Operating a skid steer in snowy or icy conditions can quickly become challenging, with standard tires often struggling to maintain traction and stability. Slipping, sinking, and loss of control are common issues that can slow down work or even cause accidents, especially when clearing snow, navigating tight spaces, or working on uneven ground.
This guide reviews a range of snow track solutions and traction upgrades designed specifically for skid steers. Whether you need heavy-duty steel tracks, tire chains, screw-in studs, or all-weather attachments, we break down the key differences, real-world benefits, and tradeoffs to help you choose the right product for your equipment and job site.
Our Top 9 Best Snow Tracks For Skid Steer Picks
Whether you’re buying your first Snow Tracks For Skid Steer or replacing an old one, we compared trusted options to help you make an informed choice.
1. TracksPlus Steel Tracks Bobcat 700 Series
When standard skid steer tires lose grip in snow or mud, steel tracks provide a robust solution for improved traction and stability. Upgrading to steel tracks is essential for operators who need consistent performance in harsh winter or off-road conditions.
TracksPlus Steel Tracks are a strong choice for Bobcat 700 Series owners seeking maximum durability and ground contact. These tracks are ideal for heavy-duty users who regularly encounter deep snow, ice, or soft ground and want to minimize slippage and downtime.
- Steel construction: Built for long-term use in demanding environments
- Full track coverage: Maximizes surface area for better traction and flotation
- Designed for Bobcat 700 Series: Ensures compatibility and straightforward installation
Compared to tire chains or screw-in studs, steel tracks offer superior durability and stability but add weight and require more installation effort. They prioritize ruggedness over quick changes or versatility.
- Heavy-duty steel build
- Excellent traction in snow and mud
- Reduces slippage and sinking
- Long-lasting durability
- Compatible with Bobcat 700 Series
- Adds significant weight
- Requires more installation time
2. Welironly 7mm Alloy Skid Steer Tire Chains
Tire chains are a practical solution when you need a fast, effective way to improve traction on icy or snowy surfaces. They help prevent spinning and sliding, making them valuable for operators who face changing winter conditions.
Welironly's 7mm Alloy Tire Chains are well-suited for skid steers with 10-16.5 tires. Their ladder-style design offers reliable grip and is easy to install or remove as needed, making them a smart pick for those who want flexibility without permanent modifications.
- 7mm alloy links: Durable and resistant to wear in harsh conditions
- Ladder-style pattern: Provides balanced traction and easy handling
- Fits 10-16.5 tires: Broad compatibility for common skid steer models
Compared to steel tracks, these chains are lighter and quicker to put on or take off, but may not offer the same level of deep-snow flotation or long-term durability. They prioritize convenience and adaptability.
- Simple installation and removal
- Good grip on ice and snow
- Fits standard skid steer tires
- Durable alloy construction
- Affordable traction upgrade
- Not as durable as full tracks
- Limited flotation in deep snow
3. Grip Studs 1910T Skid Steer Screw Studs
When you need targeted traction without the bulk of chains or tracks, screw-in studs provide a versatile option. They are ideal for operators who want to enhance grip on ice, snow, or loose surfaces while maintaining tire flexibility.
Grip Studs 1910T are engineered for easy installation and strong retention, making them a good fit for users who want to customize their traction setup. The tungsten carbide tips ensure long-lasting performance in tough winter conditions.
- Tungsten carbide core: Maximizes grip and resists wear on hard surfaces
- Wide-auger threads: Securely anchor studs in rubber for reliable retention
- Easy drill-in installation: Quick to apply or remove as needed
Compared to chains or tracks, studs offer a lightweight, customizable solution but require careful installation and may not provide the same flotation in deep snow. They prioritize targeted grip and flexibility.
- Customizable traction setup
- Lightweight and low profile
- Durable tungsten carbide tips
- Quick installation with drill
- Works on tires or tracks
- Requires minimum tread depth
- Not for deep snow flotation
4. MMS MS380T Mini Triangular Track Loader
Working in confined areas during winter can be difficult with standard skid steers, especially when maneuverability and traction are both required. A compact tracked loader addresses these challenges by combining a small footprint with enhanced grip.
The MMS MS380T Mini Loader is designed for tight spaces like courtyards, warehouses, and narrow roads. Its triangular track system distributes weight evenly, reducing slippage and local sinking, making it a solid choice for operators needing agility and stability in limited environments.
- Compact 46-inch width: Navigates narrow job sites with ease
- Triangular track design: Improves traction and reduces ground pressure
- Foldable foot pedal: Enhances operator comfort and space efficiency
Compared to larger loaders or add-on tracks, this mini loader prioritizes maneuverability and versatility but may have lower capacity for heavy-duty clearing. It’s best for users with space constraints.
- Fits tight spaces
- Strong maneuverability
- Uniform ground pressure
- Supports multiple attachments
- Easy operator access
- Lower capacity than full-size units
- Not suited for large open areas
5. CfoPiryx 50PCS Anti-Slip Snow Screw Studs
For operators seeking an affordable way to boost tire grip in winter, screw-in studs offer a practical solution. They help prevent slipping on icy or snowy surfaces without the cost or weight of full tracks or chains.
CfoPiryx Anti-Slip Studs are made from hard alloy for durability and can be installed on most tire types. They’re a good fit for users who want a simple, cost-effective traction upgrade for occasional snow or off-road use.
- Hard alloy construction: Provides reliable wear resistance
- Universal fit: Suitable for a wide range of tires
- Easy installation: Can be quickly added or removed as needed
Compared to premium studs or chains, these offer basic traction improvement at a lower price, but may not last as long under heavy use. They prioritize affordability and ease of use.
- Low-cost traction upgrade
- Works with most tires
- Simple to install
- Lightweight solution
- Less durable than premium studs
- Limited for heavy-duty use
6. Mytee Products 12" Bobcat Rubber Track Pair
Rubber tracks are essential for operators who want to balance traction, surface protection, and compatibility with multiple skid steer models. They help reduce ground damage and vibration, making them suitable for mixed surfaces in winter and beyond.
Mytee Products’ 12-inch Rubber Tracks are designed for Bobcat and other compatible brands, offering a molded rubber-on-steel build for toughness and flexibility. They’re a smart pick for users who need OEM fit and reliable performance across various machines.
- 12-inch width: Provides stable ground contact and support
- OEM replacement compatibility: Fits several Bobcat, Case, and other models
- Low ground pressure: Minimizes surface damage and vibration
Compared to steel tracks, rubber tracks are lighter and gentler on paved or sensitive surfaces but may wear faster in extreme conditions. They prioritize versatility and machine compatibility.
- Fits multiple skid steer brands
- Reduces vibration
- Gentle on surfaces
- OEM replacement fit
- Durable molded rubber
- May wear faster on rough terrain
- Not as robust as steel tracks
7. ATS POWER 84" Hydraulic Skid Steer Snow Blade
Clearing snow efficiently often requires more than just traction—having the right attachment can make a big difference. A hydraulic snow blade lets you push, grade, and angle snow or debris for faster site cleanup.
The ATS POWER 84" Hydraulic Snow Blade is a versatile attachment compatible with most skid steers and tractors. Its reinforced moldboard and hydraulic angling make it ideal for users who need to cover large areas or handle mixed materials in winter.
- 84-inch width: Moves more snow or debris in each pass
- Hydraulic angling: Allows precise control from the operator seat
- Universal quick attach: Fits most skid steers and tractors
Unlike chains or tracks, this blade focuses on snow removal rather than traction. It’s best for users who already have adequate grip but need to improve efficiency in clearing operations.
- Wide coverage per pass
- Hydraulic angle adjustment
- Fits various machines
- Reinforced steel construction
- Replaceable cutting edge
- Does not improve traction
- Requires hydraulic hookups
8. sportuli Skid Steer Loader All-Weather Cover
Protecting your skid steer from snow, rain, and sun is crucial for longevity and reliability. An all-weather cover shields your equipment from the elements, reducing maintenance and downtime.
The sportuli Skid Steer Loader Cover is made from heavy-duty 600D Oxford fabric with waterproof and sunproof coatings. It’s a practical choice for owners who store their machines outdoors or want to prevent weather-related wear.
- 600D Oxford fabric: Durable and resistant to tearing
- Waterproof and sunproof: Guards against rain, snow, and UV rays
- Universal fit: Compatible with most skid steer models
Compared to traction upgrades, a cover doesn’t improve performance in snow but helps preserve your investment. It prioritizes equipment care over operational enhancements.
- Protects against weather
- Heavy-duty material
- Fits many skid steers
- Easy to secure
- Includes storage bag
- No traction benefit
- Not for use during operation
9. Generic Compact Crawler Skid Steer Loader
Handling diverse winter tasks on small or complex job sites requires a machine that’s both maneuverable and adaptable. A compact crawler skid steer offers the flexibility to tackle landscaping, material handling, and snow removal in tight spaces.
This Generic Compact Crawler Loader features a reinforced frame and all-terrain tires, making it suitable for frequent use in demanding environments. It’s best for operators who need a multi-purpose machine that can be customized with various attachments.
- Compact design: Navigates narrow or restricted areas easily
- Reinforced construction: Withstands harsh conditions and frequent use
- Attachment compatibility: Supports buckets, forks, augers, and more
Compared to dedicated snow tracks or chains, this loader offers broader versatility but may require additional investment in attachments for optimal winter performance. It prioritizes adaptability over specialized traction.
- Fits tight job sites
- Handles multiple tasks
- Durable build
- Supports various attachments
- Zero-turn maneuverability
- Attachments sold separately
- Not specialized for deep snow
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Snow Tracks for Skid Steer
Snow tracks and traction upgrades for skid steers are highly technical products that directly impact safety, productivity, and equipment longevity in winter conditions. Buyers must weigh durability, compatibility, installation complexity, and the specific challenges of their job site. Many assume that any traction device will work for all situations, but real-world performance varies widely depending on the type of product and the environment.
- Steel tracks: Offer maximum durability and traction for deep snow and mud, but add significant weight and require more installation effort
- Rubber tracks: Provide a balance of traction and surface protection, suitable for mixed surfaces and sensitive areas
- Tire chains: Deliver quick, flexible traction improvements for icy or snowy conditions, easy to install and remove
- Screw-in studs: Allow for customizable, targeted grip on ice and snow, lightweight but require proper tire tread depth
- Snow blades/attachments: Focus on efficient snow removal rather than traction, ideal for clearing large areas
- All-weather covers: Protect equipment from the elements but do not enhance operational performance
- Compact loaders: Prioritize maneuverability and versatility in tight or complex spaces, may have lower capacity for heavy-duty clearing
- Compatibility matters: Not all tracks, chains, or studs fit every skid steer or tire size—always check specifications
- Installation effort: Steel tracks and rubber tracks require more time and tools than chains or studs
- Tradeoff between traction and surface impact: Steel tracks maximize grip but can damage paved surfaces; rubber tracks and chains are gentler
- Common misunderstanding: Assuming one solution fits all environments—choose based on your most frequent winter challenges
Steel vs. Rubber Tracks: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between steel and rubber tracks depends on your work environment and surface sensitivity. Steel tracks excel in deep snow, mud, and rough terrain, offering unmatched durability and grip, but they can damage paved surfaces and require more installation effort. Rubber tracks are better for mixed or sensitive surfaces, providing a smoother ride and easier handling, though they may wear faster in extreme conditions.
When to Choose Tire Chains or Studs
Tire chains and screw-in studs are best for operators who need a quick, flexible traction boost without permanently modifying their equipment. Chains are easy to install and remove, making them suitable for changing conditions. Studs offer targeted grip on ice and can be customized for different tires, but require adequate tread depth and careful installation.
- Chains: Best for temporary use and frequent changes
- Studs: Ideal for targeted, lightweight traction
Attachments and Accessories: Beyond Traction
Snow blades and all-weather covers serve different needs. Blades improve snow removal efficiency but do not enhance traction, while covers protect your equipment from weather-related wear. Consider these options if your main concern is clearing large areas or preserving your machine during storage.
Compact and Mini Loaders: Maneuverability vs. Capacity
Compact and mini skid steer loaders are designed for tight spaces and versatile tasks. They are ideal for small job sites, landscaping, or areas with limited access. However, they may not match the capacity or power of full-size machines for heavy-duty snow clearing.
Final Buying Advice
Selecting the right snow track or traction upgrade comes down to matching your equipment, environment, and typical winter challenges. Avoid overbuying heavy-duty solutions for light tasks, and don’t underestimate the importance of compatibility and installation effort.
- Assess your main winter challenges before choosing
- Check compatibility with your skid steer and tires
- Balance traction needs with surface protection
- Consider installation time and maintenance
- Don’t assume one product fits all jobs—match the solution to your use case
FAQ For Snow Tracks For Skid Steer
1. What type of snow track or traction device is best for deep snow?
2. Can I use tire chains or studs on any skid steer tire?
3. Are rubber tracks better than steel tracks for paved surfaces?
4. How difficult is it to install steel tracks or rubber tracks?
5. Do snow blades or covers improve traction in winter?
6. What’s the main tradeoff between chains and studs?
7. Can compact or mini loaders handle heavy snow removal?
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