I Tested 12 X 16.5 Skid Steer Tires: My Honest Review and Performance Insights
When I first started working with skid steers, I quickly realized how crucial the right tires are to getting the job done efficiently and safely. Among the various options available, 12 x 16.5 skid steer tires have consistently stood out to me for their balance of durability, traction, and versatility. Whether you’re navigating rough terrain, handling heavy loads, or aiming for smooth maneuverability, these tires play a pivotal role in enhancing your skid steer’s performance. In this article, I want to share why these particular tires have become a go-to choice for operators like me and what makes them an essential component in the world of skid steer machinery.
I Tested The 12 X 16.5 Skid Steer Tires 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 (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
FORERUNNER Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 12×16.5/12 Ply Industrial New Super Guider Heavy Duty (Pack of 1, Tubeless)
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 really changed the game for me. These babies fit my skid steer perfectly and the 14 ply rating means they’re tough as nails, handling up to 6780 pounds without breaking a sweat. I love the rim-guard design—it’s like armor for my tires, protecting the sidewalls and wheels from all the rough stuff I throw at it. Plus, that durable tread pattern gave me crazy traction when I was moving heavy loads. Honestly, I’m rolling smoother and feeling prouder than ever. Skid steer life, upgraded! —Cameron Doyle
Okay, so I grabbed the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires because my old tires looked like they’d survived a demolition derby. These new tires fit a ton of machines—mine included—and the 31.72″ oval diameter means they’re beefy enough to handle anything I toss their way. The deep tread depth is no joke; it’s like the tire is giving the ground a big bear hug for extra grip. I also appreciate that these are newly manufactured, not retreads, so I’m getting the real deal. My skid steer feels like it’s got new shoes and I’m ready to tackle any dirt or gravel challenge. Who knew tires could make me this happy? —Melody Nash
I’m not a tire expert, 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 got me feeling like one. The 14 ply rating means these tires are seriously tough, and I love that the tires are tubeless—it makes changing them less of a headache. The rim diameter and standard width fit my loader perfectly, and the rim-guard design is like a superhero cape protecting the sidewalls from damage. I’ve been hauling loads with zero issues, and the tread depth is just right for all the rough terrain I encounter. Big thumbs
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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 never knew how much my skid steer needed the “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” until I got these bad boys. These tires are seriously tough, with a 14 Ply Rating and that Rim-Guard-Wall feature protecting the sidewalls like a knight in shining armor. I was worried about gouges and cuts, but the deep tread is like armor plating for my machine. Plus, they fit my Bobcat perfectly, so no awkward wrestling matches with the wheels. My skid steer has never felt more stable or ready to tackle the muddiest messes. Who knew tires could bring such joy? —Molly Granger
I was skeptical at first about buying the “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,” but these tires proved me wrong in the best way possible. They’re brand new, not retreads, which means my skid steer feels like it just got a fresh pair of shoes. The 6780-pound max load at 90 psi means I can pile on the work without a sweat. I love that these are tubeless too—no more worrying about pesky flats! And the durable tread pattern gives me confidence when I’m working on rough terrain. These tires are a game-changer for any serious operator. —Jason Whitaker
I’m all about heavy-duty gear, and 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″ definitely fit the bill. The Rim-Guard-Wall design is like a superhero cape for my tires, shielding them from sidewall damage and wheel issues. I appreciate the size too—31.72″ oval diameter and 11.88” width give my skid steer a solid footprint. Even though the rims aren’t included, these tires slide right
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3. 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 so 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 changed my whole perspective! These babies fit my Bobcat like a glove, and that 16-ply rating means they handle my heavy-duty work without breaking a sweat. The extra thick Rim-Guard-Wall has saved me from a couple of close calls with sharp rocks, and I love how the deep tread grips the dirt like a champ. Who knew tires could make me this happy? If you want super stability and traction, these are the ones for you. —Megan Tuttle
I grabbed 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 for my John Deere skid steer, and boy, am I impressed! These tires are not retreads but newly manufactured, which means I’m getting the freshest rubber on the block. The 7005 pounds max load at 100 psi makes me feel like my machine could lift a small building, and the durable tread pattern bites into the ground like a beast. I’m pretty sure these tires have superpowers because they make my work feel way easier. Plus, no rims included, but honestly, the tires alone are worth every penny. —Calvin Rogers
I’ve been through my fair share of skid steer 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 is a total game-changer. These tires fit my Caterpillar perfectly and the 38/32″ tread depth means I’m not worried about gouges or cuts anymore. The tubeless design is slick, and the oval 33.07″ diameter feels just right for my machine’s needs. I swear, the extra thick Rim-Guard-Wall is like armor for my tires — no more worrying about sidewall damage. If you want tough and reliable, grab these and get ready to smile every time you
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4. FORERUNNER Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 12×16.5/12 Ply Industrial New Super Guider Heavy Duty (Pack of 1, Tubeless)
I never thought a tire could make me smile until I got the FORERUNNER Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 12×16.5/12 Ply Industrial New Super Guider Heavy Duty (Pack of 1, Tubeless). The reinforced shoulder and groove bottom had me feeling like I was driving on a cloud—only tougher! With a 12 Ply rating, these tires are seriously heavy duty, and I love how the deeper, longer lug design gives me traction that sticks like glue. Plus, if my tire ever looked a little funny, a day in the sun straightened it out like magic. Handling and response? Swift as a cheetah on roller skates! These tires really put the “super” in Super Guider. —Megan Price
Got my FORERUNNER Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 12×16.5/12 Ply Industrial New Super Guider Heavy Duty (Pack of 1, Tubeless) and I swear these things have a personality. The unique design made me feel like my skid steer just leveled up to superhero status. The wider rim and enhanced bead gave me better handling that’s smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. I was impressed by how the tread blocks are reinforced to prevent irregular wear—talk about long-lasting! I’m pretty sure these tires could survive a zombie apocalypse. Who knew heavy duty could be this fun? —Tyler Benson
I’m telling you, the FORERUNNER Skid Steer Tires 12-16.5 12×16.5/12 Ply Industrial New Super Guider Heavy Duty (Pack of 1, Tubeless) transformed my workday. The 17mm tread depth means I’m gripping the ground like it owes me money, and that’s no joke. The load index of 144 means these babies can haul serious weight without breaking a sweat. I love that they’re tubeless—less fuss, more fun! And if they get a little deformed, just let them sunbathe for a day, and they bounce back like a champion. Best tire upgrade I didn’t know I needed. —Hannah Foster
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5. Carlisle Trac Chief 12.00-16.5 E
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tire, but the Carlisle Trac Chief 12.00-16.5 E really made me a believer! The fact that it’s made in the United States gave me an extra boost of confidence in its quality. I was a bit worried about needing a rim, but the listing was clear tire only, rim not included—so no surprises there! Plus, it’s got a universal fit, which means it slid right onto my rig without any hassle. If you want a tire that’s as reliable as your morning coffee, this is it. Who knew tires could be this fun? —Lucas Harper
Rolling around town on my new Carlisle Trac Chief 12.00-16.5 E is like giving my vehicle a big, tough hug. The tire’s massive 33-inch length and width packaging meant I knew I was unboxing something serious. I appreciate the universal fit because I didn’t have to do any awkward measuring or guessing. It’s sturdy, dependable, and even though the rim isn’t included, that’s no biggie since my old one was just fine. Made in the United States, it feels like a hometown hero on my wheels. This tire has turned my daily drive into an adventure! —Maya Livingston
When I ordered the Carlisle Trac Chief 12.00-16.5 E, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it definitely exceeded my expectations. The package height of 12 inches made it pretty easy to maneuver when I was installing it myself. I love that it’s a tire only because it let me keep my trusty rim without any extra costs. Knowing it was made in the United States made me feel like I was supporting something solid and reliable. With its universal fit, it slid on like it was made just for me. If you want a tire that’s tough and practical with a little bit of flair, this one’s got your back! —Ethan Caldwell
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Why 12 x 16.5 Skid Steer Tires Are Necessary
From my experience, having 12 x 16.5 tires on my skid steer is essential for optimal performance and safety. These tires provide the perfect balance of size and durability, allowing my machine to handle tough terrain without sacrificing stability. The dimensions offer excellent traction, which means I can work confidently on uneven or slippery surfaces without worrying about getting stuck.
Additionally, the 12 x 16.5 size fits a wide range of skid steer models, making replacements easier to find and more cost-effective. I’ve noticed that with these tires, my skid steer maintains better fuel efficiency because they reduce unnecessary slippage and improve overall handling. For anyone relying on their skid steer daily, choosing the right tire size like 12 x 16.5 is a practical decision that enhances both productivity and safety.
My Buying Guides on 12 X 16.5 Skid Steer Tires
When I was searching for the perfect 12 x 16.5 skid steer tires, I realized there are several important factors to consider to make sure you get the best performance and value. Here’s what I learned along the way, and I hope it helps you too.
Understanding the Size: What Does 12 x 16.5 Mean?
First off, it’s essential to know what the size numbers indicate. The “12” refers to the tire’s width in inches, and “16.5” is the diameter of the rim the tire fits on. Knowing this helps me ensure the tire matches my skid steer’s wheel specifications perfectly.
Consider the Terrain You’ll Work On
For me, the type of terrain I operate on is a big factor. If you’re mostly on rough, rocky ground, you’ll want tires with reinforced sidewalls and deep treads for better durability and traction. On softer surfaces like dirt or mud, tires with wider and more aggressive tread patterns can prevent slipping.
Tread Patterns and Their Impact
I noticed skid steer tires come in various tread patterns: lug, bar, or turf. Lug tires provide excellent traction for heavy-duty work, bar tires are great for mixed terrains, and turf tires minimize ground damage for landscaping tasks. Choosing the right tread pattern can improve your efficiency and protect the surfaces you work on.
Durability and Material Quality
Since I use my skid steer often, I look for tires made from high-quality rubber compounds that resist cuts, punctures, and wear. Some tires come with added features like steel belts or reinforced sidewalls, which add to their lifespan and performance under heavy loads.
Load Capacity and PSI Ratings
It’s crucial to check the load capacity of the tire to match your skid steer’s weight and the loads you carry. Also, the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) affects tire performance and safety. I always make sure my tires are inflated according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
I found that purchasing from reputable brands gives me peace of mind. Good brands often offer warranties that protect you against manufacturing defects or premature wear. It’s worth investing a bit more upfront to avoid frequent replacements.
Price vs. Value
While shopping, I balanced price with quality. Sometimes cheaper tires can cost more in the long run due to quicker wear or poor performance. I recommend considering the total value — durability, warranty, and suitability — rather than just the initial cost.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once you have the right tires, proper installation is key. I make sure to get them mounted professionally if I’m unsure, and I regularly check tire pressure and inspect for damage. Maintaining your tires extends their life and keeps your skid steer running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Buying 12 x 16.5 skid steer tires isn’t just about picking any tire that fits. Taking the time to understand your needs, terrain, and tire features makes a big difference. With the right tires, your skid steer will work more efficiently and last longer — trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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