Choosing the right skateboard wheel size is essential for improving your skating experience. Different sizes affect your ride, from speed and control to comfort. Balancing these factors can be tricky, but understanding how each size impacts performance helps you make informed choices and enjoy a smoother, more enjoyable skate.
Skateboard Wheel Size Chart
| Wheel Size in (Millimeters and Inches) | Deck Size in (Inches and CM) | Truck Size in (Inches and CM) |
| 50 to 52 mm 1.96 to 2.04 inches | 7.5 inches 19.05 cm | 7.25 to 7.75 inches 18.4 to 19.7 cm Axles |
| 50 to 52 mm 1.96 to 2.04 inches | 7.75 inches 19.68 cm | 7.5 to 8 inches 19.05 to 20.32 cm Axles |
| 50 to 54 mm 1.96 to 2.12 inches | 8.0 inches 20.32 cm | 7.75 to 8.25 inches 19.6 to 20.9 cm Axles |
| 50 to 54 mm 1.9685 to 2.12598 inches | 8.125 inches 20.6375 cm | 8.0 to 8.25 inches 20.32 to 20.955 cm Axles |
| 52 to 55 mm 2.0424 to 1.16535 inches | 8.25 inches 20.955 cm | 8.0 to 8.5 inches 20.32 to 21.59 cm Axles |
| 52 to 55 mm 2.0424 to 2.16535 inches | 8.375 inches 21.2725 cm | 8.25 to 8.5 inches 20.955 to 21.59 cm Axles |
| 53 to 56 mm 2.08661 to 2.20472 inches | 8.5 inches 21.59 cm | 8.25 to 8.75 inches 20.955 to 22.225 cm Axles |
| 53 to 56 mm 2.08661 to 2.20472 inches | 8.625 inches 21.9075 cm | 8.5 to 8.75 inches 21.59 to 22.225 cm Axles |
| 54 to 58 mm 2.12598 to 2.28346 inches | 8.75 inches 22.225 cm | 8.5 to 9.0 inches 21.59 to 22.86 cm Axles |
| 54 to 60 mm 2.12598 to 2.3622 inches | 8.875 inches 22.5425 cm | 8.75 to 9.0 inches 22.225 to 22.86 cm Axles |
| 54 to 60 mm 2.12598 to 2.3622 inches | 9.0 inches 22.86 cm | 8.75 to 9.25 inches 22.225 to 23.495 cm Axles |
| 54 to 60 mm 2.12598 to 2.3622 inches | 9.125 inches 23.1775 cm | 9.0 to 9.35 inches 22.86 to 23.749 cm Axles |
Why Wheel Size Matters
The size of your skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in shaping your ride. Larger wheels typically provide more speed and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, while smaller wheels offer better control and responsiveness for technical tricks.
However, balancing these factors can be challenging. For instance, while big wheels help you glide over obstacles, they might reduce maneuverability. On the other hand, smaller wheels enhance agility but can make rides bumpier.
Therefore, understanding these trade-offs helps you choose wheels that best suit your skating style and terrain, ultimately impacting your overall performance and comfort.
Factors Influencing Wheel Size Choice
When choosing skateboard wheels, several factors come into play, including terrain, skating style, and personal preferences. Each of these elements affects your ride differently, so it’s essential to weigh their impact.
Terrain Type
Different terrains, from smooth skateparks to rough streets, require specific wheel sizes for optimal performance. For instance, larger wheels work better on rough surfaces, providing a smoother ride and better shock absorption.
Conversely, smaller wheels excel on smooth surfaces, offering greater precision and control. Balancing these needs can be challenging, but choosing the right size ensures you handle various terrains effectively.
Skating Style
Your skating style—whether street, park, or downhill—will influence the wheel size that best suits your needs. Street skaters often prefer smaller wheels for better tricks and control, while park skaters might choose medium-sized wheels for a mix of stability and agility.
Downhill riders generally opt for larger wheels to maintain speed and smooth out the ride. Each style has its trade-offs, so selecting wheels that complement your style is crucial for performance.
Personal Preference
Personal preference plays a key role in wheel size selection, affecting how you feel and perform on your skateboard. Some skaters prioritize speed and a smooth ride, while others focus on agility and trick performance.
Finding the right balance between these preferences and the practical aspects of wheel size helps enhance your skating experience. Therefore, considering how each size impacts your comfort and performance is essential for making the best choice.
How to Measure Skateboard Wheels
Accurate measurement of skateboard wheels is essential to ensure you get the right size for your setup. Proper measurements help balance performance and comfort, leading to a better skating experience.
Measuring Diameter
The diameter of a skateboard wheel affects its speed and stability; here’s how to measure it correctly. Use a caliper or a ruler to measure the wheel from edge to edge across its center. Larger wheels typically offer a smoother ride and higher speeds but may reduce maneuverability. Smaller wheels, on the other hand, enhance control and responsiveness but can make your ride bumpier. Understanding this trade-off will help you select the ideal diameter for your needs.
Measuring Hardness
The hardness of skateboard wheels influences their grip and durability; learn how to measure and choose the right hardness. Wheel hardness is measured on a durometer scale, which typically ranges from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels provide better grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces but wear out faster. Harder wheels, however, are more durable and better for tricks but can be less forgiving on uneven terrain. Considering these factors helps you choose wheels that match your skating style and surface conditions effectively.
FAQs
What size skateboard wheels are best for beginners?
Answer: For beginners, skateboard wheels in the 50mm to 54mm range are generally ideal. This size offers a good balance between control and stability, making it easier to learn tricks while still providing a smooth ride over most surfaces. Smaller wheels can be more challenging for beginners due to their reduced shock absorption, while larger wheels might be more difficult to maneuver.
How do I know if I need softer or harder skateboard wheels?
Answer: The choice between softer and harder skateboard wheels depends on your skating style and the type of terrain you skate on. Softer wheels (78A to 87A) offer better grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, making them ideal for street skating or cruising. Harder wheels (88A to 101A) provide less grip but are better for technical tricks and smoother surfaces like skateparks. Consider your preferred skating environment and style to determine the right hardness for your needs.
Can I use different wheel sizes on the same skateboard?
Answer: While it is technically possible to use different wheel sizes on the same skateboard, it is generally not recommended. Mixing wheel sizes can lead to uneven performance and handling issues. For consistent ride quality and control, it’s best to use wheels of the same size and hardness. If you want to experiment with different sizes, consider changing all four wheels to ensure a balanced and predictable skate experience.