In this guide, we’ll walk you through the primary types of forklift tires, the environments they’re best suited for, and the value they bring when chosen and maintained correctly.

Understanding the Core Tire Types

Cushion tires

Cushion tires are designed with smooth warehouse operations in mind. Constructed from solid rubber on a steel band, they provide stability on paved floors and tight spaces. Their design minimizes vibration, protecting operators from the physical strain of repeated jolts.

Solid pneumatic tires

Built of durable rubber, solid pneumatic tires bring resilience to demanding environments. They are immune to punctures, making them an ideal choice for outdoor areas cluttered with debris, such as lumber yards, construction sites, and recycling facilities.

Air pneumatic tires

Air pneumatic tires are similar to an average car tire—they’re made from durable rubber and filled with air. The benefit of air-filled pneumatic tires is that they provide forklift operators with great traction for maneuvering over uneven surfaces and gravel, making them ideal for outdoor operations. Because of the risk of punctures, these tires aren’t recommended for environments with nails or other sharp objects. Foam filling an air pneumatic tire can serve as an alternative to a solid tire since it can prevent flat tires.

Smooth vs. Treaded

Your choice between smooth and traction (treaded) tires depends on your facility’s conditions. Smooth tires excel on dry, indoor surfaces where efficiency and longevity are priorities. On the other hand, treaded tires ensure reliable grip in wet or outdoor environments, reducing skidding and extending tire life by preventing “chunking.”

Specialty Tires for Unique Needs

Beyond the core categories, certain operations call for tailored solutions:

• Fiberglass-impregnated tires withstand heat from extended use.
• Polyurethane tires resist damage in chemical-heavy environments.
• Static-resistant tires prevent dangerous static discharges in sensitive facilities.

Each of these options addresses a specific challenge, ensuring forklifts perform consistently under specialized conditions. But, there are more specialty tire types than we have room to list here. Consult with us to make sure you get the best tires for your lift truck and application!

Why the Right Tires Matter

Forklift tires may seem mundane, but the right tire can help you with:

Supporting Operator Health

Forklifts lack suspension systems, making tires the first line of defense against shocks and vibrations. The right tire selection directly impacts operator comfort, reducing fatigue and long-term health risks like back strain.

Driving Operational Efficiency

Tires influence cost savings and equipment performance more than many realize. Smooth cushion tires, for example, contain up to 12% more usable rubber than their treaded counterparts. Tires with high resilience lower rolling resistance, cutting fuel or battery costs by as much as 15%. Shifting from air pneumatics to solid pneumatics often doubles or even triples tire lifespan, while minimizing downtime from flats.

Enhancing Workplace Safety

The right tread prevents skids, especially on wet floors, reducing the chance of tip-overs and collisions. Proper tire condition ensures balance and stability, protecting both operators and equipment.

When to replace your forklift tires

Timely tire replacement is essential to maintaining both safety and efficiency. Cushion tires typically need replacement once about 30% of their rubber has worn away—roughly one inch in most cases—while solid pneumatics should be changed when their section height is reduced to around 60%, often indicated by the “60J” wear line molded into the sidewall. Air pneumatic tires, on the other hand, should be replaced once tread depth is gone or when visible damage or punctures compromise their integrity. By keeping a close eye on these signs, you can prevent unnecessary downtime, extend equipment life, and maintain a safe, stable operating environment.

Count on Morrison

At Morrison, we take a consultative approach, evaluating your unique applications and recommending tire solutions that align with your operational goals. From selection to installation, our trained representatives ensure your equipment performs at its best. Get in touch today!

Annual September Tire Sale

Take advantage of our FREE forklift fleet tire survey and secure exclusive savings on replacements. It’s an opportunity to assess your fleet’s health and prepare for the months ahead with confidence!