Master The Wheels On A Skateboard: Your Ultimate Guide

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Learn about the different types of wheels on a skateboard, how to choose the right size and durometer for your riding style, and tips for maintaining your wheels for optimal performance.

Table of Contents

Picking the right wheels on a skateboard can feel overwhelming – there are so many options! But don't worry, kizworld is here to guide you. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade, understanding the different types of wheels, sizes, and durometers can make a big difference in your skateboarding experience.

Feature

Description

Size (mm)

Larger wheels (54mm+) are faster; smaller wheels (50-53mm) offer more control.

Durometer

Higher durometer (96A+) for harder surfaces, lower durometer (78A-87A) for smoother rides.

Material

Polyurethane is standard for its durability and grip.

Maintenance

Regular cleaning and bearing lubrication are essential.

Choosing the Right Wheels on a Skateboard

Picking the right wheels for your skateboard is like choosing the right shoes for a marathon – it can make or break your experience! First, think about where you'll be skating. Smooth concrete parks call for different wheels than rough streets. If you're just starting out, you might like smaller, softer wheels for better control and a smoother ride. For bombing hills or carving bowls, larger, harder wheels will give you more speed and stability. It's all about finding what works best for you and your style!

Choosing the Right Wheels on a Skateboard

Choosing the Right Wheels on a Skateboard

Understanding Skateboard Wheel Sizes

Imagine wheels on a skateboard as your shoes for a race. You wouldn't wear bulky boots for a sprint, right? Skateboard wheel sizes work kinda the same way! They're measured in millimeters (mm), and the size you choose depends on what you want to do.

Smaller Wheels for Tricks

Smaller wheels, usually between 50-53mm, are like nimble sneakers. They're great for street skating, doing tricks like kickflips and ollies, and navigating skateparks. Think of it like this: smaller wheels are closer to the ground, giving you more control and making it easier to pop your board. You can learn more about kickflips in our guide on how to do a kickflip. They also have less weight, which means you can flick the board around easier for tricks.

Wheel Size (mm)

Best For

50-53

Street skating, tricks, skateparks

Larger Wheels for Speed

Larger wheels, like those 54mm and up, are like putting on rollerblades! They're all about speed and momentum. If you're into cruising down long streets, bombing hills (carefully!), or carving bowls at the skatepark, these are your go-to. Check out our article on how to do a grind to see how larger wheels can help with this skating style. They roll over cracks and bumps more smoothly, giving you a faster and smoother ride. Just remember, bigger wheels can be a little harder to control for tricks, especially if you're just starting out.

  • Cruising
  • Downhill riding
  • Carving bowls

Understanding Skateboard Wheel Sizes

Understanding Skateboard Wheel Sizes

Wheels on a Skateboard: Durometer Explained

Now, let's talk about durometer – it's how hard or soft your skateboard wheels are. It's measured on the "A" scale, and you'll see numbers like 78A, 99A, and so on. Think of it like this: lower numbers are like squishy marshmallows, while higher numbers are like hard candies. The durometer you choose affects how your board feels and performs.

Softer Wheels for a Smooth Ride

Softer wheels, usually between 78A and 87A, are perfect for cruising on smooth surfaces. Imagine gliding down the sidewalk, barely feeling the bumps – that's what softer wheels do! They absorb vibrations and give you a super smooth ride, kinda like having shock absorbers for your board. If you're into filming lines or just want a chill, comfy ride, softer wheels are the way to go. You can learn more about skateboarding basics in our guide on how to get started with skateboarding.

Durometer

Riding Experience

78A - 87A

Smooth and comfortable, good for cruising and filming

Wheels on a Skateboard: Durometer Explained

Wheels on a Skateboard: Durometer Explained

Maintaining Your Skateboard Wheels

Keep 'Em Clean

Imagine eating a sticky lollipop and then trying to grab your skateboard – yuck! That's what it's like for your wheels when they're covered in dirt, grime, and pebbles. Keeping your wheels clean helps them roll smoother and last longer. You can wipe them down with a damp cloth after each skate session. If they're really dirty, try a soft brush and some soapy water. Think of it like giving your wheels a spa day – they'll thank you for it!

Cleaning Supplies

Purpose

Damp cloth

For light cleaning after each session

Soft brush and soapy water

For deep cleaning when needed

Show Your Bearings Some Love

Ever ridden a bike with rusty, squeaky wheels? Not fun, right? Your skateboard bearings are like tiny wheels inside your wheels, and they need some love too. Over time, they can get gunked up with dirt and grime, which slows you down. You can clean and lubricate your bearings with a special bearing cleaning kit. It's like giving your board a tune-up – it'll feel brand new! Learn more about the best equipment in our guide on skateboarding wheels and bearings.

  • Remove wheels from the trucks
  • Pop out the bearings using a skate tool
  • Soak bearings in cleaning solution
  • Dry bearings thoroughly
  • Apply a few drops of bearing lubricant
  • Reassemble bearings and wheels

Maintaining Your Skateboard Wheels

Maintaining Your Skateboard Wheels

Final Thought

Ultimately, the best wheels on a skateboard are the ones that best suit your individual needs and riding style. By understanding the factors discussed in this article, you can choose wheels that enhance your performance and enjoyment on the board. Remember to maintain your wheels properly for long-lasting performance, and don't hesitate to experiment with different options to find the perfect fit for your skateboarding journey.