Like most of us back in the day, we rode whatever the hell we could get our hands on, right? I remember having two different sets of wheels at one time, just how it was…
So now we’re all grown-ass men or ladies, and we can decide to put a little more thought into what are setups are and how they affect us and our style when skating… If you still can? So have you thought and played around with different sizes and hardness?
Ugh, let’s get into this article ABOUT WHEELS!
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right wheels for your board. But don’t sweat it, we got you covered. Here’s the lowdown on finding the ideal set of wheels to suit your skating style.
Wheel Heights: Size Matters
Regarding wheel heights, we’re talking millimeters (mm). They usually range from 49mm to 101mm, but most skaters stick to the 52-55mm sweet spot. And here’s a pro tip – smaller wheels like 52mm to 55mm are perfect for technical street skating. They’ll give you that low, lightweight board feel for ultimate control over your tricks.
On the flip side, if you’re into pool and vert skating, you’ll want to go for larger wheels between 57mm to 66mm. These sizes will give you all the speed you need. And for longboard lovers, 64mm to 80mm is where it’s at, with 70mm being the fan favorite.
Durometer: What’s the big deal?
Now, let’s talk durometer – the fancy term for a wheel’s hardness or softness. It’s measured on a scale of A and B, with 78A-87A being the softest (ideal for longboards), 88A-95A being a bit harder and faster, and 96A-101A being the most common durometer for street and park skating.
For those technical wizards who crave a super-fast wheel, there’s the 83B-84B range. Remember, softer wheels offer better grip and shock absorption but wear down quicker, while harder wheels give you more speed, less grip, and a longer lifespan.
Widths, Contact Patches, and Shapes, Oh My!
Skateboard wheels come in different widths and contact patches (the part that touches the ground), so you’ll want to experiment with these factors to find your perfect ride.
And don’t forget about wheel shapes! Classic, Conical, and Radial are just a few options to explore. Do your research, and you’ll be sure to find the right match for your skating style.
Top Wheels to Check Out
Ready to snag some new wheels? Here are a few of my favorite brands to get you started:
- Bones: These guys know their stuff when it comes to skateboard wheels.
- Spitfires: Check out their Formula Four Conical Full skateboard wheels – made of long-lasting urethane.
- Slimeballs: Just the name alone is worth a look, right?
- Speedlab: They’ve got some killer wheel options for all types of skaters.
So there you have it – the inside scoop on finding the ultimate skateboard wheels for your ride. Remember, size and durometer matter; experimenting with different options will help you dial in your perfect setup.