Skateboarding is not just a sport but a way of life for many enthusiasts. It is essential to equip your skateboard with the right wheels, especially if you’re a street skater. The wheels have a significant impact on the performance and experience. In this article, we have researched and compiled a list of the top 10 best street wheels for skateboards. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you will find the perfect wheel for your style and preference in our comprehensive guide. So, let’s dive in and explore the best street wheels for skateboards on the market.
Get ready for our reviews on the best street wheels for skateboards, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Street Wheels For Skateboards
Street Wheels For Skateboards: A Quick Overview
Street wheels for skateboards are specially designed to deliver excellent performance on the concrete and asphalt surfaces of the streets. They are fundamentally different from traditional longboard wheels that are meant for cruising on smooth surfaces. Street wheels provide a stable and smooth ride in urban environments with rougher, older, and more irregular asphalt. These wheels feature a harder durometer, which makes them more durable and resistant to wear and tear, resulting in a longer lifespan. They come in different sizes and shapes, allowing skateboarders to customize their ride based on their preferences and skating style.
Skateboards equipped with street wheels provide better traction, allowing riders to maneuver with precision and control. Street wheels are made of polyurethane, a strong and resilient material that can withstand the impact of sliding and grinding on curbs, rails, and other street obstacles. Some of the popular brands of street wheels are Spitfire, Bones, Ricta, and OJ Wheels. These wheels are essential for skateboarders who want to excel in street skating and perform tricks on the various obstacles that are found in urban environments.
Reasons for Buying Street Wheels For Skateboards
There are several compelling reasons why skateboarders should consider investing in street wheels. These wheels can enhance both the performance and appearance of your skateboard while also providing a more comfortable riding experience. Here are some of the main benefits of upgrading to street wheels.
Better traction
Street wheels for skateboards are specifically designed for skating on rough surfaces like asphalt and concrete. They have a much harder durometer (measurement of hardness) than traditional skateboard wheels, which makes them more durable and less prone to wear and tear. The increased rigidity of the wheels also allows for better traction, particularly on slick or uneven surfaces.
With improved traction, you can skate faster and with more control, even on rough terrain. This is especially beneficial for street skaters, who often encounter obstacles like cracks, bumps, and curbs that can cause them to lose control or fall. Additionally, a good set of street wheels will give you the confidence to try more technical tricks and maneuvers that require precision and control.
In summary, buying street wheels for skateboards can help you improve your overall skating performance, particularly on rough surfaces. With better traction, you’ll be able to skate faster, more confidently, and with greater control, allowing you to push yourself to new limits and achieve greater success in your skating endeavors.
Improved performance
Skateboarding is one of the popular extreme sports, and skateboard enthusiasts are always trying to improve their performance. The performance of a skateboard depends on several factors, and street wheels for skateboards play a significant role in determining the performance of a skateboard.
Street wheels are designed to provide better grip, speed, and control on smooth surfaces like concrete and asphalt. With the right set of street wheels, skateboarders can increase their speed and perform advanced tricks with ease. The wheels’ size, shape, and hardness also play a crucial role in determining the performance of a skateboard. The smaller and harder wheels provide faster speed, whereas larger and softer wheels offer better grip and control.
Overall, investing in street wheels for skateboards is an excellent way to improve the performance of a skateboard and enhance the riding experience. It is important to choose the right set of wheels based on personal preferences and the type of riding style to get the most out of it.
Durability for long-term use
When it comes to skateboarding, the wheels are one of the most important components. They determine how well your skateboard handles on various surfaces and how fast you can go. Street Wheels For Skateboards are designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, making them a great option for anyone who wants a durable set of wheels.
These wheels are made from high-quality materials that can withstand constant use and abuse. They are engineered to maintain their shape, even after prolonged use, so you can enjoy a comfortable and smooth ride every time. If you want to get the most out of your skateboard and enjoy long-term use from your equipment, investing in a set of durable Street Wheels For Skateboards is a smart choice.
Safe and reliable operation
When it comes to skateboarding, safety is of utmost importance. The wheels on a skateboard play a critical role in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Street wheels for skateboards are designed specifically for use on pavement and concrete, offering better grip and control for the rider.
When using regular wheels on rough surfaces, there is a risk of the wheels bouncing or slipping, causing the rider to lose balance and potentially fall. This can result in serious injuries and damage to the skateboard. Street wheels have a specific hardness and size that allows for a more stable and predictable ride on urban terrain.
In addition, the durability of street wheels ensures reliable operation over time. They are specifically designed to withstand wear and tear from continuous use on pavement and concrete, giving riders confidence in their skateboard’s performance. Overall, investing in street wheels for skateboards is a smart choice for those looking for a safer, smoother, and more reliable ride.
Buyer’s Guides
There are a few important factors to keep in mind when looking for the perfect set of street wheels for your skateboard.
Size
The size of the street wheels is an important factor to consider before buying them for skateboards. The size determines the contact the wheels will have with the surface, which ultimately affects the ride quality. Bigger wheels tend to be faster and more stable, but they may be heavier and harder to maneuver. On the other hand, smaller wheels provide more agility and easier maneuverability but are slower and less stable. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider the riding style and the type of surface where the skateboard will be used, before deciding on the wheel size.
Furthermore, the size of the street wheels affects the clearance between the board and the ground. Bigger wheels will raise the board, which may cause it to hit obstacles, and smaller wheels may grind or scrape on uneven surfaces. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the proper size of wheels according to the type of terrain, style of riding, and personal preference. Overall, understanding the role of wheel size in the skateboard setup is essential to ensure the best performance and ride experience.
Durometer
Durometer is a measurement unit used to determine the hardness of a skateboard wheel. It is important to consider durometer before buying street wheels as it affects the performance and durability of the wheels. Wheels with a high durometer rating are harder and more durable, which is suitable for rough surfaces and high speeds. In contrast, softer wheels with a low durometer rating are better for cruising, carving, and absorbing shocks.
If you are looking to buy street wheels for skateboards, it is crucial to consider the surface where you plan to skate, your skating style, and personal preferences. Choosing the right durometer can make skating more enjoyable and safer as it affects your grip and speed on the surface. A higher durometer rating is suitable for smoother surfaces, while lower durometer rating works better for rougher terrain. Therefore, understanding durometer can be helpful in choosing the optimal street wheels for your skateboard.
Shape
Choosing the right shape for your skateboard wheels is essential as it has a direct impact on the performance and comfort of your ride. The shape of the wheels will also determine the type of terrain they are best suited for. For instance, smaller and harder wheels with a round shape are ideal for smooth and level surfaces like skate parks. On the other hand, larger and softer wheels with a square or rectangular shape are better suited for cruising around on rough streets and sidewalks.
Moreover, the shape of the wheels also affects their grip and stability. Square-shaped wheels with a wider contact patch offer more stability and grip compared to round-shaped wheels. Additionally, different shapes of wheels have different levels of speed and acceleration, making them suitable for specific types of riding styles. Hence, considering the shape of the wheels is crucial to ensure you get the right wheels for your desired skating experience.
Core placement
Core placement refers to the position of the hub or core of the skateboard wheel. This placement can affect the performance and durability of the wheel. It is important to consider core placement before buying street wheels because it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the skateboard.
If the core is closer to the center of the wheel, the wheel will have better grip and control but may sacrifice speed and slide ability. If the core is placed closer to the outer edge of the wheel, the wheel will be faster and better suited for slides but may have less grip. By considering core placement, the skateboarder can choose a wheel that is best suited for their specific needs and preferences on the street.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is an important consideration when choosing street wheels for skateboards. A reputable brand offers the assurance of high-quality materials and construction, ensuring that the wheels are durable and capable of withstanding the stress and impact of street skating. A reputable brand is also more likely to have a wider range of products, sizes, and shapes, allowing the rider to find the perfect fit for their needs and style. Additionally, a reputable brand is more likely to have a professional team of riders who have tested and provided feedback on the products, resulting in better performance and functionality.
Choosing a well-known and trusted brand can also have an impact on the overall experience of skateboarding. A poorly made or unreliable set of wheels can negatively impact performance and safety, making the riding experience frustrating and potentially dangerous. By investing in a reputable brand, riders can feel confident in their equipment and focus on improving their skills and enjoying the sport of skateboarding to its fullest extent. Ultimately, the reputation of a brand is an important factor to consider when choosing street wheels for skateboards to ensure quality, performance, and overall satisfaction.
Price
Price is an important factor to consider before buying street wheels for skateboards because it can affect the quality of the product and ultimately your skating experience. Cheaper wheels are usually made from lower quality materials, which can lead to a shorter lifespan, reduced performance, and lower overall satisfaction. On the other hand, more expensive wheels are typically made from higher quality materials and can provide a smoother ride with improved speed, grip, and durability.
Furthermore, purchasing street wheels within your budget ensures that you are getting a good value for your money. It’s essential to find the sweet spot between price and quality, where you are getting the best possible product for your budget. Doing some research and comparison shopping can help you find the right balance and ultimately make a more informed purchase that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are street wheels for skateboards and how are they different from other types of wheels?
Street wheels for skateboards are specially designed wheels that allow skaters to perform tricks and maneuver around obstacles with ease. They are typically small in size and have a hard durometer, which means they are less likely to bounce or slide when performing tricks. This hardness also allows for better grip on smooth surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
Compared to other types of wheels, such as longboard or cruiser wheels, street wheels are smaller and have a more rounded shape. Additionally, they have a lower profile and are narrower, which allows for more precise control when landing tricks. Overall, street wheels are critical for skateboarders looking to perform tricks and navigate urban environments with ease.
What is the recommended size and durometer for street wheels and how do they impact performance?
The recommended size for street wheels is usually between 50mm and 54mm in diameter. Smaller wheels provide better acceleration and faster tricks, while larger wheels offer a smoother ride and better control on rough surfaces. The durometer, or hardness, of the wheels also affects performance. Softer wheels (around 78A-87A) provide better grip and are more forgiving on rough terrain, but they wear out faster and do not slide as easily. Harder wheels (around 90A-101A) are more durable and slide more easily, but provide less grip and can feel harsh on rough surfaces. Ultimately, the choice of wheel size and durometer depends on personal preference and the type of terrain the skater will be riding on.
Are street wheels suitable for all types of terrain or are they specifically designed for certain surfaces?
Yes, electric gravel bikes are designed to handle both rough terrain and paved roads. They have wider and knobbier tires than traditional road bikes, which provide better grip and control on uneven surfaces. Additionally, most of these bikes come with suspension systems that absorb shocks and reduce the jarring effect of rough terrain on the rider. This makes them ideal for off-road adventures and gravel trails.
At the same time, electric gravel bikes are also well-suited for paved roads, which provide a smoother and faster ride. They have a comfortable and upright riding position, which makes them easy to handle even on long rides. Plus, their electric assist feature can help riders pedal effortlessly on flat or uphill roads, without getting tired too quickly. Overall, electric gravel bikes offer a versatile and enjoyable riding experience on both rough terrain and paved roads.
What are the best street wheel brands in the market and how do they compare in terms of quality and price?
Final Verdict
In conclusion, finding the best street wheels for your skateboard is crucial for delivering a smooth and fast ride. With so many options available in the market, it’s important to consider factors like diameter, durometer, and shape before making a purchase. Our list of the top 10 best street wheels for skateboards has something for every skating style and preference, whether you prefer speed, control, or both. Invest in the right set of wheels and take your skating experience to new heights.