The Wheel Deal: A Comprehensive Guide to Skateboard Wheels

Skateboarding is one of those activities that requires a special kind of dedication and commitment. Not only do skateboarders need to master the tricks needed to progress their skills, but they also need to ensure that their equipment is in the best condition to achieve their goals. While there’s a great deal of passion and skill involved, these two components alone aren’t enough to fully enjoy the experience.

After all, having the proper tools to execute those tricks is at the heart of the skateboarding culture and community. Even though many people focus on skateboard shoes and decks when it comes to their setup, wheels are an essential component that shouldn’t be overlooked. Their small yet powerful impact on the performance and outcome of a skateboarding routine can’t be understated.

Are There Different Types of Skateboard Wheels?

As is the case with any kind of sports equipment, the vast range of skateboard wheel sets come in a few different varieties to accommodate different styles of riding. Even if they’re all circular in shape, there are slight nuances that set them apart from one another.

Street Wheels

Starting off with the most popular category, street wheels are renowned for their resilience and stability. They usually range from 48 – 54mm in diameter, which is more than enough to provide the grip and control needed for street skating. They’re called street wheels because they’re the go-to option for skate park fans who are looking to pull off tricks on ramps and rails.

Their inherent design is specifically tailored to work in sync with street terrain. This means that they don’t perform as well in other areas such as uneven surfaces or downhill runs. But, if you’re looking to perfect your grinding techniques and 360 flips, then the street wheel is the way to go.

Cruiser Wheels

For those who are looking for something a bit bigger, cruiser wheels provide a larger and more comfortable ride. Whether you’re going to the grocery store or taking a relaxing cruise down the boardwalk, you’ll need something that can handle the extra weight and size associated with cruising.

Given the name, they’re more suitable for leisurely rides rather than skate park endeavours. That’s not saying they can’t be used to practice tricks — they just won’t provide the same level of responsiveness as their street counterparts.

Longboard Wheels

As the name suggests, longboard wheels are meant for larger skateboards, thanks to their bigger size and contact patch. While they’re mostly used for downhill speed runs, they can also be employed for occasional freestyle maneuvering.

The larger surface area of the wheel provides more grip on the ground, allowing longboarders to accelerate quickly and with ease. When you take on sharp turns, the increased traction allows you to navigate through them with ease.

How Do You Know What Wheels Fit Your Skateboard?

Aside from the specific type of skateboard wheel set, there are a few key elements to keep in mind when selecting the best ones for your setup. While this may be a more technical aspect of the process, it can definitely make a difference when it comes to performance.

Size and Shape

The way the wheel fits onto your skateboard is probably the most important factor to consider. The size and shape of the wheel are what dictate how it rolls and reacts to terrain changes. If you’re looking for a more comfortable ride, then opting for larger wheels would be beneficial.

The hardness of the wheel also plays a role in this area since softer wheels provide more grip and traction. However, if you’re looking to go faster on a downhill run then harder wheels can offer the speed you’re looking for.

Material and Durometer

How a certain wheel responds to the terrain also depends on the material it’s made from. There are three main types of skateboard wheels: polyurethane, plastic, and stone-ground. Polyurethane is by far the most popular option due to its versatility and durability. It can be injected into various shapes and sizes in order to get the desired results.

Another factor to consider is the durometer rating, which basically determines how hard the wheel is. The higher the rating, the harder and faster the wheels will be and therefore more suitable for downhill runs. On the other hand, a softer wheel provides more grip and cushioning on rough terrain.

Tips for Proper Maintenance and Care to Increase Their Lifespan

Skateboard wheels are a significant investment, so you can’t just buy a set, put them on your board, and forget about them. Following some basic maintenance guidelines can go a long way in terms of extending the lifespan of your wheels and keeping them at peak performance.

One of the most important things you should do is clean them regularly and check for any signs of damage or wear. As soon as you notice anything unusual, it’s best to replace them right away to avoid further complications. It’s also beneficial to store your wheels in a cool and dry place when not in use.

In addition, you should also rotate your set regularly so that they don’t become uneven. This is especially important for downhill riders since it’s easy to build up speed and start sliding across the ground. Even when you’re not riding, make sure to spin your wheels every once in a while to keep them from getting stuck in one spot.

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that they’re properly tightened. If they’re too loose, you won’t be able to control your board as well and may even experience a bit of wobbling. On the other hand, if they’re too tight, it can affect their performance and cause unnecessary friction when turning.