The Ultimate Guide to Skateboard Wheels

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to skateboard wheels, where we delve deep into the world of these essential components for every skateboarder. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, compassionate skateboard wheels are crucial for optimizing your ride. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the anatomy of a wheel to choosing the right size, durometer, and shape for your skating style.

Anatomy of Skateboard Wheels

Core

The core of a skateboard wheel plays a pivotal role in its overall performance. Cores come in two main types: Center-set and Side-set. Center-set cores provide a balanced feel and even wear, ideal for technical skating and sliding. On the other hand, Side-set cores offer enhanced grip and stability, making them great for carving and downhill rides.

Urethane Formula

The composition of urethane greatly affects how a wheel performs. Skateboard wheels typically feature varying levels of hardness, measured in a durometer. A lower durometer rating, such as 78a, takes steps a softer ride with excellent grip and shock absorption, perfect for cruising and rough surfaces. Higher durometer ratings, such as 101a, offer increased durability and speed, ideal for street and park skating.

Choosing the Right Levels Skateboard Wheels

Size

Skateboard wheels come in a range of sizes, typically measured in millimeters (mm). Smaller wheels, somewhere 50-53mm, are fantastic for street skating, technical tricks, and also smaller riders. Medium-sized wheels, 54-56mm, strike a balance between speed and maneuverability, suitable for all-around skating. Larger wheels, 57mm and above, provide enhanced speed and stability, perfect for vert ramps and cruising.

Durometer

Selecting the correct durometer is crucial for optimizing your ride. Envisage the kind of plat you’ll be skating on:

78a-87a: Smoothly rides on rough fantastic surfaces, shock absorption.

88a-95a: Versatile for street, park, and rougher terrain.

96a-99a: Perfect for street and park skating, offering a good balance of grip and speed.

101a and above Maximum speed and durability for smooth surfaces and technical tricks.

Shape

Skateboard wheels also vary in shape, with each design catering to different styles of skating:

Round: Versatile and suitable for all-around skating.

Conical: Enhanced grip and control for technical tricks.

Square-edged: Maximum stability and speed for vert skating and ramps.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure that your skateboard wheels perform optimally and last longer, follow these simple maintenance tips:

Regular Cleaning: Remove dirt, debris, and flat spots by wiping wheels with a damp cloth.

Rotate Wheels: Even out wear and tear by rotating wheels regularly, especially if you have a preferred foot for tricks.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Store your skateboard in a cool, dry place to prevent urethane from warping or cracking.

Check Bearings: Ensure bearings are clean and lubricated for smooth rolling and speed.

Conclusion

Skateboard wheels are more than just round objects attached to your board; they are the foundation of your ride experience. By understanding the nuances of core types, durometer ratings, sizes, and shapes, you can tailor your wheels to match your skating style perfectly. Whether cruising the streets, hitting the park, or shredding the ramps, the right wheels can elevate your performance to new heights. Upgrade your ride today with our expert guide to skateboard wheels, and experience the difference firsthand!