For skateboarders, choosing the perfect skateboard wheels is an important decision that determines their riding style and performance. Skateboard wheels are available in different types, sizes, and durometer ratings, making it quite challenging to determine the best fit for your riding style. When it comes to street riding, skateboard wheels that offer stability, durability, and the right size are critical for achieving better control and optimal performance. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best skateboard wheels for street riding and included a buying guide to help you make an informed choice while shopping for the perfect wheel.
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard wheels for street riding, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Wheels For Street Riding
A Brief Overview of Skateboard Wheels For Street Riding
Skateboard wheels designed for street riding are typically smaller in size and have a harder durometer than wheels meant for cruising or vert skating. This allows for more control and stability when performing tricks and navigating harsher street terrain, such as curbs and stairs. The shape of the wheel can also differ, with some brands offering a “square” shape that provides better grip and prevents wheel bite during sharp turns or slides.
When choosing skateboard wheels for street riding, factors such as consistency, durability, and speed should be considered. Brands such as Spitfire, Bones, and OJ Wheels are popular for their high-quality construction and performance. Ultimately, the choice of skateboard wheels will come down to personal preference and the specific demands of the rider’s street skateboarding style.
What are the Advantages of Buying Skateboard Wheels For Street Riding?
Skateboard wheels are essential components of a skateboard and choosing the right ones is crucial to your riding experience. If you’re into street riding, then you need wheels that can handle the rough terrain, grind and slides. Here are some of the top reasons why skateboard wheels designed for street riding are a worthwhile investment.
Increased grip on rough surfaces
When riding a skateboard on the streets, one may encounter various types of surfaces that are not smooth. These surfaces may include uneven pavement, cracks, rocks, and debris. Riding on these surfaces with regular wheels can be challenging as they lack the necessary grip and traction to maintain stability and control over the skateboard. This can result in slipouts or losing balance, which can lead to injuries.
Skateboard wheels for street riding have a unique design that provides increased grip on rough surfaces. These wheels have a larger diameter, softer durometer, and a wider contact patch than regular skateboard wheels. The larger diameter allows for faster speeds and smoother rides, while the softer durometer provides more grip and absorbs shocks. The wider contact patch offers more surface area to make contact with the ground, enhancing stability and control. Overall, these features make street riding wheels suitable for various terrains and ensure a smooth, safe and comfortable ride.
Improved maneuverability on curbs and ledges
Skateboard wheels for street riding are specifically designed to offer improved maneuverability on curbs and ledges. This is because these wheels are typically smaller in diameter and have a harder durometer than wheels designed for cruising or vert skating. The smaller size allows for a lower center of gravity and better control while navigating tight spaces, such as when riding up and down curbs.
The harder durometer, on the other hand, provides a more durable surface that can withstand the wear and tear of grinding against concrete and metal. This is especially important when performing tricks that involve sliding or grinding on curbs or ledges, as softer wheels may wear down or chunk after repeated use on rough surfaces. Overall, skateboard wheels for street riding are an essential component for any skater looking to improve their ability to navigate obstacles and perform technical tricks in urban environments.
Better stability while performing tricks
Skateboard wheels for street riding are essential for achieving better stability while performing tricks. The wheels are designed to provide the perfect balance between grip and slide, enabling skateboarders to perform complex moves with ease. When performing tricks, stability is key as it helps skateboarders maintain proper control over the board while keeping their balance.
Street riding requires a lot of technical maneuvers, jumps, flips, and slides. The right set of wheels can significantly improve a skateboarder’s performance, giving them better control, speed, and maneuverability. Wheels that are designed for street riding offer a higher level of toughness, which is crucial when performing tricks. With greater stability, skateboarders can focus more on the technicalities of their trick, rather than worrying about keeping their balance. Overall, investing in the right skateboard wheels for street riding can make the difference between a successful trick and a failed one.
Longer lasting durability on abrasive surfaces.
When riding on the street, skateboard wheels are exposed to a lot of wear and tear due to the rough and abrasive surfaces. This makes it important to choose wheels that are durable and long-lasting. A set of wheels made from high-quality materials can withstand the impact of concrete, asphalt and other harsh surfaces, ensuring that they do not deteriorate or chip easily.
The durability of skateboard wheels is also important for safety reasons. Worn out or damaged wheels can compromise the stability, steering and overall performance of the board, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries. Investing in a set of wheels designed for street riding can improve the riding experience, reduce the need for frequent replacements and help maintain optimal performance for longer periods of time.
Buyer’s Guides
Before taking your skateboard to the streets, it is imperative to ensure you have the right wheels that match your riding style. Here are some key factors to consider while looking for the perfect skateboard wheels for street riding.
Size
Size plays a crucial role in determining the performance of skateboard wheels. Choosing the right size of wheels for street riding can have a significant impact on the overall riding experience. Typically, smaller wheels provide better control and stability while performing tricks, whereas larger wheels provide more speed and momentum for cruising around. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the size of the wheels as per your needs and preferences.
Additionally, larger wheels come with a higher ground clearance, which makes them less prone to scraping curbs and obstacles while riding on the streets. On the other hand, smaller wheels offer a lower ride, which makes them ideal for flip tricks and technical maneuvers. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the right size of wheels for street riding based on your skill level, riding style, and the type of terrain you’ll be skating on.
Durometer
Durometer is an important factor that you must consider before buying skateboard wheels for street riding. Durometer refers to the hardness of the wheel, measured on a scale from 0 to 100. The higher the durometer number, the harder the wheel is. Harder wheels are better suited for street riding as they offer better speed and control. Soft wheels, on the other hand, are better suited for cruising and longboarding.
Another factor that you must consider when choosing skateboard wheels for street riding is the size of the wheel. Smaller wheels are better suited for street riding as they offer more control and are easier to maneuver. Larger wheels, on the other hand, are better suited for cruising and provide better speed and stability. Therefore, it is important to consider a combination of both durometer and size when choosing skateboard wheels for street riding.
Shape
When buying skateboard wheels for street riding, it is important to consider the shape of the wheels as it affects the performance and maneuverability of the skateboard. The shape of the wheel can range from round and smooth to angular and square. Round and smooth wheels are great for cruising, while angular and square wheels are better for street riding as they provide better grip and control on rough surfaces. Additionally, smaller wheels are better for technical tricks and maneuvers while larger wheels are better for speed and stability. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the shape and size of the wheels before purchase to ensure that they are suitable for the intended riding style and environment.
In summary, the shape of skateboard wheels is a significant factor to consider when purchasing wheels for street riding. Riders should consider the type of riding they will be doing and the surface conditions to determine which shape of wheel will provide the best performance, control, grip, and stability. This will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable ride, as well as a safer experience overall.
Material
While purchasing skateboard wheels, it is essential to consider the material as it plays an essential role in the wheel’s durability and performance. The two most common materials used for skateboard wheels are polyurethane and urethane. Polyurethane wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces like indoor parks and skate bowls as they offer excellent grip. On the other hand, urethane wheels are suitable for street riding as they provide better durability and a more significant slide.
Additionally, wheel size and hardness also play a crucial role in selecting the material for skateboard wheels. For street riding, smaller and harder wheels provide better stability and control, whereas larger and softer wheels are suitable for cruising and downhill riding. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the material, size, and hardness of the wheels before making a purchase to ensure a smooth and comfortable riding experience.
Brand
When buying skateboard wheels for street riding, considering the brand is important because reputable brands have invested heavily in research and development to create wheels of high quality with the best materials and production techniques. These brands are committed to ensuring that their products perform in the way that riders expect and are safe to use, making them a more reliable choice.
Additionally, a well-known brand will have a reputation to uphold, incentivizing them to put careful consideration into every detail of the wheel’s design. This ensures that the consumer receives a product that is worth the investment and will be both durable and satisfying to use. Ultimately, going with a trusted brand can potentially make the difference between a successful ride and a dissatisfying experience.
Price
When it comes to skateboarding, choosing the right set of wheels can make all the difference in terms of performance. Street riding requires a specific type of wheel that can withstand the high impact of tricks and provide excellent grip. However, prices for skateboard wheels can vary widely depending on the brand and quality.
It is important to consider the price before buying skateboard wheels for street riding as you want to make sure you are getting the best value for your money. High-end wheels may offer better performance, but they can come with a hefty price tag. On the other hand, cheaper wheels may be tempting, but could wear out quickly or not provide the stability and grip needed for street riding. Finding a balance between quality and price is key to making a smart purchase.
FAQs
What size wheels are best for street riding on a skateboard?
For street riding on a skateboard, smaller wheels are generally considered to be better. This is because smaller wheels offer more responsiveness and control, allowing the rider to make quick turns and maneuvers. They also tend to be lighter, which can make the board easier to handle and more maneuverable.
Most street skaters prefer wheels that are between 50-54mm in diameter. This size provides a good balance between stability and agility, making it ideal for navigating obstacles and performing tricks. Additionally, smaller wheels generate less speed, which can be beneficial for street skating where precise control and slow speeds are often required.
What durometer (hardness) rating should I look for in street skateboarding wheels?
When it comes to street skateboarding, the ideal durometer rating for wheels is 99A or higher. This is because street skateboarding involves a lot of tricks, jumps, and grinds on rough surfaces like pavement and concrete. Wheels with a harder durometer rating can withstand the impact of these rough surfaces and provide better control and stability during tricks.
Additionally, harder wheels also offer less friction, allowing for faster speeds and smoother slides. However, it’s important to note that harder wheels may also feel less comfortable when riding on smoother surfaces like indoor skateparks or ramps. Therefore, it’s important to consider the type of skating you plan on doing before selecting the appropriate durometer rating for your wheels.
Can I ride street on longboard wheels or do I need specific skateboard wheels?
When it comes to 26 inch mountain bike tires for wet and muddy conditions, there are several options to choose from. The best tires for these conditions are typically wider with aggressive tread patterns that can provide excellent traction and enhance your control on slippery terrain.
Some of the top choices include the Maxxis Minion DHF, Schwalbe Magic Mary, Continental Der Kaiser Projekt, and the WTB Vigilante. These tires are designed with deep and widely spaced knobs that can shed mud quickly and efficiently, while also providing excellent grip and stability on wet trails. With the right tires, you can enjoy a more confident and enjoyable ride even in the most challenging conditions.
Final Verdict
After thorough research and testing, it’s clear that the best skateboard wheels for street riding are crucial for achieving the optimal performance and control while cruising on any surface. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, investing in quality wheels that match your skating style and preferences is key to improving your skateboarding experience.
In this article, we have provided you with a comprehensive review and buying guide of the top 10 best skateboard wheels for street riding. From the size and shape to the durometer and material, we’ve covered all the essential factors that make a difference in your wheels’ performance. Remember that choosing the right wheels for street riding can have a significant impact on your speed, grip, slide, and overall agility on the board. So, choose wisely, and keep shredding!