Skateboard Wheels

Skateboard Wheels Are Vital to Your Setup

Despite their size, skateboard wheels are a crucial element of your skateboard. They significantly affect your overall riding experience, and even the smallest alterations to the wheel type can greatly impact how your ride feels.

Skateboard wheels are available in various sizes, hardness levels, and designs, yet they're constructed from the same material. Present-day skateboard wheels are fabricated from polyurethane (PU), offering significantly enhanced durability and grip compared to previous materials.

Your skating style and frequency will determine how frequently you might need to replace your skate wheels. Due to wear and tear, they are prone to getting worn out and damaged during use.

Skate Wheels: Key Features

The primary features of skateboard wheels are their size and durometer.

Wheel size is gauged by diameter (mm), influencing the board’s speed and control. Larger skateboard wheels generally provide more speed but are less agile. Conversely, smaller skateboard wheels offer easier manoeuvrability and control but sacrifice speed.

A numerical rating and the letter A denote the wheel's hardness. The higher the rating, the harder the wheel. Durometer influences the wheel’s durability, traction, and ability to absorb shocks.

Technical specifications are just part of the story. Skateboard wheels come in a vast array of colours and designs, providing a fantastic opportunity to customise and personalise your board.

Which Skateboard Wheels Should I Choose?

While skateboard wheels ultimately depend on personal taste, there are some general guidelines. Align your choice of skateboard wheels with your riding style.

Technical street skaters might benefit from smaller, harder skateboard wheels. Being lighter, smaller wheels facilitate flipping and lifting off the ground. Some vert and bowl riders also favour harder wheels, although these are typically larger and wider to enhance stability, speed, and surface grip.

If you prefer cruising, opting for a set of soft skateboard wheels is advisable. Soft wheels offer a smoother ride by better absorbing surface vibrations, ensuring you won't feel every tiny stone on the path.

Still uncertain which skate wheels to opt for? Consult our Skateboard Wheel Guide for further insights on different wheel sizes and durometers.