Skateboarding has come a long way since its inception in the 1940s. Not only has the sport evolved, but so have the materials used to make skateboards and their components. One crucial aspect of a skateboard’s construction is its wheels, which have seen numerous changes over the years.
This article will explore the different materials used to make skateboard wheels and their benefits and drawbacks. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skateboarder, understanding what your wheels are made of is vital to optimizing the performance of your board and finding the perfect ride. So, let’s get started!
The History of Skateboard Wheels and Their Evolution Over Time
Skateboarding has been around since the 1950s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that the skateboard wheel underwent a major transformation. Prior to this, skateboards were equipped with metal or clay wheels that were loud and rough, making the ride uncomfortable. However, in 1972, Frank Nasworthy created the first polyurethane wheels, a material that is now widely used in skateboard wheels.
The introduction of polyurethane wheels revolutionized the sport of skateboarding, providing smoother rides and better control. Over time, the shape and size of skateboard wheels have also evolved, with modern wheels featuring rounded edges and varying durometers (a measure of hardness). Today, skateboard wheels come in a variety of materials, and understanding the differences between them is crucial to picking the right wheels for your board and riding style.
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Factors in Choosing the Right Material for Skateboard Wheels
When it comes to choosing the right material for skateboard wheels, there are several factors to consider. The most important factor is the riding style that you prefer. If you like cruising or commuting, larger and softer wheels made from polyurethane or acrylic will provide a smoother ride with better shock absorption. On the other hand, if you prefer technical tricks and aggressive riding, smaller and harder wheels made from urethane will provide better grip, control, and a faster speed.
The surface you will be skating on is another important factor to consider. For example, if you will be skating on smooth surfaces such as indoor skate parks or slick concrete, harder wheels with a durometer rating of 97A to 101A are ideal. For rough and bumpy surfaces such as streets, sidewalks, or skate ramps made from wood, wheels with a durometer rating of 78A to 87A are ideal for better stability, grip, and vibration damping. Ultimately, it is important to choose the right material for your skateboard wheels to enhance your performance and enjoyment while riding.
Polyurethane, Urethane, and Rubber: Most Common Skateboard Wheel Materials
Polyurethane, urethane, and rubber are the most commonly used materials in skateboard wheels. Out of these three materials, polyurethane is currently the most commonly used, as it offers the best combination of durability and performance. Polyurethane is a durable material that is resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for skateboard wheels. It is also capable of providing excellent grip and rebound, which are important factors in a skateboard wheel.
Urethane, on the other hand, is a softer material and is generally used in cruiser and longboard wheels. It is not as durable as polyurethane, but its softer nature provides a smoother ride for the rider. Rubber is another material used in skateboard wheels, although it is not as common as the other two. It is used in some cruiser wheels and is known for its grip and shock-absorbing capabilities. Overall, the choice of skateboard wheel material depends on the riding style and personal preference of the rider.
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How Wheel Size and Hardness Affect Skateboarding Performance
The size and hardness of skateboard wheels play a significant role in determining the performance of the skateboard. Larger wheels enable the rider to roll over obstacles and rough terrain easily, whereas smaller wheels offer greater maneuverability and make it easier to perform tricks and flips. However, larger wheels tend to be heavier, which makes them less responsive. On the other hand, smaller wheels are lighter, making them easier to control, but they do not roll as smoothly on rough roads.
The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured on a durometer scale, and it ranges from 1 to 100. Softer wheels provide a smoother ride and are ideal for cruising and casual skating. They grip better and absorb shocks, which increases their speed and performance. However, they wear out faster and are not suitable for performing tricks on smooth surfaces. Harder wheels, on the other hand, offer more speed and durability. They slide easily and are ideal for performing tricks where speed and momentum are required, like in vert skating and longboarding. However, they provide less grip and are not as comfortable as softer wheels.
Alternative Materials: Wood, Metal, and Plastic Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard wheels are typically made out of polyurethane, a material that is soft enough to provide grip and shock absorption while also durable enough to withstand continuous use. However, with advancements in technology and changes in materials, skateboard wheels made from alternative materials have become available.
Wooden and metal skateboard wheels were popular in the early days of skateboarding, but they have largely been replaced by polyurethane wheels due to their lack of durability and inferior performance. Plastic skateboard wheels, on the other hand, offer a more durable alternative to polyurethane wheels, allowing riders to perform tricks and slides with ease. While many skateboarders still prefer the performance of polyurethane wheels, alternative materials continue to be developed and may play a larger role in skateboarding in the future.
How to Maintain Your Skateboard Wheels for Optimal Performance and Longevity
Maintaining your skateboard wheels is essential for getting the best performance and longevity out of them. There are several things you can do to take care of your wheels:
Firstly, keep your wheels clean and free of debris. Dirt and gravel stuck in your wheels can slow them down and wear them out faster. You can use a soft cloth or a toothbrush to clean your wheels and remove any debris.
Secondly, rotate your wheels regularly. Rotating your wheels will help evenly distribute the wear and tear, ensuring they last longer. Try rotating your wheels every few weeks or whenever you notice uneven wear.
Lastly, regularly check the condition of your wheels. If you notice any chips, cracks, or flat spots, it’s time to replace them. Riding on damaged wheels can be dangerous and affect your ride quality. By following these maintenance tips, you can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable ride on your skateboard.
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Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Options for Skateboard Wheel Materials.
Eco-friendly and sustainable options for skateboard wheel materials are becoming more prevalent as consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact. One option is using bamboo for the wheel material. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that can be sustainably harvested and has a high tensile strength, making it ideal for skateboard wheels. Another option is using recycled materials such as plastic bottles or old skateboards to make new wheels.
Other innovative materials include soy-based polyurethane and cork. Soy-based polyurethane is derived from soybeans and has a lower environmental impact than traditional petroleum-based polyurethane. Cork is a renewable and biodegradable material that is lightweight and has shock-absorbing qualities, making it a great option for skateboard wheels.
Overall, eco-friendly and sustainable skateboard wheel materials are not only better for the environment, but they can also offer unique qualities that improve the performance of the skateboard. As consumers continue to prioritize sustainability, manufacturers are responding with more options for environmentally responsible skateboard products.
Conclusion
In conclusion, skateboard wheels are an essential part of the skateboard setup that heavily impacts the rider’s performance. They come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and the choice of wheel can significantly affect the rider’s speed, stability, and control over the board. The most common materials used for skateboard wheels are polyurethane, a type of plastic that offers durability, and precision, and rubber, which is best for skateboarders who prioritize grip over speed.
Skateboard wheels have come a long way since the early days when they were made of crude materials such as metal and clay. Today, skateboarders have a broad range of options to choose from, depending on their individual needs and styles. With the right set of wheels, skateboarders can perform tricks and maneuvers with ease, and enjoy a smooth ride while cruising or commuting on their boards. Ultimately, understanding the materials used for skateboard wheels is crucial for any skateboarder looking to take their craft to the next level.