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Exploring the Diverse World of Skateboard Wheel Types

Dec 21, 2024 | Blog | 0 comments

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When it comes to skateboarding, having the right equipment can make all the difference between a smooth ride and a frustrating fall. One crucial aspect of your setup is the type of skateboard wheels you’re using, which plays a significant role in determining your overall performance and comfort level. With numerous options available, selecting the perfect skateboard wheel type can be overwhelming, especially for beginners.

Types of Skateboard Wheels

We offer a variety of skateboard wheels suitable for different types of riding.

  • Park Wheels

    Park wheels are designed for street skating and feature a harder durometer, typically between 95A and 101A. They have a smaller diameter and wider width, making them ideal for tricks and grinds.

  • Cruiser Wheels

    Cruiser wheels are perfect for cruising around the neighborhood or beachside. They have a softer durometer, usually between 78A and 87A, and a larger diameter, making them easier to roll and more comfortable to ride.

  • Longboard Wheels

    Longboard wheels are designed for speed and distance, featuring a harder durometer, typically between 80A and 90A. They have a larger diameter and narrower width, making them ideal for carving and commuting.

  • Slalom Wheels

    Slalom wheels are designed for slalom skating and feature a harder durometer, typically between 95A and 101A. They have a smaller diameter and narrower width, making them ideal for tight turns and quick maneuvers.

  • Diamond Wheels

    Diamond wheels are designed for downhill racing and feature a very hard durometer, typically between 92A and 96A. They have a large diameter and narrow width, making them ideal for high-speed runs and steep hills.

At Kickflip Boards, we understand the importance of choosing the right wheel for your riding style. Our team is always happy to help you select the perfect wheel for your needs.

Are 101A Wheels Good for Street?

When it comes to choosing the right wheels for street skating, there are several factors to consider.

  • Durometer: A wheel’s durometer measures its hardness, which affects its performance on different surfaces.
  • Size: Wheel size impacts speed and stability, with larger wheels generally offering more speed and smaller wheels providing better maneuverability.

101A wheels fall within the medium-hard range, making them suitable for smooth pavement and street skating.

  1. Speed and Durability: 101A wheels offer excellent speed and durability on smooth surfaces, making them ideal for cruising and commuting.
  2. Grip and Shock Absorption: While 101A wheels may not provide as much grip as softer wheels, they still offer decent traction and shock absorption, reducing the impact of rough landings.

Other popular options for street skating include:

  • 90A-95A wheels: These softer wheels offer better grip and shock absorption, making them suitable for technical skating and tricks.
  • 96A-99A wheels: These wheels strike a balance between speed and grip, making them versatile for various skating styles.

Ultimately, the choice of wheel depends on personal preference and skating style. If you’re looking for a balance between speed and grip, 101A wheels might be a great option for you.

At Kickflip Boards, we recommend experimenting with different wheel sizes and durometers to find the perfect fit for your skating needs.

Learn more about our selection of skateboard wheels and how to choose the right ones for your next adventure.

Check out our guide on wheel size and durometer to learn more about the factors affecting your skateboarding experience.

Visit our shop to explore our collection of high-quality skateboard wheels and accessories.

Stay connected with the skate community through our blog, featuring articles on skate culture, maintenance tips, and skating techniques.

Is 99A Soft or Hard?

We get asked this question often, and it’s great that you’re taking the time to learn more about our products.

  • At Kickflip Boards, we offer a variety of wheel hardness options to suit different skating styles and preferences.

  • Our 99A wheels fall under the harder side of the spectrum, making them ideal for advanced skaters who want a smooth ride and responsive turning.

What Does Wheel Hardness Mean?

Wheel hardness refers to how stiff or soft a wheel is. Softer wheels are better suited for rough surfaces and provide more grip, while harder wheels are faster and more durable.

  1. Soft wheels (78A-87A) are perfect for beginners and those who skate on rough surfaces.

  2. Mid-range wheels (88A-95A) offer a balance between speed and grip.

  3. Hard wheels (96A-100A) are ideal for advanced skaters who prefer a faster ride and more responsive turning.

Why Choose 99A Wheels?

Our 99A wheels are designed for skaters who want a fast and responsive ride without sacrificing too much grip. They’re perfect for:

  • Advanced skaters who need a wheel that can keep up with their tricks and style.

  • Skaters who prefer a smoother ride and less vibration.

  • Those who skate on smooth surfaces and want to take advantage of the added speed and durability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our 99A wheels are definitely on the harder side of the spectrum, making them perfect for advanced skaters who want a fast and responsive ride. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your game or simply want a smoother ride, our 99A wheels are definitely worth considering.

Choosing the Best Skateboard Wheels for Street Skating

When it comes to street skating, having the right set of wheels can make all the difference between landing a trick and wiping out.

  • Wheel Size Matters

  • The ideal wheel size for street skating depends on personal preference, skill level, and the type of tricks being attempted.

  1. Smaller wheels (50-52mm) are great for technical tricks and tight spaces, offering better control and responsiveness.
  2. Larger wheels (54-56mm) provide a smoother ride over cracks and rough surfaces, making them suitable for street and park skating.

  • Wheel Hardness and Durometer

  • Wheel hardness, measured in durometer, affects how fast and responsive the wheels are.

    • Softer wheels (78A-80A) are faster and more grippy, but may wear down quickly.
    • Harder wheels (85A-87A) are slower and less grippy, but last longer.

  • Wheel Shape and Profile

  • The shape and profile of the wheel affect its performance and durability.

    • Rounder wheels provide a smoother ride and are easier to slide, while narrower wheels offer better grip and stability.
    • Wider wheels provide more stability and support, but may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces.

  • Best Wheel Brands for Street Skating

  • Several reputable brands offer high-quality wheels specifically designed for street skating.

  • Tips for Choosing the Right Wheels

  • To find the perfect wheels for street skating, consider the following factors:

    • Your skill level and riding style.
    • The type of tricks you’re attempting.
    • The surface you’ll be skating on.
    • Your budget and preferences.

    By considering these factors and choosing the right wheels, you’ll be able to take your street skating game to the next level.

    Choosing the Right Skating Wheels

    When selecting the perfect skating wheels, several factors come into play, including your weight, skating style, and personal preference.

    • Weight Considerations

      • If you’re a lighter skater, you’ll want to opt for softer wheels, typically ranging from 78A to 88A. These wheels provide better grip and a smoother ride.
      • On the other hand, heavier skaters can benefit from harder wheels, usually between 90A and above. These wheels offer improved durability and help prevent premature wear and tear.

    • Skating Style

      • Recreational skaters often prefer softer wheels for a more comfortable ride, while aggressive skaters may prefer harder wheels for increased speed and maneuverability.
      • Freestyle skaters, meanwhile, may opt for wheels with a medium durometer rating, offering a balance between grip and speed.

    • Durometer Ratings

      • The durometer rating measures the wheel’s hardness, with lower ratings indicating softer wheels and higher ratings indicating harder wheels.
      • A general rule of thumb is to start with a softer wheel and gradually move to harder wheels as you gain experience and confidence.

    • Wheel Size and Shape

      • The size and shape of your wheels can significantly impact your skating experience.
      • Wider wheels provide greater stability, while narrower wheels allow for tighter turns and increased agility.

    • Maintenance and Upkeep

      • Consider investing in a wheel cleaner and lubricant specifically designed for your type of skating.

    • Brand Options

      • Kickflip Boards recommends exploring various brands, such as Bones Wheels, Spitfire Wheels, and Ricta Wheels, each offering unique characteristics and benefits.
      • Research and compare different brands to determine which ones align with your skating needs and preferences.

    By considering these factors and doing your research, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect skating wheels for your unique needs and style.

    Are Soft Wheels Better for Rough Roads?

    When it comes to navigating rough roads, the type of wheel you choose can make all the difference.

    • Soft Wheels: These wheels are designed to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride, making them ideal for rough terrain.
    • Benefits:
      • Improved traction and control
      • Reduced vibration and noise
      • Increased comfort and stability

    • When to Choose Soft Wheels:
      • Rough roads and uneven terrain
      • Skating on pavement or concrete
      • Long-distance skating or commuting

    • Competitors: Other popular brands, such as Bones Wheels and Blind Skateboards, also offer high-quality wheels suitable for rough roads.
    • Tips for Choosing the Right Wheels:
      • Consider the terrain you’ll be skating on most often
      • Think about the level of comfort and support you need
      • Look for wheels with a durable construction and good traction

    • Conclusion: Soft wheels are a great choice for rough roads due to their ability to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride. By choosing the right wheels for your needs, you can enhance your overall skating experience and stay safe on the road.
    • For more information on skateboarding techniques and gear recommendations, visit our Skateboarding Techniques page or check out our Gear Recommendations section.

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