subject: Hassle-free Ways To Choose Skateboard Wheels [print this page] .
However, if youve never purchased parts for your skateboard before, you might not be sure how to know what youre buying. However, by learning about some of the materials used in skateboard wheels and understanding how those components can improve performance, your shopping experience can be a lot more informed and productive.
Understanding the Main Materials
Since the 1970s, most skateboard wheels have been made from a material called polyurethane. This composite material allows the wheels to grip surfaces with ease, and withstand periods of heavy use. Furthermore, technological advancements have kept production costs relatively low. Once youve found a brand or type of skateboard wheels that you prefer, consider buying a few extras so that youll always have some on hand.
Durometer and Diameter
A wheels durometer is a measurement related to its amount of hardness, along with its overall resistance to penetration. Your durometer rating will feature the letter A, accompanied by a number. Higher numbers equal a harder wheel, but its essential to be aware that different types of riding require varying amounts of wheel hardness. For example, if you frequently ride on the street, you might prefer skateboard wheels that are particularly hard. This will allow you to more easily feel the variations of the surfaces beneath you. Consider trying a model with a durometer rating of 97A or greater.
Alternatively, if you like to ride in across sidewalks and use your skateboard as a main source of transportation, select softer wheels. A rating range between 75A and 85A is what many experts recommend, because the softer texture provides shock absorption when riding across cracks or uneven sections of the sidewalk.
Be aware of the general size of your skateboard wheels, too. Usually, smaller wheels lower your centre of gravity and decrease the weight of your board, so theyre ideal for performing street skating tricks. However, larger wheels are good for travelling across great distances in a shorter amount of time. This is because a single rotation of larger skateboard wheels results in more distance travelled. Although larger wheels cant accelerate as quickly as smaller ones, riders should find that its easier to maintain higher speeds.
As you can see, like all skateboard parts, wheels are closely tied to personal preferences. Their differing capabilities make them ideal for some types of skating over others. With that in mind, make sure that youre well aware of how youll most likely be using your skateboard before you start purchasing parts for it.
