Buying guide for best wheelbarrow tires
A wheelbarrow tire is a practical purchase. It’s probably not something you want to spend hours shopping for, but you shouldn’t pick one haphazardly, either. The three main aspects to consider when replacing a wheelbarrow tire are size, weight capacity, and tread. Beyond that, you may be wondering if there are other features to keep in mind.
You've come to the right place. We can help you quickly and confidently find the wheelbarrow tire that is right for your needs. Whether you are looking for an air-filled tire, a flat-free tire, or even one with accessories that offers a universal fit, we're here to help.
To learn all you need to know about wheelbarrow tires, keep reading. If you're in a hurry and would prefer to choose a model from our list of top-quality suggestions, consider the wheelbarrow tires we spotlight on this page.
Key considerations
Size
If you purchase a wheel of the wrong size, it might not fit your wheelbarrow. For this reason, it is usually best for a new wheelbarrow tire to have the same dimensions as the old one. One way to ensure this is to check the numbers on the sidewall of the tire and purchase a model with the same numbers. For instance, if your old tire had "4.00 – 6" imprinted on the sidewall, you'd want the same numbers on your new tire.
Another method of selection is to measure the diameter of the tire, the diameter of the hub bore hole, the length of the hub, and the width of the tire. Then, find a model with matching measurements.
Load capacity
Tires are rated for the amount of weight they can safely carry. If you will only be transporting lighter loads, this is not too big of an issue. However, if you will be moving stones or large volumes of dirt, you will need a tire that won't buckle under heavy weight.
Tread pattern
Most wheelbarrow tires feature a ribbed tread pattern. This looks like a series of ridges that runs around the entire outer edge of the tire. If you will be working in wet or slippery conditions, you may need more aggressive tread. In that situation, choose a pattern that more closely resembles what you might find on a truck tire.
For your safety
If you ever lose control of a wheelbarrow, do not try to wrestle it back. The safest action to take is to let go of the handles and step out of the way.
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Features
Universal fit
If you'd like to get a one-size-fits-all wheelbarrow tire, that is an option. However, because of the extra parts, you may end up paying a little more for that product.
Plastic tire
If you have only light-duty work to do, a plastic tire may be a more affordable option. This type of tire will not provide the smoothest ride and is not usually designed for heavy loads or large wheelbarrows.
Pneumatic tire
A pneumatic tire is a tire filled with air. It may or may not have a tube. Pneumatic tires can be punctured and may go flat under heavier loads, but you’ll get the best shock absorption and smoothest ride from a pneumatic tire, even on rough terrain.
Flat-free tire
Solid tires cannot be damaged if punctured. A flat-free, solid tire is far more durable than a pneumatic tire, but it doesn't absorb shock very well and is best reserved for smooth surfaces.
Semi-pneumatic tire
A semi-pneumatic tire is a hybrid tire. It is a “solid” tire that is puncture-resistant and filled with tiny pockets of air (think foam) to offer better shock absorption. This type of tire is a good option for any type of terrain, but the selection may be limited.
"If you will not be using your wheelbarrow for a while, consider hanging it on a wall, as the tire may become damaged if it sits in one position for too long."
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Accessories
Gloves: Mechanix Wear M-Pact Coyote Tactical Gloves
Any time you perform manual labor, it's a good idea to protect your hands. Mechanix Wear's reinforced, dual-layer work gloves are designed to be impact-resistant, and they are machine washable for easy care.
Air pump: IDMAX Foot-Activated Tire Pump
If you purchase a pneumatic wheelbarrow tire, you will need to fill it with air. IDMAX's durable tire pump has a built-in air pressure gauge. It is operated by foot, making it easier to use than a hand-pump model.
Wheelbarrow hanger: Crawford Wheelbarrow Hanger
If you do not have a wall mount for your wheelbarrow, consider purchasing this affordably priced soft-grip wheelbarrow hanger. It may help both your wheelbarrow and the tire last longer.
Expert Tip
A flat-free (non-pneumatic) tire is best used on smooth surfaces because it doesn't absorb the shock caused by bouncing across rough terrain very well.
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Wheelbarrow tire prices
Inexpensive: Anything less than $20 is likely going to be either small in diameter or made of plastic. If you have a light-duty wheelbarrow that isn't very large, you may find what you are looking for here, but you might not be happy with the quality.
Mid-range: In most instances, you will find the specific wheelbarrow tire for your needs in the $20 to $40 price bracket. These models can be either pneumatic or flat-free and will fit wheelbarrows of average size.
Higher end: If you're paying between $40 to $60, you should be getting something extra for your money. It could be a larger size, a more durable design, or a universal fit that comes with adapters.
Tips for finding the right fit
Before purchasing a new wheelbarrow tire, you will want to measure the old one to learn what size you should buy. There are four measurements you will typically need to take to ensure a perfect fit. All measurements are expressed in inches.
- Diameter of the tire: The diameter is the widest measurement of the tire. Starting at the outer edge of the tire, measure across the center to the opposite outer edge.
- Diameter of the hub bore hole: The diameter of the hub bore hole is the smallest measurement you will take. It is the distance across the hole at the center of the tire. This will usually be 5/8 or 3/4 inches.
- Length of the hub: This measurement may be a little tricky to get. If the tape measure doesn't fit through the hub bore hole, you will need to insert a pen or piece of string and use that item to determine the length of the hub. This measurement is usually somewhere between 3 and 6 inches.
- Width of the tire: If the hub size and tire diameter are a good fit, you probably won't need this measurement. However, if you like the way your wheelbarrow rolls, you'll want to match the width of the tread as well. If you don't have a caliper, this measurement involves a little bit of eyeballing. It will likely be within an inch or two of the measurement for the length of the hub.
FAQ
Q. What is a caliper?
A. Sometimes it can be difficult to obtain an accurate measurement of certain objects. The diameter of a wheelbarrow tire is one of those items. A caliper is simply a tool that measures the distance between two ends of an object. Place one point of the caliper on either side of a tire to quickly determine its diameter.
Q. Should I replace the tire or just the tube?
A. The answer to this question depends on how handy you are or how much work you are willing to do to save money. Paying someone to replace the tube would likely cost as much or more than simply purchasing a new tire. It also depends on the condition of the old wheelbarrow tire. If the tire is flat but in otherwise good condition, you can remove the tire from the rim to determine if the tube can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. This can be a difficult and frustrating task.
Replacing the whole tire (including the rim), on the other hand, is a very simple task. If you have a tubeless tire, plugging a hole is tougher than replacing the tire (and the rim), but it’s not as hard as repairing or replacing a tube.
Q. How do I know if I have a tubeless wheelbarrow tire?
A. All air-filled tires have inner bladders that hold air. In a tubeless tire, the bladder is not a separate, removable inner tube like a bike might have; it is actually part of the tire. A quick and easy way to identify a tubeless tire is by checking the air valve. If you have a tubeless tire, the air valve will be attached to the rim. If your tire has an inner tube, the air valve will not be attached to the rim.
