Rubber Track Tread Patterns for Skid Steer Loaders

The tread pattern you choose for the tracks on your skid steer can have a substantial impact on the machine’s productivity and profitability. The right track for your application will largely depend on your work environment. Being aware of which tracks are best suited to which environments and applications will help ensure optimization of your machine’s efficiency and revenue potential. Below, we provide a guide on the many different rubber track tread patterns for compact track loaders you can find right here at McLaren Industries.

Traditional Multi-Purpose Track Tread Patterns

To begin, we’ll start by outlining some of the more traditional, multi-purpose track patterns. When purchasing a tracked machine, it’ll generally come equipped with rubber tracks that have one of these tread patterns. The benefit of a traditional, multi-purpose track tread pattern is it can do pretty much any job. However, they aren’t very specialized. As such, they don’t offer the exceptionally high performance that proved by newer generation tracks. 

Block Pattern

The block pattern is a classic rubber track tread pattern for compact track loaders. It’s an all-around track for general applications. If you’re looking to maintain OEM specifications, block pattern tracks are a great choice.

C-Pattern

C-pattern tracks are named after the C shape of the grooves on each block of the tread. These classic tracks are known as a standard design for many years, making them an ideal choice for general applications. These tracks also offer a smooth ride and ample traction for quality all-around performance. Like block pattern tracks, C-pattern tracks are also a great choice for those looking to maintain OEM specifications.

Newer Generation Track Tread Patterns

Newer generation skid steer rubber tracks have a high-end, more refined design. As such, they offer heightened performance for optimal efficiency and productivity in a wide range of operating conditions. To learn more about some of McLaren’s high-quality next generation tracks, continue reading.

Terrapin Pattern

Terrapin tracks are a more modern, advanced track tread pattern we believe is the future of the track industry. Terrapin tracks have a multi-purpose, high-performance design and are McLaren’s most versatile compact track loader tracks. In addition to their versatility, terrapin tracks have a unique tread pattern that helps ensure optimum operator comfort by reducing vibration often associated with traditional track loader tracks. Terrapin tracks also deliver impeccable traction—even on uneven or wet surfaces—while still being extremely turf-friendly and yielding minimal ground disturbance. Terrapin’s unique tread pattern also provides protection from debris. As such, terrapin tracks often have substantially long lifespans. If you plan on operating on hard surfaces such as sidewalks or driveways where you don’t want to leave any black marks, consider choosing McLaren’s terrapin tracks in non-marking grey.

Technology Design Formulation TDF Pattern

Technology Design Formulation (TDF) tracks are designed to withstand the demands of extremely large work-loads and the most powerful track loaders. Unlike most skid steer tracks, McLaren’s TDF rubber tracks are designed to outperform OEM rubber tracks and are developed specifically for track loaders to operate at optimal performance.  Due to their specialized design, TDF tracks can carry the full load of a compact track loader at its maximum engine capacity. In addition to being ideal for heavy duty applications, TDF tracks also provide the benefit of a longer lifespan and have multiple lugs per pitch profile.

Zigzag Pattern

A zigzag track tread pattern is one of the best tread pattern options for extremely wet applications. In slippery terrain such as mud, clay, or snow, equipping a machine with zigzag tread patterns will better maintain ample traction. However, the zig zag pattern is not ideal for use on hard surfaces as there is more vibration than other specialized tracks.

Turf Pattern

The turf rubber track tread pattern has been designed specifically for landscaping applications. McLaren’s turf pattern tracks have a smooth tread that offers lower ground pressure and a smooth ride. As such, turf pattern tracks are ideal when operating heavy machinery in sensitive environments, such as golf courses, where you don’t want to disturb the terrain. They’re an optimal choice for operators who plan to use their compact track loaders on lawns or yards for the majority of the time.

McLaren’s Rubber Tracks

By offering a substantial inventory and consistently working to expand our variety of skid steer rubber track tread pattern options, McLaren aims to pioneer this movement. All the tracks in our current collection stand out from the rest due to their consistent quality and high level of performance in a wide range of terrains.

When purchasing our premium NextGen rubber tracks, we guarantee you increased productivity and a longer undercarriage work life for your machine. To learn more about our exceptional track tread patterns for compact track loaders and to find the option best suited for your application, contact us today 800-836-0040 or request a quote https://www.mclarenindustries.com/us/en/request-a-quote/