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Working Missouri and Illinois Clay Soil: Why Compact Track Loaders Outperform Skid Steers

3/13/2026
john deere compact track loader

There is lots of potential for new developments in the Midwest, but the abundant clay soil can present challenges for contractors and landscapers starting new projects. Clay soil can be difficult to work with due to its extremely dense particles. It can become slick and unstable when wet, making equipment susceptible to rutting, and concrete hard when dry, making it prone to compaction. Working in these conditions requires a specific type of equipment that’s as stable as it is powerful. When it comes to compact construction equipment, Compact Track Loaders are the solution. 


What's the Difference Between a Skid Steer and a CTL?

The key distinction between skid steers and compact track loaders is their design. Skid steers have a four-wheel design that steers by varying wheel speed on either side. They also have lighter weight distribution, making them more suitable for hard surfaces, indoor work, and paved areas.
Compact track loaders, on the other hand, have tracks instead of wheels. They have a similar steering mechanism, but greater weight distribution over surface areas.

The Key Distinction: Tracks vs. Wheels

  • Ground contact area: CTLs distribute weight across the entire track length while skid steers concentrate weight on four contact points. 
  • Ground pressure: Tracks create 3-5 PSI vs. wheels at 10-15+ PSI
  • Flotation advantage:  Wheels sink and spin on soft surfaces while tracks "float"

Why CTLs Dominate on Clay Soil

Superior Traction in All Conditions

Whether wet or dry, compact track loaders maintain traction in both wet and dry conditions. The track tread design powers through wet soil, driving mud away from drive components and maintaining forward momentum where wheels would spin out. When clay hardens, tracks provide enough bite to navigate dry clay effectively, maintaining control on slopes and even surfaces.

Built for Heavy-Duty Work on Challenging Terrain

Site preparation, residential development, and agricultural construction all require heavy loads and force to get the job done. Compact track loaders were built for heavy-duty jobs, with strong pushing power and lift capacity. Their wider footprint helps them remain steady when lifting big loads reducing the risk of tipping even on uneven terrain. Consistent traction also makes them ideal for grading operations like land clearing and prep.

Minimal Ground Disturbance and Site Protection

Soft surfaces like clay soil are more vulnerable to compaction, making low ground disturbance essential for successful site prep. Compact track loaders have a lower ground pressure than skid steers, making them less susceptible to rutting and more capable of preserving soil integrity for landscaping projects. This means cleaner jobsites with minimal track marks and easier final grading.

All-Weather, All-Season Performance

You can experience year-round productivity with a compact track loader. CTLs handle Missouri and Illinois mud seasons and winter freezes without losing traction or productivity. This allows contractors to bid projects year-round with confidence, increasing cash flow and competitive advantage.

CTL vs Skid Steer: Common Questions


If you plan on tackling this fine Midwest soil for any upcoming projects, a compact track loader can make the job much easier. When you choose tracks, you get superior traction, heavy-duty capability, and all-season reliability. Reach out to your nearest Sydenstricker Nobbe Partners to talk to an expert about finding the right match for your operation. With locations across Missouri and Illinois, our team is ready to assist at every stage of ownership, from selection to service.