Skateboarding is a thrilling and challenging sport that requires the right equipment to enhance your performance. One of the most important components of a skateboard are the wheels, as they have a significant impact on the speed, balance, and maneuverability of the board. If you’re a seasoned skateboarder or a beginner looking to upgrade your wheels, you’ll want to make sure you invest in the best hard skateboard wheels for your needs. In this article, we’ll review the top 12 best hard skateboard wheels available on the market, and provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Get ready for our reviews on the best hard skateboard wheels, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Hard Skateboard Wheels
Hard Skateboard Wheels: A Simplified Overview
Hard skateboard wheels are known for their durability and high-speed performance. These wheels typically have a durometer rating of 95A or higher, which means that they are quite hard and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Hard wheels also offer better speed and control on smooth surfaces, making them ideal for cruising and riding over long distances.
Due to their hard nature, these wheels are not recommended for skateboarding on rough or uneven surfaces as they tend to bounce and can cause accidents. Additionally, they also create a lot of noise while riding, which can be a concern for some riders. Regardless, hard skateboard wheels are a popular choice among experienced skateboarders who prioritize speed, control, and durability in their gear.
Why Do You Need to Buy Hard Skateboard Wheels?
There are numerous benefits to opting for hard skateboard wheels that go beyond their durability and resistance to wear and tear. These wheels can enhance your overall skating experience and help you perform tricks with greater ease and precision. Here are some of the key reasons why you might want to invest in a set of hard wheels for your skateboard.
Durability
Hard skateboard wheels are made of a durable material that can withstand the wear and tear of skating on rough surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. The hardness of the wheels provides a longer lifespan, making them an ideal choice for skaters who value durability and want to save money in the long run.
In addition to their longer lifespan, hard skateboard wheels are also less likely to deform or chip compared to softer wheels. This means that they can be used for more aggressive skating and tricks without breaking or becoming misshapen. Ultimately, the durability of hard skateboard wheels provides skaters with a reliable and low-maintenance option for their skating needs.
Stability
When it comes to skateboarding, stability is crucial for maintaining balance and control. Hard skateboard wheels offer an advantage in terms of stability due to their durability and solid structure. They provide better control over rough and uneven surfaces, which can be particularly important when performing tricks or maneuvers.
In addition, hard skateboard wheels tend to have a smaller contact patch with the ground compared to softer wheels, which means that they create less friction and resistance while rolling. This allows for smoother, faster rides, as well as improved maneuverability and agility. Overall, choosing hard skateboard wheels can make a significant difference in your skating experience, particularly if you prioritize stability and control while riding.
Faster speeds
Hard skateboard wheels are essential for faster speeds when skating. Soft wheels will require more effort to push and will not allow for a fast acceleration. Hard wheels have a smaller surface area which allows for less friction, allowing the skateboarder to skate at a higher speed.
When skating on rough terrain, soft wheels may cushion the ride, but they will also decrease your speed. In contrast, hard wheels will transfer more of the energy from pushing to forward momentum, leading to higher speeds. Moreover, hard wheels are more durable and do not suffer from flat spots, which can slow down your ride. For these reasons, if you’re looking to achieve faster speeds when skateboarding, hard wheels are a must-have.
Better for rough surfaces
Hard Skateboard Wheels are made from harder materials like polyurethane with a durometer rating of 95A and above. These wheels are ideal for rough surfaces because they can withstand the impact and abrasion that comes with riding on rough terrains, like cracked pavements or uneven surfaces. Hard wheels roll faster and smoother on these surfaces, whereas softer wheels tend to slow you down and even get damaged more easily.
The smaller and harder a wheel is, the less it is going to compress, which results in a faster roll, more stability, and better control on rough surfaces. Riders who often skate on streets prefer hard wheels as they offer more speed and stability for tricks like slides and grinds. Moreover, hard wheels provide more control over the skateboard, allowing you to carve tightly and make sharp turns with ease. In summary, Hard Skateboard Wheels perform better on rough surfaces due to their durability, speed, and stability.
A Comprehensive Guide to Choose the Best Hard Skateboard Wheels
Picking appropriate skateboard wheels are crucial for optimum performance. To achieve an enjoyable and comfy ride, there are some key factors that one should consider while selecting the right hard skateboard wheels.
Size
Choosing the right size of hard skateboard wheels is crucial in ensuring the best riding experience. Smaller wheels, usually around 50-53mm in diameter, are better suited for technical skating and street use as they provide faster acceleration and better steering control. Larger wheels, on the other hand, are ideal for cruising and transportation as they offer higher speed and smoother rides, typically ranging from 54-60mm in diameter. Riders also need to consider the hardness level of the wheels, as harder wheels are more durable and slide easily, while softer wheels have better grip and are suitable for riding on rough surfaces. By considering the size of the hard skateboard wheels, riders can choose the best options for their style of skating and terrain preferences, resulting in a safer, more comfortable, and overall more enjoyable ride.
Durometer (hardness)
Durometer is a measure of the hardness of skateboard wheels. It measures the resistance of the wheel to indentation and compression. The higher the durometer rating, the harder the wheel. Skateboarders need to consider the durometer of the wheels before buying them as it affects the performance and, most importantly, the grip of the wheels.
If you’re a beginner skateboarder, you might prefer softer wheels as they offer more grip and make it easier to control the board. Harder wheels, on the other hand, are ideal for advanced skateboarders who want to perform tricks like slides and grinds. The hardness of the wheel also affects the ride quality and speed of the skateboard. Hard wheels roll faster and are more durable, but can feel less comfortable on rough surfaces. Therefore, it is essential to consider the durometer rating before buying hard skateboard wheels to get the desired performance and grip.
Shape
Skateboard wheels come in a variety of shapes, and the shape you choose can affect your riding experience. Hard wheels, in particular, are typically flatter and have less rounded edges than softer wheels. This can make them better for cruising around and doing tricks on smooth surfaces, but they may not be as effective on rougher terrain.
Therefore, before buying hard skateboard wheels, it’s important to consider the shape. If you plan on primarily using your skateboard for tricks and cruising around on smooth surfaces, a flatter shape may be ideal. However, if you plan on using your skateboard on rougher terrain, you may want a wheel with a more rounded shape for better traction and control.
Contact patch
The contact patch is the part of the wheel that comes in contact with the ground and plays a crucial role in determining how the skateboard will perform. Factors like traction, speed, and smoothness of ride are directly affected by the contact patch. For example, a larger contact patch will provide more grip and stability, whereas a smaller patch will be better for slides and tricks. It is essential to choose the right contact patch size based on your skating style, terrain, and personal preference.
Buying skateboard wheels based solely on their hardness can be misleading, as the contact patch is equally important to consider. A harder wheel may provide more speed, but if the contact patch is too small, it can compromise the rider’s control and stability over the board. Therefore, it’s essential to examine the size and shape of the contact patch when choosing the right hardness level for your skateboard wheels. By considering the contact patch, you can ensure that your skateboard wheels will provide the best possible performance, suited to your needs and preferences.
Material
Choosing the right material for your skateboard wheels is important for a few reasons. First, different materials offer different levels of durability. So if you’re someone who skates often or does a lot of tricks, you’ll want to choose a harder material that can withstand wear and tear. On the other hand, if you’re just cruising around town, a softer material may be more appropriate for a smoother ride.
Secondly, the material you choose can affect the grip and speed of your skateboard. Softer wheels have more grip, making them ideal for tricks that require quick changes in direction or for skating on rougher surfaces. Harder wheels, on the other hand, offer less grip but greater speed, making them ideal for cruising or racing. Overall, it’s important to consider the material of your skateboard wheels carefully to ensure that you have the best possible skating experience.
Brand reputation.
Brand reputation is important when considering buying hard skateboard wheels because it can affect the overall quality of the product. A reputable brand will have a history of producing high-quality and durable wheels, whereas a lesser-known brand may produce wheels that are prone to wear and tear. Additionally, a reputable brand often has a strong customer support system in place, allowing for easier and more reliable returns or exchanges if necessary.
Furthermore, brand reputation can also impact the safety of the rider. Hard skateboard wheels are an important component of a skateboard as they provide the necessary grip and support for tricks and maneuvers. A reputable brand will likely use high-quality materials and rigorous testing processes to ensure the wheels are safe and reliable, while a lesser-known brand may cut corners and use subpar materials that may compromise the safety of the rider. Ultimately, investing in hard skateboard wheels from a reputable brand can provide peace of mind and a more enjoyable skating experience.
FAQ
What is the ideal hardness for hard skateboard wheels?
The ideal hardness of skateboard wheels depends on the type of surface one will be skating on. For street or park skating, a wheel with a hardness of 99-101a would be ideal. This type of hardness provides a balance between grip and slide, making it easier to perform tricks and maneuvers.
On the other hand, for cruising or commuting on rough surfaces, a softer wheel with a hardness of around 78-87a would be better as it provides more shock absorption and a smoother ride. Therefore, the ideal hardness for hard skateboard wheels primarily depends on the intended use and the types of surfaces one will be skating on.
Can hard skateboard wheels make it difficult to execute certain tricks?
Yes, hard skateboard wheels can make it difficult to execute certain tricks because they provide less grip and absorb less shock. When performing tricks that require precise control and balance, such as manuals or grinds, softer wheels are better suited because they provide better traction and absorb more impact. Hard wheels are better for skating on smooth surfaces such as skateparks or ramps, but for street-skating, where rough surfaces and obstacles are more common, softer wheels are preferred. Additionally, hard wheels tend to slide more making it difficult to execute certain tricks such as powerslides since they need more traction to complete.
Are hard skateboard wheels more durable than softer ones?
When selecting a full suspension mountain bike, there are several features to consider. Firstly, the frame material is a crucial element to evaluate, as it determines the bike’s durability and weight. Carbon fibre and aluminium are the most popular options, with the former providing a smoother ride and better shock absorption. Secondly, the suspension system determines how smoothly the bike will handle rough terrain. Look for forks and shocks that have adjustable travel, compression, and rebound settings, allowing you to fine-tune the ride to suit your preferences. Additionally, disc brakes provide superior stopping power and are ideal for wet and muddy conditions. Finally, pay attention to the wheel size, as they impact the bike’s manoeuvrability and stability. Smaller wheels are more nimble, while larger wheels offer better traction and roll-over capabilities.
In conclusion, when choosing a full suspension mountain bike, look for a well-built frame and adjustable suspension setup, high-quality brakes, and appropriate wheel size to suit your needs. Keep in mind the type of riding you will be doing, the terrain you will be tackling, and your skill level when making your decision.
Are hard skateboard wheels suitable for all types of surfaces, or are they better suited for certain ones?
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best hard skateboard wheels for your ride is crucial if you want speed, control, and stability. Our top 12 picks have proven to be the best options on the market, with their durability, resistance to flat spots, and smooth rides. Whether you’re a beginner or pro skater, choosing the right wheels will undoubtedly enhance your overall skating experience. Therefore, we strongly recommend investing in the best hard skateboard wheels that suit your riding style and preferences for longevity, speed, and control on any surface.