Imagine cruising smoothly on your skateboard, conquering rough terrains effortlessly. In 2025, the right set of soft wheels can transform your ride. You'll find options like the versatile Fireball Tinder and durable Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders leading the pack. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting out, understanding these top choices will elevate your experience. Curious about which wheels suit your style the best? Let's explore further.
key Takeaways
- Bigfoot Skateboard Wheels 53mm 83A offer smooth rides for beginners on rough surfaces but wear quickly and aren't suitable for tricks.
- Fireball Tinder 60mm Longboard Wheels provide durability and predictable slides with an 81A durometer, suitable for versatile riding conditions.
- Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Runners ensure smooth rides on uneven surfaces with 56mm diameter and 80A hardness, though may need risers.
- 70mm Gel Soft Longboard Skateboard Blank Wheels excel in comfort for cruising, with a 78A durometer and competitive price.
- Soft wheels offer superior grip and shock absorption on cracked asphalt, enhancing stability and control for cruising.
Bigfoot Skateboard Wheels 53mm 83A Soft Cruiser Filmer Wheels
If you're a beginner or casual rider seeking a smooth cruising experience, the Bigfoot Skateboard Wheels 53mm 83A Soft Cruiser Filmer Wheels are just what you need. These wheels, crafted with 83A urethane, roll effortlessly over rough surfaces. The hard plastic core guarantees precision bearing alignment, boosting speed and performance. With a 32mm width, they offer a high-rebound formula for fast, smooth rides. While perfect for street cruising, they're not suitable for park use or technical tricks. Users love the comfort and speed on rough pavements, though they note quick wear. Still, they're a cost-effective option for frequent replacement.
Best For: Beginners or casual riders seeking a smooth and comfortable cruising experience on rough surfaces.
Pros:
- Smooth rolling on rough surfaces with 83A urethane.
- High-rebound formula for fast, smooth rides.
- Cost-effective compared to higher-priced soft wheels.
Cons:
- Wears quickly, especially under park use.
- Not suitable for technical tricks or power slides.
- Limited durability, requiring frequent replacement.
Fireball Tinder 60mm Longboard Wheels (Set of 4 – Blue)
For those seeking a versatile and smooth ride, the Fireball Tinder 60mm Longboard Wheels in blue are an excellent choice. Made in the USA, these wheels boast an 81a durometer, making them perfect for longboards, skateboards, and cruisers. Crafted from high-rebound polyurethane, they tackle rough terrains with ease. The SlidePrepped™ formula guarantees predictable slides and even wear, while the centerset urethane/fiberglass core enhances strength and stability. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 449 users, these wheels are praised for their durability and smooth performance. Pair them with Fireball Dragon Precision Bearings for ideal results, and enjoy the ride!
Best For: Beginners and experienced skateboarders looking for durable, smooth, and versatile wheels for longboards, skateboards, or cruisers.
Pros:
- High-rebound polyurethane for smooth rides on rough terrains.
- SlidePrepped™ formula for predictable slides and even wear.
- Centerset core provides enhanced strength and stability.
Cons:
- Requires risers for optimal performance due to wheel size.
- Only available in specific sizes; other sizes sold separately.
- May not be suitable for those preferring softer wheels for extreme grip.
Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Runners Skateboard Wheels
Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Runners are ideal for skateboarders who crave a smooth ride on uneven surfaces without sacrificing speed. With a 56mm diameter and 80a hardness, these wheels perfectly balance grip, comfort, and speed. Made from durable urethane, they offer flatspot resistance, making them great for both cruising and tricks. Users rave about their quiet, hoverboard-like ride and excellent performance on rough terrain. With a 4.8-star rating, they're a top choice for hybrid setups. Pair them with risers to avoid wheel bite and enjoy a stylish, smooth, and fast skateboarding experience anywhere you go.
Best For: Skateboarders who want a smooth ride on uneven surfaces while maintaining speed and performing tricks.
Pros:
- Excellent grip and comfort on rough terrain.
- Durable urethane with flatspot resistance.
- High customer satisfaction with a 4.8-star rating.
Cons:
- May require risers to prevent wheel bite on standard decks.
- Potentially higher price compared to some alternatives.
- Limited to a black color option only.
Skateboard Wheels 52mm 95A with Tool Set
The Skateboard Wheels 52mm 95A with Tool Set is perfect for beginners and those keen on mastering street tricks. You'll find these wheels are crafted from durable polyurethane, complete with carbon steel bearings to endure heavy use on ramps, sidewalks, and more. With a hardness of 95A, they're ideal for various surfaces, providing smooth rides in plazas or skate parks. The included all-in-one tool and accessories, like bearing washers and spacers, make setup a breeze. While some users mention rough bearings, most praise their speed and wobble-free performance. Plus, a 30-day satisfaction guarantee guarantees peace of mind.
Best For: Beginners and freestyle skateboarders focused on mastering street tricks and seeking durable wheels for various surfaces.
Pros:
- Durable polyurethane construction with carbon steel bearings for heavy use
- Optimal 52mm diameter for street tricks in skate parks and plazas
- Includes all-in-one tool and accessories for easy setup
Cons:
- Some users report rough bearings even after greasing
- Limited size options available
- May not be suitable for advanced or professional skateboarders seeking specific performance features
70mm Gel Soft Longboard Skateboard Blank Wheels
Looking to cruise smoothly on your longboard? Check out the 70mm Gel Soft Longboard Skateboard Blank Wheels. These solid pink wheels, measuring 70mm x 51mm with a 78a durometer, provide the perfect balance of softness and durability for a comfortable ride. They're ideal for skaters of all ages who prioritize smooth cruising. Packaged in a set of four and shrink-wrapped for easy handling, these wheels weigh just 1.5 pounds and fit easily into your gear bag. With a 30-day warranty and competitive pricing adjustments available, you're set for an enjoyable ride without breaking the bank.
Best For: Skaters of all ages who prioritize smooth cruising on their longboard.
Pros:
- Gel soft material for a smooth and comfortable ride.
- Comes shrink-wrapped in a convenient set of four.
- Competitive pricing with a 30-day warranty.
Cons:
- Limited to one color option (Solid Pink).
- May not be suitable for high-speed or trick skating.
- Ranked lower in popularity compared to other skateboard wheels.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Soft Wheels for Skateboard
When picking soft wheels for your skateboard, you'll want to think about several key factors. Consider the wheel size for your desired ride style and how the durometer affects comfort and grip. Don't overlook core material, surface compatibility, and durability to guarantee a smooth ride and long-lasting performance.
Wheel Size Considerations
Considering wheel size is essential when you're picking soft wheels for your skateboard. The diameter plays a big role in how your board performs. Smaller wheels, around 50-52mm, are great for executing street tricks, while larger wheels, between 55-60mm, excel in cruising and handling rough terrain. If you need to tackle obstacles with ease, consider going above 60mm, especially for longboards or cruisers.
Width is another factor; wider wheels offer more stability and grip, perfect for smooth rides. Narrower wheels, on the other hand, allow for quick, sharp turns and technical tricks. Remember, the size you choose affects the board's weight and balance, impacting maneuverability and your overall comfort. Choose wisely to suit your riding style.
Durometer Impact on Ride
After you've settled on the right size for your skateboard wheels, it's time to assess how the durometer will impact your ride. The durometer rating reflects wheel hardness. Softer wheels, rated around 78A-83A, offer smoother rides on rough surfaces thanks to their superior grip and shock absorption. This makes them perfect for cruising or traversing uneven terrain. On the other hand, as the durometer increases to 95A, wheels become harder, boosting speed and slide potential but reducing comfort over bumps. For recreational skaters prioritizing comfort, an 80A-83A durometer is ideal. However, if you're into tricks or park skating, you might lean toward harder wheels. Remember, softer wheels can wear faster under aggressive use, so balance your needs accordingly.
Core Material Importance
Understanding the importance of core material in skateboard wheels can make a big difference in your ride experience. The core material greatly affects the wheel's durability and performance. Hard plastic cores provide better precision bearing alignment, enhancing your speed and stability. On the other hand, urethane cores are common in soft wheels due to their flexibility and shock absorption, making them perfect for rough surfaces while maintaining grip. The core type, like centerset or offset, influences wheel wear and its ability to handle slides and tricks. A strong core can prevent flat spotting, especially in softer wheels that wear down during aggressive skating. Remember, the combination of core material and wheel softness directly impacts your ride quality and wheel longevity.
Surface Compatibility Factors
When choosing soft wheels for your skateboard, think about the surfaces you'll tackle most often. Soft wheels, with a durometer rating of 78A to 83A, excel on rough surfaces like cracked asphalt and cobblestones. They offer a smoother ride and better grip than harder wheels, thanks to their wider contact patch that boosts stability and control—perfect for cruising and commuting over uneven terrain. If you're shifting from harder wheels, you'll notice a significant improvement in comfort and speed on rough pavement. However, keep in mind that these wheels might not perform as well on smooth surfaces or in skate parks where speed and technical tricks are key. Their high-rebound polyurethane composition also helps absorb shocks in various outdoor conditions.
Durability and Wear Rate
While soft skateboard wheels offer a smoother ride, their durability's a major factor you shouldn't overlook. Soft wheels, particularly those rated 78A to 83A, tend to wear down quicker, especially on rough terrains or with aggressive riding. You might love the smooth glide over uneven surfaces, but keep in mind that softer wheels often sacrifice longevity for comfort. Harder wheels, in contrast, are more resilient to wear. If you're into power slides or technical tricks, expect softer wheels to flat spot, reducing their lifespan even more. Regularly inspecting your wheels and replacing them when necessary will help maintain performance. Remember, the softer the wheel, the faster it can degrade, so choose based on your riding style and terrain.
Price and Value Analysis
As you immerse yourself in the world of soft skateboard wheels, it's essential to weigh the price against the value each option offers. Consider the cost per set, as it varies with size, durometer, and brand reputation. Many affordable wheels match the performance of pricier ones, making them ideal for beginners. While some wheels may wear quickly, their lower initial cost can balance out frequent replacements. Look for wheels in the 78A to 83A durometer range, as price often indicates the quality of materials like high-rebound urethane, boosting durability. Additionally, warranties can add value, justifying a higher price by ensuring quality and performance. Choosing wisely means considering both immediate cost and long-term value for smooth rides ahead.
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!