Skateboarding is an exhilarating sport that demands perfect control and balance. As the crucial component that connects the rider to the skateboard, wheels play a crucial role in determining the overall performance of the skateboard. One of the most significant factors to consider while choosing skateboard wheels is their hardness, which affects the skateboard’s speed, grip, and stability. In this article, we present a comprehensive guide that lists the Top 10 Best Skateboard Wheel Hardness options available in the market, along with a buying guide to help you make an informed decision. So let’s dive in and explore the best options to enhance your skateboarding experience.
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Best Skateboard Wheel Hardness
Skateboard Wheel Hardness: A Simplified Overview
Skateboard wheel hardness, also known as durometer, refers to the measure of a skateboard wheel’s resistance to compression and deformation. It is measured on a scale of 1-100 with higher numbers representing harder wheels. The durometer affects the overall ride of the skateboard, including speed, grip, and maneuverability.
Harder wheels, usually above 90A, are faster and more durable. They offer less grip and are better suited for skating on smooth surfaces like skateparks and ramps. Softer wheels, usually below 90A, offer better grip and control, making them ideal for cruising and street skating on rougher surfaces. It is essential to choose the right durometer for your skating style and the terrain you’ll be skating on to ensure the best performance and longevity of your skateboard wheels.
Why Do You Need to Buy Skateboard Wheel Hardness?
There are several important aspects to consider when building your ideal skateboard setup, and one of the most crucial is the wheel hardness. Here are a few reasons why you should carefully consider your skateboard wheel hardness before making your next purchase.
Different terrains require different wheel hardness
Skateboarding can take place on a variety of surfaces, ranging from smooth concrete to rough asphalt. Each surface provides a different level of traction and requires different wheel hardness for optimum performance. Harder wheels are better for smooth surfaces like skate parks as they provide less friction and can achieve higher speeds. On the other hand, softer wheels are ideal for rough terrains like streets and sidewalks as they absorb shock better and provide more grip, allowing for better control and maneuverability.
In addition, wheel hardness affects the level of vibration that the skateboarder experiences while cruising on different surfaces. Harder wheels transmit more vibration, which can be uncomfortable for the rider. Soft wheels are better at absorbing impact shocks, making for a smoother ride. Therefore, it’s important to have the right hardness of skateboard wheels for the terrain being skated on to optimise manoeuvrability, speed, and comfort.
Wheel hardness affects speed and maneuverability
The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured by a scale called durometer, which ranges from 0 to 100. The higher the number, the harder the wheel. A harder wheel is faster because it has less friction with the ground. This means that it glides more smoothly over surfaces, allowing the skateboarder to move faster and cover more distance with each push.
However, a harder wheel also makes it more difficult to do tricks and maneuvers. This is because a hard wheel doesn’t grip the ground as well as a softer one. As a result, turning, carving, and performing other movements become more challenging. So, skateboarders who prioritize speed may choose harder wheels, while those who prioritize maneuverability may opt for softer ones. The choice of wheel hardness ultimately depends on the rider’s preferences and the type of skating they want to do.
Personal preference for riding style and comfort
Skateboard wheel hardness refers to the durometer rating of the wheels, which determines how hard or soft the wheels are. Choosing the right wheel hardness can greatly affect the comfort and performance of your skateboarding experience.
For instance, if you prefer to ride on smooth surfaces like skateparks or indoor rinks, harder wheels with a higher durometer rating will provide better speed and slide more smoothly. On the other hand, if you enjoy cruising and commuting on rough surfaces like sidewalks or streets, softer wheels with a lower durometer rating will absorb more shock and provide a smoother ride.
Personal preference also plays a role in determining the right wheel hardness for your riding style. Some skaters may prefer a hard and responsive wheel for tricks and slides, while others may prefer a soft and grippy wheel for stability and control. Ultimately, the right wheel hardness is a matter of personal preference, comfort, and riding style.
Durability and longevity of wheels.
The hardness of skateboard wheels plays a significant role in their durability and longevity. The harder the wheel, the better it can withstand wear and tear, and the less likely it is to develop flat spots or become damaged over time. This is especially important for skateboarders who do a lot of riding on rough or uneven surfaces, as soft wheels may wear down more quickly or become damaged from hitting cracks or rocks in the road.
Additionally, hard wheels tend to maintain their shape and size over time, which means they will continue to roll smoothly and predictably. Soft wheels, on the other hand, can deform or flatten over time, which can affect the rider’s control and stability. By investing in skateboard wheels with a higher degree of hardness, skaters can ensure that they get the most out of their wheels and enjoy a longer lifespan overall.
Buying Guides
Determining the appropriate hardness for skateboard wheels is crucial for achieving optimal performance and comfort while riding. Factors such as the type of riding style, the terrain, and personal preference should be carefully considered when selecting the best skateboard wheel hardness.
Purpose
Before buying skateboard wheel hardness, it is important to consider its purpose. The hardness of the skateboard wheel determines its ability to grip the ground and maneuverability. If someone is planning to use the skateboard for cruising or transportation, they should opt for softer wheels as it provides more grip and comfortable ride even on rough surfaces. However, if someone needs to perform tricks such as slides or grinds, they should opt for harder wheels, which provide less grip and better speed.
Therefore, by considering the purpose of the skateboard, one can select the appropriate wheel hardness for maximum performance and enjoyment while riding. If one neglects to consider purpose, they may end up with wheels that are too hard or too soft for their needs, which can negatively impact their riding experience.
Terrain
The terrain plays a significant role in determining the ideal skateboard wheel hardness. Different terrains require varying levels of hardness to ensure smooth and comfortable rides. For instance, if you plan to ride on a smooth surface, the ideal wheel hardness should be harder to provide better speed and control. Conversely, if you plan to ride on bumpy or rough terrain, a softer wheel is ideal since it absorbs shock and vibration for a smoother ride.
Choosing the right skateboard wheel hardness depending on your riding terrain will enhance your overall skateboarding experience. It not only provides better control, speed, and comfort but also prevents accidents and injuries. By considering your terrain before purchasing skateboard wheels, you can ensure a safer, more precise, and enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Size
When choosing skateboard wheels, size and hardness are both important considerations. Size is critical because the size of the wheel impacts the overall ride and speed. Smaller wheels are typically slower but offer more maneuverability, making them a great choice for street skating. Larger wheels, on the other hand, are faster and provide a smoother ride, making them best for cruising and longboarding. It is essential to consider the type of skating you will be doing when choosing the wheel size, as it determines how well you can perform.
In addition, hardness is another critical factor to consider when purchasing skateboard wheels. It is measured in durometers, with a higher number indicating a harder wheel and vice versa. Harder wheels are best for street skating, providing a more substantial grip and faster speeds. Softer wheels are better for cruising and longboarding as they provide a smoother ride and better grip on rough surfaces. Therefore, it is essential to consider the type of skating you will be doing and the terrain you will be skating on when choosing the hardness of skateboard wheels.
Style
Choosing the right skateboard wheel hardness can greatly impact a rider’s skateboarding experience. Harder wheels are more durable and last longer, but offer less grip and are better suited for smooth surfaces like skateparks. Softer wheels provide more traction and are ideal for riding rough terrain, but wear down faster. The chosen style of riding will determine which hardness is most appropriate. A skateboarder who enjoys cruising or commuting may prefer a softer wheel for a smoother ride, while a more experienced rider who performs tricks and grinds may opt for a harder wheel for better performance on rails and ledges. Therefore, considering the style of riding is important before purchasing skateboard wheel hardness.
Additionally, skateboarding is a personal sport, and skateboarders have different preferences when it comes to the feel of their equipment. Some may prefer a looser ride with more grip, while others prefer a tighter ride with less grip. Considering one’s riding style and individual preferences can help narrow down the options when it comes to choosing skateboard wheel hardness. Ultimately, the right skateboard wheel hardness will provide a comfortable and enjoyable ride, while the wrong hardness can hinder a rider’s performance and experience.
Speed
When buying skateboard wheels, speed is an important factor to consider because it affects how easily and smoothly the skateboard can go. If you plan to skate at higher speeds, harder wheels are typically the better option as they roll faster and maintain their shape and speed. On the other hand, if you primarily skate at slower speeds or on rougher terrain, softer wheels can absorb impact and provide more grip and control.
Wheel hardness, or durometer, is typically rated on a scale from 1-100A, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels. While both speed and wheel hardness are important factors when selecting skateboard wheels, it is important to consider them together to ensure that you choose the right combination for your skating style and needs.
Personal preference
When buying skateboard wheels, it’s important to consider the hardness of the wheels based on personal preference because different levels of hardness affect the ride and performance of the skateboard. Harder wheels, typically ranging from 99A to 101A, provide more speed but less grip, making them ideal for smooth surfaces and tricks that require quick speed. On the other hand, softer wheels, ranging from 78A to 90A, provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, making them ideal for cruising or commuting.
Ultimately, personal preference should be the determining factor when buying skateboard wheels as it affects the overall experience of riding the skateboard. If someone prefers to ride on smooth surfaces and prioritize speed, then harder wheels would be the optimal choice. However, if someone prioritizes a smoother, more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces, then softer wheels would be the better choice.
FAQs
What is skateboard wheel hardness and how is it determined?
Skateboard wheel hardness, also known as durometer, refers to the degree of firmness or softness of a skateboard wheel. It is determined using a durometer scale, typically ranging from 0 to 100, where higher numbers indicate harder wheels and lower numbers indicate softer wheels. The durometer of a skateboard wheel can greatly affect its performance, with harder wheels providing more speed and durability and softer wheels offering better grip and shock absorption.
To determine the durometer of a skateboard wheel, a durometer device is used to measure the wheel’s ability to resist indentation under a certain amount of pressure. This is typically done by pressing a small metal pin into the surface of the wheel and measuring how far it penetrates. The depth of the indentation is then compared to a standard chart to determine the wheel’s durometer rating. Skateboard wheel hardness is typically denoted by a number followed by the letter “A,” with higher numbers indicating harder wheels (e.g. 101A) and lower numbers indicating softer wheels (e.g. 78A).
How does wheel hardness affect the performance of a skateboard?
The hardness of the wheels affects the performance of a skateboard in several ways. Harder wheels are faster and provide more control when skating on smooth surfaces, but they are less grippy and can be difficult to control when riding on rough or uneven terrain. Softer wheels, on the other hand, are slower but offer more grip and smoothness when riding on rough surfaces, making them perfect for cruising and recreational skateboarding.
The size of the wheels is also an important factor that affects skating performance. Larger wheels roll faster and maintain momentum longer, making them perfect for long-distance or downhill skating, while smaller wheels are slower but more maneuverable, making them ideal for street and technical riding. Skaters should choose the wheel size and hardness based on their skating style, the surface they’ll be skating on, and their personal preferences.
What is the difference between softer and harder wheels on a skateboard?
When purchasing a men’s hardtail mountain bike, there are several essential features to consider. The first and foremost is the frame material. The most common materials used in hardtail mountain bikes are aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel. Aluminum is ideal for those looking for a lightweight bike, while carbon fiber provides excellent strength and durability. Steel is the heaviest but offers a more comfortable ride.
Another essential feature to consider is the type of suspension. Hardtail mountain bikes have a front suspension fork, which helps to absorb shocks and reduce vibrations on the front wheel. A good suspension fork can improve comfort, traction, and control when riding over rough terrain. It’s important to consider the travel and damping settings when choosing a suspension fork. A higher travel range is better suited for rougher terrain, while a lower travel range is better for smoother trails.
How do I choose the right wheel hardness for my skating style and surface?
Verdict
Choosing the right skateboard wheel hardness can make or break your skating experience. From cruising to vert skating, the hardness of your wheels will directly impact your performance. For the best skateboard wheel hardness, we recommend exploring the top 10 options in this article. Whether you’re an experienced skater or just starting out, finding the perfect wheel hardness can significantly improve your skills on the board. So, take the time to invest in the best skateboard wheel hardness for your needs, and enjoy a smoother, faster, and more thrilling ride every time.