steer loader market itself, the tires used on these machines are more diverse than ever. Today, you have a choice between pneumatic bias and radial tires, polyurethane ("foam") filled tires, solid tires and "aperture" tires.

"The skid-steer market has exploded in the last several years with the number of attachments that have become available," says Mike Tolman, Michelin earthmover segment manager for ports and terminals. "These machines were primarily used in construction, but now they're being used anywhere a small, versatile machine is needed."

That demand has in part led to new tire offerings. Determining which of these tires is right for your skid steer is based on where and how you use your machine. "There is a time and place for each type of tire," says Neil Ganz, executive vice president of GPX International Tire Corp., which markets Galaxy and MITL tires.

"If you are a contractor doing landscaping on an established lawn, you'll want a different tire than a contractor who is using a skid steer on a new jobsite or one who is working in demolition," says Tolman. "Sometimes there are trade-offs. For some contractors, they may need exceptionally good traction. For others, absolute puncture resistance may be more important."

Pneumatic tires

When shopping for pneumatic tires, you have a choice between bias and radial construction. Bias remains the overwhelming market leader. Not only is it less expensive, it has a strong, stiff sidewall to protect against construction debris, as well as the skidding action placed on the tire each time the machine turns, says Ganz.