Looking to upgrade your longboard wheels? Look no further! In this article, we’ll guide you through the world of longboard wheels and help you find the best ones for your riding style.
Whether you’re into cruising, downhill racing, or freeriding, there’s a perfect set of wheels out there waiting for you.
We’ll start by exploring the different types of longboard wheels available on the market. From soft to hard durometers, square-edged to rounded lips, and various sizes and shapes – we’ve got you covered.
Next, we’ll dive into the factors that should influence your decision-making process when choosing longboard wheels. Grip, speed control, slide capability – these are just a few aspects that can make or break your ride.
Then comes the fun part: our top recommendations for cruising, downhill racing, and freeriding. We’ve done the research so that you don’t have to.
And finally, we’ll share some tips on maintaining and replacing your longboard wheels to ensure they last as long as possible.
So grab a seat (or better yet, hop on your board) and get ready to discover the best longboard wheels for your needs!
Different Types of Longboard Wheels
When it comes to the different types of longboard wheels, understanding their unique characteristics is essential for finding the perfect fit.
There are various materials used in making longboard wheels, each with its pros and cons. For example, urethane wheels offer excellent grip and durability but can be a bit pricey. On the other hand, polyurethane wheels provide a smoother ride but may wear out faster.
Longboard wheel shapes also play a role in performance, with square-edged wheels offering more traction while round-edged wheels allow for easier slides.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Longboard Wheels
When choosing longboard wheels, there are several factors you should consider.
First, the wheel diameter and contact patch play a crucial role in determining the speed and stability of your ride.
Secondly, the durometer and wheel hardness affect the grip and durability of the wheels.
Lastly, the shape and lip profile can greatly impact how smoothly you can carve or slide on your board.
By carefully considering these key points, you can ensure that you select the best longboard wheels for your riding style and preferences.
Wheel Diameter and Contact Patch
When choosing longboard wheels, it is crucial to consider wheel diameter and contact patch size. Smaller wheels may provide a smoother ride, but larger diameter longboard wheels offer increased stability and grip through a wider contact patch. While smaller wheels are more maneuverable, larger ones excel in stability and traction.
Additionally, the shape of the wheel can affect performance. Square-edged wheels provide better grip, while rounded edges allow for easier slides.
Durometer and Wheel Hardness
To maximize your riding experience, it’s important to consider the durometer and hardness of your longboard wheels.
The durometer refers to the wheel’s hardness, which affects its grip and slide characteristics. Softer wheels with a lower durometer provide better grip for carving and cruising, while harder wheels with a higher durometer are ideal for sliding and freeriding.
Finding the right balance between durometer and hardness is crucial in achieving optimal performance on your longboard.
Shape and Lip Profile
Get ready to take your longboarding skills to the next level by considering the shape and lip profile of your wheels. The wheel shape plays a crucial role in determining how your board performs. Different shapes, such as square-edged or rounded, offer different benefits in terms of grip and slide control.
Additionally, the lip profile refers to the shape of the outer edge of the wheel. A sharp-lipped wheel provides more traction, while a round-lipped one offers smoother slides.
Top Longboard Wheels for Cruising
If you’re looking for the best longboard wheels for cruising, there are a few key options to consider.
The Orangatang Kegel 80mm Wheels are a popular choice due to their large size and smooth ride.
Another option is the Sector 9 Butterballs 70mm Wheels, which offer excellent grip and slide capabilities.
Lastly, the Powell Peralta Rat Bones 85A Wheels are known for their durability and versatility.
Each of these wheels have their own unique features that make them ideal for cruising on your longboard.
Orangatang Kegel 80mm Wheels
When considering longboard wheels, you’ll find that the Orangatang Kegel 80mm Wheels are highly regarded for their exceptional performance.
These wheels offer several advantages due to their larger diameter of 80mm. The increased size allows for a smoother ride over rough terrain and better stability at higher speeds.
Additionally, the urethane material used in these wheels provides excellent grip and durability, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable riding experience.
Sector 9 Butterballs 70mm Wheels
The Sector 9 Butterballs 70mm wheels are highly regarded among longboard enthusiasts for their smooth ride and exceptional grip. These wheels have been praised in numerous longboard wheel reviews for their outstanding performance, durability, and slideability.
When comparing prices and brands of longboard wheels, the Sector 9 Butterballs offer excellent value for their quality. Additionally, they come in a variety of color options to suit individual preferences.
Powell Peralta Rat Bones 85A Wheels
Powell Peralta’s Rat Bones 85A wheels offer a smooth ride and exceptional grip. They are a popular choice among longboarders because of their versatility and durability. The 85A durometer provides a perfect balance between speed and control, allowing riders to confidently tackle different terrains. However, it’s essential to consider your riding style and preferences when selecting the right duro for your longboard wheels. So, make sure to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
Top Longboard Wheels for Downhill Racing
Imagine yourself racing down a steep hill on your longboard, feeling the exhilarating speed as you effortlessly carve with the best wheels for downhill racing.
When it comes to longboard wheel materials, choosing the right ones is crucial for optimal performance. For downhill racing, you need wheels that offer excellent grip and control while maintaining stability at high speeds.
Look for longboard wheels specifically designed for sliding to ensure smooth and controlled slides during your daring downhill adventures.
Top Longboard Wheels for Freeriding
When it comes to finding the top longboard wheels for freeriding, there are a few options that stand out. The Hawgs Mini Monster 70mm Wheels are a great choice thanks to their square-edged lip, which provides maximum grip and control while sliding. Another option to consider is the Cult Chronicle 65mm Wheels, known for their smooth slide due to their rounded edges and stoneground finish. Lastly, the Blood Orange Morgan Pro Series 65mm Wheels are highly regarded for their durability and consistent performance, making them a popular choice among experienced riders.
Hawgs Mini Monster 70mm Wheels
The Hawgs Mini Monster 70mm wheels are a game-changer for any longboarder. With their small size and monster grip, these wheels offer superior control and smooth slides, making them some of the best longboard wheels for sliding. They also excel in tricks, providing excellent pop and responsiveness. The urethane formula used in these wheels ensures durability and longevity, making them a reliable choice for riders looking to push their limits.
Cult Chronicle 65mm Wheels
Get ready to experience the exhilarating thrill of carving and cruising with the Cult Chronicle 65mm wheels. They’ll have you feeling like you’re floating on a cloud of pure freedom.
Crafted from top-quality longboard wheel materials, these smaller diameter wheels offer distinct advantages. With their reduced size, they provide increased maneuverability and responsiveness, allowing for quick turns and precise control.
Whether you’re bombing hills or navigating through tight spaces, the Cult Chronicle 65mm wheels will enhance your ride to new heights.
Blood Orange Morgan Pro Series 65mm Wheels
Prepare to be amazed by the Blood Orange Morgan Pro Series 65mm wheels. They’ll have you effortlessly gliding through every twist and turn, leaving a trail of pure adrenaline in your wake.
These wheels are known for their exceptional longevity, providing riders with countless hours of smooth riding pleasure. With their superior grip and slide capabilities, the Blood Orange Morgan Pro Series 65mm wheels ensure optimal control and precision.
You can confidently conquer any terrain with these high-performance wheels. So whether you’re cruising down the streets or shredding at the skate park, the Blood Orange Morgan Pro Series 65mm wheels will never let you down.
Maintaining and Replacing Your Longboard Wheels
When it comes to maintaining and replacing your longboard wheels, there are a few key points to keep in mind.
Firstly, cleaning and lubricating your bearings is essential for optimal performance. Regularly removing dirt and debris from the bearings and applying lubrication will ensure smooth rides every time.
Secondly, rotating and flipping your wheels is important to promote even wear. This will extend the lifespan of your wheels and prevent uneven riding surfaces.
Lastly, knowing the signs that it’s time to replace your wheels is crucial for safety. Look out for excessive wear, flat spots, or loss of grip as indicators that it’s time for a new set of wheels.
Cleaning and Lubricating Bearings
Maintaining the peak performance of your longboard wheels is essential. One effective way to do so is by regularly cleaning and lubricating the bearings. To ensure proper bearing maintenance, follow these steps:
- Remove the bearings from the wheels using a skate tool or bearing puller.
- Clean the bearings thoroughly with a skateboard-specific bearing cleaner.
- Apply a few drops of high-quality skateboard bearing oil to each bearing.
Proper lubrication will reduce friction, improve speed, and extend the lifespan of your longboard wheels.
Rotating and Flipping Wheels
To keep your ride smooth and balanced, it’s important to regularly rotate and flip your wheels. This is especially crucial if you enjoy performing flipping tricks or rotating tricks on your longboard.
Rotating your wheels on a regular basis ensures that they wear evenly. This helps prevent flat spots from forming and maintains optimal performance. By swapping the front wheels with the back ones, you promote even wear on all sides of the wheels. This simple action can significantly prolong the lifespan of your wheels.
So, don’t forget to take the time to rotate and flip your wheels. Doing so will enhance your riding experience and keep your longboard in top shape.
Signs that it’s Time to Replace Your Wheels
One surefire way to know it’s time for new wheels is if you start experiencing a rough and bumpy ride. This is one of the signs that your longboard wheels are worn out and need to be replaced.
Other signs include decreased grip on turns, flat spots on the wheels, and excessive vibration or wobbling at high speeds.
Don’t compromise your safety and performance – keep an eye out for these indicators and swap out your old wheels when necessary.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Longboard Wheels for You
Finding the perfect set of longboard wheels that suit your riding style and preferences is essential for an exhilarating and smooth ride.
When choosing the right longboard wheels, it’s crucial to consider factors such as durometer, size, shape, and material.
Different longboarding tricks require different wheel characteristics, so it’s important to do your research on reputable longboard wheel brands that offer options suitable for your specific needs.
Ultimately, investing in high-quality wheels will greatly enhance your overall longboarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do longboard wheels affect the overall performance of a longboard?
The size of longboard wheels has a significant impact on overall performance. Smaller wheels provide quicker acceleration and are ideal for tricks and maneuverability, but they sacrifice speed and stability.
On the other hand, larger wheels offer more speed and stability, making them suitable for downhill riding or cruising over rough terrain.
The type of longboard wheels also affects ride quality. Softer wheels absorb vibrations and provide a smoother ride, while harder wheels offer more control for slides and tricks.
Can I use the same longboard wheels for both cruising and downhill racing?
Yes, you can use the same longboard wheels for both cruising and downhill racing. However, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the wheels that are optimal for each technique.
For cruising techniques, you’ll want wheels with a softer durometer for a smoother ride and better grip on various surfaces.
On the other hand, downhill racing techniques require harder wheels with a higher durometer for increased speed and stability.
It’s crucial to choose the right wheels based on your preferred style of riding.
Are there any specific longboard wheels recommended for beginners?
For beginners, it’s important to understand that different types of longboard wheels are designed for different riding styles. When starting out, it’s recommended to choose a wheel size around 65-70mm with a durometer rating between 78A and 82A.
This will provide a good balance between grip and slide control, making it easier to learn the basics of cruising and carving.
As you gain more experience, you can experiment with different wheel sizes and durometers based on your specific riding preferences.
How often should I replace my longboard wheels?
Longboard wheel durability varies depending on factors such as usage and terrain. Typically, longboard wheels last between 3 to 6 months of regular riding before needing replacement.
Signs of wear on your longboard wheels include a decrease in grip, flat spots, or visible cracks. If you notice any of these indicators, it’s time to replace your wheels for optimal performance and safety.
Regularly inspecting your wheels will ensure a smooth ride and prevent accidents.
Are there any special techniques or tools required for maintaining longboard wheels?
To maintain your longboard wheels, you will need a few tools and techniques.
Start by using a soft-bristle brush or toothbrush to remove any dirt or debris from the wheels.
You can also use water and mild soap for a deeper clean.
It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents as they can damage the wheels.
Additionally, make sure to regularly check the bearings for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if necessary.
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!