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Ready to conquer the concrete jungle? Choosing the best wheels to skate street can make or break your ride! At kizworld, we're here to break down everything you need to know about wheel size, durometer, and top picks to help you find the perfect set. Let's roll into the details and get you skating like a pro!
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Wheel Size | Larger wheels (54mm+) for speed and cruising, smaller wheels (52mm-) for agility and tricks. |
Durometer | Higher durometer (96A+) for smooth surfaces and durability, lower durometer (90A-) for grip and rough terrain. |
Brand Recommendations | Spitfire, Bones, Ricta, OJ Wheels (specific models will vary based on individual needs) |
Wheel Size: Finding the Right Fit for Street Skating
Alright, so you're diving into the world of street skating, that's awesome! First things first, let's talk wheels. Think of them like the shoes on your skateboard - they're gonna make a big difference in how your board feels and handles.
One of the first things you'll notice is that wheels come in different sizes. We measure this in millimeters (mm). Now, for street skating, you'll mostly see sizes ranging from about 52mm to 58mm. So, what's the deal with these numbers?
Smaller Wheels (52mm - 54mm): Quick & Nimble
Smaller wheels are like those sneakers you wear when you want to be super quick on your feet. They're great for street skating because they:
- Accelerate quickly, which is awesome for technical tricks.
- Have a lower center of gravity, making them more stable for flips and grinds.
- Are lighter, so they won't weigh you down.
If you're just starting out and want to focus on learning kickflips or heelflips, smaller wheels are a solid choice. They're also popular for street skaters who love hitting ledges and rails.
Larger Wheels (54mm - 58mm): Smooth & Speedy
Now, imagine you're cruising down the sidewalk - you want some speed, right? That's where larger wheels come in. Think of them like those comfy running shoes you wear when you want to go the distance. Here's why they're great for street skating:
- Maintain speed better, so you don't have to push as often (perfect for longer rides!).
- Roll over cracks and bumps in the road more easily, making for a smoother ride.
If you're into cruising, filming lines, or skating bowls and ramps, larger wheels might be more your style. They're also a good option if you want a more forgiving ride over rougher terrain. Just remember, they might take a little more effort to get going than smaller wheels.
Now, let's talk about durometer – it's how we measure how hard or soft your wheels are. Think about it like this: a bouncy ball and a car tire are both round, but they sure don't feel the same when you press on them, right? That's durometer at play! We measure it on something called the "A Scale," and you'll see numbers like 90A, 96A, 100A, and so on.
Lower numbers (like 90A) mean softer wheels. These are grippier, perfect for rough surfaces like streets, and give you a smoother ride. They're a good choice if you're just starting out or want to cruise around comfortably. Higher numbers (like 100A) mean harder wheels. These bad boys are built for speed and durability, sliding over cracks and bumps like they're nothing. You'll see them a lot in skateparks and on smooth concrete. If you're into technical tricks or bombing hills, these might be your jam. It's all about finding the right balance for your skating style and the surfaces you'll be riding on. If you're not sure, you can always ask at your local skate shop – they're the experts!
Best Wheels to Skate Street: Top Picks for Smooth Rides
Alright, so you've got the lowdown on wheel size and durometer - now for the fun part: picking out your perfect set! It's like choosing a superpower, but for your skateboard! Spitfire is a classic for a reason, their Formula Four urethane is like magic - super fast and grippy. Bones are known for their durability – these wheels can handle some serious punishment. And then there's Ricta, they've got a wheel for every style, from street skating to cruising. Remember, it's all about finding what feels right for you, so don't be afraid to experiment! You can always ask the folks at your local skate shop or check out reviews online. Happy shredding!
- Spitfire
- Bones
- Ricta
Now, let's say you're all about those techy tricks – think kickflips, heelflips, and maybe even a 180 if you're feeling bold! You'll probably dig some smaller, harder wheels – something like Spitfire Formula Four Classics in a 52mm or 53mm size with a 99A durometer. These babies are like little rockets, giving you that quick pop and slide you need to nail those landings. Plus, they're tough as nails, so you won't have to worry about them chipping or flat-spotting after a few sessions.
Size | Durometer | Brand |
---|---|---|
52mm / 53mm | 99A | Spitfire |
Maintaining Your Wheels: Tips for LongLasting Performance
Taking care of your wheels is like taking care of your skateboard – it'll last way longer if you show it some love! First off, keep those wheels clean! Imagine rolling through mud and grime – yuck! It can really mess up your roll and wear down your wheels faster. A little soap and water go a long way, just like giving your board a good wipe-down after a gnarly session. And hey, ever heard of rotating your wheels? It's like giving each wheel a turn at being the star! This helps them wear down evenly, so you don't end up with one super-worn-out wheel and three that are still good to go. You can swap them around every few sessions – it's easy! Trust me, your wheels will thank you for it. Want to learn more about improving your balance for skateboarding? Check out our guide!
Final Thought
Finding the best wheels to skate street is all about balancing your personal preferences and skating style. Remember to consider wheel size, durometer, and brand reputation to make an informed decision. With the right set of wheels, you'll be carving up the streets with confidence and style in no time!