Silage and haylage loads can reach up to 80,000-pounds gross vehicle weight when full, and without the right tires set at the right inflation on your equipment, an extreme amount of pressure is applied to the soil.
A study by Penn State University Extension showed that tires running at 35 pounds per square inch (psi) caused higher stresses at 14 inches of depth, and created ruts that were more than twice as deep as those of tires running at 12 psi. When concentrated pressure is applied to the ground, it can lead to greater soil compaction, adversely impacting crop growth by restricting root development and reducing water filtration.
Agricultural radial tires are designed to deflect and distribute the weight, while ag flotation tires are a good option for improving traction and reducing soil disturbance in wet conditions. They both offer a more innovative and sustainable way to get silage and haylage out of the field and onto the pile without leaving a costly footprint.
The key advantage of agricultural tires lies in their ability to distribute the weight of a load over a larger surface area. Agricultural radial tires are designed with self-cleaning tread designs, deeper lugs, and sidewall construction optimized for load support and deflection. Advanced Deflection Design (AD2) tires take it a step further and are engineered with flexible sidewalls, allowing for a larger, more even contact patch under load, enhancing traction, minimizing soil compaction, and improving shock absorption. This added flexibility also reduces slip and improves fuel efficiency.
As the name suggests, ag flotation tires are engineered to “float” across the soil rather than dig in. Their wider cross-section and greater air volume maximize traction in wet soils, and can help reduce ground pressure, minimizing rutting. This is especially important in wetter conditions. However, moving from a standard bias or radial ag tire to a larger, floatation size will require rim or axle changes.
Many options
Choosing the right tire depends on several factors — your haul routes, load requirements, average field conditions, and long-term goals for soil health and operational efficiency.
Advanced Deflection Design tires offer protection against soil compaction for silage and haylage equipment. Their flexible sidewall creates a larger footprint that distributes weight, significantly reducing ground pressure. This makes them especially useful for heavy hauls like wagons used for forage transport.
Standard agricultural radial tires offer improved traction and ride comfort over bias-ply options. Some models feature hybrid tread patterns that improve self-cleaning and minimize slip in the field while maintaining wear resistance and controlled handling. Agriculture radials can also operate at lower inflation pressures, providing extra soil protection.
Increased flexion (IF) and very high flexion (VF) tires present the most advanced solution for those prioritizing soil health and fuel efficiency. These tires are engineered to carry the same load as standard radials at lower pressures. Increased flexion tires can carry the same load at nearly 30% lower pressure, while VF tires can do the same at nearly 50%.
That reduction in inflation pressure directly correlates to less pressure on the soil, helping protect soil structure, reduce rutting, and maintaining better root zone conditions for crops. Because of their flexible sidewalls, IF and VF tires also provide a smoother ride and help improve traction, which can translate into better fuel economy and less time spent in the field.
Flotation tires are the best option for farms regularly operating in wet conditions. These tires are designed with wider profiles and deep treads to keep equipment on top of soft or saturated soils, preserving topsoil integrity even in challenging conditions. They provide enhanced traction, helping to keep equipment moving in wet soil.
Cost is another consideration. While premium ag radials or VF tires can carry a higher upfront price tag, their longer wear life, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced field damage often justify the investment, especially for producers committed to continuing to improve sustainability. More budget-friendly brands are available, though producers should consider potential trade-offs in ride quality, durability, and long-term agronomic impact."
Check the rating
Pushing your tires past their speed limits can lead to more wear and tear and early removal from service. Each tire is built to handle a specific combination of speed and load. When you exceed either one, you’re putting your equipment and your schedule at risk. That’s why it’s important to match your tire’s speed rating with how fast you’re traveling.
Here’s a quick guide to help you stay within safe limits:
A8 – up to 25 mph
B – up to 31 mph
C – up to 37 mph
D – up to 40 mph
E – up to 43 mph
F – up to 50 mph
G – up to 56 mph
J – up to 62 mph
Before you hit the road, take a minute to double-check your tire’s speed rating. It’s a small step that protects your equipment, keeps your team safe, and helps you avoid costly breakdowns that delay harvest.
Even the best tire on the market won’t perform as intended if it’s running at the wrong pressure. An overinflated tire reduces contact with the ground, increasing compaction and reducing traction — exactly the problems nonhighway tires are meant to solve. On the flip side, an underinflated tire can cause premature wear, especially with frequent high-speed hauls on pavement.
Check tire inflation daily to ensure your tires are at the correct pressure throughout harvest. The proper inflation can help reduce fuel use, extend tire life, and support better performance all season long. Small steps like checking pressure can have a big impact when you’re in the field.
The right tires for haylage and silage harvest aren’t just about traction or speed — they’re about stewardship. As more operations move toward regenerative and sustainable practices, minimizing soil damage during harvest becomes as important as the forage itself. Fortunately, today’s tire market offers a growing range of options tailored to the demands of large-scale hay and silage operations.
No matter the size of your system, there’s a tire solution that can help you move faster, protect your fields, and set the stage for a stronger next crop. Talk with your local dealer to find the right tire solution for you — built to handle your toughest days and protect your soils and plants for the seasons ahead.
This article appeared in the July 2025 issue of Hay & Forage Grower on page 40.
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