Why tracks outperform tyres: the real benefits for modern agriculture

The agriculture industry is where efficiency, productivity, and sustainability are non-negotiable; every decision a farmer makes carries weight, especially when it comes to machinery. One key question we hear often at Outland Tracks: Should I stick with tyres, or switch to tracks?

While traditional pneumatic tyres have been the go-to for decades, more and more UK farmers are discovering that rubber tracks offer superior performance across a wide range of agricultural applications.

In this post, we’ll cover why tracks outperform tyres and why making the switch could be one of the smartest investments for your farm.

Traction & stability in wet or uneven conditions

British weather is famously unpredictable, and if you’re working on wet clay or hilly terrain, traction is everything.

Tracks offer superior grip

Rubber tracks distribute the machine’s weight across a larger surface area, offering significantly more grip compared to tyres. This wider footprint means tractors and harvesters are less likely to slip or sink, even in saturated soils.

Smoother ride, less slippage

In uneven fields, tyres can bounce and lose contact with the ground, especially when pulling heavy implements. Tracks offer a more stable, even ride, improving operational consistency and allowing for more working days per year, especially in marginal weather windows.

Reduced soil compaction, better yields

Compacted soil can cost farmers thousands of pounds in lost yield each season. Studies show that up to 70% of soil compaction comes from the first pass of machinery, usually a heavily loaded tractor or harvester.

Tracks protect soil structure

Because of their broader footprint, tracks spread the load more evenly. This reduces ground pressure and helps preserve pore spaces in the soil, which are essential for root development and drainage.

Better drainage, stronger crops

Lower compaction leads to better water infiltration and aeration, directly supporting plant health. Whether you’re planting cereals, root crops, or oilseeds, reducing compaction improves your soil’s long-term productivity.

Did you know?

Switching from tyres to tracks can cut soil compaction by up to 50%, according to independent field trials.

Longer lifespan & lower total cost of ownership

At first glance, tracks may seem like a more expensive option. But the real cost picture tells a different story.

Built to last

Premium-quality rubber tracks — like those we supply at Outland Tracks — are engineered to withstand high abrasion, heavy loads, and tough field conditions. While tyres may require frequent replacement due to sidewall damage or punctures, tracks generally have a longer service life when properly maintained.

Fuel efficiency gains

Tracks reduce wheel slippage and improve traction, which translates to lower fuel usage per hectare, especially during heavy-duty operations like deep tillage or harvesting in wet conditions.

Lower downtime

Fewer punctures, reduced bounce, and longer replacement intervals mean less downtime, helping you stay on schedule during critical windows like planting and harvest.

Real-world payoff

Many of our customers report that after switching to tracks, they see fuel savings of up to 15% and significantly fewer maintenance interruptions.

The verdict: tracks are the smart investment for UK farmers

The agricultural sector faces growing pressure to deliver more with less — more yield, with fewer inputs and less environmental impact. Switching to rubber tracks is not just a machinery upgrade — it’s a strategic decision for long-term farm performance.

Here’s a quick recap:

BenefitTracksTyresTraction in wet/soft ground✅ Excellent⚠️ VariableSoil compaction✅ Lower⚠️ HigherFuel efficiency✅ Improved⚠️ LowerMaintenance/Downtime✅ Less frequent⚠️ More issuesLong-term ROI✅ Higher⚠️ Lower

Ready to upgrade from tyres to tracks?

At Outland Tracks, we supply high-quality replacement tracks for a wide range of agricultural machinery, including tractors, harvesters, and compact machines. Whether you’re operating in the Lincolnshire Fens or the rolling hills of Yorkshire, we have the right track for your terrain.

Get in touch today to speak to our team about your machinery and field conditions — we’ll help you find the perfect track solution that pays off in the long run.

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