Best Rubber Tracks for Landscaping

Landscaping contractors live and die by their reputation. One set of ruts across a customer's lawn can cost you the job—and the referrals that come with it. Choosing the right rubber tracks makes the difference between clean work and callbacks.

Here's what to look for when you're buying tracks for landscaping applications.

Why Track Choice Matters for Landscaping

Not all rubber tracks are built the same way. Tracks designed for heavy construction prioritize durability and traction in tough conditions. Landscaping tracks prioritize low ground pressure and smooth operation on finished surfaces.

The wrong tracks can:

Leave ruts and scuff marks on turf
Damage pavers, driveways, and walkways
Tear up root systems and irrigation lines
Create compaction that kills grass over time

The right tracks let you work on residential properties without leaving a trace.

Tread Patterns for Landscaping

Zig-Zag (C-Pattern)

The zig-zag pattern is the most popular choice for landscaping. The angled lugs provide balanced traction without aggressive digging. They self-clean well in mud and soft soil, and they're gentle on turf compared to block patterns.

Best for: General landscaping, residential work, turf and hardscape mix

Multi-Bar

Multi-bar tracks have multiple smaller lugs arranged in rows. This distributes pressure more evenly than single-lug designs and reduces the "footprint" effect on soft ground. They're excellent for finish grading and working on established lawns.

Best for: Finish grading, turf work, low-impact applications

Block (C-Lug)

Block patterns have square or rectangular lugs arranged in a grid. They provide excellent traction on hard surfaces and resist wear well, but they're more aggressive on turf. Use them for hardscaping, demolition, or sites where ground damage isn't a concern.

Best for: Hardscaping, construction, non-turf applications

Ground Pressure and Flotation

Ground pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Lower is better for turf protection:

3-4 PSI: Excellent for finished lawns. Less pressure than a human footprint.
5-6 PSI: Good for most landscaping. Minimal turf damage on healthy grass.
7+ PSI: Acceptable for construction sites. Will leave marks on soft turf.

Ground pressure depends on track width, machine weight, and how weight is distributed. Wider tracks = lower ground pressure. If you're working on sensitive turf, choose the widest track your machine can run.

Best Machines for Landscaping

Mini Skid Steers (Stand-On Track Loaders)

Machines like the Bobcat MT100, Ditch Witch SK800, and Vermeer CTX100 are perfect for backyard access. They're narrow enough to fit through gates, light enough to avoid compaction, and powerful enough for most residential tasks.

Track sizes: 180mm-230mm wide, typically 72-76 links

Compact Track Loaders (CTLs)

Mid-size CTLs like the Kubota SVL75-2, Bobcat T590, and John Deere 317G offer more power while still being turf-friendly with the right tracks. Look for models with smooth ride control to reduce bouncing on uneven ground.

Track sizes: 320mm-400mm wide, typically 49-58 links

Mini Excavators

For digging, trenching, and planting, mini excavators are often gentler than CTLs because they don't need to spin tracks to turn. Machines like the Kubota KX040, Bobcat E35, and CAT 303.5 are popular landscaping choices.

Track sizes: 300mm-400mm wide, with rubber or steel options

Features to Look For

Continuous Steel Cord

Quality landscaping tracks use continuous steel cord construction instead of overlapping cables. This prevents the cord separation that causes track failure—important when you're relying on your machine every day.

Premium Rubber Compound

Softer rubber compounds are gentler on turf but wear faster. Look for tracks that balance flexibility with durability. Avoid the cheapest options—they often use recycled rubber that cracks and chunks quickly.

Reinforced Roller Path

The inside of the track takes a beating from the rollers. Reinforced roller paths extend track life, especially on machines that carry heavy loads or work long hours.

Common Landscaping Track Sizes

Here are the most popular track sizes for landscaping machines:

The Bottom Line

For landscaping, choose tracks with zig-zag or multi-bar tread patterns, the widest width your machine supports, and quality construction from a reputable supplier. Avoid aggressive block patterns unless you're doing hardscaping or demolition.

The extra $100-200 for a quality track pays for itself the first time you finish a job without damaging the customer's lawn.

Best Rubber Tracks for Landscaping: Turf-Safe Options for CTLs & Skid Steers