How to choose longboard wheels

Longboard Wheels – Different wheels are designed for purposes. With wheels there are two major distinguishing factors; these include wheel size and durometer (hardness)

Wheel Size – Generally longboarding wheels will range from 58mm up to around 90mm. Larger wheels will allow you to reach higher speeds but smaller wheels with have higher acceleration. This is noticeable whilst pushing on flat, if a wheel is around 80mm+ then it becomes tiring to push as it requires greater force to get it moving. But, if a wheel is small, say 60mm, then the ride will not be as smooth as it would be with a larger wheel.

Hardness - Wheel hardness is measured in durometer, the higher the number the harder the wheel. Wheels range quite dramatically in hardness and this means different wheels can ride totally differently. Longboard wheels generally range from 70a to 99a. Soft wheels will allow for a smooth ride even on rough ground and more grip to the road. A harder wheel will slide easier but the ride will be compromised if the ground is not smooth.

Wheels around 70-80a are fantastic for speed as they allow for maximum grip to the road meaning that high speed cornering is more predictable and safe whilst keeping speed.

Wheels with duros around 80a-85a are the popular choice among freeriders and they allow for grip but can be slid and drifted when needed.

Wheels around 85a-99a are designed for technical sliding or pool riding as they allow the rider to slide with little effort and also allow the rider to have more time sliding and achieve tricks that aren’t really viable on softer wheels.

For commuting/technical sliding 58mm to 70mm
For freeride/carving 70mm to 76mm
For downhill/racing 75mm+