So you’ve recently picked up skateboarding and you’re ready to upgrade your wheels, but where do you begin? Choosing the right skateboard wheels for different types of terrain can make a huge difference in your skateboarding experience. Whether you’re cruising on smooth pavement, tackling rough roads, or hitting the skatepark, the terrain you ride on determines the type of wheels you need for optimal performance. In this article, we will explore some key factors to consider when selecting skateboard wheels for various terrains to ensure you’re rolling smoothly and effortlessly on any surface.
Consider the Terrain Type
When choosing the right skateboard wheels, the first thing you need to consider is the type of terrain you will be riding on. Different terrains require different types of wheels to optimize your riding experience.
Street Skating
Street skating is the most common type of terrain for skateboarders. Whether you’re cruising through the city or performing tricks, having the right wheels is crucial. For street skating, wheels with a diameter of 50-54mm are ideal. These smaller wheels provide faster acceleration and more clearance for performing tricks. It is recommended to choose wheels with a durometer rating of 99A-101A. This hardness allows for a good balance of grip and slide. Rounded edges and a hard and durable material are also important features for street wheels. Standard bearings are suitable for street skating.
Skatepark
If you enjoy riding and performing tricks in skateparks, you need wheels that can handle the smooth surfaces and various obstacles found in these environments. For skatepark skating, slightly larger wheels with a diameter of 50-56mm are recommended. These wheels provide stability while still allowing for maneuverability. A durometer rating of 97A-101A ensures a good balance of grip and slide. The shape of the wheels should be wide with rounded edges to enhance stability during high-speed maneuvers. Like street skating, hard and durable materials are essential for the longevity of the wheels. Standard bearings are suitable for skatepark skating as well.
Bowl/Ramp
If your style of skating involves riding in bowls or ramps, you will need wheels with specific features to optimize your performance. Bowl and ramp skating require larger wheels compared to street and skatepark skating. Opt for wheels with a diameter of 54-60mm. These slightly larger wheels provide extra speed and stability for performing tricks on the curved surfaces. A durometer rating of 95A-101A is ideal for bowl and ramp skating. The shape of the wheels should be wide with a slightly squared edge, allowing for better grip while carving or sliding on the smooth surfaces. Hard and durable materials are crucial for handling the impact and stress of bowl and ramp skating. Standard bearings are suitable for this type of terrain as well.
Cruising/Transportation
If you use your skateboard primarily for cruising and transportation, you need wheels that prioritize comfort and versatility. Cruising on different terrains, such as sidewalks and bike paths, requires wheels with specific characteristics. For cruising, wheels with a diameter of 54-60mm are recommended. These larger wheels provide a smoother ride and better shock absorption, ensuring a comfortable cruising experience. Opt for wheels with a durometer rating of 78A-87A. Softer wheels enhance traction and reduce vibrations, making them perfect for long rides. The shape of the wheels should be wide with a soft and smooth profile to provide a stable and comfortable ride. Soft or hybrid bearings are the suitable choice for cruising and transportation.
Off-Road
If you’re an adventurous skateboarder who loves exploring off-road terrains, you need wheels that can handle rough surfaces and provide good traction. Off-road wheels should be larger and have a diameter of 60-75mm. These bigger wheels allow you to roll over bumps and cracks with ease. A durometer rating of 78A-87A ensures that the wheels are soft enough to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride. The shape of off-road wheels should be wide with either large treads or air-filled design, providing excellent traction and stability. Soft materials are essential for shock absorption and improved traction on off-road surfaces. Soft or hybrid bearings are suitable for off-road skateboarding.
Ice/Snow
If you dare to conquer icy or snowy terrain on your skateboard, specialized wheels are necessary for safety and performance. Ice and snow skateboarding require wheels with unique features to ensure stability and grip. Wheels with a diameter of 70-75mm are recommended for icy or snowy conditions. While durometer rating doesn’t apply to ice and snow wheels, it is important to have specialized wheels with a wide shape and spiked or studded surface to provide extra traction on these slippery surfaces. The materials used for ice and snow wheels are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and provide optimal performance. As for bearing type, it’s not applicable to ice and snow skateboarding.
Factors to Consider
In addition to the terrain type, several other factors should be taken into consideration when choosing skateboard wheels for various terrains. These factors include wheel diameter, durometer/hardness, wheel shape, wheel material, and bearing type. Understanding how each of these factors affects your riding experience will help you make an informed decision.
Wheel Diameter
Wheel diameter plays a significant role in determining the speed, stability, and clearance of your skateboard. Smaller diameter wheels, such as those in the 50-54mm range, offer faster acceleration and more clearance for tricks. However, they may sacrifice stability at higher speeds. On the other hand, larger diameter wheels, like those between 54-60mm, provide slower acceleration but offer more stability, especially when riding at high speeds. Consider your preferred style of skateboarding, and choose the appropriate wheel diameter accordingly.
Durometer/Hardness
Durometer, measured on the “A” scale, indicates the hardness of the skateboard wheels. A higher durometer rating indicates harder wheels, while a lower rating indicates softer wheels. The durometer level affects grip and slide capabilities. For street and skatepark skating, a durometer rating of 99A-101A provides a good balance between grip and slide. When cruising, look for wheels with a softer durometer rating of 78A-87A to maximize comfort and traction. When riding off-road, a similar durometer rating is recommended for improved shock absorption. Consider the terrain and your desired riding experience when selecting the durometer of your skateboard wheels.
Wheel Shape
The shape of the wheels contributes to both stability and maneuverability. For street skating, rounded edges provide a smooth and consistent feel, allowing for quick and precise movements. Skatepark wheels should have a wider shape with rounded edges to enhance stability during high-speed maneuvers. In bowl and ramp skating, the wheels should have a slightly squared edge, providing better grip while carving or sliding on smooth surfaces. The shape of cruising wheels should be wide with a soft and smooth profile, offering stability and comfort during long rides. Off-road wheels can have large treads or be air-filled to provide better traction on uneven surfaces. Consider the terrain and the specific demands of your skateboarding style when choosing the shape of your wheels.
Wheel Material
The material of the wheels determines their hardness, durability, and shock absorption capabilities. Hard materials like polyurethane (PU) are commonly used for skateboard wheels due to their durability and ability to maintain shape. Hard materials ensure that the wheels can handle the impact and stress of skateboarding. Soft materials, like softer PU or rubber, are used for cruising and off-road wheels. These materials offer better shock absorption and traction on rough surfaces, providing a smoother and more enjoyable ride. Consider the demands of the terrain and your preferred style of skateboarding when choosing the material of your skateboard wheels.
Bearing Type
Bearings are essential components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly on the axle. They have a significant impact on the overall quality of your skateboarding experience. Standard bearings are suitable for most types of skateboarding, including street, skatepark, and bowl skating. These bearings provide a good balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. For cruising and transportation, or if you prefer a smoother and more vibration-free ride, opt for soft bearings. These bearings minimize vibrations, resulting in a more comfortable cruising experience. Bearing type does not apply to off-road or ice/snow skateboarding.
By considering the type of terrain, wheel diameter, durometer/hardness, wheel shape, wheel material, and bearing type, you can make an informed decision when choosing the right skateboard wheels. Carefully selecting the appropriate wheels for your riding style and terrain will enhance your overall skateboarding experience and allow you to perform at your best. So get out there, hit the streets, conquer the ramps, and glide with confidence knowing you have the perfect wheels beneath your feet!
