If you’re planning to take your skills to the streets, then the quality of your skateboard wheels is critical. A set of good skateboard wheels can make a significant impact on your performance, speed, and the kind of surface you can skate on. Street skating requires wheels that are tougher and more durable than the smaller wheels you might use in a skatepark or on a ramp. In this article, we’ll go over the top 14 best skateboard wheels for street, helping you find the perfect set of wheels to take your skating to the next level. So, let’s dive in and discover the best skateboard wheels for street that you need to know about!
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard wheels for street, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Wheels For Street
Overview of Skateboard Wheels For Street
Skateboarding has been a popular sport for decades and is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. One of the most critical components of a skateboard is its wheels. Skateboard wheels for street come in a variety of sizes, materials, and hardness levels.
Street skateboard wheels are typically smaller in size, ranging from 49mm to 56mm in diameter, which provides more control and maneuverability. They are generally made of polyurethane, which is a durable and lightweight material that provides a high level of grip and smooth ride. The hardness level of the wheels, measured in durometer, ranges from 78a (softest) to 101a (harder) and is crucial for determining the type of terrain the wheels can be used on. Harder wheels are preferred for more advanced skateboarding tricks and more challenging terrain. Overall, selecting the right wheels for street skating can greatly enhance the performance and enjoyment of skateboarding.
Reasons for Buying Skateboard Wheels For Street
Skateboarding is a thrilling activity that requires you to have the right gears to ensure your safety and comfort. One crucial component that plays a significant role in your skateboarding experience is the wheels. Skateboard wheels for the street differ from those intended for cruising or longboarding, so if you plan to shred the streets, here are some key reasons why you should invest in them.
Better traction
Skateboard wheels are an essential part of a skateboard. They not only support the weight of the rider but also affect the overall performance of the board. Purchasing the right skateboard wheels for street can significantly improve the traction of the board.
Street skateboarding requires maximum grip as the terrain is usually rough and uneven. Skateboard wheels for street are designed with a harder durometer which contributes to better grip. Additionally, the wheels are wider, providing a larger surface area to connect with the ground, thereby increasing the contact patch and allowing for better traction. Furthermore, skateboard wheels with a smooth surface reduce the risk of slipping, which is especially important when performing tricks and maneuvers that require precision and control. In conclusion, buying skateboard wheels for street with better traction can lead to improved performance and a safer riding experience.
Durability for street riding
Skateboard wheels designed for street riding need to be durable because they will be subjected to harsh conditions such as riding on rough concrete and asphalt surfaces, slamming into curbs and rails, and grinding on ledges and stairs. The wheels need to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use and maintain their shape and performance over time.
The durability of skateboard wheels for street riding is usually determined by the quality of the materials used in their construction, such as polyurethane and core materials, as well as their hardness and size. A harder wheel will generally be more durable, but may sacrifice some grip and shock absorption. A softer wheel may provide better grip and absorb more shock, but may wear down faster on rough surfaces. Balancing these factors is crucial for achieving the optimal level of durability for street riding.
Ability to handle rough terrain
Skateboard wheels for street are designed to provide excellent handling on rough terrain. They are made of high-quality materials that have high durability and can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. These wheels are typically larger in size and have a wider contact patch, which allows them to absorb shocks and vibrations caused by rough surfaces.
In addition to their size and durability, skateboard wheels for street are also designed with a specific hardness level, or durometer, that is ideal for rough terrain. Typically, street wheels have a durometer of 90A or higher, which makes them harder than other types of skateboard wheels. This high level of hardness helps the wheels roll faster and smoother on rough surfaces, and also provides better traction and control.
Overall, purchasing skateboard wheels for street is a smart choice for anyone who regularly skates on rough terrain. These wheels are specifically designed to handle the challenges of street skating, and can provide a smoother, faster, and more comfortable ride on even the roughest surfaces.
Improved speed and control on city streets.
Skateboarding on city streets can be challenging, and skateboard wheels play a vital role in improving the overall performance and control of the skateboard on urban terrain. The skateboard wheels for street are designed to be smaller in size and harder in durometer to provide better speed and control. These wheels are optimized for urban environments and can easily maneuver through streets and alleys, allowing the rider to effortlessly navigate through obstacles such as curbs and turns.
The increased speed and control from these wheels also allow skateboarders to perform tricks and stunts that may not be possible with larger or softer wheels. Furthermore, the hardness of the wheels makes them more resistant to wear and tear on rough surfaces, making them ideal for street skating, where rough roads are the norm. Overall, having skateboard wheels specifically designed for urban terrain can enhance the skateboarding experience and provide a more enjoyable ride.
A Comprehensive Guide to Choose the Best Skateboard Wheels For Street
Picking the right skateboard wheels for the street can make a huge difference in the control and performance of your board. Factors such as size, shape, and material all play an essential role in your skating experience. Here are some key elements to keep in mind when looking for the best skateboard wheels for the street.
Durometer
Durometer is a measure of the hardness of the skateboard wheel. The durometer rating of skateboard wheels is an important factor to consider before buying skateboard wheels, especially for street skating. Typically, street skating requires wheels with a durometer rating of 99A or above. This is because soft wheels are too grippy, and can make it difficult to slide, grind and perform tricks. Harder wheels, on the other hand, provide less grip and require less effort to initiate slides and grinds, making them more suitable for street skating.
Overall, the right durometer rating for your skateboard wheels depends on your skill level, preferred skating style, and the type of terrain you skate on. If you want to get the best performance out of your skateboard, you need to get the right durometer rating for your wheels and the right combination of hardness, shape, and size to ensure that you can get the most out of your skateboard.
Size
Choosing the right size of skateboard wheels is important for a better experience while riding on the street. If you opt for larger wheels, you get a smoother ride, but the downside is it makes flip tricks difficult to execute. On the other hand, smaller wheels aid in flip-like tricks, speed in rotation, and less drag with pop, but the downside is they have a slower rate of roll.
Therefore, it is necessary to consider size while buying skateboard wheels for street cruising. If you’re going for more vertical skateboarding, then opt for the smaller wheels while for cruising on the road, bigger wheels provide a better experience. Based on your choice, you can select the best size that will deliver the ride you’re looking for. So, understanding the right size of skateboard wheels before purchasing will help you get the best riding experience.
Shape
Shape is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard wheels for street riding because it can greatly affect the way the wheels perform. The shape of the wheel can determine how fast and smoothly it rolls, how well it grips the ground, and how easily it slides. For street riding, it’s important to choose a wheel shape that provides good grip and control for tricks and maneuvers.
Additionally, the shape of the wheel can affect the size and weight of the skateboard. Wheels with a larger diameter or different shape may require larger trucks and riser pads, which can add weight and affect the overall feel of the skateboard. Therefore, considering the shape of the wheels is important to ensure that they fit properly on the skateboard and provide the desired performance for street riding.
Material
The material of skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in determining the performance of the skateboard on the street. Typically, the material used for skateboard wheels is polyurethane (PU), which is a durable and long-lasting material. However, the hardness of the PU material and its formula can vary, affecting factors such as speed, grip, and the ability to slide.
Before buying skateboard wheels for the street, it is essential to consider the material, hardness, and formula. Harder wheels are more suitable for smoother surfaces and cruising, while softer wheels absorb more vibration and provide better grip, making them ideal for rougher terrains. The formula, on the other hand, influences the wheel’s response and the resilience to wear and tear. Considering these factors ensures that you get skateboard wheels that match your preferences and the types of surfaces you will be riding on.
Brand
Before buying skateboard wheels for street, it is important to consider the brand because each brand has a unique reputation for quality, durability, and performance. Some brands may specialize in producing wheels that are suitable for street skating, while others may focus on creating wheels that are better suited for other types of skating. By doing research on various brands and their reputations within the skating community, you can better understand which brand may be best for your specific needs.
Another reason to consider the brand is that some brands may offer warranties or guarantees on their products, giving you peace of mind in the event of any defects or issues with the wheels. Additionally, some brands may be more environmentally conscious or socially responsible in their production processes, which may align with your personal values as a consumer. Overall, considering the brand before buying skateboard wheels for street is an important step in ensuring you get high-quality, durable wheels that meet your specific skating needs.
Price
Before buying skateboard wheels for street, it is important to consider price because the quality of wheels and the amount you are willing to pay are closely related. Quality wheels can last longer and perform better, but they usually come with a higher price tag. Therefore, it is important to consider your budget before making a purchase.
Additionally, price can also indicate the durability and performance of the wheels. Cheaper wheels may crack or wear out faster than higher quality wheels, which could result in the need to replace them sooner. Investing in a higher quality set of wheels may ultimately save you money in the long run, as they are likely to last longer and require less frequent replacement. Therefore, it is important to weigh the cost against the expected lifespan and performance of the wheels before making a decision.
FAQs
What is the ideal durometer for skateboard wheels intended for street riding?
The ideal durometer for skateboard wheels intended for street riding is generally between 96A and 101A. A higher durometer ensures the wheels are harder and faster, which is crucial for street skating. Street riding requires more control, stability, and speed, making harder wheels a perfect fit. Softer wheels tend to stick, which can compromise the rider’s tricks and overall performance. However, the exact ideal durometer depends on the skater’s preference and style.
How does the size of skateboard wheels affect the riding experience on the streets?
The size of skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in determining the riding experience on the streets. Bigger wheels are generally better for cruising on rough surfaces like sidewalks, roads, and pavements. This is because they allow for a smoother ride by navigating over pebbles and cracks with ease. Additionally, they can go faster and retain momentum better on longer distances due to their size and extra momentum. However, bigger wheels can make performing tricks more difficult as they weigh more, reducing the board’s overall agility.
Smaller wheels are generally better suited for performing tricks and stunts as they offer more grip and control. They are faster to accelerate and easier to control, making them perfect for tight turns, quick spins, and aerial tricks. However, smaller wheels are not as well suited to rougher terrain and can be more susceptible to chipping and becoming dented over time and constant use. Overall, choosing the right size for the wheels depends on the rider’s goals and preferences, whether cruising around town or practicing and perfecting tricks on a practice ramp.
What type of wheels are recommended for a novice skateboarder who wants to learn street tricks?
You can use almost any men’s saddle for your hybrid bike as long as it fits the seatpost diameter of your bike and you find it comfortable to ride on. However, it is important to choose a saddle that is appropriate for the type of riding you will be doing and the geometry of your bike.
For example, if you plan on doing longer rides or touring, you may want to choose a saddle with more padding and a wider design to provide more comfort for your sit bones. On the other hand, if you plan on doing more aggressive or technical riding, you may want a narrower saddle with less padding to allow for better maneuverability. Ultimately, the most important factor in choosing a saddle is finding one that fits you well and feels comfortable.
Can I replace the skateboard wheels with any brand or type, or are there specific wheels designed for street riding?
Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, a skateboard’s performance hugely depends on its wheels, especially when it comes to street skating. The best skateboard wheels for street should provide enough grip, speed, and durability. Based on our review, we can confidently say that the top 14 wheels we have listed are some of the best options in the market today. Although they have different features and prices, they all offer excellent performance and durability on the street. So whether you are a beginner or a pro, investing in the right skateboard wheels for street will definitely step up your game and make your skating experience more enjoyable.