What Skateboard Wheels are Good for the Street
As a skateboarder, you know that your wheels are one of the most important components of your setup. The right wheels can make all the difference when it comes to your performance, comfort, and style on the street. But with so many different skateboard wheels available, it can be tough to figure out which ones are the best fit for your needs.
In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what skateboard wheels are good for the street, and how to choose the right ones for your skating style and preferences. We'll cover key factors like hardness and durability, shape and profile, size and width, brand and price, and more. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, this guide will help you find the best skateboard wheels for the street.
Hardness and Durability
One of the main factors to consider when choosing skateboard wheels for the street is hardness. Skateboard wheels are typically rated on a scale from very soft (around 75A) to very hard (around 101A). Softer wheels tend to have more grip and provide a smoother ride, but they are also more prone to flatspots and wear out faster. Harder wheels have less grip and tend to be faster and more durable, but they can also be more uncomfortable to ride and make it more difficult to control your skateboard.
When it comes to street skating, the ideal hardness of your skateboard wheels will depend on your personal preferences, your skateboarding style, and the type of terrain you'll be skating on. If you prefer a smooth and controlled ride, you may want to go with softer wheels. If you like to go fast and want more durability, harder wheels may be a better choice. A good starting point for most street skaters is around 78A to 86A.
In addition to hardness, you'll also want to consider durability when choosing skateboard wheels for the street. Skateboard wheels take a lot of abuse, especially when you're skating on rough surfaces like concrete and asphalt. You'll want wheels that can withstand the wear and tear of street skating, without cracking or deforming. Look for wheels that are made from high-quality materials, such as urethane, and that have a reputation for being durable. You may also want to consider investing in wheels with reinforcement technologies, such as skins or cores, which can help to improve their durability and performance.
Shape and Profile
Another important factor to consider when choosing skateboard wheels for the street is shape and profile. Skateboard wheels come in a variety of shapes and profiles, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The most common shape is a rounded or conical shape, which is good for most types of skating and provides a smooth ride. Some skateboard wheels also have a more squared or flat shape, which can provide more grip and stability, but may also be less smooth and more prone to flatspots.
In addition to shape, you'll also want to consider the profile of your skateboard wheels. This refers to the way that the wheel is shaped in cross section. Some wheels have a more rounded profile, which can provide a smooth and comfortable ride. Others have a more pointed or sharp profile, which can provide more grip and control, but may also be less smooth and more prone to flatspots.
When choosing the shape and profile of your skateboard wheels for street skating, you'll want to consider your personal preferences and skateboarding style, as well as the type of terrain you'll be skating on. If you prefer a smooth and comfortable ride, a rounded or conical shape with a rounded profile may be a good choice. If you need more grip and stability, a squared or flat shape with a pointed or sharp profile may be a better option. Experiment with different shapes and profiles to find the best fit for your needs.
Size and Width
The size and width of skateboard wheels can also have a big impact on their performance and suitability for street skating. Skateboard wheels come in a range of sizes, measured in millimeters (mm), with larger wheels typically providing a smoother ride and smaller wheels providing more control. Most street skaters choose wheels in the 50mm to 60mm range, with 53mm to 55mm being a popular sweet spot.
In addition to size, you'll also want to consider the width of your skateboard wheels. Wheel width is measured in millimeters (mm) and is typically expressed as a range, such as "50-53mm". A wider wheel may provide more grip and stability, but may also be less smooth and more prone to flatspots. A narrower wheel may provide less grip and stability, but may also be smoother and less prone to flatspots.
When choosing the size and width of your skateboard wheels for street skating, you'll want to consider your personal preferences and skateboarding style, as well as the type of terrain you'll be skating on. If you prefer a smooth and comfortable ride, you may want to go with larger and wider wheels. If you need more control and precision, smaller and narrower wheels may be a better option. Experiment with different sizes and widths to find the best fit for your needs.
Brand and Price
The brand and price of skateboard wheels can also be important factors to consider when choosing the best wheels for street skating. Skateboard wheels are made by a variety of brands, each with their own reputation and style. Some brands are known for producing high-quality, reliable wheels that are worth the investment, while others may offer cheaper wheels that may not be as durable or perform as well.
In addition to brand, you'll also want to consider the price of your skateboard wheels. Skateboard wheels can range in price from a few dollars to over $50 or more per wheel. While it's always tempting to go with the cheapest option, you'll want to be aware that cheaper wheels may not be as durable or perform as well as more expensive wheels. On the other hand, more expensive wheels may not necessarily be the best choice for everyone, and you may be able to find good quality wheels at a more affordable price.
When choosing the brand and price of your skateboard wheels for street skating, you'll want to consider your personal preferences, budget, and skateboarding style. If you're willing to invest in high-quality, reliable wheels that will last, you may want to consider a reputable brand and be willing to pay a higher price. If you're on a tight budget, you may need to look for more affordable options, but be aware that you may have to sacrifice some performance and durability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right skateboard wheels for street skating involves a variety of factors, including hardness and durability, shape and profile, size and width, brand and price. By considering these factors and experimenting with different options, you can find the best skateboard wheels for your needs and style.
Remember to always wear protective gear and skate within your abilities to ensure your safety and enjoyment on the streets. With the right skateboard wheels, you'll be able to ride smoothly and confidently, and take your street skating to the next level.
