Compact Track Loader vs Skid Steer - Which is better in Winter?

For contractors, municipalities, and property managers, the question comes up every year:

Is it better to run a compact track loader (CTL) or a skid steer in the winter?

The answer isn’t the same for everyone. Both machines can work in winter, but here’s what you need to know between a compact track loader vs skid steer to help you decide which one fits your conditions best.

1. Traction: CTL Dominates, Especially in Snow

When it comes to traction, CTLs almost always outperform skid steers in winter. Tracks create a larger contact patch with the ground, giving the machine far better grip in:

• soft snow

• icy slopes

• frozen dirt

• uneven terrain

• wet, slushy conditions

A skid steer relies on tires, which lose traction quickly on slick surfaces. Even with chains, a skid steer can struggle on inclines or deeper snow.

2. Ground Pressure: Tracks Win Again

Low ground pressure is one of the main advantages of CTLs.

A typical CTL spreads its weight across a much larger footprint, which helps it “float” over:

• deep snow

• mud during thaw cycles

• soft ground under the snow pack

• mixed ice/snow surfaces

ASV track loaders have the best ground pressure in the industry.

3. Cold Weather Handling: Not All CTLs Are Equal

Skid steers don’t have a track undercarriage, so they avoid the biggest winter problem:

Steel track rollers freezing.

Because of this, a typical skid steer handles freezing temperatures better than a traditional CTL.

ASV breaks the rule with their CTLs because its Posi-Track system is rubber on roller, lowest ground pressure in the industry, and with the unique sprocket design, it does not allow the packing of snow build up.

4. Maintenance in Winter

Skid Steer Maintenance Needs:

• Frequent cleaning of wheel wells

• Hydraulic hoses exposed to snow and salt

• Tire pressure drops in the cold

• Chains require adjustment or tightening

CTL Maintenance Needs:

• Track tension must be checked

• Undercarriage needs frequent ice clearing

ASV Advantage: Their open undercarriage design clears snow and ice more easily than traditional CTLs, reducing downtime and preventing freeze-related damage.

So, Which Should You Use in Winter?

Use a Skid Steer If:

• You work mostly on pavement

• You want lower upfront cost

• Snow depth rarely exceeds a few inches

Use a CTL If:

• You work in deeper snow

• You operate on mixed surfaces

• You deal with uneven terrain

• You need maximum traction and stability

• You want to run larger attachments

Use an ASV CTL If:

• You want the best winter performance overall

• You need low ground pressure for soft or variable terrain

• You want to avoid steel roller freeze-up issues

• You want smoother, more reliable performance in extreme cold

Final Takeaway - Compact Track Loader vs Skid Steer

Skid steers can work in winter, but CTLs perform significantly better in snow, ice, mud, and freeze-thaw terrain.