Best Skateboard Wheels for Smooth Rides: Top Picks in 2024
This post has been updated to include the most recent updates in 2024.
Skateboarding is an exciting and thrilling sport that requires a lot of skill and practice. One of the essential components of a skateboard is its wheels. It comes in different sizes, shapes, and materials, and choosing the right one can significantly impact your performance.
When it comes to selecting the best skateboard wheels, there are several things to consider. The size of the wheels is crucial, as it affects the speed and maneuverability of your skateboard. The durometer or hardness of the wheels is also essential, as it determines the grip and traction of the wheels on different surfaces.
Another critical factor to consider when buying is the material used to make them. Some wheels are made of urethane, while others are made of plastic or rubber. Urethane is the most popular material, as it offers excellent grip and durability.
After researching and testing, we have identified the top twelve best skateboard wheels on the market. Our selection includes wheels of different sizes, shapes, and materials, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
At a Glance
PROS:
- The Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels have unmatched abrasion resistance, which means fewer flat spots.
- They have a straight cut profile and a thin riding surface, which offers speed and control for sick tricks.
- The Spitfire Wheels are 100% guaranteed authentic.
PROS:
- The large 85mm diameter and 56mm contact patch make for a fast and comfortable ride over cracks and rough roads.
- The Happy Thane formula provides a smooth and grippy ride, available in three durometers.
- The fully exposed 46mm core reduces weight and provides quick acceleration.
PROS:
- These wheels are made with premium formula Beast Urethane, which is designed and manufactured in California, so you can trust their quality.
- The 81a urethane and 40mm width (35mm contact) make for a comfortable and smooth ride, even over bumpy roads and debris.
- With Fireball SlidePrepped(TM) and dump thane, these wheels leave massive urethane lines and break in progressively for consistent slides all the way to the core.
Best Skateboard Wheels
When it comes to skateboarding, having the right set of wheels can make all the difference. Whether you're cruising around town or hitting the skatepark, the right wheels can provide the perfect balance of speed, grip, and control.
We've rounded up the best skateboard wheels on the market to help you find the perfect set for your needs. From high-performance options for advanced riders to versatile choices for beginners, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, let's dive into the list of the best skateboard wheels!
Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels - Set of 4 (54mm)
If you're looking for skateboard wheels that provide lasting speed, great grip, and smooth anti-stick slide, then the Spitfire Wheels are a great option.
We recently tried out the Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels and were impressed with their performance. The wheels provide a smooth and controllable grip, making it easier to execute tricks. We also appreciated their lasting speed and anti-stick slide, which allowed us to maintain our momentum and power through turns.
One of the standout features of the Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels is their unmatched abrasion resistance. This means that the wheels are less likely to develop flat spots, which can be a major issue with other skateboard wheels. We also liked the straight cut profile and thin riding surface, which gave us a good balance of speed and control.
While the Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels may not be the best option for beginners, they are a great choice for intermediate and advanced skateboarders who want a high-performance set of wheels.
Overall, we highly recommend the Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels to anyone looking for durable, fast, and controllable skateboard wheels.
- The Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels have unmatched abrasion resistance, which means fewer flat spots.
- They have a straight cut profile and a thin riding surface, which offers speed and control for sick tricks.
- The Spitfire Wheels are 100% guaranteed authentic.
- The Spitfire Formula Four 99D Tablet Skateboard Wheels may not be ideal for too abrasive terrain.
- The paint on the wheels may chip a little, but it's very tiny.
- They may not be the best option for beginners.
Orangatang Caguama 85mm 77a Downhill Longboard Skateboard Cruising Wheels w/Loaded Jehu V2 Bearings (Blue, Set of 4)
If you're looking for a smooth and fast longboard ride, the Orangatang Caguama Longboard Wheels are a great choice.
We recently gave these wheels a try on our longboard and were impressed with their performance. The large size of the wheels allowed us to roll over cracks and debris with ease, while the Happy Thane formula provided a smooth and grippy ride. The fully exposed core also helped with acceleration and momentum.
However, we did notice that the wheels were on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for riders who prioritize weight. Additionally, the large size of the wheels may not be suitable for certain longboard setups, so it's important to check compatibility before purchasing. Finally, the price point may be higher than some other options on the market, but we believe the performance justifies the cost.
Overall, if you're looking for a smooth and fast longboard ride, we highly recommend giving the Orangatang Caguama Longboard Wheels a try.
- The large 85mm diameter and 56mm contact patch make for a fast and comfortable ride over cracks and rough roads.
- The Happy Thane formula provides a smooth and grippy ride, available in three durometers.
- The fully exposed 46mm core reduces weight and provides quick acceleration.
- The wheels are on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for some riders.
- The large size of the wheels may not be suitable for certain longboard setups.
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
Fireball Tinder 60mm 81a Durometer Skateboard & Longboard Wheels x 4 (White)
If you're looking for comfortable skateboard wheels that provide a smooth ride and consistent slides, Fireball Tinder 60mm Longboard Cruiser Wheel is a great choice.
We recently tried out the 60mm Tinder Longboard Wheels by Fireball, a renowned skateboard wheel brand, and were impressed with their performance. The urethane is soft enough to provide a comfortable ride, yet durable enough to withstand daily use. We also appreciated the dump thane and SlidePrepped(TM) features, which make for consistent slides and easy tracking of our progress.
However, some riders may prefer harder wheels, while others might lean towards soft skateboard wheels, and the 60mm diameter may not be suitable for all types of skateboarding. Overall, we would recommend Fireball Tinder 60mm Longboard Wheels for those looking for a comfortable and reliable cruising experience.
- These wheels are made with premium formula Beast Urethane, which is designed and manufactured in California, so you can trust their quality.
- The 81a urethane and 40mm width (35mm contact) make for a comfortable and smooth ride, even over bumpy roads and debris.
- With Fireball SlidePrepped(TM) and dump thane, these wheels leave massive urethane lines and break in progressively for consistent slides all the way to the core.
- Some riders may prefer harder or softer wheels depending on their personal preference and riding style.
- The 60mm diameter may not be suitable for all types of skateboarding, such as vert or downhill.
- While the centerset core provides predictable slides and even wear patterns, some riders may prefer offset or side-set cores for different types of slides.
[CCS] Skateboard Wheels - 52mm, 53mm, 54mm, 56mm - 100A (Black, 52mm)
We highly recommend the CCS Skateboard Wheels for anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that still performs well.
We were pleasantly surprised by the performance of these wheels. They offer a great balance of grip and rebound, making them suitable for both skatepark and street skating. We also appreciate that they come in a set of four, making them a great value for the price.
The CCS Skateboard Wheels have a 100A durometer, which is on the harder side, but still provides good control and stability. The treaded riding surface also adds extra grip, which is especially useful for tricks and maneuvers.
However, it's important to note that these wheels may not be as durable as higher-end options. They also may not be suitable for all types of skating, such as downhill or cruising. Additionally, because they are on the harder side, they may not provide as smooth of a ride as softer wheels.
Overall, we think the CCS Skateboard Wheels are a great option for anyone on a budget or just starting out in skateboarding. They offer solid performance and value for the price.
- From a trusted brand with over 35 years of experience
- High-quality professional grade wheels
- Treaded riding surface for extra grip
- May not last as long as higher-end wheels
- Not suitable for all types of skating (e.g. downhill)
- May not be as smooth of a ride as softer wheels
RICTA 52mm Clouds 92a Skateboard Wheels - Black
If you're looking for a well-balanced skateboard wheel that offers maximum speed and a smooth roll, the Ricta Naturals 52mm Clouds Black 92a Skateboard Wheels might be the right choice for you.
We have been using these best wheels for a while now, and we're impressed with their performance. The NRG Hi-Energy urethane formula makes them resistant to flat spots, which means they will last longer than other smaller wheels.
The 92a durometer hardness is perfect for cruising and carving, and it offers a good balance between speed and control. The Ricta Naturals urethane formula is also impressive, allowing us to slide when we need it and providing control when we want it.
However, some customers have reported that the durometer hardness is not accurate, so you might want to keep that in mind when making your purchase. Also, these smaller wheels might not be suitable for technical skateboarding, so if you're into that, you might want to look for other options. Finally, the black color might not be everyone's favorite, but that's a matter of personal preference.
In summary, if you're looking for a well-balanced skateboard wheel that offers maximum speed and a smooth roll, the Ricta Naturals 52mm Clouds Black 92a Skateboard Wheels are a great option.
- The NRG Hi-Energy urethane formula makes these best wheels long-lasting and resistant to flat spots.
- The 92a durometer hardness gives you the perfect balance between speed and control.
- The Ricta Naturals urethane formula allows you to slide when you need it and offers control when you want it.
- Some customers have reported that the durometer hardness is not accurate.
- These wheels might not be suitable for technical skateboarding.
- The black color might not be everyone's favorite.
FREEDARE 70mm Longboard Wheels with ABEC-7 Bearings and Spacers(Blue,Set of 4)
If you're looking for an affordable set of longboard wheels that will provide a smooth ride, the FREEDARE 70mm Longboard Wheels with ABEC-7 Bearings and Spacers are a great option.
We recently tried out these wheels and were impressed with their performance. The 70mm diameter and 51mm width provide a good balance between speed and maneuverability, and the 83a durometer polyurethane material makes for a smooth ride on both street and skate park terrain.
Installation was a breeze thanks to the included ABEC-7 high steel bearings and spacers. While not the highest quality bearings on the market, they provide a decent roll and are easy to install.
The dot pattern design on the wheels adds a touch of style to your skateboard, making it stand out from the crowd. However, it's worth noting that the wheels may not be as durable as some higher-end options, and the included bearings may need to be replaced for a better roll.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable set of longboard wheels that will provide a smooth ride, the FREEDARE 70mm Longboard Wheels with ABEC-7 Bearings and Spacers are definitely worth considering.
- The 83a durometer polyurethane wheels make for a smooth ride on both street and skate park terrain.
- The included ABEC-7 high steel bearings and spacers are easy to install and provide a decent roll.
- The dot pattern design adds a touch of style to your skateboard.
- The wheels are not as durable as some higher-end options.
- The included bearings are not the highest quality and may need to be replaced for a better roll.
- The wheels may not be suitable for very rough terrain.
Shark Wheel 60 mm 78a, Skateboard Cruising Wheels, California Roll, Black, Set of 4 Wheels
If you want an all-terrain wheel that offers high performance and long-lasting durability, then Shark Wheel High Performance DNA Formula Skateboarding Wheels are the perfect choice for you.
We recently tried out the Shark Wheel High Performance DNA Formula Skateboarding Wheels and were impressed with their performance. The unique wave pattern of the wheels helped us to easily roll over debris and obstacles, making it easier to skate on rough terrain. We also noticed that the wheels provided a smoother and faster ride, thanks to their reduced friction and increased longevity.
One thing to keep in mind is that these wheels are a little big for a skateboard and may be better suited for a longboard. Some people also find that they vibrate a lot, which can be a bit uncomfortable. Additionally, they may not be the best choice for people who prefer a lot of friction when street skating.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Shark Wheel High Performance DNA Formula Skateboarding Wheels to anyone looking for a high-performance, durable, and all-terrain wheel. They're made in the USA using the best local materials, so you can be confident that you're getting a quality product.
- The unique wave pattern of the wheels helps to deflect debris and obstacles, so you can keep on rolling.
- These wheels provide a number of benefits, including reduced friction, increased longevity, abrasion resistance, and improved off-road performance.
- Shark Wheels are made with quality in mind and are built to last.
- They are a little big for a skateboard and could be used on a longboard instead.
- Some people find that they vibrate a lot.
- They may not be the best choice for people who prefer a lot of friction when skating.
Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers Translucent Red
If you're looking for a set of longboard wheels that can handle high speeds and provide good grip and stability, the Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers Translucent Red might be the perfect fit for you.
We recently tried out the Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers Translucent Red and were impressed by their performance. The 80A SHR hardness provided a good grip and stability at high speeds, while the offset core allowed the wheels to grip through turns and corners with ease.
The 76mm size made it easy to maintain top speeds and the controlled slide characteristics made it easy to control the board during slides.
One thing to keep in mind is that these wheels may not be suitable for riders who prefer a smoother ride. They may also be too large for some riders who prefer more maneuverability. Additionally, the wheels are not suitable for all types of terrain.
However, if you're looking for a set of longboard wheels that can handle high speeds and provide good grip and stability, the Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers Translucent Red are definitely worth considering.
- The 80A Super High Rebound (SHR) hardness provides a good grip and stability at high speeds.
- The offset core allows the wheels to be able to grip through turns and corners, while providing predictable, controlled slide characteristics.
- 76mm wheels are on the larger end of the spectrum making it easier to maintain top speeds.
- The wheels may not be suitable for riders who prefer a smoother ride.
- The wheels may be too large for some riders who prefer more maneuverability.
- The wheels are not suitable for all types of terrain.
Powell Peralta G-Bones Skateboard Wheels 64mm 97a - White (4 pack)
If you're looking for skateboard wheels that are great for skateparks and street skating, the Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels are a solid choice.
We recently tried out the Powell Peralta G-Bones Wheels and were impressed with their performance. The 64mm diameter made it easy to roll over bumps and rough pavement, while the 97A hardness provided a solid grip for shredding the park and street.
One potential downside is that the 97A hardness may be too hard for some riders who prefer a softer ride. Additionally, the wheels may not be suitable for rough terrain. However, if you're primarily using them for skateparks and street skating, they should work great.
Overall, we would recommend the Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels for anyone looking for high-quality wheels that can handle a variety of skateboarding styles.
- The 64mm diameter makes it easy to roll over bumps and inconsistent pavement.
- The 97A hardness is perfect for shredding the park and street with ease.
- Made in the USA.
- The 97A hardness may be too hard for some riders who prefer a softer ride.
- May not be suitable for rough terrain.
- May be louder than softer wheels.
OJ Skateboard Wheels Mini Super Juice 55mm 78a Skateboard Wheels - Black
If you're looking for skateboard wheels that can handle all terrains, the OJ Skateboard Wheels Mini Super Juice 55mm 78a Skateboard Wheels are a great option.
We recently tried out the OJ Skateboard Wheels Mini Super Juice 55mm 78a Skateboard Wheels and were impressed with their performance. The reinforced plastic core and chip-resistant shape make these wheels durable and long-lasting, while the ultra-buttery 78a urethane ensures a smooth ride on any terrain.
The 55mm size is perfect for cruising and carving, making these wheels a great choice for riders who want a versatile set of wheels. However, the 78a urethane may not be ideal for those who prefer harder wheels for tricks, and these wheels may not be suitable for high-speed downhill riding.
Overall, if you're looking for skateboard wheels that can handle all terrains and provide a smooth ride, the OJ Skateboard Wheels Mini Super Juice 55mm 78a Skateboard Wheels are definitely worth considering.
- The reinforced plastic core and chip-resistant shape make these wheels durable and long-lasting.
- The ultra-buttery 78a urethane ensures a smooth ride on any terrain.
- The 55mm size is perfect for cruising and carving.
- The 78a urethane may not be ideal for those who prefer harder wheels for tricks.
- These wheels may not be suitable for high-speed downhill riding.
- The black color may not be everyone's preference.
SANTA CRUZ Slime Balls OG Slime Skateboard Wheels
We highly recommend the SANTA CRUZ Slime Balls OG Slime Skateboard Wheels for anyone looking for a classic and reliable skateboard wheel.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Slime Balls skateboard wheels and were impressed with their performance. The wheels are smooth and provide a comfortable ride, making them perfect for cruising around town. We appreciated the variety of durometers available, allowing us to choose the perfect wheel for our needs. The OG Slime Balls wheel from the 80's is a great throwback for those looking for a classic look.
However, we did find that these wheels may not be the best option for those looking to do tricks. They may wear down faster than harder wheels, so they may not be the best option for extremely rough terrain. Overall, we would highly recommend these wheels for anyone looking for a reliable and classic skateboard wheel.
- The Slime Balls are perfect for all types of boards and come in classic shapes.
- They have three different durometers available in monothanes, as well as some softer cored options.
- The OG Slime Balls wheel from the 80's is back!
- They aren't great for tricks.
- They may not be the best option for extremely rough terrain.
- They may wear down faster than harder wheels.
Sector 9 Butterball 70mm Clear Green Skate Wheels
If you're looking for a set of skateboard wheels that can handle rough surfaces while still allowing you to initiate slides and drifts with ease, then the Sector 9 Slide Butterballs Skate Wheels might be a great option for you.
We recently had the chance to test out the Sector 9 Slide Butterballs Skate Wheels, and we were impressed by their performance. These wheels are great for freeriding, and they make it easy to initiate slides and drifts thanks to their rounded lips and stone ground finish.
While these wheels might not be the best choice for riders who prioritize speed over maneuverability, they strike a good balance between grip and slide. The 75a and 80a duro make them versatile enough to handle a smooth surfaces, while the Cosmic Centerset Core provides maximum grip and even wear.
That being said, these wheels might not be the most durable option on the market, and some riders might find that they take a bit of time to break in properly. Overall, though, we think that the Sector 9 Slide Butterballs Skate Wheels are a solid choice for riders who want a few wheels that can handle a variety of surfaces while still allowing them to pull off some impressive slides and drifts.
- The 75a and 80a duro make these wheels versatile enough to handle a variety of surfaces
- The Cosmic Centerset Core provides maximum grip and even wear
- The 38mm contact patch strikes a good balance between gripping and sliding
- These wheels might not be as durable as some other options on the market
- They might not be the best choice for riders who prioritize speed over maneuverability
- Some riders might find that they take a bit of time to break in properly
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best skateboard wheels, it's important to consider a few key factors to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when shopping for skateboard wheels:
Size
Wheels of skateboards come in a range of sizes, typically measured in millimeters. The size of the wheels you choose will depend on your riding style and personal preference. Smaller wheels (around 50mm) are great for technical street skating and tricks, while larger wheels (around 60mm or more) are better for cruising and longboarding.
Durometer
The durometer of a skateboard wheel refers to its hardness. This is typically measured on a scale of 1-100, with higher numbers indicating a harder wheel. Softer wheels (around 78a-87a) are better for cruising and rough surfaces, while harder wheels (around 99a-101a) are better for street skating and tricks.
Shape
Wheels o come in a variety of shapes, including round, conical, and square. The shape of the wheel can affect its performance, so it's important to choose a shape that suits your riding style. Round wheels are the most common and versatile, while conical and square wheels can provide more grip and stability.
Core
The core of a skateboard wheel refers to the center of the wheel, which can be solid or have cutouts. A solid core provides more stability and durability, while a cutout core can reduce weight and increase speed.
Brand
Finally, it's important to choose a reputable brand when shopping for wheels. Look for brands that have a good reputation among skaters and offer high-quality products.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best skateboard wheels for your needs and enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best skateboard wheels for cruising?
For cruising, we recommend softer wheels with a diameter of 55-60mm. Softer wheels provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces and absorb shock better. Some popular options for cruising are OJ III Hot Juice and Ricta Clouds.
What is the ideal size for skateboard wheels?
The ideal size depends on the type of skating you plan to do. For street and park skating, we recommend wheels with a diameter of 50-54mm, as smaller wheels allow for quick maneuvering and tight turns. For cruising and transportation, wheels with a diameter of 55-60mm are ideal, providing a smooth ride over various surfaces.
When it comes to all-terrain skating, larger wheels with a diameter of 60-75mm are recommended, but be cautious of "wheel bite," which occurs when the wheel touches the skateboard deck during a turn or trick, causing a sudden stop. Choosing the correct wheel size helps in minimizing the risk of wheel bite, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable skating experience.
What are the best skateboard wheels for park skating?
For park skating, we recommend harder wheels with a diameter of 50-54mm. Harder wheels provide more control and speed on smooth surfaces. Some popular options for park skating are Spitfire Formula Four and Bones Wheels STF (Street Tech Formula).
What makes Spitfire skateboard wheels a popular choice?
It is a popular choice because of their high-quality urethane formula, which provides a smooth and fast ride. They also come in a variety of sizes and hardness levels to suit different types of skating.
What are the best skateboard wheels for all-terrain skating?
For all-terrain skating, we recommend larger wheels with a diameter of 60-75mm and a softer durometer. These wheels provide better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces. Some popular options for all-terrain skating are OJ III Thunder Juice and Ricta Clouds.
What are the best skateboard wheels for sliding?
For sliding, we recommend harder wheels with a diameter of 50-54mm. Harder wheels provide more control and speed when sliding. Some popular options for sliding are Powell Peralta G-Bones and Bones Wheels' STF series.