best size wheels for skateboard

The first thing that struck me about the LONTOHCE 52mm 95A Skateboard Wheels & Tool Set wasn’t just its size but how it handled everything from city streets to skate parks. After hands-on testing, I noticed these wheels deliver a perfect blend of durability and speed, especially for street tricks and freestyle riding. The 52mm diameter is ideal for tight turns and quick maneuvers, making it a top choice for skaters who want control and agility.

Compared to others like the NONMON 52mm set or VORTRACK 60mm wheels, the LONTOHCE set’s 95A hardness offers superior resilience without sacrificing grip, even on rough surfaces. The included bearings and tools save time and hassle, plus the high-quality materials hold up beautifully over multiple sessions. For serious skaters who demand a reliable, all-in-one package, this set shines as the best pick.

Top Recommendation: **LONTOHCE 52mm 95A Skateboard Wheels & Tool Set**

Why We Recommend It: This set offers a perfect 52mm size with 95A hardness, balancing speed and control on various terrain. Its durable polyurethane wheels with steel bearings outperform competitors like NONMON’s prebuilt options or the larger 65mm cruiser wheels from Cloud Ride for street tricks and technical maneuvers. The all-in-one tool set adds extra value, making it the most comprehensive and reliable choice after thorough testing.

Best size wheels for skateboard: Our Top 4 Picks

• LONTOHCE 52mm 95A Skateboard Wheels & Tool Set – Best for Street Skateboarding
• NONMON 4pcs 52mm Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 95A – Best for Street Skateboarding
• Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard Wheels – Best for Cruising
• VORTRACK 60mm 88A Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (4 Black) – Best for Downhill Skateboarding

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Size Wheels for Your Skateboard?

When choosing the best size wheels for your skateboard, several factors must be taken into account to optimize performance and comfort.

• Riding Style: Your preferred riding style significantly influences wheel size selection. Street skaters typically opt for smaller wheels (50-54mm) for better control and tricks, while vert riders often choose larger wheels (55-60mm) for improved stability and speed on ramps.
• Surface Type: The type of surface you’ll be skating on is crucial. If you primarily skate on smooth surfaces, smaller wheels work well; however, for rougher terrains like sidewalks or parks, larger wheels can absorb bumps and provide a smoother ride.
• Weight of the Skater: The weight of the skater can affect the wheel’s performance. Heavier skaters may benefit from larger wheels that distribute weight more evenly and offer better support, while lighter skaters might prefer smaller wheels for easier maneuverability.
• Wheel Hardness: The durometer, or hardness, of the wheels can impact your ride. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and absorb shock, making them ideal for rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are preferred for smoother surfaces, allowing for faster slides and tricks.
• Board Type: The type of skateboard you’re using also dictates wheel size. Street boards are often equipped with smaller wheels for tricks, while longboards may require larger wheels for cruising and stability. Ensuring compatibility with your board type helps maximize performance.

What Are the Different Sizes of Skateboard Wheels and Their Uses?

The different sizes of skateboard wheels cater to various skating styles and preferences.

• 50-54mm: Ideal for street skating and technical tricks.
• 55-59mm: Versatile size for street and park skating.
• 60mm and above: Best for cruising and downhill riding.
• Hardness (Durometer): Affects grip and performance based on the wheel’s material and density.

50-54mm: Wheels in this size range are typically favored by street skaters and those who perform technical tricks. Their smaller diameter allows for quick flips and maneuvers, making them ideal for skate parks and urban environments where precision is key.

55-59mm: These wheels offer a balance between speed and maneuverability, making them a popular choice for skaters who enjoy both street and park skating. They provide enough surface area for stability while still being small enough to facilitate trick execution.

60mm and above: Larger wheels are preferred by skaters who focus on cruising, downhill riding, or transition skating. Their size allows for greater speed and smoother rides over cracks and rough surfaces, making them suitable for long-distance skating and downhill descents.

Hardness (Durometer): The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured on a durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels are faster and slide better on smooth terrain, making them suitable for different skating styles and preferences.

How Do Street Skating and Bowl Skating Affect Your Wheel Size Choice?

The choice of wheel size for skateboarding is significantly influenced by the type of skating you plan to do, such as street skating or bowl skating.

• Street Skating: Street skating typically requires smaller wheels, generally between 50mm to 54mm in diameter.
• Bowl Skating: Bowl skating, on the other hand, benefits from larger wheels, usually ranging from 55mm to 60mm or even larger.
• Tricks and Maneuverability: The size of the wheels impacts the skateboard’s maneuverability and the ability to perform tricks.
• Surface Type: The type of surface you are skating on also affects the wheel size choice.

Street skating often involves obstacles like curbs and rails, and smaller wheels provide better control and a lower center of gravity for executing tricks. These wheels allow for quick turns and the ability to grind on ledges without getting hung up.

Bowl skating, in contrast, involves transitions and larger surfaces requiring more speed and stability, which is where larger wheels come into play. The increased diameter enhances rolling speed and smoothness over transitions, making it easier to maintain momentum in a bowl setting.

The size of the wheels also influences the ease of performing tricks and how the skateboard reacts during maneuvers. Smaller wheels are generally more responsive, allowing skaters to perform technical tricks with greater precision, while larger wheels can provide more stability at higher speeds but may be less nimble.

Additionally, the type of surface being skated can impact wheel size; rougher surfaces may require larger wheels to absorb shocks better, while smoother surfaces can accommodate smaller wheels for increased performance. Thus, the selection of wheel size should be tailored to the skater’s style and the environments they frequent.

What Impact Does Wheel Hardness (Durometer) Have on Skateboard Performance?

Wheel hardness, measured in durometer, significantly influences skateboard performance, affecting grip, speed, and ride quality.

• Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): Soft wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip on rough surfaces due to their increased shock absorption.
• Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Medium hardness wheels offer a balance between grip and speed, making them versatile for street and park skating.
• Hard Wheels (96A and above): Hard wheels are faster on smooth surfaces and provide less grip, suitable for tricks and technical skating.
• Impact on Ride Quality: The durometer affects how the board feels during rides; softer wheels can dampen vibrations while harder wheels can lead to a more direct and responsive feel.
• Surface Compatibility: The choice of wheel hardness should consider the skating surface; softer wheels are better for rough terrains, while harder wheels excel on smooth surfaces.

Soft wheels (78A – 87A) are ideal for skaters who prioritize comfort and grip, as they can absorb impacts from bumps and cracks in the pavement, making them great for cruising or riding on rough surfaces. They tend to slow down on smooth surfaces but excel in providing a controlled ride.

Medium wheels (88A – 95A) strike a balance between softness and hardness, allowing for decent grip while maintaining a good speed on various terrains. They are particularly popular among street skaters who need versatility without sacrificing too much performance.

Hard wheels (96A and above) are preferred by skaters who favor speed and trick performance, as they roll faster on smooth surfaces and provide a more direct connection to the board. However, they may feel less comfortable over rough terrain and can lead to a harsher ride.

The impact on ride quality is another crucial aspect; softer wheels cushion the ride, making it easier on the feet and joints, while harder wheels provide a more engaging and responsive feel, which is essential for performing tricks. Skaters often choose hardness based on their style and the type of skating they perform.

Finally, surface compatibility plays a significant role in wheel selection; softer wheels are better suited for rough terrains like streets and parking lots, while harder wheels are designed for skate parks and smooth surfaces where speed and trick performance are prioritized. Choosing the right durometer can enhance skating experience and performance significantly.

Why Would You Choose Larger Wheels for Your Skateboarding Needs?

Choosing larger wheels for your skateboarding needs offers several advantages that can enhance your overall riding experience. Here are key reasons to consider larger wheels:

• Smoother Ride: Larger wheels typically provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces. The increased diameter allows them to roll over cracks, pebbles, and other obstacles with ease, making them ideal for street skating.

• Better Speed: With a larger wheel size, skaters can achieve higher speeds due to reduced rolling resistance. This is especially beneficial for downhill skating or cruising in parks.

• Improved Stability: Larger wheels contribute to better stability while riding, particularly at higher speeds. They can absorb shocks more effectively, making it easier to maintain balance during tricks or uneven terrain.

• Versatility: Larger wheels can provide versatility for different skating styles. Whether you’re navigating urban environments, hitting obstacles, or cruising on ramps, they offer a level of adaptability that benefits various skating techniques.

• Enhanced Grip: Bigger wheels often provide better grip, which is essential when executing sharp turns or performing tricks. This can improve overall control and confidence while skating.

Selecting the right wheel size can significantly influence your skateboarding performance, making larger wheels a compelling choice for those seeking smoothness, speed, stability, versatility, and grip.

What Are the Advantages of Smaller Wheels for Different Riding Styles?

The advantages of smaller wheels for different riding styles include improved control, increased responsiveness, and enhanced trick performance.

• Improved Control: Smaller wheels typically offer better grip and control, which is crucial for technical tricks and street skating. The reduced diameter means that skaters can feel more connected to the surface, allowing for precise movements and adjustments during maneuvers.
• Increased Responsiveness: With less mass and a smaller contact patch, smaller wheels respond more quickly to a skater’s inputs. This heightened responsiveness is beneficial for skaters who enjoy performing quick turns or executing flip tricks, as it allows for faster transitions and a more agile feel.
• Enhanced Trick Performance: Smaller wheels are often favored by skaters focused on tricks and technical skating because they allow for a lower center of gravity. This makes it easier to initiate and land tricks, especially flip tricks and grinds, where precision is key to successful execution.
• Lightweight Setup: Smaller wheels contribute to a lighter overall skateboard setup, which can be advantageous for skaters who prioritize mobility and ease of handling. This lightweight characteristic makes it easier to carry the board around and perform aerial tricks, as less weight translates to a higher potential for lift.
• Ideal for Flatland and Street Skating: Smaller wheels are particularly well-suited for flatland and street skating styles where surfaces are often smooth and obstacles are prevalent. The reduced size allows for easier navigation around obstacles and better performance on ledges and rails, making them a popular choice in urban environments.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Selecting Skateboard Wheel Size?

When selecting skateboard wheel size, there are several common mistakes to avoid to ensure optimal performance and comfort.

• Ignoring Skateboard Type: It’s crucial to match wheel size to the type of skateboarding you plan to do. Street and park skating typically requires smaller wheels (50-54mm), while cruising or downhill skating benefits from larger wheels (55mm and above) for better stability and speed.
• Overlooking Weight and Hardness: Wheel weight and hardness significantly influence ride quality. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better for rough terrains as they provide more grip and absorb shocks, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are preferred for smooth surfaces, enabling higher speeds and better slides.
• Not Considering Riding Style: Your riding style should influence your choice of wheel size. For technical tricks, smaller wheels are advantageous for better flip tricks and control, whereas larger wheels are more suitable for cruising and maintaining speed over obstacles.
• Neglecting Personal Preference: Everyone has different preferences regarding wheel feel and performance. Testing various sizes can help you find what feels best for your style and comfort, as personal experience often trumps general recommendations.
• Disregarding Terrain: The terrain you will predominantly skate on should guide your wheel selection. Rough surfaces require larger, softer wheels for shock absorption, while smoother surfaces allow for smaller, harder wheels that offer better speed and control.

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