Skateboard Wheels

Skateboard wheels are usually made of polyurethane and come in many different sizes and shapes to suit different types of skating. Larger diameters (55–85 mm) roll faster and move more easily over cracks in pavement.  They’re better for transition skateboarding.  Smaller diameters (48–54 mm) keep the board closer to the ground.  As a result, they require less force to accelerate and produce a lower center of gravity improving response time.  They also make for a slower top speed and are better for street skateboarding.

Street skaters prefer medium-sized skateboard wheels (usually 51–54 mm).  Small wheels with lighter trucks can make tricks like kickflips and other flip tricks easier.  They do this by keeping the center of gravity of the skateboard closer to the deck, thus making the deck easier to spin.  Vertical ramp or “vert” skating wheels are normally larger wheels (usually 55–65 mm), as it involves higher speeds.  Even larger wheels are used in longboarding and downhill skateboarding.  Sizes range from 65 mm to 100 mm.