What Skateboard Wheel Hardness Should I Buy?

What Skateboard Wheel Hardness Should I Buy?

All skateboard wheels have a specified hardness value, which is usually measured on a Shore a or B durometer scale. On this very complex topic, in order to keep things simple, we will consider two main types of skateboard wheels.

1. Hard Skateboard Wheels

Generally used for technical street skating and park skating. It is made of a harder polyurethane compound and is best used on smoother surfaces. Hard wheels are mostly produced in 50-60mm diameter sizes.

2. Soft skateboard wheels

Mainly used for longboards and cruisers. These wheels are more suitable for skateboarding on rough surfaces, and most of them have larger diameters. Most softer wheels are produced in the size of 55-75 mm.

How hard are the hard and soft skateboard wheels?

Polyurethane is a material that combines the characteristics of rubber and plastic.

The harder and smaller skateboard wheels are mostly between 97A and 104A. The most popular wheels in this category are 99A to 101A. The hard wheels have a very slippery, plastic feel. They travel very fast on smooth roads but are very uncomfortable when driving on rough roads.

When it comes to soft skateboard wheels, they are usually between 75A and 95A. The most commonly used hardness or durometer for cruisers and longboard wheels is the 78A durometer. 78A wheels have a rubbery, soft, and elastic feel and roll very well on very rough surfaces.

There are many exceptions to these rules, such as some skaters who like to ride soft wheels in the park, and some adventurers who like to ride hard wheels in the mountains.

The great thing about skateboarding is that there are no hard or fast rules. So this article is actually just a basic guide for you to set up the best equipment where you want to ride.

So, if you want to set up a popsicle or smaller directional deck for streets and parks, use harder and smaller wheels. When setting up transport vehicles, cruisers or longboards use larger soft wheels.

It is always fun to experiment with different wheels and equipment in different terrains. Now, let your journey begin!

Skateboard wheel

How to measure hardness?

The hardness of a material is usually measured by scratching, indenting, or rebounding the material with an instrument. From chewing gum and sponges to hardened steel and diamonds, the hardness of anything can be measured. There are many different hardness testing methods in the engineering world. Hardness tests include Rockwell, Vickers, and Brinell tests.

Does the color of the skateboard wheel affect its hardness?

Many people believe that applying the color wheel does affect the durometer. Maybe adding color to the formula will slightly change the formula. As for whether it will reduce the integrity of the wheel, you must consult a chemical engineer. From my experience riding the same wheel with natural or colored polyurethane, the difference is that the colored wheels feel softer or more grippy. We are PU wheels for skateboard suppliers. Please feel free to contact us if you are interested in our products.