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Finding the best skateboard wheels for street skating can seriously up your game. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, kizworld is here to break down everything you need to know about choosing the right wheels for epic street sessions.
Factor | Description | Things to Consider |
---|---|---|
Size (mm) | Diameter of the wheel | 52mm-56mm for street skating. Smaller wheels for slower speeds and technical tricks. Larger wheels for faster speeds and rougher surfaces. |
Durometer (A) | Hardness of the wheel | 99A-101A for street skating. Harder wheels for speed and durability on smooth surfaces. Softer wheels for grip and comfort on rougher surfaces. |
Brand | Manufacturer of the wheel | Spitfire, Bones, Ricta, OJ Wheels, and more. Choose a reputable brand known for quality and performance. |
Contact Patch | Area of the wheel that touches the ground | Wider contact patch for more grip and stability. Narrower contact patch for less friction and faster speeds. |
Understanding Street Skateboard Wheels
Alright, let's break down street skateboard wheels – the unsung heroes of your ride! Think of them like your board's sneakers, specially designed for tackling concrete jungles. We're not talking about cruising down the boardwalk; these wheels are made for tricks, grinds, and conquering urban obstacles. What makes them different? It's all about the size, hardness, and how they feel under your feet.
First up, size matters. Street skateboard wheels are usually smaller, around 52mm to 56mm in diameter. Remember those tiny shopping carts kids zoom around on? Smaller wheels are like that – they're nimble, let you maneuver quickly, and are perfect for technical tricks. They're all about precision and control, like a surgeon's hands (except way cooler). Larger wheels, on the other hand, are more like off-road tires, better suited for speed and rougher terrain, which isn't ideal for most street skating. If you're all about nailing those kickflips and grinds, stick with the smaller guys. To learn more about skate tricks, check out how to do a heelflip.
Now, let's talk about durometer – basically, how hard the wheels are. Street skaters typically go for harder wheels, somewhere between 99A to 101A. Imagine the difference between rolling your finger across a bouncy ball versus a marble. Harder wheels are like the marble – they roll fast and smooth on concrete, perfect for landing tricks cleanly and gaining speed. Softer wheels, while grippier, can feel sluggish for street skating. They're more like your comfy sneakers – great for absorbing bumps, but not ideal for speed demons. Think of harder wheels as your ticket to a smoother, faster ride, especially when you're mastering how to do a manual.
Wheel Size | Best For |
---|---|
52mm-54mm | Technical tricks, street skating |
55mm-56mm | Faster street skating, rougher surfaces |
Choosing the Best Skateboard Wheels for Street Skating
Picking the right wheels is where the real fun begins. It's like choosing the right shoes for a basketball game – you want something that matches your style and what you're trying to do. Think about what kind of street skater you are. Do you love pulling off technical tricks like a skateboarding wizard? Then smaller, harder wheels, around 52mm-54mm and 99A-101A, are your best bet. They're quick, responsive, and let you maneuver with precision. If you're more into cruising and hitting the occasional ramp, slightly larger wheels (55mm-56mm) might feel more comfortable. But remember, for true street domination, those smaller, harder wheels are your secret weapon. They're like having cheetah paws for feet! You'll be amazed at how much they can improve your board control and help you nail those tricks you've been working on, especially if you're trying to master a 180.
Wheel Feature | What to Look For |
---|---|
Shape | Sharper edges for grip, rounded edges for speed |
Core | Center of the wheel, affects speed and durability |
Top Street Skateboard Wheel Brands
Okay, so you've got the basics of street skateboard wheels, but now it's time to talk brands. Think of it like picking your favorite superhero team – each brand has its own strengths and style. Let's start with a classic: Spitfire. These guys are like the veterans of the wheel world, known for their speed, durability, and that iconic "Bighead" logo. Their Formula Four urethane is legendary for its grip and slide-ability. It's like having spiderwebs on your wheels, helping you stick landings and control those powerslides.
Next up, we've got Bones Wheels. If Spitfire is the seasoned veteran, Bones is the innovative up-and-comer, always pushing the boundaries of what wheels can do. They're famous for their Street Tech Formula, which is super fast and durable, perfect for grinding and technical street skating. Imagine rolling over sandpaper without a scratch – that's what Bones wheels feel like. They also make some of the best bearings. And don’t forget about Ricta Wheels, known for their unique urethane formulas and wide range of shapes and sizes.
Brand | Known For |
---|---|
Spitfire | Speed, durability, iconic "Bighead" logo |
Bones | Innovative designs, long-lasting performance |
Ricta | Unique urethane formulas, wide range of options |
Maintaining Your Best Skateboard Wheels for Street Skating
Taking care of your skateboard wheels is like keeping your sneakers fresh – it makes a big difference! Think of it this way: the more you skate, the more wear and tear your wheels go through. Street skating, especially, can be tough on wheels with all those grinds and slides. But don't worry, keeping them in tip-top shape is easier than you might think. First off, rotate your wheels regularly, kinda like you do with tires on a car. This helps them wear down evenly and last longer. You can also clean them with a damp cloth to get rid of any dirt or grime that might slow you down. Remember, a little TLC goes a long way in keeping your wheels rolling smoothly and your ride feeling awesome. For more tips on keeping your skateboard in top condition, check out our guide to the best skateboarding wheels and bearings.
Maintenance Task | How Often |
---|---|
Rotate wheels | Every few sessions |
Clean wheels | After each session, if needed |
Inspect for damage | Regularly |
Choosing the best skateboard wheels for street skating is a personal journey. What matters most is finding wheels that match your style, board, and the terrain you skate. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy the ride!