Skateboarding is not just a sport, it’s a lifestyle. For skateboarders, the skateboard is not just a tool to ride on, but an extension of their personality and expression. Skateboard wheels play an essential role in how riders experience the board. Choosing the right skate wheel can make a significant impact on the rider’s overall performance, control, and style.
If you are new to skateboarding or an experienced rider, selecting the right skateboard wheels can be an overwhelming task. With so many options available in the market, it’s tough to make a perfect decision. This comprehensive guide will help you choose the right skateboard wheels for your needs based on your riding style, preference, and terrain. It will also teach you about the essential wheel features and technical terms that you need to know before making a purchase.
Skateboard Wheel Size: Understanding the Basics
Choosing the right skateboard wheels is critical to your performance and enjoyment while riding. There are many factors that contribute to the decision-making process, and one of the most important is wheel size. Understanding the basics of wheel size is an essential first step.
Skateboard wheels come in a range of sizes to accommodate different types of skating. The most common sizes are between 50mm and 60mm in diameter. Smaller wheels are lighter and offer more control and speed, making them ideal for street skating. Larger wheels, on the other hand, are heavier and provide more stability, making them better for cruising and vert skating. It all comes down to your personal preferences and skating style. Consider the various factors, including skating terrain, tricks, and your skill level, when selecting the right size for your skateboard wheels.
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Different Skateboard Wheel Formulas and Their Benefits
When it comes to skateboard wheels, the type of formula used to make them can have a big impact on their performance. The three main formulas used for skateboard wheels are urethane, polyurethane, and ceramic. Each has its own unique properties and benefits.
Urethane wheels are the most popular type of formula used by skateboarders. They are suitable for all types of skating and come in a range of hardness levels. Polyurethane wheels are more durable than urethane and are ideal for street skaters who tend to grind on rough surfaces. Ceramic wheels are the most expensive and have superior speed and durability, making them ideal for pro skaters who need the best performance. Understanding the different formulas available can help you choose the perfect wheels for your skating style and needs.
The Best Skateboard Wheels for Street Skating
When it comes to street skating, you’ll want a skateboard wheel that’s durable, fast and responsive. This is because the terrain you’ll be encountering will be rougher and more unpredictable than in a skate park. A smaller-sized wheel will give you more control and the ability to perform tricks more easily. For this reason, street skateboard wheels generally range between 50-54mm in size.
Another important factor to consider when selecting street skateboard wheels is their hardness or durometer. You’ll typically want a set of wheels with a hardness between 95A-101A, as they offer the best blend of speed, grip, and slide. Keep in mind that the harder the wheel, the faster it will roll and the less grip it will provide. Furthermore, you’ll want to consider the shape of the wheel as it can also affect performance. A round or conical shape is ideal for street skateboarding as it offers more surface area contact with the ground, providing better grip and stability. By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best skateboard wheels that will help you excel at street skating.
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The Best Skateboard Wheels for Vert and Park Skating
When it comes to vert and park skating, you need skateboard wheels that can offer speed, control and stability. The most important factor in choosing wheels for this style of skating is their size and hardness. Typically, you’d want to go for wheels that are between 50-60mm in diameter with a hardness rating of around 96A-101A.
Another key thing to keep in mind is the shape of the wheels. Vert and park skaters usually prefer wheels with a wider contact patch, as it provides a bigger surface area and greater stability when landing, especially when doing aerial tricks. Look for wheels with a rounded edge, which helps with turning on the transition and coping. With the right combination of size, hardness, and shape, you can find skateboard wheels that are perfect for vert and park skating.
Skateboard Bearings: Why They Matter and How to Choose the Right Ones
Skateboard bearings are an essential part of your skateboard and can greatly impact your riding experience. They connect the skateboard wheels to the axle and make them spin smoothly and efficiently. Choosing the right bearings is crucial as different bearings have varying performance levels and durability.
The most common bearings are the ABEC-rated bearings, which range from ABEC-1 to ABEC-9. The higher the rating, the more precise and efficient the bearings are. However, skateboarders often prefer lower ABEC-rated bearings as they tend to be more durable and can handle the wear and tear of street-style skating. Ceramic bearings are also an option, which are more expensive but provide greater durability and speed. Ultimately, it’s essential to choose bearings that match your skating style and budget while ensuring you select quality bearings that’ll endure the pressure.
Common Skateboard Wheel Materials and Their Durability
When shopping for skateboard wheels, it’s important to understand the different materials available and their durability. The two main materials used for skateboard wheels are polyurethane and urethane. Polyurethane is more affordable but tends to wear out quicker and not perform as well on rough surfaces. Urethane, on the other hand, is more expensive but provides better performance and durability on rough surfaces.
Another option for skateboard wheels is ceramic. Ceramic wheels are the most durable and provide the best performance on almost any surface. However, they are also the most expensive option. It’s important to consider your budget and the type of skating you will be doing when choosing between these different materials. Remember that a higher price doesn’t always mean better performance, and it’s important to find a balance between affordability and durability.
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Tricks for Maintaining and Replacing Your Skateboard Wheels
Tricks for Maintaining and Replacing Your Skateboard Wheels:
Maintaining your skateboard wheels is essential for optimum performance and longevity. You should periodically clean your wheels to remove any debris, dirt, and dust that may have accumulated from your ride. Use a soft, dry cloth or a brush to wipe the wheels and bearings clean. Regularly check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or flat spots, and replace them immediately to avoid any safety risks on the road.
When replacing your skateboard wheels, remember to match the size, hardness, and shape to the type of skating style you will be doing. Always purchase a complete set of wheels to ensure consistency in your ride. You can easily replace them using a skateboard tool or a wrench. Finally, after installing new wheels, take some time to break them in before trying any tricks. With proper maintenance and replacement, your skateboard wheels can help you enjoy a smoother, faster, and more exciting ride for a longer time.
Final Thoughts
In choosing the right skateboard wheels, there are several important factors to consider such as the size, hardness, shape, and material. It’s essential to understand that different wheels offer different benefits, and no one size fits all. The size and durometer of the wheels largely depend on the type of terrain you will be skating on and the type of tricks you’ll be performing. If you prefer street skating and technical tricks, smaller and harder wheels are ideal. On the other hand, bigger and softer wheels are best for cruising and longboarding.
Therefore, before making a purchase, take the time to research the different wheels available and consult with experts on skate wheels to offer the best advice. Try different wheels and test them out to see what works best for you. Remember that the more you understand your ride, the better equipped you’ll be to make the right buying decisions. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, choosing the perfect skateboard wheels is vital to ensure a great ride and an awesome skating experience.