Skateboarding is a popular pastime enjoyed by both kids and adults. If you’re an avid skateboarder, you know how crucial it is to have the right components, including the wheels. The best soft wheels for skateboards can make all the difference in your riding experience. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 9 best soft wheels for skateboards on the market, along with a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, this article is a must-read to ensure that you’re cruising in comfort and style.
Get ready for our reviews on the best soft wheels for skateboards, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Soft Wheels For Skateboards
A Brief Overview of Soft Wheels For Skateboards
Soft wheels for skateboards are becoming increasingly popular among skateboarders because of their unique properties. Unlike harder wheels, which are designed for speed and durability, soft wheels are designed for a smooth ride and better traction. They are made of a softer material that absorbs shocks and vibrations, allowing for a more comfortable ride, especially on rough surfaces.
Skateboarders who use soft wheels also enjoy better grip when turning and carving. This is because the softer material conforms to the surface of the ground and creates more surface area for the wheel to contact the ground. Soft wheels come in a variety of sizes and durometers (hardness ratings) to suit different riding styles and preferences. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skater, soft wheels are a great option for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
What are the Advantages of Buying Soft Wheels For Skateboards?
There are several compelling reasons why skateboarders may want to switch to soft wheels. Here are some of the top benefits that soft wheels can provide.
Better shock absorption
Soft Wheels For Skateboards are essential for better shock absorption as they are made from a softer material than traditional skateboard wheels. This means that they are better equipped to absorb the vibrations and impacts that occur when skating on rough terrain or over obstacles.
Without soft wheels, skateboarders may experience more jarring impacts that can lead to discomfort and even injuries over time. Soft wheels are therefore particularly important for skaters that engage in activities such as street and park skateboarding, where they need to navigate over different surfaces and perform tricks that involve jumps and landings. By providing better shock absorption, soft wheels can improve a skateboarder’s comfort and reduce the risk of injury, allowing them to skate for longer periods of time with greater confidence and control.
Smoother ride
Soft wheels for skateboards can provide a smoother ride compared to harder wheels. Because of their softer composition, soft wheels can absorb more vibrations and shocks from rough or uneven surfaces, such as cracks in the pavement or pebbles on the sidewalk. This results in less jarring and jolting through the board and into the rider’s body, allowing for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.
Additionally, softer wheels provide better grip on surfaces that are not perfectly smooth, which can also contribute to a smoother ride. When riding on rough or bumpy terrain, softer wheels can conform to the surface and maintain contact with the ground more consistently, providing better stability and control. This can make the ride feel more fluid and less choppy, further enhancing the riding experience.
Reduced noise
Soft wheels for skateboards are designed to reduce the noise that the skateboard makes as it rolls along the pavement. Hard wheels tend to produce a lot of noise as they make contact with the ground, which can be irritating to both the skater and those around them. Soft wheels are made from a more pliable material that absorbs some of the shock and vibration associated with the skateboard’s movement. This means that they make less noise as the skateboard rolls, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable ride for the skater. Soft wheels are particularly useful for skaters who frequently ride in urban environments where noise pollution is a concern. Overall, investing in soft wheels for your skateboard can make your skating experience more enjoyable for both you and those around you.
Improved grip on rough surfaces
Soft wheels for skateboards offer improved grip on rough surfaces. Rough surfaces can be found on streets, sidewalks, and skate parks, among other places. Harder wheels can slip and slide on these surfaces, causing the rider to lose control and potentially get injured. The softness of the wheels absorbs some of the shock from the rough surface, allowing the rider to maintain better control and stability. Additionally, softer wheels give the skateboarder more flexibility and allow for smoother, more fluid movements. Overall, if one is planning to ride their skateboard on rough surfaces, soft wheels are definitely the way to go.
Buyer’s Guides
When it comes to skateboarding, having the right set of wheels can significantly impact your overall experience. Soft wheels are favored for their ability to provide a smoother ride, but there are a few important factors to keep in mind when deciding which ones to invest in.
Wheel diameter
Wheel diameter is an important factor to consider when buying soft wheels for skateboards. The diameter of the wheel affects the speed, acceleration, and stability of the skateboard. A larger wheel diameter will provide higher speeds, while a smaller diameter will provide greater acceleration and maneuverability.
It is also important to consider the terrain you will be riding on. Smaller wheels are better suited for street skating and tricks, while larger wheels are better for cruising and longboarding on rough surfaces. Choosing the right wheel diameter for your specific needs can greatly enhance your overall skateboarding experience and make it more enjoyable.
Durometer
Durometer is the measurement of hardness of a material and is measured in Shore A. When buying soft wheels for skateboards, it is important to consider the durometer of the wheels as it directly affects the performance of the skateboard. Soft wheels with a low durometer provide better grip and a smoother ride, but they are also slower and less responsive. On the other hand, harder wheels with a high durometer are faster and more responsive but provide less grip and a rougher ride. Therefore, it is essential to consider the durometer to ensure that the wheels suit your skating style and preferences.
Another reason to consider durometer before buying soft wheels for skateboards is to ensure that they are suitable for the surface you will be skating on. Soft wheels with a low durometer are ideal for cruising and outdoor surfaces, while harder wheels with a high durometer are better for smooth surfaces such as skate parks and indoor rinks. Choosing the wrong durometer can result in poor performance, reduced lifespan of the wheels, and even accidents. Thus, it is vital to consider durometer before purchasing soft wheels for skateboards.
Wheel shape
The shape of the wheel is an important consideration when buying soft wheels for skateboards. Different wheel shapes are better suited for specific types of skateboarders, terrain, and tricks. For example, a rounded wheel shape is great for cruising and carving, while a square wheel shape is better for technical tricks and sliding.
It is also important to consider the durometer (hardness) of the wheel in conjunction with its shape. Soft wheels (below 92A) are usually better for cruising and carving, while harder wheels (above 92A) are better for technical tricks and sliding. Ultimately, considering the shape and durometer of soft wheels before buying will ensure that skateboarders have the best possible ride experience for their individual style and needs.
Core placement
Core placement refers to the position of the core of the skateboard wheel in relation to the rest of the wheel. The core is the part of the wheel that attaches to the axle of the skateboard. The placement of the core can affect the performance of the wheel, and therefore the overall performance of the skateboard. Soft wheels are designed for cruising and carving, but if the core is not properly placed, it can reduce stability and control, causing the rider to lose balance and potentially fall. Therefore, it’s important to consider core placement before buying soft wheels for skateboards to make sure the wheels perform well and provide a smooth riding experience.
In addition to stability and control, core placement can also affect the durability of the wheel. If the core is not properly aligned, it can cause the wheel to wear unevenly or even break prematurely. This can be especially important for riders who skate on rough terrain or perform tricks that put extra stress on the wheels. Considering core placement before buying soft wheels for skateboards can ensure that the wheels are durable enough to handle the intended use and provide a longer lifespan for the skateboard.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is an important factor to consider before buying soft wheels for skateboards because top brands typically offer high-quality products with better durability and performance. Choosing a reputable brand ensures that you are purchasing wheels made from high-quality materials that are designed to withstand wear and tear, which is important if you plan to use your skateboard regularly. Additionally, reputable brands often have a customer support team that can help you with any issues you may encounter while using their products, giving you peace of mind and ensuring that you are making a wise investment.
Another important reason to consider brand reputation is that well-known brands often have a clear and transparent manufacturing process. This can include details regarding the sourcing and manufacturing of the materials used in the wheels, as well as information about any testing that has been done to ensure their quality and safety. This information can help you make a more informed decision about the wheels you buy, ensuring that you are getting a product that meets your standards for quality and performance. Therefore, before buying soft wheels for skateboards, it is crucial to consider the brand reputation to get the best product.
Budget.
There are several reasons why we should consider a budget before buying soft wheels for skateboards. Firstly, having a budget in mind will help you avoid overspending and prevent any unnecessary financial strain. It will also help you determine the type of soft wheels that you can afford, which will play a significant role in the quality and performance of your skateboard.
Furthermore, having a budget will allow you to narrow down your options and focus on finding the best soft wheels that fit your needs within your price range. This is important because soft wheels can vary greatly in terms of size, hardness, durability, and grip. By considering your budget before making a purchase, you can ensure that you get the most out of your investment and find the perfect soft wheels for your skateboarding needs.
FAQ
What are soft wheels for skateboards?
Soft wheels for skateboards are made with softer durometer urethane than harder wheels. The durometer is the measurement of the hardness of the material. Softer wheels have a lower durometer measurement and are great for cruising, downhill and commuting. They provide a smoother ride over rough terrain, cracks, and pebbles because they absorb the shock, making it easier on your feet and legs. Soft skateboard wheels come in different sizes, most often found in 52mm to 60mm diameters and various widths.
What benefits do soft wheels provide for skateboarding?
Soft wheels provide several benefits for skateboarding. Firstly, they provide a smooth and comfortable ride as they absorb shock better than hard wheels. This is particularly useful when skating on rough or bumpy surfaces as it reduces the impact on the rider’s feet, ankles, and knees. Secondly, soft wheels offer better grip, which helps with stability and control while riding. This is especially helpful when skating on slippery or wet surfaces.
The third benefit of soft wheels is that they are quieter than harder wheels. Hard wheels tend to produce a loud noise when rolling over rough surfaces, which can be disturbing for the rider as well as other people in the vicinity. Soft wheels, on the other hand, produce less noise, making them ideal for cruising around in quiet suburban areas. Lastly, soft wheels generally have a longer lifespan than harder wheels, as they are less prone to cracking or breaking due to the impact of everyday riding.
How do I choose the right soft wheels for my skateboard?
Yes, you can use regular pedals on your hybrid bike. Hybrid bikes usually have standard pedal threads, which means you can use any standard pedals that fit the threads on your bike’s crank arms. However, if you plan to ride your hybrid bike for long distances or on rough terrain, you may want to consider upgrading to clipless pedals for added efficiency and control. These pedals require special shoes with cleats that snap into the pedal for a more secure fit and better power transfer.
Can I still perform tricks with soft wheels on my skateboard?
Final Verdict
In conclusion, finding the best soft wheels for skateboards can be a game-changer for your riding experience. With the right set of wheels, you can have better control, smoother rides, and greater versatility while skateboarding. Before making a decision, consider your personal preferences and usage needs to determine which soft wheels are the best for you. With the top 9 options listed above, you can be sure to find a great set of soft wheels for your skateboard.