Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard Wheels Play a Vital Role in Your Setup
Though small, skateboard wheels are an essential component of your skateboard. They significantly affect your overall riding experience, and even minor alterations to the wheels can greatly impact how your ride feels.
Available in a variety of sizes, hardness levels, and designs, skateboard wheels share the same construction material. Nowadays, all skateboard wheels are crafted from polyurethane (PU), offering superior durability and grip compared to previous materials.
Your skating style and frequency of use will determine how often you need to replace your skate wheels, potentially every few months. This regular replacement is due to wear and damage they sustain over time.
Exploring the Features of Skate Wheels
Two primary features define skateboard wheels: size and durometer.
The wheel size, expressed in diameter (mm), influences both speed and control. While larger wheels typically provide more speed, they are generally less manoeuvrable. Conversely, smaller wheels offer greater manoeuvrability and control but lack the same speed.
Wheel hardness is marked by a numerical rating followed by the letter A. A higher rating signifies harder wheels. The durometer affects aspects like durability, traction, and shock absorption.
Beyond technical specifics, skateboard wheels come in an extensive array of colours and patterns, making them an excellent option to customise and personalise your board.
Which Skateboard Wheels Are Right for You?
Ultimately, personal preference dictates your choice of skateboard wheels, yet some general guidelines can assist. Ideally, your skateboard wheels should align with your style of riding.
For technical street skating, small, hard wheels might be your preference. Their lightweight nature facilitates easier execution of flip tricks and ground lifts. Some vert and bowl enthusiasts also opt for hard wheels, albeit larger and wider, to achieve added stability, speed, and surface grip.
If cruising is more your style, look for a set of soft skateboard wheels. These softer variants ensure a smoother ride by absorbing surface vibrations, so you won't feel every bump on your path.
Still uncertain about which skate wheels to choose? Explore our Skateboard Wheel Guide for further insights into varying wheel sizes and durometers.