You need to be very careful when buying new skateboard wheels to assemble or replace the old ones. Different types of skateboard wheels are available on the market, so it can be challenging to choose one that suits your riding style.
If you make the wrong choice, there is no point in choosing expensive or high-quality wheels. For example, if you like to cruise and you purchase hard wheels, you will have a headache cruising on them.
The fact that you’re reading this article is a blessing.
A team of 7 experts researched and tested various skateboard wheels for two weeks and came up with the best skateboard wheels for beginners and experts, listed here.
To accurately review each wheel outlined in this article, we tested them personally and spoke with actual buyers. With this article, you are guaranteed to benefit from your investment without doing any research.
Furthermore, the article specifies different wheels for different riding styles, which are easily identifiable by reading their pros and cons. We have also provided tips about choosing the right skateboard wheels according to your riding style.
Here is a buying guide and review of the skateboard wheels you’re looking for.
In hurry?
- Best wheels for cruising and rough roads: Ricta Clouds 78a
- Best for various tricks, skatepark, ramps & pools: Spitfire Bighead
- Best for downhill and cruising at high speed: Orangatang Kegel
Top 10 Best Skateboard Wheels Review
| Image | Name | Score | Cost $ |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels | 10 | Check On Amazon |
 | Ricta, Clouds 78a Skateboard Wheel | 10 | Check On Amazon |
 | Spitfire Classic Skateboard Wheels | 9.5 | Check On Amazon |
 | Spitfire Formula Four Classic Skateboard Wheels | 9.5 | Check On Amazon |
 | Orangatang Kegel | 9.5 | Check On Amazon |
 | Shark Wheel 60 mm 78a | 9.0 | Check On Amazon |
 | Powell Peralta Rat Bones | 9.0 | Check On Amazon |
 | Bones Filmers Wheels | 9.0 | Check On Amazon |
 | Freedare Wheels with bearings | 8.5 | Check On Amazon |
 | Bones 100’s Skateboard Wheels | 8.5 | Check On Amazon |
Let’s look at some essential factors to consider while choosing skateboard wheels before going into reviews.
When it comes to choosing the top rated skateboard wheels, the first factor is to consider your riding style. A wide range of wheels is available for every riding style.
The wheel durometer and diameter will help you make the right choice. Aside from that, you should also check the build quality of wheels.
If you’re a beginner, we recommend going with medium-size wheels that are 52mm to 54mm, with hardness (durometer) of 90a to 99a.
With these wheels, you can explore different types of skateboard riding and identify the one you like the most.
Hard skateboard wheels with diameters ranging from 50mm to 60mm work best for riders who like to do various tricks on the streets and skateparks. Wheels with a durometer of 95a to 101a are considered hard.
Soft wheels are best suited to cruisers and rough road riders with 54mm to 60mm. Wheels with a durometer of 78a to 90a are considered soft.
Now that you have some solid details let’s dive into reviews.
1. Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels
While searching for the best skateboard wheels, you must have heard of Spitfire wheels, a brand making skateboard wheels since 1987.
Spitfire has mastered the art of making high-quality skateboard wheels, but the bighead, including a set of four wheels, is one of their most popular wheels.
With a durometer of 99a, these wheels are ideal for performing tricks and riding on smooth surfaces like skateparks, pools, and ramps.
Spitfires come in various sizes, but the diameters that work for tricks fall between 50mm and 60mm. Thus, it is better to go with this size.
The wheels last longer because they are made of urethane, a high-quality material. Thus, the wheels roll on the road more smoothly without slipping.
In general, hard wheels have a less and uncomfortable grip at high speeds. Hence, to tackle this, Spitfire made a treated wheel’s surface with a larger width. One of the reasons Spirtfire bighead wheels are listed on the spot one in our list is that they are highly durable and reliable.
Further, Spitfire wheels are compatible with all standard bearings of 608 size.
In conclusion, if you are an intermediate or advanced rider, you should complete your research here and choose the Spitfire bighead wheels.
2. Ricta, Clouds 78a Skateboard Wheel
If you like cruising and performing sharp turns, the Ricta cloud 78a wheels are for you. Because of their softness, they roll smoothly on rough terrain since they are very bouncy and fast.
Besides their modern shape, the wheels are lightweight and can handle all terrains well. Wheels are suitable for all levels of riders, including beginners, intermediates, and experts.
Additionally, the wheels have a shiny coating on their surface to improve traction and grip. As a result of their softness, the wheels do not make any noise.
The wheels are made of high-quality soft urethane, so they won’t wear out quickly and are pretty durable. Filmers also prefer the wheels because they provide a steady shot.
As a final note, the wheels are well suited for cruising on streets, sidewalks, and rough terrain. Small rocks, cracks, and bumps can’t damage them.
3. Spitfire Classic Skateboard Wheels
The third spot features an American-made Spitfire classic series wheel. Further, the durometer of the wheel is 99a, and for diameter, they offer different options with different colors.
The wheels are hard, though it allows you to do tricks and ride on smooth surfaces like a skatepark, ramp, and pool.
The wheel’s design and features make it the best skateboard wheels for beginners and intermediate riders.
Its best feature is that it is made with the formula four urethane process. This process helps in fewer flat spots and provides better grip. The features of these wheels make them long lasting and the best skateboard wheels on the market.
They are designed with a classic shape to provide high speed and maximum control on wheels while turning sharp and going downhill.
Additionally, due to their high speed, stability, and control on wheels, these wheels allow you to do advanced tricks and make sharp turns easier.
4. Spitfire Formula Four Classic Skateboard Wheels
Another Spitfire wheel available in a variety of color and size options with a hardness of 101a.
Likewise, the earlier Spitfire models are also suitable for all surfaces due to their smooth surfaces, which reduce friction.
Wheels are made of formula four urethane, which offers more grip and minimizes the possibility of flat spots. Additionally, the formula four wheels are more durable.
At last, this wheel is suitable for powerslides, sticky enough to handle vert, and hard enough to resist flat spots. Also ideal for fast riding and maximum control over the board on the street and smooth surfaces like a park.
If you wish to achieve maximum speed, choose 52mm or 54mm size wheels.
5. Orangatang Kegel Downhill Longboard Skateboard Cruising Wheels
If you’re looking for the best skateboard wheels for downhill or cruising, the Orangatang kegel wheels are for you.
The wheels are soft, and the durometers are 77a, 80a, and 83a. It is okay to choose any of these as they are all soft and suitable for cruising, downhills, and rough roads. As for downhill wheels, an 80a durometer is our first choice.
Moreover, the wheels have a high speed feature with a good grip for downhill skateboarding, cruising, hard carving, and pumping. Further, the wheels require less effort to push since they roll for a longer period.
Also, if you like to ride on rough terrain containing cracks, rocks, and sticks, then Orangatang Kegel wheels are the right choice for you.
When skating downhill, the wheels tend to slip, but the Orangatang manufactures urethane wheels. However, you have better control over the wheels and won’t slip easily when riding.
A happy thane formula is used to make the wheels, making them fast, smooth, and have high traction.
6. Shark Wheel 60 mm 78a Skateboard Wheels
Here is the unique design of skateboard wheels that came from Shark wheels. Because of its shape and softness 78a durometer, it’s the best wheels for street and rough terrain.
The shape of the wheels looks like it gives a bumpy ride, but that’s not true. Actually, it provides a smooth riding experience on the roughest surfaces.
Further, the wheels provide you with a better grip and control over the ride, especially in slide riding. Also, due to their shape, the wheels are fast with less friction, as they have a thin contact patch touching the ground.
The wheels are made with a unique sidewinder formula to last longer and have less friction with more traction. Also, it helps in maintaining a good balance.
If you consider the color of the wheels to match with your skateboard or attract people around you, Shark wheels are available in various light and dark colors at the same price.
7. Powell Peralta Rat Bones Re-Issue Skateboard Wheels
Are you looking for skateboard wheels for streets, skateparks, or cruising? We have Powell Peralta rat bones wheels for you.
A well known brand of quality and traction wheels, Powell Peralta wheels have a good reputation. During our testing, we found these wheels to be highly stable.
The wheels have a durometer of about 90a for high speed skating on the street or in a skatepark. You know that hard wheels are great for tricks, parks, and streets. However, because they are made using a natural formula, the wheels are pretty smooth, meaning they are the best skateboard wheels for cruising.
The Powel Peralta brand is also known for its balance and stability. The treaded surface of wheels provides more friction, which allows riders to ride with greater control.
In addition, the brand offers a variety of colors and diameters for the same wheels. Our recommendation for beginners is to use 44mm wheels, while we advise 60mm wheels for advanced riders.
Despite being a hard wheel, it has a grippy surface that is quiet, smooth, and gives a strong overall performance.
8. Bones Filmers Wheels 52mm 80A
Who hasn’t heard of the bones wheels? It is known for having no flat spots and for its outstanding performance while riding. Skateboard wheels from these companies are the most popular in the industry.
We have the wheels from bones here, which are soft 52mm x 80a. These are the perfect wheels for rough roads and cruising.
Because the wheels are made of Urethane with an all-terrain formula, they perform well on any surface. In addition, the wheels roll faster and smoothly on any surface due to their build quality.
Usually, wheels get slower and require more effort for riding on asphalt. In this case, the Bones wheels make it easy and require less effort to push on asphalt since they roll for a long time and provide a stable ride.
9. Freedare 58mm Skateboard Wheels 82a + ABEC-7 Bearing
We have the Freedare 58mm for you if you are on a budget and looking for skateboard wheels for cruising.
The wheels have an 82a durometer which is soft enough for cruising and early street tricks. Additionally, it comes with ABEC 7 steel bearings and spacers, which are already installed on wheels. For improved speed and durability, the bearings are pre-lubricated.
Wheels are made of polyurethane, which is of decent quality and good to see in cheap wheels.
Moreover, the wheels roll smoothly on the streets and have a soft durometer. Wheels can also be used on smooth concrete or asphalt.
The wheels are suitable for cruising and street riding, but they also work for basic tricks. Despite being too tall and wide, these wheels are excellent for small boards such as penny boards, which are perfect for cruising.
10. Bones 100’s Skateboard Wheels
We saw in spot nine that the bones wheels are ideal for rough roads and cruising. Here, we can see the bones wheels with 100a durometer, which are great for tricks, parks, and street skating.
The wheels offer good speed and balance. Moreover, the wheels do not have flat spots and last for much longer.
Despite the wheels being high quality and last longer, they also work great for various tricks such as powerslides, but it’s a bit slippery when the floor is wet. Therefore, if you’re looking for wheels with a better grip, this isn’t for you.
Furthermore, the brand offers various wheel diameters and colors, including blue, purple, green, and red. All recommended diameters are suitable for tricks and parks skating though you can choose any size.
So far, you have gone through some of the best skate wheels, which are well researched and recommended by experts. For those confused about making a final selection, continue reading to find out how to pick the right skateboard wheels.
Skateboard Wheels Buying Guide
Any product selection should begin with a basic understanding of what you are looking for. The same applies to skateboard wheels. Having a basic knowledge of products is key to making good purchasing decisions.
As we’ve already discussed above, choosing a skateboard wheel that is soft or hard is one of the most critical factors. We will guide you through the rest of the process now.
Skateboard Wheels Diameter
Without knowing the skateboard wheel diameter, it is impossible to make the right choice. When choosing wheels, the diameter is an essential factor to consider.
Skate wheels are typically measured in millimeters (mm) and range from 50mm to 75mm. The smaller the number, the smaller the wheels.
As the wheels are smaller and lighter, they are better suited to tricks and street skating. The big wheels are suitable for riding at high speeds and on rough roads.
Now let’s go deeper with the size range.
50mm to 53mm: Considered as the smallest skateboard wheels. These are the best size skateboard wheels for beginners to learn how to skate. While performing tricks, the wheels provide better control and are easy to handle. It is the perfect size for beginners to try skateboarding.
54mm to 59mm: The medium size wheels are good for intermediate and beginner riders. For tricks such as vert, it’s the right size.
60mm +: Only a professional rider can handle these wheels. The wheels of this size are preferred for longboards. It performs well on rough roads. If you ride well, you can move smoothly over rough terrain.
Note: If you use wheels larger than 56mm, you are more likely to experience wheel bite (while turning, the wheels touch the deck). Using riser pads, you can avoid wheel bite in such cases.
Skateboard Wheels Durometer
It is also necessary to consider the wheel durometer after measuring the diameter. It’s a scale used to measure the hardness of wheels. As the number increases, the wheels become harder.
Durometers are usually measured on a scale of A, which is up to 100a. Some companies, like Bones wheels, use scale B as well. Scale B is nothing but counted 20 numbers lower than the A scale. For example, the wheels hardness is 99a, but for scale B, it is 79b.
Scale B is only used when they are too hard, which is rare, and only professional riders use it.
Usually, the wheels used are between 75a and 99a. While the 75a is considered as soft wheels and the 99a as hard wheels.
Based on the durometer, here are some uses:
75a to 87a: These are considered soft wheels. Even on the roughest of surfaces, it provides a smooth and enjoyable ride. Perfect for street board and longboard.
88a to 95a: These are medium-hard wheels, so they ride faster but give less grip. Suitable for all terrains and streets.
96a to 99a: Considered as hard wheels. The high speed and good grip make them suitable for beginners and professionals alike. It works well on smooth surfaces like skateparks, ramps, and pools.
101a +: The hardest wheels. These are only suitable for experienced and professional skaters. A good option for skaters who want less grip at high speeds.
83b-84b: The hardest wheels on the market. These are the fastest wheels in terms of speed, but they lack grip, so leave them for experienced skaters.
Contact Patch
A contact patch is an area where the wheels touch the ground while riding. Making a final decision on wheels requires consideration of this factor. Your wheel’s performance is greatly influenced by it.
Technical tricks can be performed with narrower wheels since they slide easily. Although wider wheels have a better grip, they are suitable for transportation and skating bowls.
On longboards, larger contact patch wheels are more suitable, as they are primarily used for cruising and commuting.
A narrower wheel will gradually cause shape and speed changes as the total body weight is distributed over a small area.
Wheels Shape
The shape of skateboard wheels also matters when picking skateboard wheels according to your riding style.
Square Lips Shape
The wheels you need for cruising, carving, or slalom types of riding should provide better grip, especially while turning. Therefore, square lips shape wheels are best for you.
Round-lip Shape
Those who enjoy power slides and carving need wheels with a perfect finish. As a result, round-lip wheels will suit you perfectly.
What are the best skateboard wheel brands?
If you’re buying skateboard wheels for the first time, you should be familiar with the best skateboard wheel brand.
Knowing which brand offers good wheels at an affordable price and the company’s background and its reviews by its customers are essential. Therefore, we have listed some of the best skateboard wheels brands below.
Ricta
Ricta offers various types of skateboard wheels, which are high quality at an affordable cost. Additionally, the wheels last longer without flat spots. Ricta Wheels are known for their superior performance.
Ricta has been producing skateboard wheels since 2002, and they have mastered the art of making affordable and high quality wheels. They are not as old as other brands, but they are still the fastest-growing brand.
Spitfire
Since 1987, Spitfire has been making skateboard wheels. The famous Formula Four Wheels, which is the best wheel in the present market, is the brand’s own formula.
Moreover, because of this formula, four wheels spitfire gets a considerable boost, and they become one of the top skateboard brands for wheels.
A well known brand for making high quality and long lasting wheels that won’t get flat spots.
Powell Peralta
Powell Peralta has also been making skateboard wheels since 1978. Over time, the brand has gradually built a reputation for providing high-quality wheels, which keeps them growing.
A highly trusted brand for skateboard wheels.
Bones
You may have heard of bones wheels. It’s known for producing high-quality skateboard wheels since 1977. Additionally, it is the most trusted and demanding brand for skateboard wheels.
Why are skateboard wheels made of polyurethane?
The wheels on most skateboards are made of polyurethane nowadays, but why? I’m sure you’ve thought about it several times. In the past, skateboard wheels were made from different materials like steel, rubber, and wood.
Although the riders are not happy with these wheels because they are not reliable, long lasting, or controllable. Therefore in 1970, Frank Nasworthy invented polyurethane wheels, which were longer lasting because of good abrasion resistance and good grip while riding.
As a result, riders have loved polyurethane wheels since that day, and they are still one of the most popular wheels today. Due to its high demand, most skateboard wheel manufacturers produce polyurethane wheels only.
FAQs
Q. What wheels are best for street skateboarding?
Hard wheels are better for street skateboarding, which has a durometer between 90a and 99a. It is true that some of the wheels with medium hard durometers, such as 80a or 85a, work pretty well for street skating if the quality is good.
Q. What are the best skateboard wheels to buy?
Always consider your riding style and buy accordingly. If you buy hard wheels but use them for cruising, they won’t last long. If you want to know what skateboard wheels are best for you according to your riding style, check out these articles buying guide.
Q. What wheels are better for Powerslides?
A durometer of 101a makes Spitfire Formula Four Classic Skateboard Wheels perfect for powerslides. Using hard wheels is best when you’re a pro power slider. However, beginner power sliders should stick to medium hard grades like 78a to 86a. If you don’t want to deal with headaches, you can look at our already researched best skateboard wheels for powerslides.
Do Spitfires Flatspot?
Spitfire wheels do not flat spot easily. Spitfire is one of the most recommended and trusted brands for skateboard wheels because they last longer without flat spots.
Q. Are rubber skateboard wheels good?
Skateboard wheels must be made of urethane and not rubber or plastic. In comparison, urethane wheels last longer and provide good grip while rubber wheels rip faster and plastic wheels have no grip on the ground, making your ride unbalanced.
Q. Do skate wheel brands matter?
In most cases, no. As long as the wheels are made of quality materials and fit your skater’s needs (size, hardness, etc.), the brand name shouldn’t matter too much.
Q. How long do skateboard wheels last?
This depends on how often you skate and the quality of the wheels. Generally speaking, you can expect to get about 3-6 months out of a set of wheels before they need to be replaced.
Q. Do bigger skateboard wheels go faster?
Yes, larger wheels will typically roll faster than smaller wheels. However, there are other factors that can affect speed (such as wheel hardness and bearing quality), so it’s not always a simple case of bigger = faster. The harder wheels will roll faster than the softer ones.
Wrap Up
In response to your question, what are the best skateboard wheels today? We’ve honestly researched for two weeks and compiled the best-rated skateboard wheels in a single article.
I will conclude by saying that you should make sure that the wheels you buy are appropriate for your riding style before making a final decision. Don’t buy looking at others’ riding styles.
Now that you know which wheels to choose for your skateboard, you’ll be able to make a smart decision.
We hope this good skateboard wheels for beginners and experts review article was worth reading for you. If you have any doubts, feel free to leave a comment below.
Happy Skateboarding!
I am James Buckridge, the founder of skateboardidea.com. Skateboarding is my passion, and I have years of teaching experience in this field. Our vision and mission is to provide you with accurate information on everything related to skateboarding. Catch me on Twitter & Pinterest.