Want to take your skateboarding journey to the next level? If you’re new to shredding the streets, parks, or verts, you’re probably thinking, “Hang on a minute, aren’t all skateboard wheels just the same?”. I hate to break it to you, but it’s not the case. Sure, you’ve got your standard circular shape that’s pretty much universal.
But when you delve a bit deeper, there are subtle—and not-so-subtle—differences in the make, model, and materials that can seriously upgrade your skateboard performance. In this all-inclusive guide, I’ll tell you the secret of picking the tightest wheels, especially if you’re still new to the game. Tighten those trucks and spin our way through 10 of the best skateboard wheels for beginners.
What are skateboard wheels?
Skateboard wheels are one of the essential components of a skateboard, typically made from polyurethane. They attach to the skateboard trucks with bearings, allowing the board to roll. Skateboard wheels come in various sizes, shapes, hardness levels, and colors, each catering to different types of skateboarding, like street skating, park skating, and longboarding.
Why do skateboard wheels matter?
Skateboard wheels, integral components for the operation and performance of the skateboard, play a crucial role in determining the rider’s experience, the ability to perform tricks and overall safety. Understanding their importance is essential, as they significantly influence the skateboard’s adaptability to various terrains, its longevity, and the ease of performing specific maneuvers.
Riding experience
- Size: The size of the wheels affects the speed and the ability to ride over obstacles. Larger wheels can ride over obstacles more easily and achieve higher speeds, while smaller wheels are lighter and more responsive.
- Hardness (durometer): The hardness of the wheels impacts the ride’s smoothness and grip. Softer wheels offer more grip and smoother rides on rough surfaces, while harder wheels slide more easily and are typically faster on smooth surfaces.
Performance and tricks
- Specific wheel types are suited to particular tricks and styles of skating. For example, softer wheels are preferred for cruising and longboarding, while harder wheels are often chosen for street and park skating, where sliding and technical tricks are prevalent.
- Wheel shape can also impact trick performance. For example, wheels with sharper edges can provide more grip, while rounded edges can make sliding easier.
Durability and longevity
- Quality wheels made from high-grade polyurethane are more durable and resistant to wear and tear, affecting the skateboard’s longevity and performance.
- The rate at which wheels wear down can impact the frequency of replacements, impacting the overall cost of maintaining the skateboard.
Terrain adaptation
- The choice of wheels allows skaters to adapt their skateboards to different terrains and surfaces. For example, softer and larger wheels are better suited to rough terrain, while smaller and harder wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces like skate parks.
Safety
- The correct wheel type can improve stability and control, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Well-maintained wheels ensure optimal performance and reduce the chances of wheel malfunction, which can lead to accidents.
What are the best beginner skateboard wheels?
Are you just starting to dip your toes into the somewhat insanely addictive world of skateboarding? Unsure which wheels might suit your beginner vibe and how to choose them? Fear not, future pro; I’ve compiled a list of killer options for you.
Check them out, weigh the pros and cons, and let’s get you shredding!
1. Bones STF (street tech formula)
Designed for street skateboarding, these grippy wheels are high on the durability score and come in different sizes, perfect for customizing your ride. Premium polyurethane offers a smooth ride, helping beginners boost their confidence without worrying about a bumpy ride.
Pros
- Premium quality for a smoother ride
- Versatile, with different sizes available
- Exceptionally durable
Cons
- A bit pricey for beginners
- Not ideal for rough terrain
2. Spitfire classic series
Equipped with Spitfire’s highly-rated urethane formula, these wheels offer an impeccable blend of grip and slide, perfect for beginners looking to practice their first ollies or transfers.
Pros
- High-grade urethane for optimal performance
- A balance between grip and slide
- Suitable for different styles of skating
Cons
- It might feel a bit hard for some beginners.
- The grip may decrease with wear and tear.
3. Powell Peralta G-slides
These wheels are ideal for beginners practicing their cruising skills. These bad boys offer an enjoyable ride on smooth surfaces and slightly rough terrain.
Pros
- Wiggle room for various terrains
- Slides smoothly over pavement imperfections
- Unmatched speed for a beginner’s cruise
Cons
- They’re on the softer side, which can make tricks tricky
- It is not the best choice for exclusively technical skating
4. OJ Wheels super juice
Durable with an epic grip, these wheels can handle rougher terrain, making them a solid choice for beginners inexperienced with navigating cracks or stones.
Pros
- Handles rough terrains well
- Long-lasting material
- Great grip for increased stability
Cons
- The softer makeup could limit street performance
- Might be too grippy for learning sharp turns
5. Ricta clouds
Irrespective of whether you’re cruising, practicing tricks, or doing a bit of both, Ricta Clouds has got you covered. They have softer urethane, which provides a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Pros
- Versatile, can work for various skating styles
- Softer urethane for a smoother ride
- Perfect for riding over cracks and rocks
Cons
- Their versatile nature means they aren’t specialized
- It might not hold up as well for heavy skate park use.
Remember, the “best” skateboard wheel for beginners is subjective to your personal needs. Whip through this list, test some out if you can, and get rolling! You’re on your way to finding that sweet ride that matches your killer style.
Dos and don’ts of choosing skateboard wheels
Choosing skateboard wheels isn’t rocket science, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Consider your style (cruising, tricks, park) | Buy based purely on looks |
| Try different setups when possible | Assume all wheels are the same |
| Invest in quality brands if you can afford it | Neglect wheel maintenance |
Additional skateboarding wheel tips
Are you ready to embark on your wheel-choosing journey? Here are a few more nuggets of wisdom to set you on the right path.
- Don’t overlook the importance of quality bearings.
- Size matters—smaller for tricks, larger for speed
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different setups
- Get advice from experienced skaters or trusted skate shops.
My skateboarding wheel experience
Now, I’m no Tony Hawk (although, who wouldn’t want to skate a vert ramp like him, right?), but in my still-short skateboarding journey, I’ve realized that getting the right wheels can totally shift your experience. Initially, I thought all wheels were just… well, wheels.
But as I started learning and experimenting with different setups, I couldn’t be more wrong. It’s like switching from apple juice to a finely aged cabernet. The experience, the subtleties, the impact—it’s all in the details. So, kick, push, and coast your way to the right wheels that match your style. Skate on, my friends!
Not all wheels are created equal, and the precise measurements can leverage your ride in ways you wouldn’t imagine.
Let’s peep into some interesting data concerning skate wheels. The table below highlights the standard skateboard wheel sizes and their ideal use cases. Not all wheels are created equal, and precise measurements can leverage your ride in ways you wouldn’t imagine.
| Wheel Size(mm) | Ideal Use |
|---|---|
| 50-54 | Technical tricks, street skating, and smaller riders |
| 54-59 | All-around street, park, pool, older riders |
| 60+ | Longboards, downhill, dirtboards |
Advantages and disadvantages of choosing skateboard wheels
Making a smart choice while choosing skateboard wheels comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s delve into these:
Advantages
Choosing the right wheels can significantly enhance your skateboarding experience.
- Improved performance: The right wheels can boost your speed and stability and allow for precise tricks.
- Versatility: Different wheel types cater to different styles—cruising, technical tricks, or park skating.
- Durability: Quality wheels offer increased durability, meaning fewer frequent replacements.
Disadvantages
While there are several perks, the process of wheel choice does have some drawbacks.
- Cost: High-quality wheels can be a tad pricier, an important consideration for beginners.
- Overwhelming choices: The plethora of wheel options can confuse beginners.
- Trial and error: Finding your perfect wheels usually involves some degree of trial and error, which can be time-consuming and costly.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Unsure about some aspects of skateboard wheels? Don’t worry! I’ve compiled a set of FAQs that should cover some of the common queries beginners face.
How do I know when to replace my skateboard wheels?
When you start noticing flat spots, a significant reduction in diameter, or cracks, it’s probably time for a replacement. A gradual change in performance, such as reduced speed or altered handling, can also indicate worn-out wheels. Check out this guide to understand when to replace various skateboard components.
Can I use the same wheels for street and park skating?
While some wheels might manage to pull off both, it’s usually recommended to go for specific wheels based on the primary skating style, whether street or park.
What’s the role of wheel color?
Generally, wheel color is mostly about aesthetics and branding. It doesn’t significantly impact performance. So, rock those neon-green wheels if that’s your thing!
Final thoughts
Skateboarding, much like any journey, begins with a single step (or, in this case, a push). Suitable wheels can be a game-changer for beginners. Investing time to understand wheel characteristics and their impacts on performance is your first step toward mastering the art of skateboarding. So, whether you’re street cruising or aiming for that perfect ollie, remember that the wheels you choose play an indispensable role.
Did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on mastering the art of skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and keep rolling!
Key takeaways
This article covered the best skateboard wheels for beginners. Here are some key takeaways:
- Choosing the right wheels can significantly impact your skating style and overall performance.
- Factors like size, hardness, and contact patches on the wheel influence grip, speed, and stability.
- Brands like Bones and Spitfire offer high-quality wheels that are worth considering.
- The correct wheel selection is usually based on individual preference and the primary skateboarding style.
- While choosing wheels, considering advice from experienced skaters or reliable sources could be beneficial.
- Investing in quality wheels upfront can save on frequent replacements.
