Everything About Skateboard Wheels

Skateboard wheels are just as crucial as your deck and trucks. Most guides gloss over the basics, but real skaters know the difference is in the details.

A lot of skateboarders overlook them, but once you understand how size, shape, and formula affect your setup, you’ll never grab any set off the shelf again. This isn’t a generic wheel guide. It’s a full breakdown built from experience.

This guide explores everything about skateboard wheels for beginners and professionals. You’ll also get insight into smart tech, eco-formulas, buying guides and what makes one wheel better than the next. So, what’s best for your riding style & skateboard setup? Let’s review.

What Is Skateboard Wheel & How Does It Work?

A skateboard wheel is the round part at the bottom of your skateboard that allows it to roll. It’s made from polyurethane. Every skateboard has four wheels (two in front & two in back). Each wheel has two small metal pieces inside called bearings. These help the wheel spin when you ride. When you push your skateboard, the wheels turn around the axle on your trucks. This makes your board move forward. 

A Short History of Skateboard Wheels

In the early days of skateboarding, riders used metal or clay wheels. These wheels were hard and cracked easily. Then, in the 1970s, urethane wheels changed everything. Frank Nasworthy created the first polyurethane wheel under the Cadillac Wheels brand. These new wheels were smooth, fast and could grip pavement much better. That change helped skateboarding grow into a global sport.

Over the years, brands began improving their urethane formulas. Some made wheels that last longer. Others made wheels for specific surfaces like smooth parks or rough sidewalks. Even today, brands continue to compete by making their unique formulas.

What Skateboard Wheels Are Made Of

Most skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane. It is a strong and rubbery plastic. This material can be soft or hard, depending on how it’s mixed. Some wheels include a plastic core inside the urethane. That core can make the wheel lighter or help it hold its shape better during slides and high speeds.

Wheels without cores are simpler and used by casual riders or beginners. Some brands pour their wheels in-house, giving them more control over quality and formula. Others outsource wheel production to factories. High-end wheels usually come from smaller batches and have better control over defects like bubbles or warping.

One thing most skate blogs skip is how cores have started to change. Some wheels now use hollow or composite core designs, especially in electric skateboards. These reduce weight and help distribute pressure more evenly, improving both performance and comfort.

Parts of a Skateboard Wheel

Each part of a skateboard wheel plays a role in how it performs, grips, and wears over time. Understanding these parts helps you choose the right wheels for your riding style.

Urethane Body

This is the outer part of the wheel that makes contact with the ground. It’s made from polyurethane.

Bearing Seat

The bearing seat is the round pocket at the center of the wheel where the bearings are placed. It holds the bearings in line with the axle. If the seat is off-center or too loose, the wheel won’t spin properly and might wobble. A tight and centered bearing seat helps your board roll faster and stay stable.

Core

Some wheels have a plastic or composite core inside the urethane. This core supports the bearing seat, spreads pressure more evenly, and helps the wheel keep its shape.

Contact Patch

The contact patch is the flat area of the wheel that touches the ground. A wider contact patch offers more grip and control. A narrower patch has less friction, which helps with powerslides and flip tricks. It also affects how the wheel wears over time.

Lips

The lips are the edges of the wheel. Their shape controls how the wheel turns and slides. Square lips give more grip and help you carve with control. Rounded lips let you slide more easily and are better for street tricks. Some wheels also have beveled or conical lips, which offer a balance between grip and slide. Learn more about skateboard wheel parts.

Types of Skateboard Wheels

Skateboard wheels come in different types based on how and where you skate.

Standard Street Wheels

These wheels are small in size and made from hard urethane. They’re built for tricks like ollies, kickflips and grinds. Because they’re lightweight and roll fast on smooth surfaces. They’re perfect for skateparks, ledges and street spots. Their hardness also makes it easier to slide and pop your board off the ground.

Cruiser Wheels

Cruiser wheels are soft and larger than street wheels. They roll smoothly over cracks, pebbles, and rough pavement. This makes them ideal for transportation and everyday riding. If you’re skating to school, work, or around the neighborhood, cruiser wheels give you a quieter, more comfortable ride.

Longboard Wheels

These are the biggest wheels. They are generally used for downhill, carving, or distance skating. Longboard wheels grip the road well, even when turning fast or going down steep hills. Their larger size and softer durometer help absorb vibrations, keeping your ride stable and safe at high speeds.

Core Wheels

Core wheels have a plastic or reinforced center inside the urethane body. This internal core supports the bearing seat and helps the wheel keep its shape under pressure. Core wheels reduce wobble and roll more efficiently. It can also handle big impacts. They’re great for advanced tricks or fast riding where stability matters.

Specialty Wheels

These include wheels with unique designs or purposes. For example, LED wheels light up while riding, which can help with visibility at night. Shark Wheels have a wavy shape that rolls better over rough surfaces and water. Some brands also make eco-friendly wheels using recycled urethane. Specialty wheels are made for specific needs and give extra style or function beyond the basics.

Standard vs. Core Wheels

The key differences:

Standard Wheels

Standard wheels are made entirely from solid urethane without any added core. They are affordable, simple, and great for casual skating or beginners who are still learning the basics. These wheels work well for light street use and park tricks but may wear unevenly over time. Under heavy impact or long slides, standard wheels can deform or develop flat spots more easily because there’s no internal support holding the shape.

Core Wheels

Core wheels have a hard plastic insert inside the urethane that surrounds the bearing seat. This added structure helps the wheel stay round during hard landings and high speeds. The core spreads out pressure, which reduces stress on the bearings and improves overall performance. Core wheels also help maintain consistent speed, grip, and durability, making them a better choice for advanced skating, rough surfaces, or fast downhill riding. Many experienced and pro skaters prefer core wheels for their stability, longer life, and smoother ride.

Skateboard Wheels Size, Hardness, Shape & Contact Patch

If you want to buy the right wheels, you need to understand the size guide.

Wheel Size (Diameter)

Wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm). It affects how fast you roll, how quickly you start moving, and how high your board sits off the ground.

• 50–54mm (Small Wheels): These are the go-to for street skating and flip tricks. They’re light, close to the ground, and super responsive. You’ll get quicker pops for ollies, but they don’t handle rough ground well.

• 55–58mm (Medium Wheels): Great all-around wheels. They work for the street, parks, bowls, and even some ramps. Good for beginners and bigger skaters who want more stability and smoother rolls.

• 59 mm+ (Large Wheels): These are made for speed and rough ground. You’ll find them on cruisers, longboards, and vert setups. They roll over cracks and bumps easily but feel heavier. If you use big wheels, you may need riser pads to stop wheelbite (when your wheels hit your board during turns).

 If you’re just starting, grab wheels around 52–54mm. They’re solid for learning the basics.

Wheel Hardness (Durometer)

Wheel hardness is measured using the durometer scale. Most skateboard wheels use the A scale (higher numbers mean harder wheels). Some brands like Bones, use the B scale instead. The B scale runs about 20 points lower than the A scale, but it means the same thing. For example, 84B is the same as 104A.

Here’s what to know:

Soft Wheels (78a–87a):

These wheels feel smooth and quiet. They grip well and absorb cracks, rocks, and rough roads, making them perfect for cruising or filming. But they’re not ideal for tricks or park skating because they grip too much and don’t slide easily

Medium Wheels (88a–97a):

These offer a good balance of grip and slide. They’re not the most common choice, but they work well if you skate a mix of street, park, and cruising.

Hard Wheels (98a–104a / 84b):

These are what most street and park skaters use. They slide better, roll faster on smooth surfaces, and give more pop. But on rough ground, they can feel shaky.

Wheel Shapes

The wheel shape changes how your board feels when you ride. Some shapes slide easily, while others offer more grip. Here are the main types:

• Square – Flat edges with strong grip. Hard to slide.
  
• Tablet – Slightly rounded edges. A mix of grip and slide.
  
• Round – Fully rounded edges. Slides easily. Great for coping and ledges.
  
• Conical – Wider surface with cut-in sides. Helps lock into grinds.
  
• Square-Lipped / Sharp-Lipped – Maximum grip. Very tough to slide.
  
• Round-Lipped – Easier to turn and slide smoothly.
  

Pick a shape based on your skating style. If you want easier slides, go with rounder shapes.

Contact Patch

The contact patch is the part of your wheel that touches the ground when you skate. It’s tied to how wide your wheel is. That small area matters a lot. It affects how much grip, control, and slide you get.

Wider contact patch = more grip

Your board will feel more stable and “stuck” to the ground. Great for cruising, bowls, and downhill, where you don’t want to slide out.

Narrower contact patch = more slide

These wheels break loose more easily, which is perfect for street skating and tricks like powerslides or blunts. But they can wear out faster and flat spot if you’re not careful.

Choosing skateboard wheels isn’t just about how they look. Size, hardness, shape, and core all affect how your board rides. If you’re new to skating, learning these basics is key. Once you know your style, you can fine-tune your wheels to match how you skate.

Best Skateboard Wheels in 2025

The right wheels can change how your board feels, moves, and handles different terrain. Below, we break down the top-performing skateboard wheels of 2025. 

Bones STF V5 (Street Tech Formula)

Bones STF V5 wheels are consistently acclaimed for their top-tier durability, slide control, and resistance to flat spots. Built with a hard urethane rated around 83B (~103A). These wheels stay round even after aggressive street use. Skate tests and pro feedback highlight their quick snap and consistent grind feel. Many skaters choose the 53 mm size for fast technical performance.

Spitfire Formula Four 99A

Spitfire Formula Four 99A wheels strike a perfect balance of speed, grip, and longevity. They are made from a flat-spot-resistant urethane. They roll smoothly over rough terrain and maintain speed through tricks. Their classic 54 mm size and reliable conical shape make them the top pick for park and street skaters.

Ricta Clouds 78A

Ricta Clouds 78A wheels are designed for cruising and smooth-riding. These wheels are soft and large enough to absorb cracks and vibrations. They are ideal for filming or longboard-style skateboarding. Their solid reputation among self-named “cruiser experts” makes them a go-to choice for a comfortable ride.

OJ Super Juice 78A

OJ Super Juice 78A wheels are a solid choice for daily riders and casual skaters. Their soft urethane and larger size deliver a cushioned ride over rough terrain. They’re a top pick for beginners and commuters looking for comfort without losing stability.

Spitfire Formula Four

The Spitfire is a twist on the classic Formula Four wheels. It uses the same durable urethane but with a wider contact patch for better speed and grip in parks and transitions. It’s a bit more expensive, but skaters love it for its fast, smooth ride. 

Powell-Peralta Dragon Formula 93A

Powell Dragon Formula wheels are a favorite among skaters for their all-around performance. With a 93A hardness and 54 mm size, they handle rough surfaces well while still offering clean slides. Skaters on Reddit and in expert reviews often praise them as reliable multitaskers.

Slime Balls Snot Rockets 95A (54 mm)

Slime Balls’ Snot Rockets stand out with their retro style and playful performance. At 95A hardness and 54 mm size, they deliver slick slides and poppy tricks. Skaters who want great style without sacrificing function often pick these wheels as a favorite.

Where to Buy & What to Expect

Most people buy wheels online or from skate shops. Online stores usually offer more choices. On the other hand, local skate shops give you personal advice and allow you to see the wheels in person. Skate shops are also more likely to support your local skating community and events.

Articles rarely compare the two buying options in depth. Online stores may offer lower prices but less support. Shops may cost more, but you can get better help, real feedback, and fewer shipping problems. This balance between value and service is important for new skaters to understand.

How Much Are Skateboard Wheels?

Skateboard wheels usually cost between $20 and $60 for a full set of four wheels. The price depends on the brand, material, and what kind of skating you do. Cheaper wheels, around $20 to $30. They are okay for beginners or casual riders, but they might wear out fast or get flat spots.

Mid-range wheels, around $35 to $45. These wheels are good for most skaters. These usually come from trusted brands like Spitfire, Bones, or Ricta and offer better grip, smoother rides, and more durability.

High-end wheels, like Bones STF or Powell Dragon Formula, cost around $50 to $60, but they last longer and handle rougher skating without losing shape. If you cruise a lot or skate rough streets, softer wheels might be a bit more expensive. In short, if you skate often or want to learn tricks, it’s worth spending a little more for quality wheels that won’t wear out fast.

Brand Differences & Urethane Formulas

There are many skateboard wheel brands out there. Bones, Spitfire, Ricta, and OJ Wheels are some of the most trusted. Each one uses different urethane formulas that affect slide, grip, and durability. For example, Bones’ STF wheels resist flat spots and work well on smooth concrete. Spitfire’s Formula Four line is also known for lasting long and handling slides smoothly.

Some articles name these brands but never explain what makes them different. That leaves skaters guessing. Showing real differences in how the wheels perform, how long they last, and which rider they suit builds trust and helps users feel confident in their choices.

Smart Wheels and New Technology

Some newer wheels now include built-in features. For example, smart wheels with lights are powered by motion and help keep you visible at night. A few companies have tested sensor wheels that measure speed or distance. While these aren’t common yet, they show how wheel technology is growing.

Many websites mention LED wheels but fail to explain how they work. They don’t tell readers about the sensors or electronics inside or whether they affect weight and speed. Some smart wheels are heavier than regular wheels, which can change your performance. These topics are rarely covered, but are important if you’re looking to try advanced gear.

Skateboard Wheel Assembly, Bearing Removal and Maintenance

From years of skating, I’ve learned that wheel maintenance is just as important as picking the right wheels. If you don’t know how to install, clean, or rotate your wheels and bearings properly, your board won’t roll smoothly and parts wear out faster. Here’s the proven way to keep your setup performing at its best.

How to Put Bearings in Skateboard Wheels

To install bearings, start with one bearing placed on a flat surface. Line up your wheel on top and press down gently but firmly until the bearing fits into place. Then flip the wheel and do the same with the second bearing. If you’re using a bearing press or the axle of your truck, make sure the pressure is even so the bearing doesn’t go in crooked. Properly installed bearings are key to keeping your wheels spinning fast and smooth.

How to Install Wheels on a Skateboard

Once both bearings are in the wheel, slide the wheel onto your truck axle. Place one washer before and one after the wheel. Then tighten the axle nut just enough so the wheel doesn’t move side to side, but still spins freely. If it’s too tight, the wheel won’t turn well. If it’s too loose, it might wobble. Repeat this for all four wheels to complete the setup.

How to Take Bearings Out of Skateboard Wheels

Over time, you’ll need to remove the bearings to clean or replace them. To do this, slide the wheel partly onto the axle so the bearing hooks onto the edge. Then tilt the wheel sideways until the bearing pops out. Flip the wheel and repeat for the other side. Be gentle and avoid using sharp tools that might damage the urethane or the core. You can also use a bearing remover tool for a cleaner, safer pull.

How to Clean Skateboard Wheels and Bearings

Dirt and debris build up over time, especially if you skate outside often. To clean your skateboard wheels, take them off the trucks and wipe them down with a damp cloth. For deep cleaning, soak them briefly in warm, soapy water and scrub with a soft brush. However, bearings should never be soaked in water. Instead, remove them from the wheels and soak them in isopropyl alcohol. Let them dry fully before adding a drop of bearing oil and placing them back in the wheels.

How to Rotate and Maintain Skateboard Wheels

Wheels can wear down unevenly, especially if you do a lot of turns, slides, or tricks. To avoid flat spots or uneven edges, rotate your wheels regularly. This means swapping the front wheels with the back and switching sides. For example, move the front-left wheel to the back-right position. Also, inspect your wheels often. Look for signs like cracking, chunking, or thumping sounds while riding; these are signs it’s time for new wheels. Clean wheels and bearings spin better, last longer, and keep your rides smoother.

How to Make My Skateboard Wheels Spin Faster​

If your wheels feel slow, it’s usually your bearings. Start by popping them out and giving them a good clean with isopropyl alcohol to get rid of dirt and grime. Once they’re dry, add a small drop of bearing lube; don’t overdo it. Next, check your axle nuts. If they’re too tight, your wheels won’t spin freely. Also, make sure your washers aren’t bent or missing. High-quality bearings and a smooth, clean surface make a big difference. Keep everything dialed, and your board will roll faster with less effort.

Sustainability in Skateboard Wheels

Eco-friendly skateboard wheels are starting to gain attention. But most content doesn’t go beyond using the word “sustainable.” Some brands are now using recycled urethane. Others are testing plant-based formulas to reduce plastic use. These new materials aim to lower the environmental footprint of skating without hurting performance.

Few guides mention how long eco-wheels last compared to standard ones or how they are made differently. A real look at the production process, environmental costs and waste would give skaters more insight. Including brand examples and transparent data helps readers trust the information. So far, this gap in content leaves a lot of important questions unanswered.

Essential Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Wheels

Proper maintenance is essential to make your skateboard wheels last longer and perform better. 

Clean Your Wheels and Bearings Regularly

After a few sessions, the wheels pick up dust, grime, and pebbles that slow you down. Take them off and wipe them clean. If they’re really dirty, soak them in warm soapy water, but make sure the bearings are removed first.

For bearings, use isopropyl alcohol, never water. Let them dry fully, then add a drop of lube before reinstalling. Clean bearings roll smoother, last longer, and help you keep your speed.

Rotate Wheels to Prevent Uneven Wear

Hard street skating, power slides, or carving tight turns can wear down your wheels unevenly. I rotate mine every couple of weeks—front to back, side to side. It spreads out the wear and helps your setup stay balanced.

Check for Damage or Flat Spots

If you hear a weird “thump” while rolling, check your wheels. Look for flat spots, cracks, or urethane chunks missing. If your board feels rough even on smooth pavement, it’s usually the wheels. When that happens, it’s time to swap them out.

Don’t Overtighten Axle Nuts

Axle nuts should be tight enough to hold the wheel in place but not so tight that the wheel stops spinning. If the wheel feels stiff or doesn’t rotate freely, loosen the nut slightly. Proper tension lets the bearings do their job and helps the wheel spin without resistance, which is important for smooth riding and better speed.

Avoid Riding in Water or Sand

Skateboarding through puddles, wet roads, or sandy areas can damage both your wheels and bearings. Water causes bearings to rust and makes them slower. On the other hand, sand grinds into the urethane and causes quicker wear. Staying on dry, clean surfaces will help keep your setup rolling longer and reduce the need for repairs.

Use Spacers and Washers for Better Support

Bearing spacers and speed washers may seem small, but they play a big role in how your wheels perform. Spacers sit between the bearings inside the wheel and help keep them aligned. Washers go on either side of the wheel and reduce friction. When used together, they protect your bearings from pressure damage and make your setup more stable. 

Replace Worn-Out Wheels When Needed

No matter how well you take care of them, wheels eventually wear out. If your skateboard feels shaky, loud, or slow even after cleaning and rotating, it’s probably time for a new set. Replacing old wheels not only improves performance but also keeps your board safer to ride.

Pick the Right Wheels for How You Skate

Not every skater rides the same and not all wheel works for every setup. The kind of wheels you need depends on how you skate, where you skate, and what kind of feel you’re looking for. Some skaters want to land tech tricks with control, others need speed and flow in bowls, and some just want to cruise without getting stuck on cracks. Let’s break down what works best for different skating styles.

Street Skating

If you’re skating flatground, ledges, rails, or stairs, small and hard wheels are the way to go. Most street skaters ride wheels in the 50mm to 54mm range. These keep your setup light and low. A harder wheel usually 99a or above, slides better and doesn’t get caught on smooth concrete. Shapes like classic or conical work well here. They let you lock into grinds but still break free when you need to slide out. A narrow contact patch also helps you stay quick and responsive.

Park & Vert Skating

For bowls, quarter pipes, and vert ramps, you’ll want a wheel that holds speed and stays stable through transitions. 55mm to 58mm is a solid range for park or vert. These wheels help you pump through bowls and keep your momentum up. Most riders stick to a durometer between 95a and 100a. That gives enough grip on smooth surfaces without slowing you down. Wheel shape matters too. Round or conical edges help you roll fast, slide clean, and handle coping without sticking.

Cruising & Commuting

If your setup is for cruising streets or getting from place to place, softer and bigger wheels will make your ride way smoother. Go for 54mm to 60mm wheels (or even bigger if you’re on a cruiser board). The durometer should be soft—between 78a and 87a. These wheels grip well and absorb cracks and pebbles, so you won’t feel every bump in the road. A wider contact patch adds comfort and control. Just keep in mind: with larger wheels, you might need riser pads to avoid wheelbite on sharp turns.

Downhill & Freeride

Riding downhill or doing long slides takes a different kind of setup. You’ll want big, grippy wheels usually in the 70mm to 81mm range. For speed and cornering control, soft urethane works best. Look for wheels between 74a and 86a. Sharp lips are great for grip, while rounded or beveled edges help you slide more smoothly in freeride. Most downhill and freeride wheels have a wide contact patch and offset cores to help with balance and slide control at higher speeds.

Beginner Setup

If you’re just getting into skating, you’ll want something that works for both street and park while you’re figuring out your style. 52mm to 55mm wheels are a great place to start. A durometer between 96a and 99a gives you a mix of control, pop, and decent roll. You’ll be able to learn tricks, cruise through skateparks, and push around your neighborhood without having to change wheels right away.

The right wheel isn’t only about trends but also what works for how you ride. Think about your spots, style, and what feels good under your feet. Don’t be afraid to try different setups until you find one that matches your skating. A small change in size or shape can make a big difference once you’re out riding.

Final Words

Skateboard wheels do much more than roll. They affect every move you make. Choosing the right set can change how you ride and boost your confidence on the board.. While most guides barely scratch the surface, this one gives you the full picture.

When you understand what to look for in a wheel, you ride smarter, safer, and better. If you’re ever unsure, talk to other skaters, read reviews, or ask your local skate shop for advice. That’s how real experience grows. You’re now equipped with everything you need to pick the right wheels. So keep skating, stay curious, and always check out SKATEBOARDEVER for more insights.

Frequently Asked Questions