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How to Choose a Skateboard Wheel: Size, Materials & More

 

Choosing the best skateboard wheels is an essential part of setting up a board that is tailored to your skating style and preferences. Whether you are an experienced skater or a beginner, finding the right skateboard wheels can significantly impact your overall riding experience. 

The size and hardness of skateboard wheels are the two most crucial factors that you need to consider when choosing your next set of skateboard wheels. Wheel size affects how fast you can go, how easily you can turn, and how smooth or rough the ride feels. Wheel hardness, on the other hand, affects grip, durability, and control. Softer wheels are typically better for cruising, commuting, and riding over rough surfaces, while harder wheels are better suited for street and park skateboarding. 

In this article, we will explore the different factors to consider when choosing the best skateboard wheels for you. We will discuss how wheel size and hardness can impact your skating style and preferences and provide you with some tips to help you make the right decision. Whether you're looking for a smooth and comfortable cruising experience or a high-speed performance on the streets, we've got you covered. So, let's dive in and find the best skateboard wheels for your needs! 

 

Here’s what we’ll cover: 


Wheel Types

 

There are three main types of skateboard wheels that are fun and functional for different types of riding. Watch the video and read below to decide whether park/street wheels, cruiser wheels, or longboard wheels are the right fit for you.

There are three main types of skateboard wheels that are fun and functional for different types of riding. Watch the video and read below to decide whether park/street wheels, cruiser wheels, or longboard wheels are the right fit for you. 


Park / Street Wheels

Diameter 50-54mm, Durometer 95-101a 

Street wheels are smaller in diameter, ranging from 50-54mm, and have a durometer rating of 99A or higher. These wheels are designed for technical street skating and tricks. The small size of the wheels provides better maneuverability and allows the skater to perform flip tricks with ease. The hard durometer rating allows the wheels to slide smoothly, making it easier for skaters to perform tricks that involve sliding. 

 

Shop Park/Street Wheels


Cruiser / Soft Wheels

Diameter 54-60mm, Durometer 78-90a

Cruiser skateboard wheels are larger in diameter, ranging from 54-60mm, and have a durometer rating of 78A-90A. These wheels are designed for cruising, commuting, and carving. 

The larger size of the wheels provides better stability and allows for a smoother ride over rough terrain. The softer durometer rating provides a more comfortable ride, absorbing shocks and vibrations. Cruiser wheels are also ideal for carving, allowing the skater to make smooth, flowing turns. 

 

Shop Cruiser Wheels


Longboard Wheels

Diameter 60-75mm, Durometer 75-85a 

Longboard wheels are larger and softer than standard skateboard wheels, typically ranging from 60-75mm in diameter and 75A-85A in durometer rating. They are designed to provide a smooth and stable ride on longboards, with greater grip and shock absorption than harder wheels. Longboard wheels also come in various shapes, including square-lipped, rounded-lipped, and beveled-lipped, each offering different levels of grip and sliding capabilities. Overall, the choice of longboard wheels depends on the type of riding you want to do. 

 

Shop Longboard Wheels


Wheel Hardness (Durometer)

 

When choosing skateboard wheels, it's important to consider their hardness, which is measured in durometers. Skateboard wheels typically range from 75a to 104a, with softer wheels falling in the 78a to 90a range and harder wheels above 99a.  

Generally, harder wheels are ideal for skate parks and street skating on obstacles like ledges, rails, gaps, and manual pads. They provide a faster ride, better slide, and greater durability for performing tricks.  

Softer wheels, on the other hand, are better suited for cruising, transportation, and longboarding, as they offer a smoother ride and better grip. Medium durometer wheels, which fall in the 90a to 98a range, are a good choice for beginners and for street skating on rough surfaces. 

It's worth noting that some companies, like Bones Wheels, use the Shore B scale to measure wheel hardness, which is 20 points lower than the A scale. This means that a wheel with a rating of 82b is equivalent to a 102a wheel on the A scale. Understanding the durometer rating of your skateboard wheels can help you choose the best wheels for your riding style and the type of terrain you'll be skating on. 


Wheel Size & Shape

 

Choosing the right skateboard wheels can make a significant difference in the way a skateboard performs. The size of the wheel, contact patch, and shape all impact the wheel's behavior and affect the overall ride experience. 

The diameter of the wheel: Determines the weight and responsiveness of the skateboard.  

The contact patch: is the part of the wheel that touches the ground, affects the amount of grip the wheel will have.  

The shape: The wheel's edge impacts grip, weight, and how the wheel locks into grinds.  

Understanding how each of these factors contributes to the way a wheel performs can help you choose the right skateboard wheels to suit your style and skill level.  

 


Wheel Diameter

 

skateboard-wheel-size-diameter

The diameter of a wheel is a crucial dimension to consider. Smaller wheels are ideal for street and technical skating as they are lighter, provide a quicker pop, and are more responsive.  

On the other hand, bigger wheels are heavier but roll faster and retain speed better, making them great for transportation and bowl skating. It's important to note that if you choose wheels larger than 56mm, it's recommended to add riser pads to prevent wheel-bite and add clearance. 

 


WHEEL CONTACT PATCH (RIDING SURFACE) 

 

skateboard-wheel-size-riding-surface-contact-patch

The contact patch, which is the part of the wheel that touches the ground, affects the amount of grip the wheel will have. Narrower wheels with a smaller contact patch are preferred by street skaters for technical street skating as they slide more easily for some tricks. Wider wheels, with a larger contact patch, are better for transportation and bowl skating as they retain their grip when skating at faster speeds.

 


Wheel Profile

 

Skateboard-Wheel-Size-Shape-Profile

The profile or shape of the wheel's edge can impact grip, weight, and how the wheel locks into grinds. A more rounded edge makes the wheel slide more easily, while a sharper edge provides more grip, helping you lock into grinds better without slipping out of place. 

 


Keep Learning

 



Still Have Questions About Skateboard Wheels?

If you still need more information, rest assured that we have the resources to help you out. Our customer service team is highly knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have about skateboard equipment. You can easily reach out to them by phone or message. 

Additionally, if you are in Portland, Eugene, or Bend, feel free to visit one of our local shops and speak to one of our friendly and helpful retail employees. They'll be more than happy to assist you and provide any information or guidance you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us - we're here to help! 

Customer Service: 

Call us toll-free at 888.450.5060 

Text us at: 888.450.5060 

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help@tactics.com