The Ultimate Guide to Longboard Bearings for 2025

Longboard bearings might seem like small components of your board setup, but they are vital to your ride’s performance. These tiny parts determine how smoothly and efficiently your wheels spin, directly impacting your speed, control, and overall experience.
When I first started longboarding, I underestimated how crucial bearings were to the overall ride. I thought the board’s deck and wheels mattered most. My first longboard came with basic steel bearings, and while they worked fine initially, they started grinding and slowing down after a month. That’s when I learned the importance of quality and maintenance.

Over the years, through trial and error, I’ve discovered the importance of choosing the right bearings and maintaining them for optimal performance. Whether you are an experienced rider or just starting out, learning about longboard bearings is important. This guide shares my journey and expertise to help you navigate the world of longboard bearings.

What Are Longboard Bearings?

Bearings are the unsung heroes of your longboard setup. Longboard bearings are placed inside the wheels of your longboard and allow the wheels to spin smoothly on the axles. Each longboard requires eight bearings (two per wheel). These components reduce friction, enabling seamless wheel rotation, which translates to speed and stability on the road.

Anatomy of Longboard Bearings

You may have thought What the Key Components of Longboard Bearings. Bearings consist of the following components. Understanding the anatomy of a bearing is very important for choosing and getting the best Bearing performances:

Outer Race: The outer shell that fits into the wheel’s hub.
Inner Race: The inner ring that fits snugly around the axle.
Balls: Typically made of steel or ceramic, these balls roll between the inner and outer races to reduce friction.
Ball Retainer (Cage): A component that keeps the balls evenly spaced.
Shields: Protective covers that keep dirt and debris out of the bearing.

Each wheel requires two bearings, and they are universally sized, with an 8mm inner diameter, 22mm outer diameter, and 7mm width. This standard size ensures compatibility across most longboards and skateboards.

How Do Longboard Bearings Work?

Longboard Bearings sit inside the wheels and help reduce friction, allowing the wheels to spin smoothly. When you push or carve, the small balls inside the bearings rotate, making the ride feel effortless. Good-quality bearings make a big difference—they reduce friction even more, helping you go faster and use less energy. This means you can enjoy a smoother and more efficient ride.

The type and quality of bearings you choose can affect your riding style. For downhill racing, you’ll want bearings that can handle high speeds. For cruising, smooth and durable bearings are ideal. If you enjoy freestyle tricks, you might prefer bearings that balance speed and control. In any case, smooth bearings help you keep your momentum with less effort, improving your overall experience on the board. Taking care of your bearings ensures they last longer and perform well.

Top Longboard Bearings in 2025

Looking for the best longboard bearings this year? Here are the top picks for 2025:
Bones Reds: Known for being affordable, durable, and a go-to choice for riders of all levels.

Zealous Bearings: Pre-lubricated with built-in spacers, offering a smooth ride and easy setup.
Bones Swiss Ceramics: High-end bearings for those seeking unmatched performance and speed.
Bronson G3 Bearings: Featuring advanced technology for faster, smoother rides with less friction.
Sector 9 Ceramic Bearings: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, perfect for serious riders who want top-tier quality.

These bearings are popular for their performance, durability, and ability to enhance your longboarding experience.

Best Longboard Bearings Brands

Here are the best longboard bearings for this year, along with testing results and user reviews:

Brand & Model	Key Features	Rating
Bones Reds	Affordable, durable, versatile.	4.7/5
Zealous Bearings	Pre-lubricated; built-in spacers for stability.	4.8/5
Bones Swiss Ceramics	High-end performance, corrosion-resistant.	4.9/5
Bronson G3 Bearings	Reduced friction; high-speed performance.	4.6/5
Sector 9 Ceramic Bearings	Lightweight, smooth, rust-resistant.	4.7/5

Types of Longboard Bearings

Not all bearings are created equal. Let’s explore the most popular types and their unique features:

Standard Bearings

These are the most common and versatile bearings. While they may require additional spacers and washers for optimal performance, they are widely used due to their affordability and availability.
Best For: Beginners and general cruising.

Built-In Bearings

Built-in bearings feature integrated spacers and speed rings, making installation and maintenance hassle-free. They’re designed specifically for longboarding, offering better alignment and stability.
Best For: Riders who value convenience and precision.

Ceramic Bearings

Ceramic bearings are crafted from silicon nitride, a material known for its hardness, lightweight properties, and resistance to rust. These bearings reduce friction significantly, providing a faster and smoother ride.
Best For: Advanced riders and downhill racers.

Steel Bearings

Steel bearings are the industry standard. They are durable and budget-friendly but require regular maintenance to prevent rust.
Best For: All-around use, especially in dry conditions.

Titanium Bearings

These bearings are rust-resistant, lightweight, and highly durable, making them a strong contender for riders looking for longevity.
Best For: Riders in humid or coastal areas.

Latest Innovations in Longboard Bearings

Self-Lubricating Bearings: Require less maintenance.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Bearings made from sustainable resources.
High-Speed Shields: Enhanced protection without compromising speed.

Rider’s Experience:

“When I switched to ceramic bearings, I couldn’t believe the difference in speed and responsiveness. My downhill rides felt effortless compared to when I used basic steel bearings.” — Jenna M., avid longboarder from Colorado.

What’s the Difference Between Skateboard Bearings and Longboard Bearings?

The difference between skateboard bearings and longboard bearings lies in their application, though they share the same size (usually 8mm). Longboard bearings prioritize smoothness and durability because longboarding often involves cruising, downhill racing, or long-distance rides. These bearings are designed to handle higher speeds and provide a consistent glide over longer periods.

Skateboard bearings, on the other hand, are built for tricks, street skating, and high-impact activities. They need to withstand sudden shocks and heavy landings, so durability against impacts is more crucial than sustained smoothness.

While the technical components are identical, longboarders often prefer bearings like ceramics for their speed and low friction, whereas skateboarders might stick with durable steel options. Choosing between them depends on your riding style and terrain. Remember, regular maintenance ensures peak performance for both types!

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Longboard Bearings

Not all bearings are created equal, and understanding their features can help you choose the best ones for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Material

Longboard bearings are made from materials like steel, ceramic, and titanium. Steel bearings are durable and affordable but prone to rust. Ceramic bearings, known for their smoothness and rust resistance, excel in high-speed rides but are more expensive. Titanium bearings offer durability and rust resistance, making them great for all-weather use. Hybrid bearings combine ceramic balls and steel races, providing a balance of performance and durability. Choose based on your riding style and budget.

ABEC Ratings

ABEC ratings often cause confusion among skaters. ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineers’ Committee) measures the precision and tolerance of bearings on a scale from 1 to 9. Higher ratings indicate greater precision, but they don’t necessarily equate to faster speeds for skateboarding purposes.

Common ABEC Ratings for Bearings

ABEC 1: The most affordable and durable option but the least accurate and smooth. The steel quality is typically low.
ABEC 3: Inexpensive but not ideal for speed or smooth rolling.
ABEC 5: A popular choice for most longboarders, offering a good balance of speed and affordability.
ABEC 7: Known for being fast and smooth but more expensive. They may wear out quickly if used for aggressive skating.
ABEC 9+: Designed for extremely high-speed riding, these bearings are top-tier and come with a high price tag.

Sealed vs. Open Bearings

Sealed and open bearings each have their advantages. Sealed bearings come with protective shields that block dirt and debris, making them low-maintenance and ideal for riders who prefer convenience. On the other hand, open bearings lack these shields, providing less protection but allowing easier access for cleaning and lubrication, which is beneficial for those who prioritize performance and regular upkeep.

Brand Reputation

Brands like Bones, Zealous, and Bronson Speed Co. are renowned for their high-quality longboard bearings. Opt for trusted brands to ensure reliability and performance.

Lubrication

Bearings require lubrication to function properly. High-quality lubricants reduce friction and protect against wear. Popular options include Bones Speed Cream and other synthetic lubricants.

How to Lubricate Longboard Bearings

Lubricating your bearings keeps them performing smoothly and lasting longer. After cleaning and ensuring they are completely dry, apply a few drops of a skateboard-specific lubricant, like Powell Speed Cream or Bones Speed Cream, to the inner and outer races. Spin the bearings to evenly distribute the lubricant, then reinstall them carefully.
Always use proper lubricants designed for bearings. Light greases, 3-in-1 oil, or mineral oil also work well. Avoid water, as it causes rust in steel bearings, though ceramic bearings are rust-resistant. Skating in wet conditions is generally not recommended.

How to Choose the Right Bearings for Your Longboard

When picking bearings, consider your riding style, environment, budget, and maintenance needs. For cruising, durable steel or titanium bearings work well, while downhill racers benefit from the speed and precision of ceramic bearings. Freestyle riders performing tricks should opt for robust options like Bones Reds. If you ride in wet or dusty conditions, choose sealed, rust-resistant bearings to ensure durability. For those on a budget, affordable choices like Zealous or Bones Reds are great, while premium options like Bones Swiss Ceramics offer top-tier performance. Lastly, built-in bearings are easy to clean and install, making them perfect for riders who value convenience.

How Can You Install Longboard Bearings Like a Pro?

Installing longboard bearings is a straightforward process that requires a bit of patience and the right tools. Here’s how you do it:

• Remove the Wheel: Use a skate tool to unscrew the axle nut and slide the wheel off.
• Insert the Bearing: Align the bearing with the wheel hub and press it in firmly. You can use a bearing press or gently apply pressure with your hands.
• Add the Spacer: Place a spacer between the two bearings inside the wheel. This ensures proper alignment and reduces stress on the bearings.
• Insert the Second Bearing: Press the second bearing into the wheel hub on the opposite side.
• Reattach the Wheel: Slide the wheel back onto the axle, tighten the nut, and ensure the wheel spins freely without wobbling.

What’s the Best Way to Maintain Bearings for Long-Lasting Performance?

Proper longboard bearings guide is key to keeping your bearings in good condition and ensuring a smooth ride. With regular care, you can extend their lifespan and maintain peak performance. Here’s how:

Cleaning Bearings

Start by removing the bearings from your wheels. Use the truck axle to gently pry them out without causing damage. Next, detach the shields—rubber shields can be carefully peeled off, while metal shields may require tools like circlip pliers. Once disassembled, submerge the bearings in a Bearing cleaning solution, such as isopropyl alcohol or a citrus-based cleaner. Shake the container to loosen dirt and grime effectively. After cleaning, let the bearings air-dry completely on a towel to avoid moisture damage.
“I didn’t clean my bearings for months, and they started grinding mid-ride. After a thorough clean and some lube, they were like new again.” — Liam P., casual rider.

Lubricating Bearings

After cleaning, apply a few drops of lubricant, like Bones Speed Cream or synthetic grease, to each bearing. Spin them to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly. Finally, reassemble the bearings, reinstall them in your wheels, and enjoy a smoother, faster ride. Regular maintenance ensures your bearings stay in top shape for longer.

What Lubricants Are Best for Longboard Bearings?

The best lubricants for longboard bearings are skate-specific lubricants like Bones Speed Cream or Bronson Speed Co. High-Speed Oil, as they reduce friction and protect against wear. You can also use lightweight machine oils, such as sewing machine oil, for smooth performance. Avoid thick greases, as they slow the bearings and attract dirt. Regular lubrication ensures longevity and consistent performance.

Are Ceramic Bearings Better Than Steel Bearings?

Ceramic bearings offer smoother rides, higher speeds, and rust resistance, making them ideal for high-performance longboarding. They are also more durable over time but come at a higher cost and require careful maintenance. Steel bearings, while more affordable and versatile, excel in impact resistance and are easier to maintain, making them suitable for beginners and trick-heavy riding. The choice depends on your budget, riding style, and performance priorities.

Final Thoughts of Longboard Bearings Guide

Longboard bearings are more than just hardware—they’re the key to a smooth and enjoyable ride. Whether you’re cruising around town or bombing hills at high speeds, choosing the right bearings and maintaining them properly can elevate your longboarding experience.

“Investing in quality bearings was the best decision I made for my setup. They’ve made every ride smoother, faster, and way more fun.” — Sarah J., longboarding enthusiast.
Take these tips and personal stories to heart as you select and care for your bearings. Your longboard will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)