When picking longboard wheels, knowing the differences between hard and soft ones is key. Hard wheels are fast and slide easily, perfect for skate parks. Soft wheels, however, are best for rough grounds as they grip well and ride smoothly.
The size, hardness, and core placement of the wheels change how you ride. Wheels go from 54mm to over 60mm. Beginners usually pick sizes between 54mm and 59mm. Experts might choose 60mm or larger. The hardness scale, from 75a to 90a, shows soft wheels work best on uneven surfaces. Wheels from 88a to 95a offer a good mix of speed and grip for streets.
The core’s position affects the wheel’s performance. Center-set cores spin evenly, making wheels last longer. Side-set cores give more grip but can’t be flipped. Think about your skating style, the places you skate, and what you want to achieve with your longboard when choosing wheels.
Key Takeaways
- Hard longboard wheels are faster and easier to slide, ideal for smooth surfaces.
- Soft longboard wheels offer better grip and a forgiving ride on rough terrains.
- The diameter and durometer of wheels significantly affect speed, grip, and control.
- Core placement (centerset, sideset) influences wheel performance and longevity.
- Choosing the right wheels requires considering your riding style, terrain, and goals.
What Are Hard Longboard Wheels?
Hard longboard wheels stand out because they are very hard, with scores around 99-101a. They’re not the best for rough surfaces but shine on smoother ones. These wheels keep your speed up and help you control your board better when the ground is hard.
They’re perfect for expert riders who want precision and to go fast. These wheels are usually smaller, between 54mm and 60mm. This makes it easier to speed up and do tricks like flips and spins. They also let you slide smoothly and for a long time, which is great for advanced moves.
If you need strong longboard wheels for skate parks, consider these hard wheels. They might not grip well on bumpy paths, but on smooth surfaces, they’re amazing. They can really take your skateboarding up a notch.
Hard longboard wheels are chosen by many because they offer a steady and predictable ride. They are great at tricks and navigating skate park challenges. This makes them a favorite in the skateboarding world.
What Are Soft Longboard Wheels?
Soft longboard wheels have softer durometer ratings, from 75a to 90a. They soak up rough surface bumps. These wheels are big, starting at 60mm, so they can easily roll over stuff. It makes them great for cruisers and longboarders who want a smooth, comfy ride.
Soft longboard wheels offer amazing grip. They have a bigger contact patch. This spreads out your weight and cuts down on rolling resistance. It helps you get better traction, especially on tough grounds.
Riders who love comfort and stability often pick soft wheels for rough places. These wheels are good at soaking up shocks from bumpy roads. They give you a cushioned, steady ride. This is gentler on your body. For tips on choosing the right soft wheels for rough terrain, check different hardness levels.
If a smooth cruising experience matters to you, soft longboard wheels are what you need. They combine great grip and the ability to deal with tough rides. They’re essential for a top-notch ride.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Wheels
When choosing longboard wheels, a few important factors will shape how well you ride. These factors matter whether you’re just cruising around or going down steep hills.
1. Longboard Wheel Size: Longboard wheels vary in size from 54mm to over 60mm. Many riders like wheels between 64mm and 80mm. A popular choice is 70mm. Smaller 65mm wheels need less space, so they fit more setups. Bigger wheels roll faster but might need more space to avoid hitting the board.
2. Wheel Durometer: The wheel durometer tells us how hard the wheels are, using numbers from 1 to 100. Softer wheels, from 75a to 88a, make for a smooth ride and grip well, perfect for cruising. Harder wheels, from 89a to 99a, slide better but are great for skate parks and street skating.
3. Longboard Wheel Shape: Your wheels’ shape also impacts how they perform. Square-edged wheels grip the road well, making them ideal for downhill. Wheels with rounded edges let you carve and slide more easily.
4. Core Placement: Where the core of the wheel sits is key too. Centerset cores let wheels spin evenly, making them versatile. Sideset cores push weight to the edges, offering the most grip for downhill. Offset cores mix these features for grip and easier slides.
| Wheel Type | Diameter Range | Durometer Range | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park/Street | 50-54mm | 95-101A | Technical Tricks |
| Cruiser/Soft | 54-60mm | 78-90A | Cruising |
| Longboard | 60-75mm | 75-85A | Transportation, Downhill |
Knowing how longboard wheel size, durometer, and longboard wheel shape work together will help you pick the right wheels. This means you’ll have a good ride every time.
Hard vs. Soft Wheels: Direct Comparison
Comparing hard and soft longboard wheels shows differences in how they affect your ride. Hard wheels, with a hardness rating between 75a and 81a, make you go faster on smooth surfaces. They have less grip on the road. On the other side, soft wheels (76a to 80a) smooth out rough rides by soaking up vibration.
| Wheel Type | Hardness Rating (Durometer) | Typical Surfaces | Performance Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard Wheels | 75a – 81a | Smooth Pavement | Higher speeds, less grip on rough surfaces |
| Soft Wheels | 76a – 80a | Rough/Uneven Surfaces | Smoother ride, better grip |
If you want a performance comparison, think about wheel size. Wheels from 70mm – 80mm are best for casual riding. They give you speed but also a comfy ride. But, for going downhill fast, bigger wheels (around 80mm) are top picks, like the Abec 11 Superfly. These need replacing every three months because they wear out.
The choice between hard and soft wheels changes how you experience riding. Some Kegels get rough patches after a few weeks. But 100mm Boa wheels are well-liked for their strong grip. With many roads in bad shape, 50% of riders pick soft wheels. They keep up performance even when the path is rough.
Knowing the details of longboard wheel choice helps you get a ride that fits your needs. Whether you want speed on flat roads or a smooth trip on uneven paths, picking the right wheels matters a lot. It makes your longboard journey more fun and tailored to what you prefer.
Making the Right Choice for Your Longboard Experience
Choosing the right wheels for your longboard greatly improves your performance and fun. First, think about where you’ll be riding. In cities with smooth roads, go for harder wheels, around 99A or more. For bumpy paths or casual rides, softer wheels between 75A to 90A are best. They grip better and make riding smoother.
What feels good to you also matters. For a smooth ride over bumps, soft wheels, like 78A to 80A, work best. They absorb shocks well. But, if you love speed and precision on smooth ground, choose harder wheels. They roll easier and are better at high speeds.
To get the perfect longboard, seek advice from skilled riders or visit specialized shops. They can help you find the right setup for your style and needs. A smart choice boosts safety and enjoyment in your longboarding. Knowing about wheel types, your riding spots, and comfort preferences helps. It lets you build an ideal longboard setup for a fantastic experience.
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!