Have you ever wondered how skateboard wheels can affect your ride quality? It might seem like a minor detail, but the durometer of your skateboard wheels plays a significant role in how your board performs. Understanding these subtle nuances can make a big difference, especially if you’re looking to enhance your tricks or simply enjoy a smoother ride.
So, let’s unravel the mystery of skateboard wheel durometer, and see how it can transform your skating experience!
What is Skateboard Wheel Durometer?
In simple terms, a skateboard wheel durometer is a measure of the wheel’s hardness. Wheels can be made from various types of polyurethane, and the durometer scale helps you understand how hard or soft these materials are. It’s an important factor because different hardness levels can significantly impact how your skateboard handles different terrains, speeds, and tricks.
Understanding Durometer Scales
The most common scale used for skateboard wheels is the A scale, although occasionally you might encounter the B scale as well. A higher number on these scales indicates a harder wheel.
| Durometer Scale | Hardness Level | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| A Scale | 80A-101A | Street, Park, and Vert Skating |
| B Scale | 20B-85B | Similar to A, but 20 points lower |
Generally, wheels in the range of 78A to 87A (soft) are typically used for cruising or longboarding, providing a smoother ride. On the flip side, harder wheels, ranging from 95A to 101A, are preferred for street and trick skating, as they offer less grip and allow for faster speeds.
How Durometer Affects Ride Quality
When you choose a skateboard wheel, understanding how durometer affects your ride is crucial. Here’s how different durometer ranges can modify your experience:
Soft Wheels (78A-87A)
Soft wheels are great if you love cruising or if you’re a beginner. The softness offers excellent grip on most surfaces, which gives you more control and stability. This grip also absorbs shocks and vibrations, particularly useful when riding on rough terrain or cracked pavements. However, soft wheels usually wear out more quickly and are not as fast on smooth surfaces.
Medium Wheels (88A-94A)
These are versatile wheels that provide a balance between speed and grip. They’re a solid middle ground, making them suitable for a mix of street and park skating. If you’re looking for a single set of wheels that can handle various environments without changing too many characteristics, medium wheels are a great choice.
Hard Wheels (95A-101A)
For the speed-deprived daredevils among you, harder wheels are your ally. These wheels have less grip, making it easier to perform tricks, slides, and maneuvers that require a certain level of technical prowess. They perform brilliantly on smooth skatepark surfaces but can be slippery on rougher grounds.
Extreme Hardness (Above 101A or B Scale)
These wheels are predominantly used by professional skaters looking to maximize their speed and trick possibilities in controlled environments. They have very low grip and are not suitable for casual skaters or rough terrains.
Coupling Durometer With Terrain
You’ll often have to match your wheel’s durometer to the terrain you’ll be skating on. Understanding the kind of surface you’ll most frequently encounter can help in making an informed choice. Here’s why it matters:
Rough Surfaces
Terrains like old roads, sidewalks, or any ground with cracks and pebbles will be more forgiving with softer wheels. They absorb much of the brutal feedback the terrain throws back at you, leading to a smoother ride.
Smooth Surfaces
This includes polished concrete, skate parks, and ramps. Here, harder wheels glide effortlessly, offering the speed required for tricks and maneuvers without sacrificing control.
Downhill and Speed
If you’re into longboarding or speed skating, a softer wheel provides the traction and stability needed to keep you in control while zooming down hills.
Why Choose the Right Wheel Durometer?
Choosing the correct wheel durometer not only improves your performance but also extends the lifespan of your wheels. Below are key factors to consider, ensuring you get the most out of your skating experience.
Performance Enhancement
Each level of hardness offers specific benefits. Whether it’s upping your game in speed or improving the fluidity of your tricks and slides, understanding the durometer helps you maximize your potential.
Durability
Harder wheels tend to last longer on smoother surfaces. Softer wheels, though adept at tackling roughness, will wear down significantly under similar usage. Aligning your wheel hardness with your skating style and surface will help maximize wheel durability.
Personal Comfort
There’s also an element of comfort and personal preference that comes into play. If you prefer a smoother ride but often skate on rough surfaces, you’d generally lean toward a softer wheel and vice versa.
Combining Durometer with Other Wheel Factors
While durometer plays a pivotal role, it’s by no means the only factor that contributes to your skateboarding experience. Diameter, width, and wheel shape all add nuances to ride quality and should be considered in tandem with durometer.
Wheel Diameter
Smaller wheels offer more agility and are easier for performing tricks, while larger wheels give you more speed and flow over longer distances.
| Wheel Diameter | Features |
|---|---|
| 50mm – 54mm | Ideal for street skating |
| 55mm – 60mm | Good for parks, vert ramps |
| 60mm or larger | Great for cruising, downhill |
Wheel Width and Shape
The width of your wheel can impact your stability. Wider wheels offer more surface contact and grip, while narrower wheels are lighter and often easier for tricks.
Shapes also play their part, with squared edges providing more grip and rounded edges being more forgiving for sliding.
Making the Right Choice
When embarking on your skateboarding journey, selecting the ideal wheel durometer tailored to your style, terrain, and personal preferences will undoubtedly enrich your skating experience. Take it as a trial and error process where your choices enable a deeper appreciation of what provides you the most enjoyment and performance.
Are you ready to refine your rides and decide the direction of your skating prowess? Your wheels, and most importantly, their durometer, set the stage for the journey to come. So, pick wisely, enjoy thoroughly, and ride with confidence!