Skateboard wheels are a crucial part of your skateboard. Your choice of wheels and bearings will determine how fast you go. When buying skateboard wheels, it’s important that you pick wheels to fit your trucks, your deck and most importantly, your ride style! There are many different types of skateboard wheels and they differ in size and texture as well as colour. Just the slightest change in wheel size and wheel durometer, can change how your board feels when you ride it.
We’ve created a full guide on how to choose your skateboard wheels to help you make the right choice and ensure your complete is faultless!
When purchasing skateboard wheels, you need to be aware of the following, which we will cover within this buying guide:
- Considering the trucks and deck for your skateboard
- Features to consider
- Comparing the best brands on the market
- Answers to the most common frequently asked questions
- Anything else you will need to consider when buying skateboard wheels
Choosing the right skateboard wheels goes hand in hand with considering the trucks and deck that form the foundation of your setup. If you haven't already, we recommend heading to our Skateboard Deck Guide to gather valuable insights on selecting the perfect deck for your riding style. The size and shape of your deck play a crucial role as they determine the size and width of trucks you should opt for.
The size of your skateboard trucks is a critical factor to consider when it comes to skateboard wheels. The width of your trucks should match the width of your deck, ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance. When the trucks align with the deck width, it creates a balanced and stable platform, allowing for better control and maneuverability.
Once you have determined the right trucks for your deck, you can further fine-tune your skateboard setup by considering the size of your wheels. While the size of your deck determines the width of your trucks, it also influences the size range of wheels you can use. Smaller decks generally pair well with smaller wheels, while larger decks can accommodate bigger wheels.
However, it's essential to take your own height and weight into account when selecting skateboard wheels. If you are taller or heavier, opting for slightly larger wheels can provide additional stability and smoother rides. Conversely, if you are on the shorter or lighter side, smaller wheels may offer increased agility and quicker response.
Remember, finding the perfect combination of trucks, skateboard deck, and wheels is a personal preference that may require some experimentation. Take your time to explore different setups, consider your riding style and preferences, and don't hesitate to seek advice from experienced skaters.
CHOOSING THE SIZE OF YOUR SKATEBOARD WHEELS
Wheel diameter will affect things like your speed and the tightness of your turns. Skateboard wheel diameter is normally measured in millimetres, and most wheels range from 50-75mm. So if you need small wheels, shop around the 50mm end of the scale. Similarly, if you’re looking for big wheels, shop around the 70mm end of the scale.
Smaller wheels allow for a slower ride. If you’re into technical skating and street skating, it’s best to go for small wheels. They are lower to the ground, which will typically make the board easier for you to control. 50mm - 50mm skateboard wheels are good considerations for smaller wheels.
Larger wheels will help you ride faster. If you’re using a skateboard for transportation, low key cruising or vert skating, you may want to go for larger skateboard wheels. Their increased diameter offers speed and balance all in one. 54mm skateboard wheels are a good choice for larger sizes.
Durometer measures the hardness of the skateboard wheel. Most manufacturers use the Durometer A Scale, which is a 100-point scale that quantifies how hard the wheel is. The higher the number the harder the wheel, although the average wheel durometer is 99a. There are some manufacturers however, that use the B Scale, which measures 20 points fewer than the A Scale, and therefore allows for an extra 20 points for the hardest wheels.
Generally speaking harder wheels are faster, and softer wheels are slower with the added advantage of having more grip. Softer wheels are better suited to street skating, while harder wheels are better for smooth surfaces. Here are some general guidelines for wheel durometer as it concerns your skating preferences and skill level.
78A-87A WHEELS
Soft wheels, good for rough surfaces, longboards, or street boards. They have lots of grip to easily roll over bumps and cracks. Designed for smooth rides, cruising, hills, and rough surfaces.
88A-95A WHEELS
Slightly harder and faster wheels, with slightly less grip. They're good for street skating and rough surfaces.
96A-99A WHEELS
Provide nice speed and grip. Great for beginners skating street, skate parks, ramps, pools, and other smooth surfaces.
100A+ WHEELS
The hardest and the fastest pro wheels, with the least amount of grip. Ineffective on slick and rough surfaces.
83B-84B WHEELS
Using the B scale, these are extremely hard. They measure 20 points fewer than the A Scale. The scale is extended another 20 points for the hardest wheels.
BRAND COMPARISON
When it comes to skateboard wheels and bearings, there's one brand that stands out from the rest: Spitfire. At SkateHut, we proudly offer an incredible selection of Spitfire wheels, along with Spitfire clothing, socks, and stickers. When you choose Spitfire, you're choosing exceptional quality and performance that will elevate your skating experience.
What makes Spitfire wheels so great? It's all about their dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. Spitfire has been at the forefront of the skateboard industry for years, consistently delivering top-notch products that cater to the needs of skaters worldwide. Their wheels are renowned for their durability, smoothness, and unmatched grip, allowing you to ride with confidence and control.
When you shop with SkateHut, you not only get access to an extensive range of Spitfire products, but you also enjoy the best value for your money. We offer free delivery on many of our items, ensuring that you receive your Spitfire gear without any additional costs. Whether you're looking for Spitfire t-shirts to rock your style or the classic Spitfire skateboard wheels that have become iconic, we have all your skating needs covered.
Don't wait to experience the excellence of Spitfire. Place your order today and take advantage of our next day delivery option if you simply can't contain your excitement. Get ready to roll with Spitfire and elevate your skateboarding game to new heights.
Ricta wheels is a brand that has earned a solid reputation in the skateboard industry, and their skateboard wheels are highly regarded for good reason. When it comes to Ricta, their commitment to innovation and performance shines through in their exceptional wheel designs.
One of their standout offerings is the Ricta Naturals urethane formula. It strikes the perfect balance between speed and a smooth roll, allowing you to slide when desired and maintain control when needed. Not only that, but these wheels are built to last, with fewer flat spots and excellent durability.
Ricta cored wheels are another remarkable feature of the brand. Designed to provide optimal speed and reduce rolling resistance, these wheels maintain their shape integrity even when landing tricks. They're also known for their ability to effortlessly roll over cracks, offering a smoother ride with minimal feedback compared to conventional urethane wheels.
The unique core design of Ricta Speedrings sets them apart from the rest. By placing urethane around the bearing bore like a non-cored wheel, Speedrings offer the traditional wheel feel combined with the speed and reduced rolling resistance of a cored wheel. The result is less rattle and more roll, giving you a smoother and more enjoyable ride.
Ricta Clouds lineup caters to the diverse needs of skateboarders, particularly cruisers. With a wide range of sizes from 52-60mm and different durometers available (78, 86, and 92a), Ricta ensures that there's a wheel suitable for any terrain or setup. Whether you're cruising the streets or hitting the skatepark, Ricta Clouds deliver the performance you need.
Enuff is a brand that has made a significant impact in the skateboarding world, and their skateboard wheels are highly regarded for their outstanding quality and performance. When it comes to Enuff, their commitment to excellence and attention to detail shine through in every aspect of their products.
Enuff skateboard wheels are engineered to deliver an exceptional ride that skaters of all levels can appreciate. With a focus on durability and performance, Enuff wheels are built to withstand the rigors of street and park skating. They offer a perfect balance between speed, grip, and control, allowing you to confidently tackle any terrain.
One of the standout features of Enuff wheels is their versatility. Whether you're a street skater, a park enthusiast, or a vert rider, Enuff has a wheel that suits your style and preferences. They offer a range of sizes and durometers, ensuring that you can find the perfect wheel for your specific needs and riding style.
Enuff places great importance on using high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes. This results in wheels that deliver consistent performance, excellent grip, and a smooth ride. Whether you're carving through the streets or performing technical tricks, Enuff wheels provide the responsiveness and reliability you demand.
SkateHut is widely regarded as one of the best places to buy skateboard wheels due to their extensive selection and expertise in skateboarding gear. With a wide range of brands, sizes, and hardness options, SkateHut offers a comprehensive collection of skateboard wheels to cater to every rider's needs and preferences. Their knowledgeable staff and commitment to quality make them a trusted destination for skateboard enthusiasts.
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