GUIDE TO PURCHASING SKATEBOARD WHEELS

ALL THE INFORMATION YOU NEED

Skateboard wheels are an essential component of your skateboard. The wheels and bearings you select will influence your speed. When choosing skateboard wheels, it's crucial to select ones that match your trucks, deck, and most importantly, your riding style! There are various kinds of skateboard wheels that differ in size, texture, and color. Even a minor change in wheel size or durometer can affect how your board feels while riding.

We've put together a comprehensive guide on selecting your skateboard wheels to assist you in making the right decision and ensuring your setup is impeccable!

When purchasing skateboard wheels, you should be mindful of the following aspects, which we will discuss in this buying guide:

- Considering the trucks and deck for your skateboard

- Features to take into account

- Comparing the top brands available

- Responses to the most common frequently asked questions

- Other factors you should consider when purchasing skateboard wheels

KEY FEATURES TO CONSIDER

IT BEGINS WITH THE TRUCKS & DECK...

Selecting the appropriate skateboard wheels is closely linked with considering the trucks and deck that form the base of your setup. If you haven't already, we suggest checking out our Skateboard Deck Guide to gain valuable insights into choosing the ideal deck for your riding style. The deck's size and shape are vital as they dictate the size and width of trucks you should choose.

The size of your skateboard trucks is a significant factor to consider regarding skateboard wheels. The width of your trucks should correspond to the width of your deck, ensuring a proper fit and optimal performance. When the trucks align with the deck's width, it creates a balanced and stable platform, allowing for improved control and maneuverability.

Once you've identified the right trucks for your deck, you can further refine your skateboard setup by considering the wheel size. While the deck size dictates the truck width, it also impacts the range of wheel sizes you can use. Smaller decks typically pair well with smaller wheels, whereas larger decks can accommodate bigger wheels.

However, it's crucial to take your own height and weight into consideration when choosing skateboard wheels. If you are taller or heavier, opting for slightly larger wheels can provide additional stability and smoother rides. Conversely, if you are shorter or lighter, smaller wheels may offer increased agility and quicker response.

Keep in mind, finding the ideal combination of trucks,skateboard deck, and wheels is a personal choice that may require some experimentation. Take the time to explore different setups, consider your riding style and preferences, and don't hesitate to seek advice from experienced skaters.

DETERMINING THE SIZE OF YOUR SKATEBOARD WHEELS

Wheel diameter will influence factors like speed and the sharpness of your turns. Skateboard wheel diameter is usually measured in millimeters, with most wheels ranging from 50-75mm. So if you require small wheels, shop around the 50mm end of the spectrum. Similarly, if you're seeking large wheels, explore options around the 70mm range.

SMALL WHEELS

Smaller wheels enable a slower ride. If you enjoy technical skating and street skating, it's best to choose small wheels. They are closer to the ground, making the board generally easier to control. 50mm -50mm skateboard wheels are worth considering for smaller wheel sizes.

LARGER WHEELS

Larger wheels enhance speed. If your skateboard serves as a mode of transport, for leisurely rides, or for vert skating, opting for bigger wheels might be beneficial. Their larger diameter provides a perfect mix of speed and stability.54mm skateboard wheels are recommended for those seeking bigger sizes.

CHOOSING THE HARDNESS RATING OF YOUR WHEELS

The durometer rating indicates the hardness of the skateboard wheels. Most brands use the Durometer A Scale, a 100-point scale that gauges wheel hardness. A higher number signifies a harder wheel, with an average rating of 99a. Some brands, however, opt for the B Scale, which reads 20 points lower than the A Scale, thereby extending an extra 20 points for the hardest wheels.

In general, harder wheels are quicker, whereas softer wheels are slower but offer better grip. Softer wheels are preferable for street skating, while harder ones are ideal for smooth terrains. Below are general recommendations for wheel hardness based on skating styles and proficiency.

78A-87A WHEELS

Soft wheels are suited for uneven surfaces, longboards, or street boards. They provide excellent grip, smoothly navigating over bumps and cracks. They're crafted for comfortable rides, cruising, hills, and uneven terrains.

88A-95A WHEELS

Slightly firmer and faster wheels with somewhat reduced grip. They are suitable for street skating and rough terrains.

96A-99A WHEELS

Offer good speed and grip. Ideal for beginners on streets, skate parks, ramps, pools, and other smooth grounds.

100A+ WHEELS

The hardest and fastest professional wheels, offering minimal grip. Not effective on slippery or rough surfaces.

83B-84B WHEELS

According to the B scale, these are extremely hard. They score 20 points fewer than on the A Scale. This scale extends an additional 20 points for the hardest wheels.

SPITFIRE

Regarding skateboard wheels and bearings, one brand stands above the rest: Spitfire. At SkateHut, we proudly present a remarkable array of Spitfire wheels, along with Spitfire apparel, socks, and stickers. Choosing Spitfire means opting for superior quality and performance to enhance your skating experience.

What makes Spitfire wheels exceptional? It revolves around their commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Spitfire has led the skateboard industry for years, consistently providing premium products that meet skaters' needs worldwide. Their wheels are famed for their durability, smoothness, and unmatched grip, ensuring you ride with assurance and control.

Shopping with SkateHut not only grants you access to a wide selection of Spitfire products but also ensures you receive the best value for your money. We offer free delivery on numerous items, so you can receive your Spitfire gear without extra charges. Whether you're seeking Spitfire t-shirts to showcase your style or iconic Spitfire skateboard wheels, we cater to all your skating requirements.

Don't delay experiencing Spitfire's excellence. Order now and take advantage of our next-day delivery option if you can't wait. Prepare to skate with Spitfire and elevate your skateboarding to new levels.

RICTA WHEELS

Ricta wheels is a brand that has earned a strong standing in the skateboard industry, and their wheels are highly esteemed for valid reasons. Ricta's dedication to innovation and performance is evident in their outstanding wheel designs.

Their Ricta Naturals urethane formula is a standout feature. It perfectly balances speed with a smooth roll, enabling controlled slides and maintaining grip when necessary. These wheels are not only long-lasting but also resistant to flat spots, ensuring excellent durability.

Another impressive aspect of the brand is Ricta cored wheels. Designed for optimal speed and reduced rolling resistance, these wheels retain their shape integrity when performing tricks. They are also known for gliding over cracks effortlessly, providing a smoother ride with less vibration compared to standard urethane wheels.

The distinctive core design of Ricta Speedrings differentiates them from others. By positioning urethane around the bearing bore like a non-cored wheel, Speedrings provide the classic wheel feel combined with the speed and lowered rolling resistance of a cored wheel. This results in less vibration and more glide, offering a smoother and more enjoyable ride.

Ricta Clouds range caters to the varied needs of skateboarders, especially cruisers. Offering an array of sizes from 52-60mm and various durometers (78, 86, and 92a), Ricta ensures there is a wheel designed for any terrain or setup. Whether you're rolling through the streets or shredding the skatepark, Ricta Clouds provide the performance you require.

ENUFF

Enuff is a brand that has made a notable impact in the skateboarding scene, with their skateboard wheels being highly praised for their superior quality and performance. Enuff's dedication to excellence and meticulous attention to detail are evident in every facet of their products.

Enuff skateboard wheels are crafted to offer an exceptional ride that skaters of all levels can enjoy. Prioritizing durability and performance, Enuff wheels are designed to endure the demands of street and park skating. They strike an ideal balance between speed, grip, and control, empowering you to confidently navigate any terrain.

A key feature of Enuff wheels is their versatility. Whether you're a street skater, park aficionado, or vert rider, Enuff offers a wheel that matches your style and preferences. With a variety of sizes and durometers, you can find the ideal wheel for your specific requirements and riding style.

Enuff emphasizes the use of high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. This results in wheels that consistently deliver excellent performance, superior grip, and a smooth ride. Whether you're carving the streets or executing technical tricks, Enuff wheels provide the responsiveness and dependability you expect.