Unleash The Power: Your Guide To Real Skateboard Wheels

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Navigating the world of skateboarding starts with understanding the importance of real skateboard wheels. Unlike the plastic toys you might find in toy stores, real skateboard wheels are designed for performance and durability. At kizworld, we're passionate about helping you find the perfect set of real skateboard wheels to elevate your riding experience.

Understanding Real Skateboard Wheels

What Makes 'Em "Real"?

Okay, so you're ready to roll with some "real" skateboard wheels. But what even makes them different from those plastic ones on toy store shelves? It's all about how they're made and what they can do. Real skateboard wheels are crafted from a special material called polyurethane, which is super durable and gives you a smooth ride on the pavement. Unlike those plastic wheels that feel like you're rolling through sand, real skateboard wheels let you glide, turn, and perform tricks with ease. It's like the difference between trying to run in boots versus sneakers—your skateboard needs the right shoes to really shine!

The Anatomy of a Real Skateboard Wheel

Now, let's break down a real skateboard wheel. It's not just a chunk of polyurethane; there's actually a science to it! At the core, you've got the "core," which is usually made of hard plastic or metal. This provides strength and helps the wheel spin smoothly on the bearings. Then comes the "urethane" part—that magical material that determines how hard or soft your ride will be. Think of it like choosing the right pillow: some people like it firm, others like it soft! We'll talk more about durometer (wheel hardness) later, but for now, just know that it plays a big role in your overall skateboarding experience.

Why Real Wheels Matter

Imagine trying to do a sweet kickflip on those wobbly plastic wheels—not gonna happen! Real skateboard wheels are designed to handle the impact of tricks, landings, and rough surfaces. Plus, they give you the control and precision you need to progress your skills. Trust me, once you go real, you'll never go back! Want to learn more about skateboarding? Check out our guide on how to get started with skateboarding as a beginner.

• Durability: Real skateboard wheels are built to last, so you won't find yourself replacing them every other week.
• Performance: Better grip, smoother rides, and enhanced control—real wheels elevate your skateboarding game.
• Safety: When you're trying new tricks, you need reliable equipment. Real skateboard wheels provide the stability and support to help prevent accidents.

Choosing the Right Real Skateboard Wheels

Durometer: Finding Your Wheel's Sweet Spot

Okay, so we talked about "durometer" earlier—that's the fancy word for how hard or soft your real skateboard wheels are. It's measured on something called the "A Scale," which goes from 0 to 100. Lower numbers mean softer wheels, and higher numbers mean harder wheels. Think of it like this: a squishy marshmallow would be like a 0 on the durometer scale, while a super bouncy rubber ball would be closer to 100. For skateboarding, you'll usually find wheels ranging from about 78a to 101a. But how do you know which durometer is right for you? Well, it depends on what kind of skating you're into!

Size Matters: Navigating Wheel Diameter

Now, let's talk about wheel size! This is measured in millimeters (mm), and it's another important factor to consider when choosing real skateboard wheels. Wheel size affects how fast you can go, how quickly you accelerate, and how easily you can roll over cracks and bumps. Smaller wheels (under 52mm) are awesome for street skating and doing tricks. They're super responsive and let you pop those ollies like a pro. If you're new to skateboarding, check out our guide on how to master an ollie. Plus, they're great for technical maneuvers like flip tricks. Larger wheels (56mm and up) are more your jam for cruising, carving, and rolling over rough terrain. They're like the monster truck tires of the skateboard world! If you're into longboarding or just want a smoother ride, bigger wheels are the way to go. For those who want the best of both worlds, mid-sized wheels (53mm to 55mm) offer a good balance of speed and agility.

• Choosing the right durometer and size for your real skateboard wheels can make a huge difference in your riding experience.
• Think about your riding style, the terrain you'll be skating on, and your skill level when making your decision.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with different sizes and durometers to find what feels best for you! Skateboarding is all about having fun and expressing yourself, so choose wheels that match your unique style and goals. Need some inspiration? Check out this article about the most famous skateboarders and legends of all time. And hey, if you're looking for some cool skateboarding gifts and souvenirs for your friends, we've got you covered there too!

Top Real Skateboard Wheel Brands

Picking the right real skateboard wheels can be as important as choosing the right skateboard deck! Some brands are like the big names in skateboarding—everybody knows them. Think of it like choosing your favorite sneakers; some brands just make awesome stuff. You've got brands like Spitfire, Bones, and Ricta—they're like the veterans in the game, known for making top-notch wheels for all types of skating. Then you've got newer brands like OJ Wheels and Mini Logo, shaking things up with cool designs and innovative ideas. It's like having a whole candy store of wheels to choose from! Want to learn more about different skateboard types? Check out our guide on how to choose the right skateboard.

Maintaining Your Real Skateboard Wheels

Taking care of your real skateboard wheels is like giving your skateboard a spa day—it keeps things rolling smoothly and helps your wheels last longer. You wouldn't want to ride on a skateboard with square wheels, right?

Cleaning Your Wheels: Out with the Grime!

First up, let's talk about cleaning. Think about all the dirt, rocks, and who-knows-what your wheels roll through. All that gunk can build up and make your ride bumpy and slow. To clean your wheels, you can use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works great!) and some soapy water. Gently scrub away any dirt and debris, then rinse them off with clean water. It's like giving your wheels a mini carwash! Want to improve your balance and coordination for skateboarding? Check out our guide on how to improve your balance.

Rotating Your Wheels: Sharing the Load

Just like your bike tires wear down over time, so do your skateboard wheels. But here's a cool trick: you can actually make them last longer by rotating them! Think of it like this: if you always wear your favorite pair of shoes on the same foot, that one shoe is going to wear out way faster than the other, right? The same goes for your skateboard wheels. By switching up their positions every now and then, you're distributing the wear and tear more evenly. This helps your wheels wear down at a similar pace, giving you a smoother ride for longer. Want to learn how to do a heelflip? We've got you covered with our guide on how to do a heelflip.

Final Thought

Choosing the right real skateboard wheels can significantly impact your skateboarding experience. From smoother rides to enhanced performance, the right set of wheels can make all the difference. Remember to consider your riding style, the terrain you prefer, and your personal preferences when making your choice. Happy skating!