Top Snow Tire Types for Tractors

Your tractor needs to face winter weather and perform without interruption, which means preparing it for cold temps and slippery terrain. One of the most vital parts of preparing your tractor for these conditions is choosing the right tractor snow tires.

Consider these winter-ready options to make sure your tractor is equipped to handle the colder months.

R1W (Deep Tread) Agricultural Tires

R1 tires are standard agricultural tires. With lugs spaced far apart, these tires are ideal for digging through loose soil. But as traction-friendly as R1 tires are, you can go even more aggressive with R1W tires.

R1Ws make for excellent tractor snow tires because they’re specifically designed to handle wet conditions. The “W” is a reference to “wet,” and they improve grip by employing 20% deeper tread patterns. This gives the lugs the depth they need to reach through the most intense snowfall and achieve levels of traction similar to dry weather.

Flotation Tires

Flotation tires are designed to float over soft terrain. They’re used in areas where vehicles are in danger of sinking. Thanks to a wide footprint and deep, sharply angled lugs, they can also serve as tractor snow tires.

While the width and squared-off shape of flotation tires might seem like a recipe for hydroplaning or at least poor traction, the specialized lugs prevent this from happening.

Radial vs. Bias-Ply Tires

Bias-ply tires are constructed from diagonal alternating plies of nylon or polyester. These plies wrap from one sidewall to the tread to the other sidewall, creating a rigid structure.

Bias-ply tires are generally cheaper than radials and better able to withstand high loads. They also offer inherently stiffer sidewalls that are more puncture-resistant. However, they can make for rough riding and poor traction, as well as a shorter life expectancy.

Radial tires, on the other hand, use 90-degree radial plies wrapped from bead to bead with a cap ply and steel belts under the tread. This lets the sidewalls and tread move independently of each other.

With these tires, you can enjoy superior traction, softer ride quality, and a longer life expectancy. Radial tires are often more expensive than bias-ply tires, though, and can be more susceptible to side punctures. In general, radials are preferred as tractor snow tires because of their greater durability and better traction.

Key Features to Look for in Snow Tires

Tractor snow tires face much different conditions than tires designed for warmer, drier climates. Take a closer look at what features make for quality snow tires.

Winter-Optimized Tread Patterns

Snow tires have lugs and treads designed to reach down through snow and provide traction. Their tread patterns channel snow and repel it rather than let it build up in the treads.

Rubber Compound for Cold Weather

Rubber designed for warm climates can get dry and brittle in cold climates. Tires optimized for winter have special rubber compounds that stay soft and flexible even in freezing temperatures.

Wide Footprint for Stability

Having a wide footprint prevents snow tires from sinking and getting stuck. While the lugs provide grip, the tire itself floats on top of snow, providing better balance, ride, and handling.

Studded vs. Non-Studded Options

Studs are an excellent solution when traction is the only concern. Ice and hard-packed snow that might resist rubber lugs are no match for studded tires.

However, as useful as studs are, they have downsides. Using studs in anything other than icy conditions can cause damage to the ground and tear up pavement. They also make more noise and offer a rougher ride.

Why Buy Tractor Tires from Us?

The tractor snow tires you choose can make all the difference as you face the challenges of winter conditions. Tires4That has provided quality tires since 1968, and our experts can help you select the best tires for your particular needs and preferences.

For quality you can count on, browse our wide selection today.

on