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Ready to conquer the concrete jungle? Finding the best wheels for street skating can make or break your ride. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, kizworld is here to guide you through the world of street skating wheels so you can find the perfect set to enhance your performance and enjoyment. Let's roll!
Factor | Description | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|
Size (mm) | Diameter of the wheel | Smaller wheels for technical tricks, larger wheels for speed and smoother rides on rough surfaces |
Durometer (A) | Hardness of the wheel | Lower numbers for grip and softer rides, higher numbers for speed and durability on rougher surfaces |
Brand | Reputable manufacturers | Spitfire, Bones, Ricta, OJ Wheels, etc., each known for specific qualities and innovations |
Profile | Shape of the wheel's edge | Rounded for smoother slides, square for more grip, and variations in between |
Core | Central part of the wheel | Different materials and designs impact weight, speed, and durability |
Price | Cost of the wheels | Varies based on brand, materials, and technology; consider your budget and prioritize value for money |
Understanding Street Skating Wheels
So, you're diving into the world of street skating, that's awesome! Let's talk about wheels – they're like the sneakers of your skateboard, and choosing the right ones can make a world of difference.
Imagine trying to run a marathon in flip-flops – not a good idea, right? That's what it's like skating with the wrong wheels. You want something that matches your style and the terrain you'll be conquering.
Decoding the Wheel Lingo
Now, let's break down the techy stuff:
Wheel Feature | What It Means |
|---|---|
Size (mm) | The diameter of the wheel – bigger wheels mean more speed, smaller wheels offer better control for tricks. |
Durometer (A) | This tells you how hard the wheel is. Lower numbers grip the pavement better, while higher numbers are faster and more durable. |
Think of durometer like this: a squishy marshmallow has a low durometer, while a hard candy has a high one. You wouldn't want to bite into a super-hard marshmallow, would you? Choosing the right durometer depends on your skating style and the surfaces you'll be riding on.
If you're interested in learning more about skateboarding in general, check out this informative article on skateboarding. It'll give you a great foundation!
Navigating the Wheel Jungle
Just like there are different types of shoes for different activities – running shoes for sprints, hiking boots for trails – street skating wheels come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific purpose.
- Small and grippy wheels are your best bet for technical tricks and maneuvering through obstacles.
- Larger, harder wheels are built for speed and can handle rougher surfaces like asphalt and concrete.
Think about where you'll be skating most – a smooth skatepark, bumpy streets, or maybe a bit of both? Your choice of wheels should reflect your skating environment.
For those who are just starting their skateboarding journey, this guide on how to get started with skateboarding can be incredibly helpful. It covers all the basics you need to know!
Understanding Street Skating Wheels
Choosing the Best Wheels for Street Skating
Alright, so you've got the basics down – you know about size and durometer. Now, let's talk about putting that knowledge to use and finding the perfect wheels for your street skating adventures! Think of it like picking out the perfect pair of shoes for a basketball game – you need something that fits well, supports your moves, and can handle the court's surface. First things first, what kind of street skater are you? Do you love busting out technical tricks, grinding rails, and conquering obstacles like a skateboarding ninja? If that's you, then smaller, grippier wheels are your new best friends! These bad boys will give you the control and precision you need to nail those awesome maneuvers. On the other hand, maybe you're all about speed, cruising through the streets, and feeling the wind in your hair? In that case, you'll want to go for larger, harder wheels. These wheels will let you fly over rough surfaces and leave everyone else in the dust! Remember that awesome guide on how to get started with skateboarding we talked about? Well, it also has some handy tips on choosing the right wheels for your skill level.
Wheel Size | Ideal For |
|---|---|
50-53mm | Technical tricks, street skating, beginner-friendly |
54-59mm | Versatile, good for both street and park skating |
60mm and above | Speed, cruising, rough surfaces |
Choosing the Best Wheels for Street Skating
Top Street Skating Wheels on the Market
Alright, so you're ready to roll with some awesome new wheels! Choosing the right wheels can feel like trying to pick a favorite candy in a store full of deliciousness – there are so many options! Don't worry, I've got your back. Here are a few top contenders that always impress:
Spitfire Wheels
Spitfire is like the rockstar of the wheel world – they're known for their durability and iconic designs. Their Formula Four urethane is legendary for its long life and smooth roll. It's like having superpowers for your skateboard! If you're looking for wheels that can handle anything you throw at them, Spitfire is a solid choice.
Spitfire Formula | Durometer | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Formula Four Classic 99a | 99a | All-around street skating |
Formula Four Conical Full 101a | 101a | Speed and technical tricks |
Formula Four Lock-Ins 53mm 101a | 101a | Street skating, tight spaces, quick turns |
If you're interested in exploring different skateboarding styles, check out our guide on vert skateboarding. It's a whole other world of adrenaline and excitement!
Bones Wheels
Bones Wheels are known for their high-performance urethane formulas and innovative designs. They offer a wide range of wheels tailored to different skating styles and terrains. Whether you're into street, park, or vert, Bones has a wheel that will help you shred to the max! Their STF (Street Tech Formula) wheels are super popular for their grip and durability on rough surfaces. They're like the all-terrain tires of the skateboarding world!
- Bones SPF (Skatepark Formula)
- Bones STF (Street Tech Formula)
- Bones All-Terrain Formula
Looking to level up your skateboarding skills? Mastering the 180 is a great place to start!
Top Street Skating Wheels on the Market
Maintaining Your Street Skating Wheels
Keep 'Em Clean, Keep 'Em Rollin'
Imagine trying to ride your bike with mud stuck in the wheels – it wouldn't be much fun, right? Your skateboard wheels are kinda the same way. When dirt, rocks, or grime build up, your wheels won't spin as smoothly, and you might feel like you're skating through peanut butter instead of cruising down the street.
To keep those wheels happy, give 'em a little spa treatment every now and then. Grab a soft brush, some warm soapy water (dish soap works great!), and give your wheels a good scrub. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies where dirt likes to hide. Once they're sparkling clean, rinse 'em off, dry 'em with a towel, and they'll be ready to roll like new! Check out this article about Tony Hawk he keeps his wheels clean.
Cleaning Supplies | Where to Find |
|---|---|
Soft-bristled brush (an old toothbrush works great!) | Around the house, grocery store, drugstore |
Mild dish soap | Under the kitchen sink, grocery store |
Warm water | Your faucet! |
Clean towel | Linen closet, bathroom |
Rotate for a Smoother Ride
Have you ever noticed that one wheel on your skateboard seems to wear down faster than the others? That's totally normal! Just like the tires on a car, skateboard wheels wear down differently depending on how you ride. Maybe you carve a lot to the left, or you always land a certain trick on your back wheels.
To keep all your wheels rolling smoothly and evenly, it's a good idea to rotate 'em every so often. Think of it like this: you wouldn't want to wear the same shoe on the same foot every day, would you? Your feet would get tired and sore! Rotating your wheels helps them wear down at the same rate, so they last longer and give you a smoother ride. Plus, it's a good excuse to give your board a little checkup and tighten any loose screws. If you are new to skateboarding, check out this article how to get started with skateboarding.
- Front left wheel goes to back right
- Front right wheel goes to back left
- Back left wheel goes to front left
- Back right wheel goes to front right
Maintaining Your Street Skating Wheels
Final Thought
Choosing the right street skating wheels is a personal journey. Consider your skating style, the terrain you frequent, and your budget. By understanding the factors discussed and exploring reputable brands, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect wheels to elevate your street skating experience. Remember, the right wheels can boost your performance, enhance your control, and most importantly, maximize your enjoyment on every ride.