I Tested Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5: My Honest Review and Top Picks for Performance
When I first started working with skid steers, I quickly realized that choosing the right tires can make all the difference in performance and safety. Skid steer tires, especially those sized 12-16.5, are more than just rubber wheels—they’re the foundation that supports everything from heavy lifting to precise maneuvering. Whether you’re navigating rough terrain or working on smooth surfaces, the right tire can enhance traction, durability, and efficiency. In this article, I want to share why the 12-16.5 size stands out and what makes these tires a crucial component for anyone relying on skid steer loaders.
I Tested The Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168
HORSESHOE (2-Pack) 12-16.5 R-4 14PLY Heavy Duty G Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS R-4 L2/G2 T168
HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168
Set 2 New Heavy Duty 12-16.5 12×16.5 12 Ply Industrial Skid Steer Tire w/Rim Guard
HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 16PLY Super Duty H Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tire w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS4 T126
1. HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168
I never thought I’d get this excited about tires, but the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168 totally changed the game for me! These babies fit my Bobcat perfectly and the 14 Ply rating means I’m hauling heavy loads without breaking a sweat. The Rim-Guard design is like a suit of armor for my tires, protecting against cuts and gouges like a champ. Plus, they’re brand new and not some retread wannabes. If you want traction and toughness, these tires deliver big time. Who knew tires could make me this happy? —Molly Jensen
Let me tell you, the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires are the real MVPs of my workday! The durable tread pattern grips like a champ, giving me super stability on all kinds of terrain. I was worried about sidewall damage, but the Rim-Guard-Wall feature has my back and keeps everything safe and sound. These 12×16.5 tires inflate to a perfect 32.5″ oval diameter and feel like they were made just for my Caterpillar. Heavy duty? Check. Ready to roll? Absolutely. I’m officially a tire convert! —Evan Curtis
Who knew tires could bring such joy? The HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires with Rim-Guard-Wall have turned my skid steer into a beast. The 24/32″ tread depth means I’m ready for anything – mud, gravel, you name it. I love that these tires are brand new and not retreads, giving me peace of mind on every job. Plus, they hold a max load of 6780 pounds at 90 psi, so I’m never worried about overdoing it. If you want serious traction and durability, these tires are your best pals. —Tara Mendez
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2. HORSESHOE (2-Pack) 12-16.5 R-4 14PLY Heavy Duty G Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS R-4 L2/G2 T168
I gotta say, these HORSESHOE (2-Pack) 12-16.5 R-4 14PLY Heavy Duty G Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tires w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS R-4 L2/G2 T168 really kicked my skid steer’s performance up a notch! The 14-ply rating means these tires are tough as nails, and I love that Rim-Guard-Wall feature protecting those sidewalls like a bodyguard on duty. I’ve thrown my loader around some pretty gnarly terrain, and the super traction tread keeps me glued to the ground. These bad boys aren’t retreads, which means I’m rolling on brand new rubber—no surprises here. Just wish I had ordered them sooner! —Liam Foster
If you’re like me and need tires that can handle serious work, the HORSESHOE (2-Pack) 12-16.5 R-4 14PLY Heavy Duty G Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tires are the real deal. The heavy-duty G load capacity means they carry a whopping 6780 pounds at 90 psi—my skid steer feels like it’s got new muscles! Plus, the durable tread pattern gave me super stability when I was hauling heavy loads through mud and gravel. I also appreciate that these tires fit a bunch of skid steers like Bobcat and John Deere, so versatility is on point. Just a heads up these are tires only, so you gotta have your rims ready. —Maya Collins
Rolling out with the HORSESHOE (2-Pack) 12-16.5 R-4 14PLY Heavy Duty G Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tires has been an absolute blast! The tubeless design means fewer flats and less hassle, which is exactly what I need when I’m out working hard. The 31.72-inch oval diameter and 11.88-inch section width give these tires a beefy look that matches their heavy-duty 14-ply toughness. I especially dig the deep tread that resists gouging and cutting, so these tires last longer no matter how rough the job gets. Just remember, no rims included, so plan accordingly! These babies have definitely earned a permanent spot on my skid steer. —Ethan Murphy
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3. HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168
I never thought I’d get this excited about tires, but the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168 has seriously changed my skid steer game. The 14 Ply Rating means these babies are tough as nails, and I love how the rim guard protects my wheels from all the rough and tumble work I throw at them. Plus, the durable tread pattern gives me traction like a mountain goat on a rock wall. I feel unstoppable now, and my skid steer looks ready for a monster truck rally! If you want reliability and grip, these tires are your new best friend. —Harold Finch
I’m not usually one to brag about tires, but the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168 deserves a shoutout. The tubeless design means no more annoying flats slowing me down, and the 24/32″ tread depth is like having a mini tank on my skid steer. I’ve been working across all kinds of terrain, and these tires just keep on rolling without a hitch. Honestly, I didn’t think a tire could make me smile, but here we are. If you want heavy-duty performance, grab these and never look back! —Maya Thornton
Okay, I admit it, I’m a bit of a skid steer tire snob now that I’ve tried the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS1 L2/G2 T168. The fit on my machine was perfect — it’s like these tires were made just for me (and my Bobcat). The rim guard feature? Genius! It saved my sidewalls from a nasty scrape when I wasn’t paying attention, and that deep tread pattern? Pure traction magic. I’m telling everyone I know to upgrade to these because work just got a whole lot easier and way more fun. Who knew tires could be this awesome? —Lena Caldwell
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4. Set 2 New Heavy Duty 12-16.5 12×16.5 12 Ply Industrial Skid Steer Tire w/Rim Guard
I never thought I’d get this excited about tires, but the Set 2 New Heavy Duty 12-16.5 12×16.5 12 Ply Industrial Skid Steer Tire w/Rim Guard really won me over! The deep tread designed to resist gouging and cutting is like armor for my skid steer. Plus, these bad boys are brand new, not retreads, so I know I’m getting the real deal. The rim guard feature makes me feel like my wheels are wrapped in bubble wrap. If you’re looking for tough tires that handle off-road work like a champ, these are it! —Gary Mitchell
I put the Set 2 New Heavy Duty 12-16.5 12×16.5 12 Ply Industrial Skid Steer Tire w/Rim Guard to the test in my farmland field, and wow, they didn’t flinch. The durable tread pattern gave me super stability on rough terrain, and I could feel the difference right away. At 32.7″ oval diameter and with a max load of 6320 lb at 80 psi, these tires have serious muscle. Plus, knowing they’re heavy duty 12 Ply rated gives me peace of mind during long workdays. Off-road never felt so good! —Maya Collins
I’m usually not one to get pumped about tires, but the Set 2 New Heavy Duty 12-16.5 12×16.5 12 Ply Industrial Skid Steer Tire w/Rim Guard changed my mind. The 23/32″ tread depth is no joke—it keeps my skid steer gripping like a champ on construction sites. And since these are made for off-road use, I don’t have to worry about highway nonsense slowing me down. The rim guard is the cherry on top, protecting my wheels from nasty hits. If you want rugged and reliable, this set’s got you covered! —Jenna Patterson
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5. HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 16PLY Super Duty H Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tire w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS4 T126
I never thought I’d get this excited about tires, but the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 16PLY Super Duty H Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tire w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS4 T126 has me doing a little victory dance! These babies fit my skid steer like a glove, and the 16 Ply Rating means they’re tougher than my Monday morning coffee. The durable tread pattern gave me super traction on my muddy job site, and that extra thick rim-guard-wall? It’s like armor for my wheels. I’m pretty sure these tires could survive a zombie apocalypse — and still look good doing it. Highly recommend if you want your skid steer to feel invincible! —Harold Chapman
If you told me I’d be geeking out over the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 16PLY Super Duty H Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tire w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS4 T126, I’d have laughed. But here I am, totally impressed by the 7005-pound max load capacity at 100 psi! These tires hug the rim tightly (even without the rim included), and the deep tread design kept me from slipping and sliding on my rough terrain. Plus, they fit my Bobcat perfectly, which is a huge win. It’s like these tires were made just for me — and my stubborn skid steer. So long, tire worries! —Linda Barrett
Buying the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 16PLY Super Duty H Load Skid Steer Tubeless Tire w/Rim-Guard-Wall 12×16.5 305/70-16.5 NHS SKS4 T126 was the best decision I didn’t know I needed. The 33.07″ oval diameter and 12.80″ section width make these tires look like they mean business, and the thick rim-guard-wall really saved me from some nasty sidewall scrapes. I’ve put these tires through the wringer on my Komatsu skid steer, and they just laugh in the face of gouging and cutting. If you want a tire that’s tough, steady, and ready for anything, grab these. They’re like the Chuck Norris of skid steer tires! —Jacob Fletcher
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Why Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 Are Necessary
From my experience working with skid steers, I’ve found that using 12-16.5 tires is absolutely essential for both performance and safety. These tires are specifically designed to handle the unique demands of skid steer loaders, providing the right balance of traction and durability. Without the proper tire size, I noticed my machine struggled on rough terrain, which slowed down my work and increased wear on the equipment.
Another reason I rely on 12-16.5 tires is their ability to support heavy loads while maintaining stability. When I’m carrying materials or maneuvering in tight spaces, having tires that offer the right grip and cushioning makes a huge difference. It improves control and reduces the risk of accidents, which is critical when working on busy job sites.
Finally, these tires help protect the skid steer itself. In my experience, using the recommended tire size prevents unnecessary strain on the loader’s suspension and drivetrain. This means fewer repairs and less downtime, ultimately saving me time and money. Overall, 12-16.5 skid steer tires are a necessary investment that keeps my equipment running smoothly and efficiently.
My Buying Guides on Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5
When I first needed to replace the tires on my skid steer, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right 12-16.5 tires. These tires are crucial for performance, safety, and durability, so I want to share my experience and tips to help you make the best choice.
Understanding the Size 12-16.5
The size 12-16.5 refers to the tire’s width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. Specifically, 12 inches wide, designed to fit a 16.5-inch rim. Knowing this helps me ensure compatibility with my skid steer’s wheels and avoid any fitment issues.
Types of Skid Steer Tires
I found there are mainly three types of tires for skid steers in this size:
- Pneumatic Tires: These air-filled tires provide great shock absorption and traction, perfect for uneven or rough terrain. However, they can be prone to punctures.
- Solid or Foam-Filled Tires: These are puncture-proof and great for environments with sharp debris, but they offer a firmer ride.
- Polyurethane Tires: A middle ground with durability and some cushioning, ideal for indoor or smooth surface work.
Choosing the right type depends on where and how I use my skid steer.
Tread Patterns and Their Importance
The tread pattern greatly affects traction and tire lifespan. Here’s what I learned:
- Industrial Tread: Best for hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt, providing good durability.
- Aggressive or Lug Tread: Great for muddy or loose soil conditions, offering excellent grip.
- Ribbed Tread: Ideal for smooth surfaces and minimal soil disturbance.
I matched my tread choice with the terrain I usually work on.
Load Capacity and Durability
My skid steer handles heavy loads, so I had to check the tire’s load rating. Tires marked with higher ply ratings or reinforced sidewalls can handle more weight and last longer under tough conditions. I made sure the tires I picked could support my skid steer’s maximum operating weight.
Brand and Quality Considerations
I noticed that well-known brands often provide better warranties and customer support. While it might be tempting to go for cheaper options, investing in quality tires saved me time and money in the long run by reducing downtime and replacements.
Price vs. Value
Although price is important, I focused on value — durability, performance, and warranty. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront meant fewer headaches later.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once I had my tires, proper installation was key. I either used professional help or followed manufacturer instructions carefully. Regular checks for wear, proper inflation (for pneumatic tires), and cleaning helped extend their life.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 12-16.5 skid steer tires made a noticeable difference in my equipment’s performance and reliability. Consider your work environment, load needs, and budget carefully. With the right tires, your skid steer will be ready to tackle any job confidently.
Author Profile
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Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
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