When it comes to skateboarding and longboarding, bearings play a crucial role in how smooth, fast, and responsive your ride feels. But if you’ve probably wondered: “Are Skateboard and Longboard Bearings the Same?” At first glance, those tiny metal rings might look identical. But here’s the truth, while they fit the same way, they aren’t built to perform the same job.
Skateboarders demand durability and impact resistance for tricks, flips, and grinding, while longboarders prioritize smooth, high-speed cruising over long distances.
In this blog, I’ll uncover the key differences between skateboard and longboard bearings, helping you understand what really matters when choosing the right set for your board. So, Let’s dive into the specifics!
Are Skateboard and Longboard Bearings the Same Size?
The short answer is yes! Both skateboards and longboards use 608 bearings as the standard size. A 608 bearing is 22mm in diameter, 7mm in width, and has an 8mm inner diameter to fit standard axles.
This means you can technically use the same set of bearings for both skateboards and longboards.
However, while the size is the same, the performance expectations differ depending on the type of riding.
A skateboarder focused on tricks may prefer fast and responsive bearings, while a longboarder who enjoys cruising may want smooth and durable bearings.
What’s the Difference Between Longboard and Skateboard Bearings?
Although skateboard bearings and longboard bearings share the same dimensions, there are subtle differences in materials, lubrication, and overall design that cater to each discipline.
1. Materials (Steel vs. Ceramic Bearings)
- Steel bearings are the most common and affordable option for both skateboards and longboards. They offer good durability but require more maintenance to prevent rust and wear.
- Ceramic bearings, often used by longboarders, are lighter, smoother, and resistant to rust, making them perfect for long-distance cruising or downhill riding.
2. Lubrication (Speed vs. Smoothness)
- Skateboarders usually prefer bearings with light or minimal lubrication, which helps with quick acceleration during tricks and stunts.
- Longboard bearings are often pre-lubricated with thicker oils or greases, which improve smoothness for cruising and offer more protection during long rides.
3. Performance (Speed vs. Longevity)
- Skateboard bearings need to handle high-impact landings, so skaters often use bearings that prioritize speed and quick response over long-term durability.
- Longboard bearings, on the other hand, focus more on endurance and smooth rolling for long rides or downhill racing.
Can You Use the Same Bearings for Skateboards and Longboards?
Absolutely! Since skateboards and longboards use the same bearing size, you can swap them between the two.
However, if you plan to switch your bearings, make sure you clean and lubricate them properly to match the type of riding you’re doing.
A set of bearings designed for longboard cruising might not give you the quick pop you need for skate tricks, and vice versa.
Related Article: How To Clean Longboard Bearings?
ABEC Rating: Does It Matter for Skateboards and Longboards?
The ABEC rating is often a point of confusion when choosing bearings. ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineers’ Committee) rates bearings based on their precision and tolerance levels.
Many people think a higher ABEC rating means better performance for skateboarding or longboarding, but that’s not always true.
- Skateboard bearings: A high ABEC rating isn’t as critical for skateboarding since most tricks involve grinding, jumping, and quick stops. Bearings with a lower ABEC rating (like ABEC-5) can work perfectly fine.
- Longboard bearings: Longboarders can benefit more from higher ABEC ratings (like ABEC-7 or ABEC-9) since these bearings offer smoother and faster rolling, ideal for downhill or cruising.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Are Skateboard and Longboard Bearings the Same?
Are skateboard and longboard bearings interchangeable?
Yes, skateboard and longboard bearings are generally interchangeable. Both types typically use the same size standard (608), enabling them to fit in both skateboard and longboard wheels.
What is the 608 bearing standard?
The 608 bearing standard refers to the size specifications of the bearing. It has an inner diameter of 8mm, an outer diameter of 22mm, and a width of 7mm. This size is commonly used in both skateboards and longboards.
Should I use different bearings depending on my riding style?
Yes, depending on your riding style and preferences, you may want to choose bearings that cater to specific needs, such as durability for tricks or smoothness for cruising.
Final Thoughts
In the end, are skateboard and longboard bearings the same? Technically, yes, but the way you use them makes all the difference in performance and materials to suit each riding style.
Whether you’re a skater chasing speed for tricks or a longboarder cruising through the streets, choosing the right bearings can elevate your ride.
So, next time you’re shopping for bearings, remember, that it’s not just about size it’s about finding the right balance between speed, smoothness, and durability for your specific needs.
