Skid steers have long been popular in North America and, while the compact tracked loader gains popularity, there is still a place in construction for the skills of skid steers.
The skid steer loader is well-known for being an all-American product, so it is no surprise that North America is the largest market for this machine segment. It was in the mid-2000s that a high point was reached, with global sales touching 100,000 machines per year, according to industry experts Off-Highway Research.
Compact tracked loaders, where the skid steers’ wheels are replaced with a rubber or steel track, first made an appearance during the 1980s. The compact tracked loader is estimated to be around 30% more expensive than a skid steer loader of the same capacity but, despite this, is rising in popularity.
Compact tracked loaders are more expensive, but the tracked undercarriage means they exert less pressure, so can be used in worse ground conditions, or in situations where damaging the ground would be a problem.
What are the operating costs of skid steers?
Despite this, there is still room for the skid steer for projects involving paved surfaces and hard ground – in addition to the lower running costs. Ground space is becoming a premium as cities become more populated and demand for new infrastructure after Covid-19 continues.
Many companies have used this time to redevelop concepts and ensure they are bringing the most innovative products to the industry.
