A strong choice for a track skid steer must match the machine’s undercarriage: the HitchLok TrackLok is designed for rubber tracks, while the other listed options are tire chains for wheeled skid steers. That distinction matters more than chain pattern or material, because a tire-chain listing does not establish compatibility with rubber tracks. This roundup includes one set sized for approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks and five tire-chain choices with varied sizes, materials, and patterns.
Compare the product’s stated fit with your machine before ordering, especially when its track or tire dimensions are not explicitly listed. The rankings prioritize the direct rubber-track match, then weigh the available tire-chain specifications for skid steer owners whose machines use tires.
For a skid steer with rubber tracks, the HitchLok TrackLok is the clearest match: it is specified for approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks and includes cross chains, tensioners, and track chains. Its stated compatibility with standard and zigzag tread styles gives buyers useful fit guidance, though the product information still calls for checking dimensions and bracket clearance. The remaining picks are tire chains, so consider them only for a wheeled skid steer with a matching tire size.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallDesigned for rubber tracks approximately 12–18.5 inches wide, it directly serves track skid steers and includes cross chains, tensioners, and track chains.
View on Amazon
Best Alloy Tire ChainFor wheeled skid steers, its 8mm alloy-steel square links use 2-Link spacing, and the listing specifies premium hooks and heavy-duty side fasteners.
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Best Twist LinkThis pair fits listed tire sizes 9-16, 10-16.5, or 260/70R16 and uses hardened steel with a twist-link design.
View on Amazon- Best Ladder Pattern Welironly 7mm Ladder
- Wide Tire Fit All States Ladder Chains
Compare These Skid Steer Chain Options
| # | Product | Material | Compatible with Vehicle Type | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. HitchLok TrackLokBest Overall | Carbon Steel | Compact Track Loader, Construction Equipment… | 50 lb | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Quality Chain Square AlloyBest Alloy Tire Chain | Alloy Steel | Skid Steer | 87 lb | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Xtorri Twist LinkBest Twist Link | Hardened Steel | Grader, Skid Steer | — | View on Amazon |
| 4 |  4. Welironly 7mm LadderBest Ladder Pattern | Metal | Grader, Skid Steer | 37 lb | View on Amazon |
| 5 |  5. Parts ASAP Ladder ChainsFour-link road and dirt use | — | — | 39.4 lb | View on Amazon |
| 6 |  6. All States Ladder ChainsWide Tire Fit | — | Grader, Skid Steer, Tractor | 73.8 lb | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Chains For Track Skid Steer
#1 · Best Overall
1. HitchLok TrackLok
- Material: Carbon Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Compact Track Loader, Construction Equipment…
- Weight: 50 lb
Best for: Rubber-track winter traction.
Why it ranks #1: Designed for rubber tracks approximately 12–18.5 inches wide, it directly serves track skid steers and includes cross chains, tensioners, and track chains.
Adjustable brackets accommodate rubber tracks about 12–18.5 inches wide, letting compact track loaders add traction without relying on tire-chain sizing. HitchLok’s TrackLok targets packed snow, ice, mud, and soft terrain, and its listed compatibility includes standard, zigzag, and other tread patterns.
The adjustable design covers common rubber-track styles, while a maximum bracket opening of about 2.75 inches gives buyers a concrete fit limit to check against their machine. The set includes cross chains, track chains, and tensioners, so those components are included for installation and tensioning. Carbon steel construction and traction-focused use on snow, ice, and mud make this a track-specific option rather than a tire-chain substitute; verify that the track falls within the stated width range.
- Fits approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks
- Adjustable for standard, zigzag, and other tread patterns
- Includes cross chains, track chains, and tensioners
- Targets traction in snow, ice, mud, and soft terrain
- Maximum bracket opening is about 2.75 inches, limiting fit on thicker track profiles.
Skip it if you need chains for pneumatic tires; Xtorri twist-link chains fit listed tire sizes including 10-16.5.
Choose TrackLok if your compact loader runs rubber tracks and you need added grip in winter or soft ground. Its stated width range and 2.75-inch bracket opening are the key fit boundaries to check.
Full product details
| Brand | HitchLok |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Compact Track Loader, Construction Equipment, Mini Loader, Skid Steer |
| Included Components | Cross Chains, Tensioners, Track Chains (set Of 14) |
| Item Weight | 50 pounds |
| Manufacturer | HitchLok |
| Part Number | TLSK14 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year |
| Material | Carbon Steel |
| Model Number | TLSK14 |
| Wheel Size | 19 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: TrackLok Skid Steer Snow Chains for Rubber Tracks – Fits 12-18.5 in. Compact Skidsteer Track Loaders, Snow Ice Mud Traction
View on Amazon#2 · Best Alloy Tire Chain
2. Quality Chain Square Alloy
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Skid Steer
- Weight: 87 lb
Best for: Two-link alloy tire coverage.
Why it ranks #2: For wheeled skid steers, its 8mm alloy-steel square links use 2-Link spacing, and the listing specifies premium hooks and heavy-duty side fasteners.
Eight-millimeter square alloy cross chains spaced every two links give this Quality Chain skid-steer pair closer tire coverage than a wider-spaced ladder layout. The hardened hooks and heavy-duty side-chain fasteners support a substantial chain assembly, while rubber spider bungees are sold separately.
The 2-link spacing puts cross chains more frequently across the tire, which the supplied description associates with better coverage, a smoother ride, and increased traction. Its 8mm alloy-steel cross chains are specified for durability, while premium hardened hooks and heavy-duty side-chain fasteners handle the chain connections. Sold as one pair, these chains suit skid steers; plan separately for rubber spider bungees if you want that tensioning accessory, since they are not included.
- 2-link cross-chain spacing for increased tire coverage
- 8mm alloy-steel cross chains
- Premium hardened hooks
- Heavy-duty side-chain fasteners
- Rubber spider bungees are sold separately.
Skip it if you need bungees included with the chains; Welironly’s listed pair does not identify bungees as a separate purchase.
Choose this pair for a skid steer when frequent cross-chain coverage and 8mm alloy links matter. Allow for separately sourced rubber spider bungees, and check your tire dimensions because no fit range is supplied here.
Full product details
| Brand | Quality Chain |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Skid Steer |
| Included Components | One Pair Skid Steer Tire Chains |
| Item Weight | 87 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Quality Chain |
| Part Number | 1500HDSL-2 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 30 Days from Date of Delivery |
| Material | Alloy Steel |
| Model Number | 1502HDSL-2 |
Listed on Amazon as: Quality Chain Skid Steer Square Alloy 2-Link 8mm Tire Chain (1502HDSL-2)
View on Amazon#3 · Best Twist Link
3. Xtorri Twist Link
- Material: Hardened Steel
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Grader, Skid Steer
Best for: Hardened-steel tire-chain pair.
Why it ranks #3: This pair fits listed tire sizes 9-16, 10-16.5, or 260/70R16 and uses hardened steel with a twist-link design.
Hardened-steel twist links provide this Xtorri pair’s traction-focused construction for skid steer and uni-loader tires, with listed fitment covering 10-16.5, 9-16, and 260/70R16. The set of two is made in the USA and meets National Association of Chain Manufacturers standards.
The twist-link design is described as providing better grip and stability, which suits buyers seeking added traction on snow and ice. Its listed tire sizes—10-16.5, 9-16, and 260/70R16—make tire dimensions the primary compatibility check before purchase. Hardened steel is the specified material, and NACM compliance gives a stated manufacturing standard to consider. This pair is for tire-equipped skid steers and graders, not loaders with rubber tracks.
- Twist-link design for grip and stability
- Hardened-steel construction
- Fits listed sizes 9-16, 10-16.5, and 260/70R16
- Set of two, made in the USA, and NACM compliant
- Fitment is limited to the listed tire sizes, so other tire dimensions are not specified.
Skip it if you run a rubber-track loader; HitchLok TrackLok fits approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks.
This pair suits skid steer or uni-loader owners seeking winter tire traction within its listed sizes. Check the tire dimensions carefully; the stated compatibility does not cover rubber tracks or other unlisted sizes.
Full product details
| Brand | Xtorri |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Grader, Skid Steer |
| Manufacturer | Laclede |
| Part Number | 660111714601 |
| Material | Hardened Steel |
| Wheel Size | 16.5 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Tire Chains Skid Steer Uni-Loader Twist Link Hardened 10-16.5 Made in the US(Set of 2)
View on Amazon#4 · Best Ladder Pattern
4. Welironly 7mm Ladder
- Material: Metal
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Grader, Skid Steer
- Weight: 37 lb
Best for: 10-16.5 winter ladder pair.
Why it ranks #4: The listing specifies a 7mm ladder-style pair for 10-16.5 tires, making its fit and chain pattern straightforward for compatible wheeled skid steers.
A 7mm ladder pattern sized for 10-16.5 tires makes this Welironly-listed Rud pair a focused winter option for skid steers. The product description says the ladder layout provides grip when conditions turn slick, and the listing identifies one pair of chains.
The 10-16.5 size gives buyers a specific tire dimension to match before installation, while the ladder pattern is presented for grip in slick winter conditions. The listed 7mm chain size and metal material describe the chain construction, and the one-pair quantity clarifies what arrives for a typical pair of tires. Its stated vehicle compatibility includes graders and skid steers. No additional sizes or tensioning accessories are specified in the supplied details.
- 7mm ladder-style chains
- Listed for 10-16.5 tires
- One pair included
- Compatible with graders and skid steers
- The only listed tire size is 10-16.5.
Skip it if you need a listed 13.6-16 tire fit; All States ladder chains list 13.6-16 and 14-17.5.
Pick this pair if your skid steer uses 10-16.5 tires and you want a ladder-style chain for slick winter conditions. Its stated fit is specific to that size, so other tire dimensions are outside the listing.
Full product details
| Brand | Welironly |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Grader, Skid Steer |
| Item Weight | 37 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Rud |
| Part Number | 2229-SS |
| Material | Metal |
| Wheel Size | 10 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Rud Skid Steer Loader Snow Tire Chains 7mm Alloy 10-16.5 .(from#_yotejoe; TRYK115391021318515
View on Amazon#5
5. Parts ASAP Ladder Chains
- Weight: 39.4 lb
Best for: Four-link road and dirt use.
Why it ranks #5: This pair fits listed 9.5-16 and 10-16.5 tires, with cross chains every four links; the listing recommends it for dirt or road use.
Cross chains spaced every four links define this Parts ASAP ladder pair, which is recommended for dirt or road use. Its stated fit covers 9.5-16 and 10-16.5 tires, giving skid-steer owners those specific dimensions to compare before choosing chains for a machine.
The ladder pattern’s cross chains every four links offer a clearly stated spacing for buyers choosing chains for dirt or road use. Fitment lists 9.5-16 and 10-16.5, so checking the tire marking against those sizes is central to selection. The chains are sold by the pair, and the listed package dimensions and 39.4-pound weight give buyers handling and storage information. The product information does not specify a chain material or additional installation components.
- Cross chains spaced every four links
- Recommended for dirt or road use
- Fits listed tire sizes 9.5-16 and 10-16.5
- Sold by the pair
- The listed fit is limited to 9.5-16 and 10-16.5 tire sizes.
Skip it if you need a listed 13.6-16 fit; All States ladder chains cover 13.6-16 and 14-17.5.
This pair fits buyers seeking ladder chains for dirt or road use on one of the two listed tire sizes. Match the tire marking carefully; the supplied details do not specify material or included installation accessories.
Full product details
| Brand | Parts ASAP |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 39.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Parts ASAP |
| Package Dimensions | 25 x 15 x 7 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Skid Steer Loader Tire Chains – Ladder Chains Every 4 Links 9.5 x 16 – Sold
View on Amazon#6 · Wide Tire Fit
6. All States Ladder Chains
- Compatible with Vehicle Type: Grader, Skid Steer, Tractor
- Weight: 73.8 lb
Best for: Large-size ladder-chain pair.
Why it ranks #6: This pair is listed for 13.6-16 and 14-17.5 tires, serving a different tire-size range but not rubber-track machines.
Fitment for 13.6-16 and 14-17.5 tires sets this All States ladder pair apart for skid steer owners with those larger listed tire dimensions. Recommended for dirt or road use, the chains are sold in pairs and also list compatibility with graders and tractors.
The two specified tire sizes give buyers a direct way to compare the chains with their machine, while the ladder pattern and dirt-or-road recommendation clarify the intended use. Sold in pairs, they provide the stated pair quantity for a tire-chain setup. Compatibility also includes graders and tractors, broadening the listed equipment applications. At 73.8 pounds, this is a substantial item to account for during handling and storage; the supplied facts do not identify chain material.
- Fits listed 13.6-16 and 14-17.5 tire sizes
- Ladder-chain pattern
- Recommended for dirt or road use
- Compatible with graders, skid steers, and tractors
- The stated fit is limited to 13.6-16 and 14-17.5 tire sizes.
Skip it if you need a listed 10-16.5 tire fit; Welironly Rud ladder chains are specified for 10-16.5.
This pair suits skid steer, tractor, or grader owners whose tires match 13.6-16 or 14-17.5 and who want chains for dirt or road use. Confirm the tire size before selecting it.
Full product details
| Brand | All States |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Grader, Skid Steer, Tractor |
| Item Weight | 73.8 pounds |
| Manufacturer | All States |
| Model Number | 125457 |
| Wheel Size | 13.6 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: All States Skid Steer Loader Tire Chains – Ladder 13.6 x 16 – Sold in Pairs
View on AmazonAvoid the tire-chain versus rubber-track mismatch
A tire-chain listing does not establish that a chain will fit a rubber track, so match the chain type to the machine before comparing other details. HitchLok TrackLok is the only product here described as a chain set for rubber tracks, with an approximate 12–18.5-inch fit range. The other five are described as skid steer tire chains and list tire sizes or wheel-related information instead.
Do not treat a similar-looking size number as proof of compatibility: a tire measurement and a track width are not interchangeable specifications. The TrackLok listing also gives a maximum bracket opening of approximately 2.75 inches, which makes clearance a separate check from nominal track width.
Confirm the machine’s dimensions, tread style, and available clearance against the product details before ordering. If those measurements do not align, these listings do not provide enough information to assume a safe fit.
Check what the listed chain pattern actually tells you
Chain-pattern labels describe different listed constructions, but they do not establish a performance ranking across unlike machines. Quality Chain specifies square alloy 8mm cross chains with 2-Link spacing, while Parts ASAP specifies a ladder pattern with cross chains every four links. Welironly also lists a ladder style, at 7mm, and Xtorri describes a twist-link design.
These distinctions can help buyers compare the products once the vehicle type and size match; they cannot substitute for a fit check. In particular, the TrackLok’s cross chains and tensioners are components for a rubber-track chain set, not evidence that a tire-chain pattern will transfer to tracks.
The listings do not provide comparable test results or installation measurements across all six options. Treat pattern and material as secondary selection details after confirming whether the product is meant for rubber tracks or tires and whether its stated size matches your machine.
How to Choose Skid Steer Chains
Track or tire compatibility
First identify whether your skid steer has rubber tracks or tires, then choose a product explicitly listed for that surface. HitchLok TrackLok is specified for rubber tracks approximately 12–18.5 inches wide and names standard and zigzag tread styles. The other five options are tire chains: Xtorri lists several tire sizes, Quality Chain is described for skid steer tires, and the remaining listings give tire-size fits.
A compact track loader owner should favour the TrackLok’s stated track application; a wheeled skid steer owner should focus on a tire-chain listing with the exact tire size. If your machine’s dimensions or tread style are not covered by the provided details, verify fit rather than inferring it from a similar size.
Size range and measurement
Look for an exact match to the machine’s tire size or rubber-track dimensions, not just a broadly similar number. The TrackLok covers approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks, while tire-chain listings include 9-16, 10-16.5, and 260/70R16 for Xtorri; 9.5-16 and 10-16.5 for Parts ASAP; 10-16.5 for Welironly; and 13.6-16 or 14-17.5 for All States. Quality Chain does not give a tire-size range in the supplied details.
Owners with tires matching a listed size should favour the corresponding tire-chain option; track owners should start with the TrackLok range. Check the complete size designation, since these figures are not presented as interchangeable measurements.
Chain construction and components
Compare stated material, pattern, and included parts after confirming the application and size. Quality Chain lists 8mm alloy-steel square links with 2-Link spacing, and Welironly specifies a 7mm ladder style. Xtorri identifies hardened steel and a twist-link design; Parts ASAP lists ladder chains with cross chains every four links.
For rubber tracks, TrackLok lists carbon steel and includes cross chains, tensioners, and track chains. Buyers seeking stated construction detail can favour the Quality Chain or Xtorri tire-chain listings, while track owners should value TrackLok’s specified components and intended application.
These are product-description differences, not comparable performance test results, so use them to narrow compatible choices rather than assume one pattern works best on every machine.
Which Skid Steer Chains Should You Choose?
Choose the HitchLok TrackLok if your skid steer has rubber tracks: it is the only listed set explicitly designed for them, with an approximate 12–18.5-inch fit range. For a wheeled machine with 10-16.5 tires, consider the Xtorri Twist Link, Welironly 7mm Ladder, or Parts ASAP Ladder Chains, checking their different construction details and stated applications. The Quality Chain Square Alloy is another tire-chain option, with 8mm alloy steel and 2-Link spacing, but the supplied details do not state a tire-size range.
If your tires are 13.6-16 or 14-17.5, the All States Ladder Chains list those sizes. Do not choose any tire-chain product for rubber tracks based on size resemblance alone; confirm the intended vehicle surface and full dimensions first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I confirm rubber-track chain clearance before fitting a set?
Compare the track’s full dimensions and tread style with the chain’s stated fit range, then check clearance around the track and brackets. TrackLok is listed for approximately 12–18.5-inch rubber tracks and standard or zigzag tread styles, but its product information still calls for checking dimensions and bracket clearance before fitting.
Can tire chains be used on a compact track loader with rubber tracks?
Do not assume tire chains fit rubber tracks; the listed tire-chain products are intended for wheeled skid steers. TrackLok is the only listed set explicitly designed for rubber tracks. Confirm the intended vehicle surface and full dimensions rather than choosing a tire chain based on a size that looks similar.
How should I tension skid steer chains and check them during use?
Follow the chain maker’s fitting and tensioning instructions, and check that the set remains secure and clear of the machine before operating. TrackLok includes tensioners; the supplied information does not give a universal tension procedure. Recheck the chains during use and stop to inspect or adjust them if they shift or appear loose.
Which listed chains match a wheeled skid steer with 10-16.5 tires?
The Xtorri Twist Link, Welironly 7mm Ladder, and Parts ASAP Ladder Chains are listed for 10-16.5 tires. Compare their construction and stated applications, then verify the tire size and full fit details for your machine. These tire-chain options are not identified for use on rubber tracks.
What if my tire size is not stated for a chain set?
Do not assume fit from appearance or a similar listed size. The Quality Chain Square Alloy details do not state a tire-size range, so confirm its intended fit and dimensions before choosing it. The All States Ladder Chains list 13.6-16 and 14-17.5 sizes; verify your tire marking against the product information.
Final Words
For a skid steer with rubber tracks, choose TrackLok only after confirming the approximate 12–18.5-inch fit, tread style, dimensions, and bracket clearance. For a wheeled machine, match the tire marking to a listed size: the 10-16.5 options include twist-link and ladder constructions, while All States lists 13.6-16 and 14-17.Treat the Quality Chain size as unconfirmed until you verify fit, and do not use tire chains on rubber tracks by resemblance alone.
