If you are looking to upgrade your longboard skateboard wheels, this article is exactly what you need. The wheels of a longboard skateboard are essential for a smooth ride, improved handling, and better stability. Choosing the best longboard skateboard wheels can significantly enhance your riding experience, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best longboard skateboard wheels available in the market, along with a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the right choice. So without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best longboard skateboard wheels.
Get ready for our reviews on the best longboard skateboard wheels, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Longboard Skateboard Wheels
A Brief Overview of Longboard Skateboard Wheels
Longboard skateboard wheels are a crucial component of any rider’s setup. These wheels are typically larger and softer than those found on traditional skateboards, allowing for a smoother ride over rough terrain. Longboard wheels come in a variety of diameters, typically ranging from 60mm to 75mm and beyond. Larger wheels offer more speed and rollover ability while smaller wheels offer more control and maneuverability.
Softness is measured by a duro rating, which typically ranges from about 75a to 85a. Softer wheels provide better grip and shock absorption while harder wheels offer a faster, more slide-friendly ride. Additionally, longboard wheels can feature various shapes, such as rounded edges (for smooth turns and slides), square lips (for a more grippy ride), or chamfered edges (for better slide initiation and less resistance). Overall, longboard wheels play a crucial role in determining the ride quality and performance of a longboard setup.
What are the Advantages of Buying Longboard Skateboard Wheels?
Longboarding is an exhilarating sport that demands the right equipment to make the most of your experience. One of the most important parts of a longboard setup are the wheels, as they can significantly impact the ride quality and overall performance. Here are some reasons why investing in a good set of longboard wheels is definitely worth it.
To improve stability and control
Longboard skateboard wheels play a vital role in maintaining the stability and control of the skateboard. The larger wheels of the longboard skateboard are designed to provide a smoother and more stable ride, making it easier for the rider to maintain a stable balance on the board.
Furthermore, with larger and softer wheels, the skateboard can absorb more shock and vibration from uneven surfaces, increasing the rider’s control over the board. In other words, a longboard skateboard with larger wheels is much more stable and comfortable to ride, allowing the rider to maintain control and balance effortlessly. Therefore, buying quality longboard skateboard wheels is essential to enjoy a smooth, stable, and comfortable ride.
To increase speed and efficiency
Longboard skateboard wheels play a crucial role in providing speed and efficiency to riders. The size and shape of the wheels affect the overall performance of the skateboard. Bigger and softer wheels are known to provide better speed and efficiency as they absorb more shocks and bumps on the road, resulting in a smoother ride.
With larger wheels, more ground is covered with each push, helping riders to go faster with fewer efforts. Softer wheels also provide better grip on the surface, allowing riders to make sharp turns while maintaining their stability. So, if you want to increase speed and efficiency while riding a longboard skateboard, investing in the right set of wheels is crucial. Choosing the right size, shape, and material of wheels can help you achieve the performance boost you desire.
To enhance overall performance and ride quality
Longboard skateboard wheels play a critical role in determining the overall performance and ride quality of the longboard. They affect the speed, stability, and smoothness of the ride. Upgrading to high-quality wheels can enhance these aspects of the ride, providing a more enjoyable longboarding experience. Quality longboard wheels offer improved grip and control, allowing riders to carve deeper and take faster turns. They also offer better shock absorption, reducing the impact of bumps and cracks on the road. This makes the ride smoother and more comfortable, while also preventing accidents caused by unpredictable road conditions. Overall, investing in high-quality longboard skateboard wheels is an effective way to improve the ride performance and ride quality of a longboard.
To replace damaged or worn out wheels.
Longboard Skateboard Wheels can get damaged or worn out over time due to regular usage and exposure to various weather conditions. If the wheels are not replaced on time, they can affect the performance and safety of the longboard. Worn out wheels can cause the board to wobble or even stop unexpectedly, leading to accidents and injuries.
Replacing damaged or worn out longboard wheels is essential to maintain the smooth and safe riding experience. New wheels offer better traction, smoother ride, and improved stability, ensuring a comfortable and safe ride. Moreover, new wheels not only enhance the looks of the longboard but also improve the riding performance, making it worth investing in new wheels instead of risking safety and comfort with damaged ones.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Longboard Skateboard Wheels?
To get the most out of your longboarding experience, it is essential to choose the right set of wheels. There are several factors to consider, including size, shape, hardness, and material, that can significantly impact your ride. Here are some key features to bear in mind when picking the best longboard skateboard wheels.
Diameter
The diameter of a longboard skateboard wheel is an important factor to consider before making a purchase. This is because it affects a rider’s speed, stability, and maneuverability. Larger diameter wheels are generally faster but less maneuverable, while smaller diameter wheels are slower but more agile. Therefore, it is important to choose the right diameter that suits your riding style and preferences.
Moreover, the diameter of a longboard skateboard wheel also affects its clearance. Larger diameter wheels have higher clearance than smaller ones, making them more suitable for riding on uneven terrain and over obstacles. If you plan on riding on rough terrain or over cracks and bumps, larger diameter wheels may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you mainly ride on smooth surfaces and prioritize maneuverability over speed, smaller diameter wheels may be a better choice. Overall, considering the diameter of a longboard skateboard wheel is crucial for finding the right board that suits your needs and preferences.
Durometer
Durometer refers to the hardness of the wheel material, and it plays a crucial role in determining the riding experience and performance of the longboard skateboard. If the durometer is too high, riders will feel every bump and vibration from the road surface, making for an uncomfortable and unstable ride. On the other hand, if the durometer is too low, the wheel will wear out too quickly, compromising the overall performance and durability of the longboard skateboard.
For this reason, it is important to consider the durometer of the longboard skateboard wheels when making a purchase. Ideally, riders should select a durometer level that balances comfort and stability with performance and durability. Keeping these factors in mind can help longboard skateboard riders find the right wheels for their needs and preferences.
Contact patch
The contact patch is an essential aspect to consider before purchasing longboard skateboard wheels. The contact patch refers to the area of the wheel that comes into contact with the ground during riding. The size and shape of the contact patch will affect the traction, stability, and speed of the skateboard. A larger contact patch typically provides more grip, making it better for carving and cornering, while a smaller contact patch provides less grip, making it better for faster riding and sliding.
Considering the contact patch when buying longboard skateboard wheels can help improve the overall performance and ride experience. It’s important to choose a wheel that has a contact patch that meets your needs and riding style, whether it’s for cruising, carving, downhill racing, or sliding. Selecting the right wheel with the ideal contact patch can significantly improve your longboarding adventure.
Lip shape
The lip shape of longboard skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in determining how the wheels perform on different surfaces. There are generally two types of lip shapes – square and rounded. Wheels with a square lip shape offer better grip and stability while riding at high speeds, making them ideal for downhill longboarding. On the other hand, wheels with a rounded lip shape provide a smoother and more slide-friendly ride, making them ideal for freeriding and cruising. Therefore, before buying longboard skateboard wheels, it is essential to consider the lip shape that suits your riding style and the terrain you will be riding on.
Choosing the wrong lip shape for your wheels can lead to subpar performance and even accidents. For example, using wheels with a round lip shape on steep hills may lead to uncontrollable slides or speed wobbles. Conversely, using wheels with a square lip shape for cruising or freeriding may result in a harsh and bouncy ride. Thus, considering the lip shape of the longboard skateboard wheels before buying is essential for optimal performance and rider safety.
Material
When it comes to longboard skateboard wheels, the material plays a crucial role in determining the performance and durability of the wheels. The three main materials used for longboard skateboard wheels are urethane, polyurethane, and aluminum. Urethane is the most popular choice because it offers a good balance of grip, speed, and durability. Polyurethane is softer than urethane, providing better shock absorption, grip, and maneuverability. Aluminum wheels offer superior speed but sacrifice grip and shock absorption. Therefore, it is important to consider the material before buying longboard skateboard wheels based on the user’s needs and preferences.
Choosing the right material for your longboard skateboard wheels can improve your ride experience by enhancing speed, maneuverability, grip, and shock absorption. The material you choose will depend on the terrain you will be riding on and the style of riding you prefer. For example, if you prefer cruising and carving, softer material like polyurethane is ideal for providing better grip, maneuverability, and shock absorption. However, if you are into downhill racing, you may want to opt for harder material like aluminum for optimal speed and stability. Overall, understanding the differences between the materials will enable you to choose the best longboard skateboard wheels that complement your riding style and get the most out of your longboarding experience.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is a crucial aspect to consider before purchasing any longboard skateboard wheels. This is because reputable brands are more likely to produce high-quality products that are reliable, durable, and offer optimal performance. In contrast, lesser-known brands may produce wheels that are of inferior quality, which can negatively impact your riding experience and safety.
Furthermore, reputable brands often have a proven track record of producing longboard skateboard wheels that meet the needs and preferences of different types of riders. They invest in research and development to ensure that their wheels are designed to provide optimal traction, speed, and control. Therefore, when choosing longboard skateboard wheels, a reputable brand with a positive reputation not only ensures high-quality products but also guarantees a reliable and satisfying riding experience.
FAQ
What is the ideal wheel diameter for a longboard skateboard?
The ideal wheel diameter for a longboard skateboard varies depending on the type of riding style and terrain. For cruising and carving on flat surfaces, a wheel diameter between 65mm to 70mm is recommended. This diameter range offers a good balance of speed, stability, and maneuverability. For downhill and high-speed riding, a larger diameter wheel between 70mm to 75mm is preferable as it provides greater speed and stability. Conversely, for technical trick riding or freestyle longboarding, a smaller diameter wheel between 50mm and 60mm with a harder durometer is recommended for increased maneuverability and better control. Overall, the ideal wheel diameter for a longboard skateboard ultimately depends on the rider’s preference and intended use.
How does the durometer rating affect the performance of longboard skateboard wheels?
Durometer rating is a measure of the hardness of a material, such as the polyurethane used in longboard skateboard wheels. The durometer rating of longboard skateboard wheels affects their performance by determining their grip and slide characteristics. A lower durometer rating (softer wheels) provides better grip and traction, making them ideal for cruising and carving. On the other hand, higher durometer wheels (harder wheels) are more suitable for sliding, drifting, and performing tricks, as they are more durable and slide more easily.
In summary, a higher durometer rating on longboard skateboard wheels provides better durability, makes it easier to perform tricks and manoeuvres, and slide while lower numbers make them a good option for cruising and carving. A rider’s wheel selection depends on personal riding style and preferences.
What is the difference between a square-lipped and round-lipped longboard skateboard wheel?
XC race mountain bikes are designed specifically for cross country racing, with a focus on speed, agility, and efficiency. They feature lightweight frames, narrow tires for low rolling resistance, and suspension systems optimized for fast and smooth riding on hard-packed trails. XC race bikes typically have steeper geometry than other types of mountain bikes, which allows for more efficient pedaling and improved handling at high speeds.
In contrast, other types of mountain bikes, such as trail, all-mountain, and downhill bikes, are designed for different types of riding and terrain. They typically feature wider, more aggressive tires, longer suspension travel, and more relaxed geometry that is better suited to technical descents and challenging terrain. These types of bikes are generally heavier and less efficient than XC race bikes, but offer improved handling and control in rough terrain.
Can longboard skateboard wheels be used on regular or short skateboards?
Conclusion
After experiencing the best longboard skateboard wheels out there, it is safe to say that a great set of wheels can make all the difference in your ride. From providing a smoother ride to being durable on rough surfaces, each set of wheels has its own unique features that cater to different preferences.
Whether you are a beginner or a pro, finding the best longboard skateboard wheels is crucial for an optimal skating experience. The wheels on this list offer a range of sizes, shapes, and materials, ensuring that there is something for everyone. So, invest in a great set of longboard skateboard wheels, and watch your skating abilities soar!