Do you want to cruise around town on your longboard like a pro? The key to smooth, fast, and comfortable rides lies in choosing the right wheels.
While it may seem overwhelming at first, this article will help you pick out the perfect set of longboard wheels for cruising. We’ll discuss wheel durometer, size, design, core material, shape, and bearings so that you can make an informed purchase.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater looking for the best wheels for cruising around town, this guide has got you covered!
Understanding Wheel Durometer
Understanding wheel durometer is key to finding the perfect longboard wheel for cruising. Let’s take a look at what it is!
Durometer measures the hardness of urethane, which affects how much surface grip the wheel provides and its overall quality.
Wheels that are too hard won’t provide enough grip while those that are too soft won’t support your weight.
The ideal range for cruising is between 78A-86A, as this provides an optimal balance between grip and durability.
It’s important to consider both surface grip and urethane quality when choosing wheels for cruising.
The Size of the Wheels
Choosing the right size of wheels for your skateboarding needs can be a pivotal decision.
Longboard wheels come in a range of sizes, from 57-75mm, and each size offers different levels of grip and slide control.
Bigger wheels roll faster and have more grip on smooth surfaces, while smaller ones provide more maneuverability on rougher terrain.
Wheels that are too small can create instability, while those that are too big will slow you down.
Finding the right balance of grip level and slide control to fit your situation is key to selecting the best wheel size for cruising longboards.
Wheel Design
The design of your wheels affects the overall performance of your board, so it’s important to make sure they match your riding style.
There are several factors that go into wheel design, including hardness, wheel traction and wheel additives.
Hardness is an important factor in determining how smooth the ride will be – harder wheels offer less grip and a faster ride while softer wheels can provide more control over turns and spins.
Wheel traction can also play a role in both speed and turning ability; if you’re looking for maximum speed, opt for a slick wheel with minimal traction.
Lastly, there are wheel additives such as urethane or silicone which can give you additional grip when cornering or braking.
Choosing the right combination of hardness, traction and additives will ensure you have the perfect set of wheels for cruising!
Wheel Core
When picking out your perfect set of wheels, it’s crucial to consider the wheel core. It can be the difference between a smooth ride and a bumpy one!
Wheel cores come in multiple sizes, with larger ones offering more stability and better control.
The number of cores also matters. Typically, wheels with multiple cores offer improved vibration dampening and increased durability.
When choosing your wheels, make sure to factor in both size and number of cores for optimal performance.
Wheel Material
Cruising around on the right set of wheels can make all the difference in how you experience your ride, so picking out a wheel material you love is essential! Urethane is the material of choice for longboard wheels used for cruising. When selecting longboard wheels for cruising, there are a few key factors to consider.
Grip Tape: It’s important to look for urethane that offers maximum grip, especially if you’re planning to ride on slippery or wet surfaces. A wheel material with good grip will ensure that you have better control and stability during your rides.
Urethane Quality: The quality of the urethane used in the wheels is crucial. Strong and durable urethane will last longer and provide a smooth, comfortable ride. Opting for higher durometer readings will give you increased grip and speed, making your cruising experience even more enjoyable.
Choosing the right wheel material is essential for a great cruising experience. Consider the grip tape and urethane quality when selecting your longboard wheels, and you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and comfortable ride.
Wheel Shape
When selecting a set of wheels, the shape is just as important as the material – choose wisely for an optimal ride!
Round wheels offer more grip and traction on smooth surfaces, while square-lipped wheels provide better control in slippery conditions.
Wheel shapes like offset, beveled, and stepped can also affect how your board responds to turns.
Consider the terrain you plan to ride – wheel shape plays a critical role in performance and stability!
Wheel Bearings
When you switch to high-quality wheel bearings, you’ll feel the difference in your ride. They provide a smooth, fast glide over any terrain. Wheel bearings come in ABEC ratings from 1 to 9, so choose one based on your desired performance and speed.
Consider these four key points when selecting wheel bearings:
- ABEC rating
- Durability
- Price
- Grip tape and wheel width compatibility
The right combination of wheel width and grip tape can make or break your ride experience. Be sure to check if the wheels fit together properly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal wheel durometer for cruising?
When it comes to cruising, the ideal wheel durometer for longboards is around 78A. This softness provides enough cushion for a smooth ride while still preserving slide ability due to its grip on the pavement.
Wheels with a higher durometer tend to be too hard and will not provide adequate grip, whereas wheels with a lower durometer are too soft and will quickly wear down due to regular use.
The quality of your wheels also plays an important role in getting the most out of your cruise – look for urethane that’s specifically designed for longboarding, as this will ensure you get maximum durability and performance from your wheels.
What is the recommended size of wheels for cruising?
When it comes to cruising, the size and hardness of your wheels are of paramount importance. Generally speaking, the ideal wheel size for a cruiser is between 65-75mm, with a durometer (hardness) rating of between 78A-83A. This combination gives you enough grip to go around corners comfortably and quickly without sacrificing speed.
It’s also important to consider the wheel shape – typically round or square lipped wheels provide the best balance of traction and stability while riding. If you’re looking for an even smoother ride, opt for a softer wheel.
No matter what combination you choose, make sure that it works with your board setup before committing to purchase!
How do I choose the right wheel design for cruising?
When choosing a wheel design for cruising, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about the traction levels and wheel shapes. The shape of the wheel can have an impact on its grip on the ground. Look for wheels with rounded edges, as they will reduce sliding and provide better stability.
Next, consider the traction levels of the wheels. Higher traction levels will offer better control and stability while riding. So, look for wheels with good traction to ensure a smooth cruising experience.
Another aspect to consider is the urethane of the wheels. Wheels with a softer urethane are great for absorbing vibrations when rolling over cracks or debris in the pavement. This can make your ride more comfortable and enjoyable.
Lastly, think about whether you prefer soft or hard wheels. Soft wheels are generally better for cruising as they provide a smoother ride and better grip. On the other hand, hard wheels are more suitable for tricks and maneuvers.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right wheel design for cruising that suits your preferences and provides an optimal riding experience.
What type of wheel core should I use for cruising?
When choosing the wheel core for cruising, it’s important to consider both the hardness and hub design.
The harder the wheel is, the faster it will go, but you’ll sacrifice some control. Softer wheels, on the other hand, provide more grip and stability but won’t roll as far.
Generally speaking, 78A-83A are good choices for cruising.
As for hub design, take a look at how wide and deep the core is. A deeper center provides better support against road vibrations, while wider cores help with overall stability.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. So, try out different combinations of hardnesses and designs until you find what works best for you!
What type of wheel material is best for cruising?
When it comes to cruising on a longboard, the type of wheel material you choose is essential. Generally speaking, for smooth rides, softer wheels are optimal. This is because they have more grip when rolling over imperfections in the pavement.
Additionally, wheel shape also matters; rounder wheels offer better stability and control while sharper edges can reduce drag and increase speed.
When selecting your wheel hardness, be sure to consider your weight and riding style as this will determine how soft or hard you need them to be.
Ultimately, the best combination of material and shape will depend on your individual preferences and needs.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!