5 Best Wheels and Bearings for Skateboards – Expert Picks for a Smoother Ride

Have you ever wondered if the right wheels and bearings can transform your skateboarding experience? Expert picks might just hold the key to a smoother, faster ride. With options like the CREAJOY 60mm 95A wheels and Bones Reds bearings, you've got several great choices to explore. But which combination will truly enhance your skills and enjoyment? Uncover these top selections and see how they might elevate your skateboarding adventures.

key Takeaways

  • CREAJOY 60mm wheels provide stability and smooth rides with durable 95a polyurethane and pro-grade precision bearings.
  • Bones Reds Bearings offer pre-lubricated, fast rides with high-speed nylon retainers and Bones Speed Cream lubrication.
  • Triclops 56mm wheels with Bones Reds bearings deliver speed and grip with high-quality urethane and chromium steel construction.
  • SHKI 608 2RS ball bearings feature low friction and rubber seals for durability and high-speed performance.
  • Wheels with a 95A durometer balance durability and performance, excelling on various surfaces for smoother rides.

Skateboard Wheels, 60mm 95a with Bearings, Set of 4 (Black)

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If you're looking to upgrade your skateboard for a smoother ride, the CREAJOY Skateboard Wheels, 60mm 95a with Bearings, Set of 4 (Black) is an excellent choice. These wheels, sized at 60mm x 45mm, deliver a stable and smooth experience across various surfaces. Made from durable 95a polyurethane, they offer long-lasting performance and are equipped with pro-grade precision bearings for enhanced speed and responsiveness. They're perfect for hill runs and slides, fitting most standard setups. With a user rating of 4.0, customers praise the quality and minimal branding. Upgrade with confidence and enjoy a superior skateboarding experience!

Best For: Enthusiastic skateboarders looking to upgrade their equipment for enhanced performance and smoother rides across various surfaces.

Pros:

  • Durable 95a polyurethane construction for long-lasting use
  • Equipped with pro-grade precision bearings for superior speed
  • Universal fit for most standard skateboard trucks

Cons:

  • No warranty available
  • Specific hardness may not suit all riders' preferences
  • Limited customer reviews available for comprehensive assessment

SHKI 608 2RS Ball Bearings for Skateboards and Scooters (10 Pack)

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For those seeking superior performance for high-speed skateboarding and scootering, the SHKI 608 2RS ball bearings stand out as an excellent choice. With dimensions of 8mm x 22mm x 7mm, these deep groove ball bearings offer smooth operation and low friction, minimizing energy loss. Their rubber seals enhance durability, making them perfect for skateboards, scooters, and even small machinery like 3D printers. Installation is a breeze, though some users mention high grease content. Overall, customer feedback praises their quality and value, despite noting that better prices might be available elsewhere. Fast delivery and satisfaction guarantee seal the deal.

Best For: Skateboarders, scooter riders, and users of small machinery like 3D printers seeking high-performance, durable bearings.

Pros:

  • Smooth operation suitable for high-speed applications.
  • Low friction coefficient reduces energy loss.
  • Durable rubber seals enhance longevity.

Cons:

  • Some users noted high grease content affecting initial spin.
  • Better prices may be available from other sources.
  • Limited to specific size and application compatibility.

Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards, Longboards, Scooters

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Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack is the top choice for skateboarders, longboarders, and scooter enthusiasts who crave speed and durability. These bearings boast a 608 size, precision-machined to guarantee a smooth, fast ride. Pre-lubricated with Bones Speed Cream, they resist dirt and debris, while the removable rubber shield makes cleaning a breeze. You'll appreciate the high-speed nylon ball retainer that boosts strength and speed. Priced competitively, they offer excellent value and superior performance. Users rave about the quiet operation and long spin duration. Plus, the included Stoked Tool is handy, covering all your basic maintenance needs.

Best For: Skateboarders, longboarders, and scooter riders looking for speed, durability, and smooth performance.

Pros:

  • Precision-machined for smooth and fast rides.
  • Pre-lubricated with Bones Speed Cream for protection against dirt and debris.
  • Competitively priced for excellent value and performance.

Cons:

  • The included Stoked Tool is basic and may not meet all maintenance needs.
  • Some users may find the rubber shield requires occasional cleaning for optimal performance.
  • Not specifically designed for extreme weather conditions or environments.

Triclops Skateboard Wheels Vertigo 56mm 99A White with Bones Reds Bearings

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The Triclops Skateboard Wheels Vertigo 56mm 99A paired with Bones Reds Bearings are perfect for skaters seeking a blend of speed and grip, especially on park surfaces and streets. These larger, harder wheels are designed to enhance your skating experience with their classic 99A durometer. The high-quality urethane wheels and high-carbon chromium steel bearings offer durability and performance. With the Bones Reds providing near Bones Swiss quality at a fraction of the cost, you'll experience a smoother, faster ride. Rated 4.2 stars, users praise the value and performance boost these wheels and bearings bring to their boards.

Best For: Skaters seeking a blend of speed and grip on park surfaces and streets, who value performance and affordability.

Pros:

  • Provides a good balance of speed and grip with 99A durometer.
  • Bones Reds bearings offer near Bones Swiss performance at a lower cost.
  • Durable construction with high-quality urethane and high-carbon chromium steel materials.

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for softer surfaces due to the hardness of the wheels.
  • Limited customer ratings and reviews available.
  • Larger wheels may not fit all skateboard setups.

Skateboard Wheels 60mm 95a with Bearings, Set of 4 (White)

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Looking for skateboard wheels that promise durability and performance? Check out the CREAJOY Skateboard Wheels 60mm 95a with Bearings, Set of 4 in white. Made from high-quality polyurethane, these wheels offer long-lasting performance and a smooth ride. With a 60mm diameter, you'll enjoy stable rides on various surfaces. The pro-grade bearings enhance speed and responsiveness, making them perfect for any skateboard setup. These wheels are versatile and compatible with most standard trucks, ideal for upgrading or replacing worn-out parts. Despite no warranty, their robust design and positive customer reviews make them a reliable choice for skateboarding enthusiasts.

Best For: Skateboarding enthusiasts looking for durable and high-performance wheels for a smooth and stable ride across various surfaces.

Pros:

  • Made from high-quality 95a polyurethane for long-lasting durability.
  • Equipped with pro-grade bearings for enhanced speed and responsiveness.
  • Universally compatible with most standard skateboard trucks.

Cons:

  • No warranty available.
  • Limited customer reviews for reliability assessment.
  • May not fit non-standard skateboard setups.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wheels and Bearings for Skateboards

When choosing skateboard wheels and bearings, you'll want to focus on a few key factors. Consider the wheel material quality and durometer hardness rating for the best ride on different surfaces. Don't forget about bearing speed efficiency and durability, as well as the size and diameter of the wheels to match your skating style.

Wheel Material Quality

Choosing the right wheels for your skateboard can greatly impact your ride quality and performance. Wheel material quality is essential, with polyurethane being a top choice for its durability and smooth ride across various surfaces. When picking wheels, pay attention to hardness, measured on the durometer scale. Harder wheels, above 95A, offer speed and performance on smooth surfaces, while softer wheels, below 95A, provide grip and shock absorption on rough terrain. Consider wheel diameter too; larger wheels (60mm and above) are ideal for cruising and stability, while smaller ones suit technical tricks and street skating. Opt for well-manufactured wheels to guarantee longevity and resistance to wear and tear, contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable skateboarding experience.

Bearing Speed Efficiency

While selecting the right wheels is essential, don't overlook the importance of bearing speed efficiency in enhancing your skateboarding experience. Bearing speed efficiency hinges on the quality of materials and precision machining, ensuring smoother and faster spins. Opt for bearings with a low friction coefficient to reduce energy loss, boosting performance, especially at high speeds. Pre-lubricated bearings with specialized racing lubricants help minimize drag and protect against dirt and debris. Consider the design features like rubber seals, which balance protection and friction reduction. Quality bearings often include a nylon ball retainer, providing extra strength and faster rotation. By focusing on these factors, you can greatly enhance your board's performance and enjoy a smoother, faster ride.

Durability and Longevity

To maximize your skateboard's performance, focus on the durability and longevity of both wheels and bearings. Choose wheels made from high-quality polyurethane, as they provide excellent grip and resist abrasion, guaranteeing they last longer on various surfaces. Pay attention to the durometer rating; options like 95A and 99A offer different levels of wear resistance, essential for extending wheel life.

Precision bearings are key to reducing friction, leading to smoother rides and less wear. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating bearings, prevents dirt buildup, avoiding premature failure. Opt for well-constructed bearings with protective seals or shields to guard against environmental damage. Investing in durable materials and timely upkeep guarantees your skateboard components endure longer, offering you a smoother, more reliable ride.

Size and Diameter

Steering through the world of skateboard wheels and bearings involves understanding the essential role that size and diameter play in your ride. Wheels typically range from 50mm to 60mm. If you're into technical tricks or street skating, smaller wheels below 55mm might be your go-to, offering agility and control. For downhill rides or cruising, consider larger wheels above 55mm; they provide better speed and stability. A versatile choice is a 60mm wheel, which balances speed with maneuverability, ideal for both street and park skating. Make certain your wheel size aligns with your skateboard trucks to guarantee performance and safety. Remember, the right wheel diameter can transform your skating experience by enhancing both your ride's smoothness and reliability.

Durometer Hardness Rating

Understanding the size and diameter of your skateboard wheels is just the start; next, consider the durometer hardness rating to fine-tune your ride. This rating measures wheel hardness, ranging from 78A to 101A, and impacts how your skateboard performs. Softer wheels (78A-87A) offer great grip and a smoother ride, perfect for rough terrains. Harder wheels (88A-101A) excel on smooth surfaces, delivering speed but less traction. A 95A rating balances durability and performance, making it a popular choice for street skating. Softer wheels absorb shocks better, cushioning you from bumps, while harder ones transmit more vibrations. Consider choosing softer wheels for skate parks or rough environments, and harder ones for speed and tricks on smooth surfaces.

Installation Ease

While installing skateboard wheels and bearings might seem intimidating at first, it's actually a straightforward task with the right tools and knowledge. You'll start by removing the old wheels and bearings. Slide the new 608-size bearings into the wheels, which fits most skateboards, simplifying compatibility. Then, attach the wheels back onto the truck axles. Many bearings come with rubber seals, protecting against dirt and moisture, which makes installation even easier. Don't worry if the bearings feel stiff initially due to higher grease content; this will improve after a brief break-in period. Using a skateboard tool that includes multiple socket sizes and drivers can further streamline the process, ensuring you get back to skating quickly and efficiently.

Maintenance Requirements

Although it might not be the most exciting part of skateboarding, keeping up with the maintenance of your wheels and bearings is essential for a smooth ride. Regular cleaning every few weeks, depending on how often you skate, keeps them in top condition. Bearings with rubber seals offer added protection against dirt and moisture, reducing how often you need to clean. Check your wheels for flat spots or cracks every few months or after intense use—these can seriously impact your ride. Lubricate your bearings with speed cream or oil to boost performance, but don't overdo it; too much grease can slow you down. Confirm your wheels and bearings are properly installed and aligned to avoid unnecessary wear and extra maintenance.

Versatility and Compatibility

When choosing skateboard wheels and bearings, versatility and compatibility should be at the forefront of your decision. Opt for wheels with a universal fit to easily match most standard skateboard trucks, making upgrades or replacements hassle-free. Consider the wheel diameter and hardness, like 60mm and 95A, to guarantee performance across various surfaces. This versatility allows you to enjoy a smoother ride in different conditions. Precision bearings are essential, enhancing speed and responsiveness, and should match the wheel size for peak performance. Also, choose wheels that can be used for multiple applications—skateboarding, inline skating, or scooters—to maximize their utility. For bearings, stick with common sizes like 608, which fit various wheels, simplifying replacement and maintenance.