Skateboard wheels might seem simple, but they play a huge role in how you ride. The right wheels can make tricks easier, cruising smoother, and long-distance rides more comfortable. But with so many options, choosing the best set can be confusing.
In this guide, I will break down all the different types of skateboard wheels, from street to electric. If you’re into technical tricks, cruising around town, or hitting high speeds on a longboard, there’s a perfect set of wheels.
Are you ready to find different types of skateboard wheels? Then Let’s dive into the article.
What Is a Skateboard Wheel?
A skateboard wheel is a round piece of urethane that attaches to your board’s trucks. It controls your speed, grip, and overall riding experience. Different wheels work better for different skating styles, so understanding their features is important.
Material: Most wheels are made of urethane, which provides durability and grip.
Size & Hardness: Smaller, harder wheels are best for tricks, while larger, softer wheels work well for rough surfaces.
Core & Shape: Wheels come in different shapes and core placements, affecting how they perform.
Importance of Skateboard Wheels
The right skateboard wheels can improve control, speed, and comfort. They affect how smoothly you roll, how well you land tricks, and how much grip you have on the ground.
- Performance: Hard wheels roll faster on smooth surfaces, while soft wheels absorb shock on rough terrain.
- Safety: Using the wrong wheels can lead to wheel bite (when the wheel touches the board and stops suddenly) or poor stability.
- Style Matching: Park skaters need small, hard wheels, while commuters need larger, softer wheels for comfort.
Different Types of Skateboards- step-by-step
Skateboard wheels come in five main types, each suited for a different purpose. Understanding these will help you choose the best skateboard wheels for your needs. The Main Types of skateboard are:
Park & Street Wheels
Park and street wheels are designed for skaters who love technical tricks, ledges, and skateparks. These wheels are small, hard, and lightweight, making them ideal for smooth surfaces. Their compact size and hardness allow them to slide easily on rails and ramps, helping skaters execute flip tricks and grind with precision.
If you enjoy skating in a skatepark or practising technical street tricks, these wheels are a great choice. However, they are not the best option for rough roads, as they tend to feel bumpy and unstable.
Key Feature:
- Best for: Flip tricks, ledges, skateparks, and rails.
- Size: 50–60 mm.
- Hardness: 95A–104A (very hard for fast slides).
Cruiser Wheels
Cruiser wheels are designed for a smooth and comfortable ride. They are softer and slightly larger than street wheels, making them perfect for casual skating and commuting. Unlike hard park wheels, cruiser wheels absorb shocks from cracks and rough surfaces. This makes skating on sidewalks and streets much more enjoyable. They provide a quiet ride, reducing vibrations and allowing skaters to travel longer distances without discomfort.
One downside of cruiser wheels is that they may require riser pads. Since they are slightly larger than standard street wheels, they can cause wheel bite when the wheels touch the deck during turns.
Adding riser pads can prevent this issue but slightly changes the feel of the board. Still, for those who prioritize a smooth ride, cruiser wheels are a fantastic option.
Key Features:
- Best for: Cruising, commuting, and filming tricks.
- Size: 54–60 mm.
- Hardness: 78A–90A (soft for comfort and grip).
Longboard Wheels
Longboard wheels are the biggest and softest of all types of skateboard wheels. They are designed for speed, carving, and long-distance skating. Their softness provides excellent grip, making them ideal for downhill racing and cruising over rough surfaces. If you want a board that glides smoothly over any terrain, longboard wheels are the way to go.
Additionally, longboard wheels often require different trucks. Their size and grip can make turning feel different from standard skateboard setups. If you plan on using longboard wheels, ensure your board is compatible. While they are not ideal for technical skating, they are unmatched in providing a smooth and controlled ride.
Key Features:
- Best for: Downhill, speed, carving, and long-distance cruising.
- Size: 60–75 mm.
- Hardness: 75A–85A (soft for maximum grip and comfort).
Electric Skateboard Wheels
Electric skateboard wheels are specially designed to handle high speeds and motor torque. They come in two main types: urethane wheels for smooth roads and all-terrain (AT) wheels for rougher surfaces. Choosing the right type depends on where you plan to ride your electric skateboard.
One major drawback of electric skateboard wheels is cost. They tend to be more expensive than regular skateboard wheels due to their specialized design.
Additionally, they must be compatible with the board’s motor system. If you own an electric skateboard, investing in high-quality wheels can significantly improve your ride.
Key Features:
- Best for: High-speed e-skating on various surfaces.
- Types:
- Urethane (Street) Wheels: 75–120 mm, hard (78A–90A).
- All-Terrain (AT) Wheels: 90–150 mm, soft (60A–75A).
Penny Board Wheels
Pennyboard wheels are soft, smooth, and slightly bigger than regular all other types of skateboard wheels. They provide a stable and comfortable ride, especially on small plastic decks. These wheels are ideal for casual commuting, allowing you to cruise sidewalks and city streets with ease.
Pennyboard wheels are perfect for quick, effortless rides. They handle cracks and small bumps well, making them a great choice for urban commuting. However, they are not meant for tricks or high-speed skating. If you need a small, convenient board for everyday travel, Penny board wheels are a solid pick.
Key Features:
- Best for: Pennyboards, compact cruisers, and short-distance commuting.
- Size: 59 mm (compact but slightly larger than street wheels).
- Hardness: 78A–83A (soft for stability and comfort).
Frequently Asked Questions About What are the different types of Skateboard Wheels
What are the best skateboard wheels for beginners?
Medium-sized (54–59 mm) wheels with a hardness of 85A–95A are great for all-around skating.
Do softer wheels wear out faster?
Yes, but they provide a smoother ride and better grip.
How do I prevent wheel bite?
Use riser pads or get harder, smaller wheels.
Can I put cruiser wheels on a standard skateboard?
Yes, but you may need riser pads to prevent wheel bite.
What’s the difference between conical and radial wheels?
Conical wheels have a wider contact patch for stability, while radial wheels are rounded for tricks.
Final Words
Choosing the right skateboard wheels depends on how you like to ride. If you’re into tricks, go for small and hard wheels. If you prefer smooth rides, softer and larger wheels are best. Electric skaters need specialized wheels for motorized performance.
Now that you know types of skateboard wheels, which ones suit your style? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re upgrading your setup, check out our guide on the Tighten skateboard wheels for a faster, smoother ride!
