Skateboarding is an exciting and thrilling sport that requires the right gear to perform to the best of your abilities. One such vital component of any skateboard is its wheels. Without good wheels, your board won’t ride smoothly on rough surfaces, and it may even be challenging to perform tricks. That is why we have compiled a list of the top 10 best wheels for skateboarding. Whether you’re an experienced skateboarder or just starting, our reviews and buying guide will help you choose the best wheels for your skateboard, ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
Get ready for our reviews on the best wheels for skateboarding, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Wheels For Skateboarding
Wheels For Skateboarding: A Simplified Overview
Wheels are an essential part of skateboarding. They allow skaters to smoothly move around on different surfaces and perform tricks. Skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane, which is a durable and flexible material that is ideal for absorbing shocks and vibrations while rolling.
There are different sizes and shapes of skateboard wheels available in the market, each designed for a specific purpose. For instance, smaller wheels with a diameter of 55mm to 60mm are suitable for technical skating while larger wheels with a diameter of 60mm to 75mm are better for cruising and longboarding. So, choosing the right size and shape of wheels is crucial for a smooth and comfortable ride while skateboarding.
Why Do You Need to Buy Wheels For Skateboarding?
Skateboarding is a thrilling and exciting sport that requires a good set of wheels to perform tricks and ride smoothly. There are many reasons why investing in a quality set of wheels can enhance your skating experience and take your skills to the next level. Here are some key reasons to consider buying wheels for skateboarding.
Enhanced maneuverability
Wheels are an essential component of a skateboard, and they play a crucial role in enhancing the rider’s maneuverability. Wheels for skateboarding are available in different sizes, shapes, and durometers, depending on the rider’s preference and the type of terrain they ride on.
The size of the wheels is directly proportional to the rider’s ability to maneuver the skateboard. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are suitable for technical tricks like flip tricks and slides, while larger wheels (55-60mm) are better for cruising and transportation. The shape of the wheels also affects maneuverability; conical-shaped wheels offer better grip and control, while round wheels offer a smoother ride.
Moreover, durometer, which is the measure of the wheels’ hardness, affects maneuverability. Softer wheels (78a-87a) offer better grip, which is suitable for cruising or carving, while harder wheels (90a-101a) offer less grip but higher speed and slide better, which is suitable for trick riding.
Therefore, choosing the right wheels for skateboarding is crucial in enhancing maneuverability, and it is essential to consider the terrain, type of riding, and personal preference before making a purchase.
Improved control
The wheels on a skateboard are essential for maintaining control while riding. With the right set of wheels, a skateboarder can experience improved grip and maneuverability, making it easier to perform tricks and navigate through obstacles. The size and material of the wheels can also affect the level of control a skateboarder has on different surfaces. For example, larger, softer wheels may provide better traction on rough terrain while smaller, harder wheels may be better suited for tricks on smooth surfaces. Upgrading to higher quality wheels can also lead to a smoother, more comfortable ride, reducing the risk of slipping or losing control. Overall, investing in high-quality wheels for skateboarding can significantly improve a rider’s control and overall experience.
Smoother riding experience
Skateboarding is all about the ride, and as such, having the right wheels is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience. When the wheels on a skateboard are worn or damaged, it can make the ride rough and uncomfortable, making it difficult to perform tricks and stunts.
By investing in new wheels for skateboarding, riders can enjoy a smoother ride and greater control over their board. Good quality wheels are designed to absorb shock and reduce vibration, helping to minimize the impact of bumps and cracks in the pavement. This not only enhances the overall comfort of the ride but also makes it easier to perform tricks, jumps, and slides. So if you want to enhance your skating experience and take your skills to the next level, investing in new wheels for skateboarding is a wise choice.
Better traction on different surfaces
Skateboarding wheels are an essential component that not only support the skateboard but also enhance its performance. Traction is one of the key aspects of skateboarding, and wheels play a crucial role in improving it. Wheels with better traction and grip allow skateboarders to have more control over their boards, especially while doing tricks and stunts.
The choice of wheels affects the skateboard’s ability to grip the surface, and this is vital for a smooth and safe ride, especially on different surfaces. If you are using old or worn-out wheels, you may experience wheel slippage and less control, which can lead to accidents. By purchasing wheels suitable for your skateboard and the surface you are skating on, you can enjoy a better grip, better traction, and better stability, making for a more comfortable ride. Hence, buying wheels for skateboarding is often necessary, especially when your existing wheels cannot provide the required traction on various surfaces.
Guide to Choose the Best Wheels For Skateboarding
Skateboarding requires a set of reliable wheels that can withstand constant wear and tear. Choosing the right wheels can make all the difference when it comes to performance and control on the board. Here are some key factors to keep in mind before making your purchase.
Size and diameter of wheels
When purchasing wheels for skateboarding, size and diameter are important factors to consider. The size of the wheel can affect the speed and stability of the skateboard while riding. Generally, larger wheels are faster and smoother on rough surfaces, and smaller wheels are better for technical tricks and maneuvers.
Diameter is another crucial factor to determine when picking the right wheels for skateboarding. A smaller diameter wheel is more responsive and better for technical tricks like flip tricks. Meanwhile, a larger diameter wheel offers more stability and is better for cruising, commuting, and longboarding. It is important to choose the right size and diameter for your wheel to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
Durometer (hardness) of wheels
Durometer, or hardness, is a key factor to consider when buying wheels for skateboarding. The hardness of the wheels determines how well they will grip the surface, how fast they will wear down, and how well they will absorb shocks and vibrations from the road. Harder wheels have a higher durometer rating and are ideal for smooth surfaces and high speeds. Softer wheels have a lower durometer rating and are better for rough surfaces and cruising.
Choosing the right durometer for your wheels can significantly impact your skating experience. If you choose wheels that are too hard for your skating style, you may have trouble with traction and control. On the other hand, if you choose wheels that are too soft, they will wear down quickly and won’t provide the necessary stability and speed. By considering durometer when selecting wheels for skateboarding, you can ensure that you have the best possible performance and safety on the road or at the skatepark.
Shape and profile of wheels
When purchasing wheels for skateboarding, it is essential to consider the shape and profile of the wheels. This is because different shapes and profiles affect the performance of the skateboard, including its speed, stability, and grip. For instance, if you prefer high speeds, you might want wheels with a slim profile to reduce drag and increase speed. On the other hand, if you value stability, you might want wheels with a wider shape to enhance traction and control.
Another reason why the shape and profile of wheels matter is that they can influence the different types of skateboarding disciplines. Street skating, for instance, calls for smaller, softer wheels with a rounder shape, while downhill skating requires bigger, harder wheels with a square shape. Therefore, when purchasing wheels for skateboarding, it is vital to consider your skating style, preferences, and the specific requirements of each discipline to make an informed decision.
Material of wheels
Choosing the right material for wheels is important to ensure a smooth and safe skateboarding experience. Harder wheels are better for smooth surfaces while softer wheels work better on rough terrain. The durometer rating of wheels determines the hardness of the wheel, and an appropriate rating should be considered based on the rider’s weight and skating style. The material of the wheels also determines durability and performance. Polyurethane wheels are the most common and offer a good balance of grip, durability, and speed. Ultimately, choosing the right material for wheels will enhance a skateboarder’s performance and ensure a comfortable and safe ride.
In summary, considering the material of wheels before buying them is crucial as the material affects the rider’s experience and their skating style. Choosing an appropriate durometer rating and a durable material like polyurethane will ensure the wheels are long-lasting and provide optimal performance. Poor quality wheels can lead to accidents, and investing in the right material ensures a comfortable and safe skating experience.
Brand and reputation of wheels
When buying wheels for skateboarding, it is essential to consider the brand and reputation of the wheels before making a purchase. The brand of wheels you choose should be reputable and well-known in the skateboarding industry with a history of producing high-quality skateboarding wheels. This will ensure that the wheels you buy are durable, long-lasting and provide a great skateboarding experience.
Additionally, a reputable wheel brand will never compromise on quality, which may not be the case with low-quality wheels. Good quality wheels will also offer a smooth ride, grip well, and provide adequate speed. Therefore, consider the reputation of the wheel brand you choose to ensure that you invest in reliable and trustworthy wheels that will give you a good value for your money.
Compatibility with skateboard trucks and bearings.
Choosing the right skateboard wheels is so important because it determines how your board moves and rides. One important consideration before buying wheels for skateboarding is their compatibility with skateboard trucks and bearings. The size and shape of the wheel affect how it rides, and this is directly related to how it fits onto the axles and bearings. Ensuring proper compatibility between wheels, trucks, and bearings will provide a smooth and stable ride, and prevents issues with wheel wobbling or falling off during a trick or ride.
If the wheels don’t fit properly on the trucks or bearings, it can limit your ability to move and perform tricks easily. Additionally, mismatched wheels and bearings may also cause excessive wear and tear on both components. This could lead to reduced performance and eventual damage to your skateboard. Therefore, it is always recommended to buy skateboard wheels that are compatible with the trucks and bearings to ensure a great skating experience.
FAQs
What size wheels should I choose for skateboard?
When choosing skateboard wheels, the size you should pick depends on what kind of skating you plan on doing. For street or park skating, wheels between 50 and 54mm are ideal as they provide a good balance between speed and maneuverability. Smaller wheels make it easier to perform tricks and change direction quickly. For cruising or transportation, larger wheels between 55 and 60mm are recommended as they roll over cracks and bumps smoother and provide more speed.
Another factor to consider when choosing wheel size is the hardness or durometer. The harder the wheel, the more durable it is but the less it will absorb shocks. If you plan on skating on rough surfaces, choosing a slightly larger, softer wheel can make your ride smoother and more comfortable. Overall, the size of the wheels on your skateboard should fit the type of skating you want to do and your personal preference for speed, maneuverability, and comfort.
What is the difference between hard and soft skateboard wheels?
In skateboarding, the wheels can either be hard or soft. Hard wheels are generally made of a harder, more durable material like polyurethane or plastic, whereas soft wheels are made of a softer material like rubber. Hard wheels are typically better for smooth surfaces like skateparks or indoor facilities because they provide more speed and control. Soft wheels are better for rougher surfaces like streets or sidewalks because they offer more shock absorption and a smoother ride.
The durometer, or hardness, of the wheel is measured on a scale of 1-100. Hard wheels have a higher durometer, typically around 90-100, whereas soft wheels have a lower durometer, generally ranging from 75-85. Ultimately, choosing between hard and soft wheels depends on personal preference and the type of terrain you will be skating on.
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Can I use any brand of wheels on my skateboard?
Key Takeaways
Choosing the best wheels for skateboarding is essential for a smooth and enjoyable ride. With so many options available, it can be challenging to pick the right one. However, by considering factors like size, shape, and durometer, you can simplify your quest for the perfect wheels. Whether you want to cruise around town, shred on ramps, or tackle rough terrain, our top 10 best wheels for skateboarding guide has something for every rider. Choose one from our list, and you won’t be disappointed with your purchase. Happy skating!