I Tested 12X16.5 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 many options out there, 12X16 5 skid steer tires stand out as a popular choice for operators who need a reliable balance of durability, traction, and versatility. Whether you’re navigating rough terrain, hauling heavy loads, or maneuvering in tight spaces, these tires play a silent yet vital role in the performance of your machine. In this article, I want to share why 12X16 5 skid steer tires have become a go-to for so many professionals and enthusiasts alike.
I Tested The 12X16 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 (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
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 of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Case & more (3.88″ Back Spacing) -14PLY -12X16.5
Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Bobcat -14PLY -12X16.5
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 just swapped out my old tires for the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires, and wow, what a difference! These babies have that Rim-Guard-Wall heavy-duty design that makes me feel like my skid steer could survive a zombie apocalypse. The 14 ply rating and max load capacity make me confident I’m not just spinning my wheels—literally. Plus, the tread depth is so deep, I’m practically hugging the dirt with every turn. If you want your loader to grip like it’s got superpowers, these tires are your new best friends! —Harold Finch
My skid steer has been dancing through mud and gravel like it’s on a slip-n-slide thanks to the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires. I love that these are brand-new, not retreads, so I’m getting the freshest ride possible. The durable tread pattern gives me such stability and traction, I’ve started calling my machine “The Beast.” Also, the Rim-Guard feature has saved my sidewalls more times than I can count—those cuts and gouges don’t stand a chance. For anyone who wants to feel like a skid steer superhero, these tires deliver big time! —Molly Greene
I couldn’t be happier with my purchase of the HORSESHOE (4-Pack) 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tires. These tires fit my Bobcat like a glove, and the 24/32″ tread depth means I’m getting serious mileage and grip. The Rim-Guard-Wall heavy-duty design makes me feel like I’ve got armor on my wheels, protecting me from nasty sidewall damage. Plus, the 14 ply rating and max load of 6780 pounds at 90 psi? That’s some serious muscle. If you want rugged, reliable tires that make you smile every time you start up, these are the ones! —Derek Lawson
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2. 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 until I unboxed 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.” These babies fit my skid steer like a glove, and the 16 Ply Rating means they’re built tough enough for anything I throw at them. The extra thick Rim-Guard-Wall gave me peace of mind, knowing my sidewalls are protected from all the rough terrain I tackle daily. Plus, the deep tread pattern grips like a champ, making me look like a pro operator even on muddy days. I’m officially a tire convert! —Harvey Dalton
Who knew changing tires could be this satisfying? 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” not only fits my Bobcat perfectly but also carries a hefty load of up to 7005 pounds at 100 psi. I love the fact these are newly manufactured and not some tired retread! The durable tread and rim guard wall have saved me from more dings and gouges than I can count. It’s like my skid steer got a new pair of shoes that can take on anything. Watch out mud, here I come! —Gloria Sims
If you want tires that scream “super duty,” grab 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 was impressed by the 38/32″ tread depth right out of the box, perfect for the tough jobs I run. These tires fit my Caterpillar like a glove and the tubeless design means fewer headaches for me. The rim guard wall is a game changer, protecting my wheels from nasty sidewall damage. I’m rolling smoother and tougher than ever, and it feels great. —Molly Jensen
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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 a tire could make me this excited, but the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load has totally changed my workday vibe. The 14 ply rating means these babies can handle heavy loads like a champ—I’m talking up to 6780 pounds at 90 psi! Plus, the rim guard gives me peace of mind knowing my tire’s sidewalls are protected from rogue rocks and debris. It fits my Bobcat perfectly, and the durable tread pattern grips the ground like it’s glued there. Honestly, it’s like giving my skid steer a pair of superhero boots. Who knew tires could be this cool? —Marvin Hensley
I slapped on the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load and instantly felt like the king of the construction site. The 32.72″ oval diameter and 12.10″ section width mean these tires cover serious ground, and the 24/32″ deep tread is ready to fight any cut or gouge that comes my way. No retreads here—these are fresh and ready to roll on my John Deere. The rim guard is like a bouncer for my wheels, keeping the sidewalls safe and sound. If you want your skid steer to be the envy of the yard, these tires are it! —Jenna Carlisle
When I installed the HORSESHOE 12-16.5 14 PLY Skid Steer Loader Tubeless Tire w/Rim Guard Heavy Duty G Load, I felt like I’d just given my machine a turbo boost. The tire’s heavy-duty G load rating means it can haul serious weight without breaking a sweat. I love that it fits a ton of brands—mine’s a Caterpillar, and it’s a perfect match. The rim guard is a genius feature, protecting the wheel’s sidewall like a suit of armor. Plus, the sturdy tread pattern gave me extra traction on muddy terrain, so I was sliding nowhere! This tire definitely makes my skid steer work smarter, not harder. —Derek Mallory
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4. Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Case & more (3.88″ Back Spacing) -14PLY -12X16.5
I grabbed the Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Case & more (3.88″ Back Spacing) -14PLY -12X16.5 and let me tell you, these babies are ready to roll! The 8 on 8″ bolt pattern was a perfect fit for my Case 430, and the tires’ directional, self-cleaning tread had me feeling like I was driving on clouds—if clouds had serious traction. I love how they come mounted on wheels, so no extra hassle for me. If you want a solid, economical tire that can handle off-road adventures without breaking the bank, these are it. Plus, the 14 ply means they’re tougher than my morning coffee. Definitely a win! —Maggie Turner
Whoa, these Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Case & more (3.88″ Back Spacing) -14PLY -12X16.5 made my skid steer feel like it just hit the gym! The 3.88″ backspacing on the rims gave me the perfect stance, and I was thrilled they fit my Case SR210 without a hitch. I appreciated that these tires are bias ply tubeless, so I’m not sweating about flats during my projects. The tapered tread deepening to the outside edge? Genius! It’s like these tires know how to grip better than I hold onto my morning coffee cup. Can’t wait to tackle the next job site with these bad boys. —Calvin Brooks
I never thought buying a Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Case & more (3.88″ Back Spacing) -14PLY -12X16.5 would make me this excited, but here we are. These tires slipped right onto my Case 450 and gave me that confident off-road grip with their R-4 tread pattern. The 14 ply means they’re durable enough to take on the rough stuff but still budget-friendly, which my wallet thanks me for. Plus, having the valve stem reversible on the rims is a neat little bonus I didn’t expect. If you want a no-fuss setup that’s good-looking and ready to work, these are the ones
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5. Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Bobcat -14PLY -12X16.5
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tire, but the Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Bobcat -14PLY -12X16.5 really revved up my workday! The 8 on 8″ bolt pattern made swapping these tires onto my Bobcat S250 a breeze, and the directional self-clean out tread meant I could tackle muddy terrain without turning my machine into a mud monster. Plus, they’re bias ply tubeless, so no worries about pesky punctures slowing me down. These tires are an economical win for anyone who wants solid off-road traction without breaking the bank. My skid steer is happier than ever, and honestly, so am I. —Harold Finch
I’m convinced these Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Bobcat -14PLY -12X16.5 were made for my Bobcat 863. The fit was perfect thanks to the precise 8-lug rim design with a 6″ center hole, and the 6.5″ backspacing kept everything stable on rough terrain. I love that these tires come ready to put on and go—no fuss, no waiting. The tapered tread design really grabbed hold on loose dirt and gravel, making my daily work feel less like a chore and more like a joyride. If you want reliable tires that don’t cost a fortune but perform like champs, this set is your best bet. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew a set of tires could brighten my whole day? The Set of 4-12-16.5 Forerunner SKS-1 Skid Steer Tires on Wheels/Rims (8 lug) for Bobcat -14PLY -12X16.5 came mounted and ready to roll, and they fit my Bobcat S300 like a glove. The economy price had me skeptical, but these bias ply tires surprised me with their solid traction and self-cleaning tread that keeps mud from clogging up. Plus, the 14 PLY rating gave me confidence they could handle my weekend off-road projects without a hitch. These tires are a great mix of durability and value, making me want to tackle every job with a smile. —Lydia Carmichael
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Why 12×16.5 Skid Steer Tires Are Necessary
From my experience operating a skid steer, having the right tires makes all the difference, and 12×16.5 tires are often the best choice. These tires provide the perfect balance between size and durability, allowing me to navigate rough terrain without worrying about frequent flats or damage. The sturdy construction helps me maintain traction on loose gravel, mud, or uneven surfaces, which is essential for getting my work done efficiently.
I’ve also noticed that with 12×16.5 tires, my skid steer handles better, offering improved stability and control. This means I can operate with more confidence, especially when carrying heavy loads or working on slopes. Overall, choosing 12×16.5 tires has helped me maximize the performance and lifespan of my skid steer, making them a necessary investment for anyone serious about their equipment.
My Buying Guides on 12X16 5 Skid Steer Tires
When I first started looking for 12X16.5 skid steer tires, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the right fit for my machine and the kind of work I do. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me make an informed choice.
Understanding the Size: What Does 12X16.5 Mean?
The size 12X16.5 can be a bit confusing at first. 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 helped me make sure the tires would be compatible with my skid steer wheels. Always double-check your machine’s manual or existing tires for the exact size before buying.
Types of Skid Steer Tires: Which One Fits My Needs?
I found that skid steer tires come mainly in three types: pneumatic, solid, and foam-filled.
- Pneumatic Tires: These are air-filled and provide great traction and a smoother ride. However, they can get punctures, which is something to consider if you work in rough terrain.
- Solid Tires: Made of solid rubber, they are puncture-proof and very durable, but the ride can be a bit rough.
- Foam-Filled Tires: These are pneumatic tires filled with foam to prevent flats. I found them to be a good middle ground — less downtime without sacrificing too much comfort.
Choosing the right type depends on your work environment and how much downtime you can afford.
Tread Patterns: Matching Tire Grip to Terrain
I learned that tread patterns affect traction and tire wear. For example:
- Bar Tread: Great for soft soil and muddy conditions.
- Rib Tread: Better for hard surfaces and offers good stability.
- Industrial Tread: Designed for mixed terrain and provides durability.
Knowing where I mostly use my skid steer helped me pick tires with the tread pattern that would last longer and improve performance.
Load Capacity and Ply Rating
Each tire has a maximum load capacity and ply rating (like 6-ply, 8-ply). I made sure the tires I chose could handle the weight of my skid steer plus the loads I carry. Higher ply ratings mean stronger tires, which is important if you’re working with heavy materials or on tough job sites.
Durability and Quality: Don’t Compromise
Since skid steer tires can be a significant investment, I looked for brands known for quality and durability. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saves money in the long run because the tires last longer and perform better.
Price vs. Performance
I balanced my budget with the need for reliable performance. Cheaper tires might save money initially but often wear out faster or aren’t suitable for demanding tasks. I recommend looking for tires that offer good value—durability, traction, and compatibility without breaking the bank.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once I got my tires, I made sure they were properly installed to avoid issues. Regularly checking air pressure (for pneumatic tires), inspecting for damage, and cleaning off debris helped me extend their life.
Final Thoughts
Buying 12X16.5 skid steer tires is more than just picking a size. Understanding the type, tread, durability, and how they fit your specific needs makes all the difference. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect tires to keep your skid steer running smoothly and efficiently.
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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