CHOOSING THE RIGHT SKATEBOARD WHEELS
The first urethane wheel came around in the 1970’s and changed skateboarding forever. Prior to urethane wheels, skaters were riding wheels made from steel and clay. Steel and clay are obviously hard, unforgiving materials that made skateboarding on variable terrain harsh and challenging. Modern urethane wheels are now higher quality than ever and help skateboarders perform at their best.
"What size of skateboard wheels should I get?" is the classic question when it comes to pick up a quatuor of wheels from a skateshop. Well, here are some clues for you!
CHOOSING A SKATEBOARD WHEEL SIZE | Diameter
Wheel Size (Diameter)
The size of your wheel will change how your skateboard performs. Wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm) and refers to the diameter of the wheel. Diameter is the overall width or height of the wheel (also calculated as 2 times the radius of the wheel.) The bigger the number, the bigger the wheel size. Larger wheels will go faster at top speeds, but will have a slower rate of acceleration, while smaller wheels are slower at top speeds, but have a quicker rate of acceleration. Larger wheels also raise you and your board higher off the ground, which can affect your maneuvers.
Street skaters typically ride smaller wheels (ranging from 50mm – 56mm) because they allow for good pop, are shaped better for sliding and are lighter for flip tricks. Transition skaters typically ride a slightly larger wheel for higher speeds in the park and better control when riding over coping.
Wheel Size Explained
