Choosing the right skateboard wheel size affects how well you skate. Some skaters wonder if 52mm wheels are too tiny. Do they give you the best mix for what you need?
Skateboard wheels come in sizes from 48mm to 75mm. The most recommended sizes are between 52mm and 56mm. If you love street skating and doing tricks, 52mm wheels could be perfect. They let you control your skateboard better.
But, it’s wise to look at both the good and bad sides of these wheels. This helps figure out if they match your skateboarding style.
Key Takeaways
- Skateboard wheels generally range from 48mm to 75mm in diameter.
- 52mm wheels offer better control for street skating and tricks.
- Medium-sized wheels (52-56mm) are the most common and versatile size range.
- 52mm wheels are suitable for smooth surfaces due to their smaller diameter.
- Choosing the right wheel size depends on your skateboarding style and preferred terrain.
Understanding Skateboard Wheel Sizes
When picking skateboard wheels, knowing their size matters a lot. Wheels vary from 50mm to 75mm, each size providing a unique ride.
Small wheels, 50-53mm, are best for doing tricks. They’re slow but easy to control, perfect for young or small riders.
Beginners and bigger riders often go for wheels sized 54-59mm. They’re good for different places like streets, skateparks, and ramps. Bigger wheels, starting at 60mm, are meant for those who like speed or rough terrains.
The hardness of wheels, or durometer, is also key. It’s scored on a 100-point scale where high numbers mean harder wheels. Most wheels hit around 99a, which is a mix of quickness and grip.
Softer wheels, 78a-87a, stick to rough grounds well, nice for longboards. Wheels between 97a-99a do well on streets and parks. Pro wheels, over 101a, are super hard and fast, trading off some grip for technical moves.
For skating on streets and parks, wheels should be 50-56mm. For cruising or bumpy rides, aim for 56-60mm.
Grasping these details on wheel sizes and hardness guides you to pick wheels that match your skate style and needs perfectly.
Pros of Using 52mm Wheels
The advantages of 52mm wheels are clear when you’re picking skateboard wheels. This size is really popular, fitting most skateboards perfectly. They’re great for both street and park skating because they’re so agile and controlled.
Benefits of small skateboard wheels, like the 52mm ones, include fast speed-up. This helps with doing complex tricks. They make your skateboard lower to the ground. This makes it easier to do flip tricks and ollies. When skating in tight spots or at a skatepark, 52mm wheels improve your 52mm wheel performance.
52mm wheels make your board lighter and easier to handle. This is great for saving energy during long skate sessions. They usually have a hardness of 97A to 101A. This offers a nice balance of speed and grip, so you can smooth ride on different surfaces while still being able to do sharp turns and tricks.
Regarding the performance of 52mm wheels, they’re top-notch where you need to be quick and accurate. Their size helps reduce the bumpiness of rough streets. In the end, the advantages of 52mm wheels not only boost how well you do but also make skating more fun.
Cons of 52mm Wheels
The drawbacks of 52mm wheels should be thought about. Their small size can make riding on bumpy surfaces tough. Being smaller (between 50-54mm) means they don’t keep speed or stability well on uneven ground. Also, their smaller contact area lowers grip and control, affecting trick performance.
52mm wheels also have issues fitting different skate setups. They are not the best for street skating beginners who need wheels soft enough (95A-101A) to lessen shocks. Without the need for riser pads, unlike larger wheels, they offer less flexibility for changing skate styles.
Considering the limitations of 52mm wheels, their speed retention is less than larger wheels. Wheels in the 54-60mm range keep their speed better and are great for getting around. If you care about speed or traveling far, think twice about choosing 52mm wheels.
Lastly, the small skateboard wheels issues include not doing well on rough surfaces. Soft wheels, rated 78A-87A, work better on tough terrain. The harder 99A standard for 52mm wheels makes rides bumpier and more dangerous. Knowing these cons helps pick wheels that meet your skating needs.
Ideal Riding Conditions for 52mm Wheels
Understanding the best surfaces for 52mm wheels is key for a better skateboarding experience. Most skaters pick 52mm wheels for street and park skating. They’re great for control and stability for tricks, perfect on smooth concrete and in skateparks.
Riding on flat and even surfaces is best for small wheels like 52mm. This lets you get the most out of their agility. Picking a skatepark with good ramps and obstacles can boost your performance too.
It’s important to know your wheel’s hardness for outdoor skating. Wheels should be between 97A to 101A for street surfaces. This hardness helps with grip and making slides easier when you do tricks.
Adjusting your skateboard for where you skate is crucial. More grip and stability come from a wider contact patch, good for smooth areas. A narrower patch makes your board more responsive, ideal for tricks.
Let’s check the best conditions for using 52mm wheels in different skateboarding activities:
| Skateboarding Activity | Wheel Size Range | Hardness Rating | Contact Patch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Skating | 50-53 mm | 97A – 101A | Narrower (15-17 mm) |
| Park Skating | 50-53 mm | 99A – 101A | Standard (18-20 mm) |
| Mini Ramps | 53-56 mm | 99A | Standard (18-20 mm) |
By picking the right conditions for small wheels like 52mm, your rides will be smoother and fun. Adjust your skateboard to fit your skating spot, and mastering tricks will be easier with these wheels.
How to Choose the Right Wheel Size
Choosing the right skateboard wheels means looking at diameter and durometer. Wheel sizes range from 50mm to 75mm. Small wheels (50-53mm) work best for street and park skating. They give you the quickness needed for tricks. Bigger wheels (56-60mm) are great for cruising and vert skating because they bring stability and speed. For beginners, a medium size (54-59mm) is good for both speed and control.
Another key point is the wheel’s hardness, shown by its durometer. It’s measured on A and B scales. The most common hardness is 99a, which balances speed and grip well. Softer wheels (78a-87a) are better on rough grounds as they grip more. Yet, harder wheels (96a-101a) are best for smooth places and doing tricks.
Here’s a quick guide to help you make a well-informed choice:
| Wheel Size (mm) | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| 50-53mm | Street, Park, Trick Riding |
| 54-59mm | Beginners, Larger Riders, Mini Ramp |
| 60mm+ | Longboards, Downhill Skating, Cruising |
When picking skateboard wheels, think about where you’ll skate and your style. Harder wheels (99a or higher) are good for skateparks and smooth streets. They help with slides and tricks. Softer wheels (78a-85a) are perfect for cruising on uneven surfaces. They make the ride less bumpy. A detailed wheel size guide can help you pick what’s best for you.
In summary, the right skateboard wheel size depends on diameter and durometer. Larger wheels are faster and more stable. Smaller ones give better control and quickness. Knowing these factors helps you find the best wheels for your skateboard.
Conclusion: Are 52mm Wheels Right for You?
Choosing the right size of skateboard wheels is crucial for your skating experience. The suitability of 52mm wheels depends on your skill level, preferred style, and where you skate. These smaller wheels are great for doing technical tricks and speeding up quickly. This makes them perfect for street and park skaters who need precision and control.
For beginners, smaller wheels offer more stability and are easier to use while learning. They work best on smooth surfaces like skate park floors or city sidewalks. But, if you want to skate in different places, try various sizes and hardness levels to see what you like best. For detailed help on choosing wheels, check out this guide.
Advanced skaters often pick 52mm wheels for their fast speeds and agility. These wheels allow for quick turns and complex tricks. It’s important to balance the wheel’s size and hardness. A harder wheel (high durometer) with these smaller wheels ensures smooth, fast rides. Meanwhile, softer wheels (low durometer) are better for those who want comfort and grip on rough surfaces.
In the end, choosing 52mm wheels depends on what you need for your skateboard setup. Whether you’re after tight tricks or smooth rides, these wheels offer a good balance for both newbies and pros. Try different setups to discover the right mix of speed, grip, and control for your skating style and where you skate.
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!