Forklift Tire Buying Guide

Forklift Tire Buying Guide

Choosing the right forklift tires affects equipment performance, operator comfort, maintenance costs, and downtime. The correct tire depends on operating surface, load requirements, floor conditions, and equipment type.

This guide explains the primary forklift tire constructions and how to determine which is best for your application.

Step 1: Choose Your Forklift Tire Type

Pneumatic Tube-Type (TTF)

Pneumatic forklift tires are air-filled bias construction tires requiring a tire, tube, and liner flap (TTF). These tires provide cushioning and flexibility, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use where surfaces may be uneven.

  • Best for mixed surfaces and light debris
  • Available in multiple ply ratings (PR)
  • Can go flat in puncture-prone environments

Shop Pneumatic Forklift Tires →

Resilient Solid (Flat-Proof)

Resilient solid forklift tires are constructed entirely of solid rubber in a pneumatic-shaped profile. These tires eliminate flats and reduce downtime while maintaining strong load support.

  • Flat-proof performance
  • Available in standard black or non-marking compounds
  • Firmer ride compared to pneumatic tires

Shop Solid Forklift Tires →

Press-On Tires

Press-on forklift tires are solid tires bonded to a steel ring and mounted onto industrial wheels. Available in rubber cushion and polyurethane compounds, press-on tires are commonly used on electric forklifts operating in warehouse environments.

  • Rubber cushion or polyurethane compounds
  • Low rolling resistance (polyurethane)
  • Non-marking options available

Shop Press-On Forklift Tires →

Step 2: Match the Tire to Your Environment

  • Outdoor or rough surfaces: Pneumatic or resilient solid
  • Debris-prone areas: Resilient solid
  • Clean warehouse floors: Press-on (polyurethane or non-marking rubber)
  • Regulated facilities: Non-marking compounds

Step 3: Verify Tire Size

Forklift tire sizes may appear in multiple formats (for example, 29x8-15 and 7.00-15 may refer to the same size class). Always confirm your sidewall markings or equipment documentation before ordering.

Press-on tires are measured as overall diameter × width × inside diameter (for example, 21x7x15).

Step 4: Confirm Load Requirements

Load capacity must match or exceed your forklift’s operating demands. Pneumatic tires vary by ply rating (PR), while solid and polyurethane tires are engineered for specific load and wear characteristics.

When to Replace Forklift Tires

  • Cushion tires: Replace when approximately 2 inches of rubber have worn away
  • Solid tires: Replace when wear or chunking reduces stability
  • Pneumatic tires: Replace when tread is worn or damage occurs

Need Help Choosing?

If you are unsure which forklift tire is correct for your equipment, contact us with your tire size, equipment model, and operating environment for assistance.