I don't understand this penchant for skidding. Personally, I'd rather wear out a set of $12 brake pads than a $30 tire but I guess that's just me.

... and yes, I DO ride fixed; and no, I don't usually use my brakes at all except for panic stops. It is perfectly feasible to control a fixed gear bike in ordinary riding without either using the brakes or skidding your tires.