8 Best Longboard Bearings of 2026

When velocity meets precision, the Bones Swiss Ceramic Bearings don’t just raise the bar—they obliterate it. Engineered with Swiss-grade ceramic balls, these bearings deliver blistering acceleration and maintain momentum longer than nearly any competitor, thanks to their ultra-low rolling resistance and Skate Rated tolerances that eliminate performance-killing micro-imperfections. The non-contact rubber shields are a game-changer, allowing effortless cleaning while keeping grime out—perfect for skaters who shred in wet streets or dusty parks and demand reliability without constant maintenance.

In real-world testing, these bearings shine on long downhill runs and technical street sessions alike. Their high-speed nylon ball retainer ensures stability at breakneck speeds, while the precision-machined races handle impact and lateral stress like a pro. Whether you’re carving hard on a 40+ mph descent or snapping quick ollies over city curbs, the Bones Swiss Ceramics stay smooth and responsive. That said, they’re not immune to extreme abuse—running through puddles or heavy grit will eventually degrade performance, though they recover better than most thanks to superior moisture resistance.

Compared to the Bones Reds or budget ceramic options, the Swiss Ceramics sit at the absolute pinnacle of performance—think of them as the Ferrari of longboard bearings. They’re overkill for casual cruisers but essential for serious downhill racers or freeride fanatics who need every fraction of speed and efficiency. While they cost significantly more than entry-tier sets, their combination of speed, durability, and low maintenance justifies the investment when stacked against mid-range ceramics that wear out faster.

The KVENI Black Ceramic Bearings bring race-grade performance into an accessible price bracket, making them a standout for skaters who want ceramic speed without breaking the bank. With ABEC 9-rated precision, titanium-coated steel races, and impact-resistant black ceramic balls, these bearings offer noticeably quicker acceleration and longer spin times than standard steel sets. The single-sided removable shield design makes cleaning a breeze, and the pre-lubed formula holds up well in dry to moderately dusty conditions—ideal for urban riders who push their gear hard.

During real-world use, these bearings held strong on both smooth pavement and rough sidewalks, maintaining a silky-smooth roll even after several weeks of daily commuting and carving. The high-density nylon retainer resists deformation under load, which helps during deep turns or slides, though they’re not quite as stable at extreme speeds as the Bones Swiss Ceramics. On wet or muddy terrain, they require more frequent cleaning than higher-end models, but their moisture-resistant seals do a decent job protecting internal components.

When stacked against the Bones Reds or Spitfire Cheapshots, the KVENI ceramics offer a clear performance leap in speed and longevity, making them a smart upgrade path. They’re perfect for intermediate to advanced riders who want ceramic benefits without premium pricing—a true sweet spot between cost and capability. While they don’t match the ultra-refined feel of top-tier Swiss bearings, their balance of speed, durability, and value makes them a top pick in the mid-tier ceramic segment.

Don’t let the low price fool you—the Spitfire Cheapshots are the dark horse of entry-level bearings, delivering a surprisingly refined ride that punches well above its weight class. With removable black shields and a durable steel race design, these bearings offer cleanability and longevity rarely seen in budget sets, making them ideal for beginners who don’t want to baby their gear. The pre-lubricated Spitfire formula ensures a smooth break-in period, and the pro-team tested design means they’re built for real skateboarding, not just casual rolling.

In daily use, the Cheapshots handle street skating, short commutes, and park sessions with confidence. They won’t scream down hills like ceramics, but their consistent roll and reliability make them perfect for learners mastering ollies, grinds, and slides. The 608 standard sizing fits every wheel and truck combo out there, and the removable shields allow for easy cleaning—though they do pick up grime faster than sealed models. They’re not built for heavy abuse or wet conditions, but for dry-weather shredding, they’re more than capable.

Compared to the ultra-cheap KVENI steel pack or bulk 20-piece sets, the Cheapshots offer better build quality and smoother performance right out of the box. They’re the gold standard for starter bearings, especially for skaters who want something that won’t die after a month of use. While they can’t match the speed of Bones Reds or ceramics, their proven reliability and ease of maintenance make them the smartest entry-level choice for serious beginners.

The Dragon Built-In Bearings redefine plug-and-play simplicity with a design that eliminates spacers and washers—a revelation for skaters tired of fiddling with tiny parts during wheel swaps. The integrated 5.1mm spacer and 0.65mm speed ring ensure perfect alignment and reduce bearing slop, which translates to smoother rotation and less wobble at speed. Protected by a labyrinth shield, these bearings excel at keeping out dirt and debris, while the Dragon ENDURE grease delivers long-lasting lubrication across seasons and surfaces.

In real-world testing, the installation was lightning-fast—no need to measure spacers or worry about washer placement. Once mounted, the bearings delivered a quiet, consistent roll ideal for commuting and carving, though not quite as fast as high-end ceramics. The pre-lubricated formula performs well in dry climates but may need re-greasing in humid or dusty environments. While they don’t offer the explosive acceleration of Bones Reds, their maintenance-friendly design makes them a win for casual to intermediate riders who value convenience.

Against the Bones Reds or Spitfire Cheapshots, the Dragon set trades a bit of peak performance for unmatched ease of use and lifetime warranty. They’re perfect for longboarders, cruisers, and parents building boards for kids who need set-it-and-forget-it reliability. While purists may miss the customization of separate spacers, the all-in-one design and beast guarantee offer peace of mind that few competitors can match—especially when compared to budget sets with no long-term support.

The Bones Reds are the benchmark of value-driven performance, blending pro-level speed with everyday durability in a package that’s become legendary for good reason. Built with precision-machined races and a tight-tolerance design, these bearings offer a snappy, responsive roll that outperforms most steel sets, especially when paired with Bones Speed Cream lubricant. The removable rubber shields make cleaning simple, and the included multi-function stoked tool adds serious utility—no more hunting for wrenches during wheel changes.

On pavement, the Reds deliver a noticeably faster and smoother ride than entry-level bearings, maintaining momentum well on flats and moderate hills. They excel in street and park environments, handling repeated impacts and hard turns without degrading. While they’re not waterproof, their sealed design resists dust and light moisture better than open-shield models. They do require occasional cleaning and re-lubing to maintain peak performance, but that’s a small trade-off for their unmatched balance of speed and resilience.

Stacked against the Spitfire Cheapshots or KVENI steel sets, the Bones Reds are in a different performance tier—faster, smoother, and built to last. They’re the ideal choice for intermediate skaters who want pro-level performance without stepping into ceramic prices. While the KVENI ceramics offer more speed, the Bones Reds deliver better overall value when factoring in durability and included tool, making them the go-to for skaters who ride hard and often.

At just a few bucks per bearing, the KVENI Green Steel Bearings are the ultimate budget workhorse, delivering surprisingly decent performance for the price. Made with carbon steel rims and stainless steel balls, these ABEC-rated bearings offer a smooth initial roll right out of the box, pre-lubed with speed oil that keeps friction low for light to moderate use. The green waterproof seals are removable, allowing basic cleaning—rare at this price point—and the 608s standard size ensures compatibility with virtually every wheel on the market.

In practice, these bearings are best suited for casual cruising, short commutes, or kids’ boards where high-speed precision isn’t critical. They roll acceptably well on clean pavement but lose momentum quickly on rough or wet surfaces, and the steel components are prone to rust if exposed to moisture. They’re not built for hard slides or downhill runs, but for weekend riders or first-time skaters, they get the job done without costing a fortune. After a few weeks of regular use, performance degrades noticeably—expected at this tier.

Compared to the Spitfire Cheapshots or Bones Reds, the KVENI Green set is strictly a budget play—functional but not exceptional. However, when stacked against other sub-$10 packs, it stands out for color-coded seals and decent build. They’re ideal for skaters who need a temporary fix or replacement set without investment. While they can’t compete with mid-tier bearings in speed or lifespan, their rock-bottom price and wide compatibility make them a sensible pick for low-demand applications.

The KVENI Red Ceramic Bearings are a hidden gem for budget-conscious skaters who want a taste of ceramic performance without the premium tag. Featuring ceramic balls and chrome steel races, these bearings deliver faster acceleration and longer spin times than standard steel sets, all while maintaining a smooth, quiet roll. The red waterproof seals are removable for cleaning, and the racing-grade lubricant helps reduce friction and extend life—key for riders who want durability on a tight budget.

In real-world use, they performed admirably on smooth pavement and moderate hills, holding speed better than steel counterparts and resisting heat buildup during extended slides. The ABEC-rated precision ensures a reliable fit and consistent performance, though they’re not quite as stable at high speeds as the Bones Swiss Ceramics. They handle dry conditions well but require cleaning after wet rides to prevent internal grit buildup. For the price, the smoothness and efficiency are impressive—especially for longboard cruisers and freestyle skaters.

When compared to the Bones Reds or Spitfire Cheapshots, the KVENI Reds offer a noticeable upgrade in speed and efficiency at a similar price point. They’re perfect for intermediate riders looking to step into ceramics without overspending. While they don’t match the elite refinement of top-tier models, their combination of ceramic benefits and affordability makes them the best value in the budget ceramic category—outperforming even pricier steel sets in longevity and roll.

If you’re replacing bearings often or building multiple boards, the 20-pack KVENI Chrome Steel Bearings are the ultimate bulk solution, offering reliable performance at fire-sale pricing. With double rubber seals and a deep-groove design, these bearings provide excellent protection against dust and debris—unusual for such an affordable set. The pre-lubricated high-speed oil ensures a smooth initial ride, and the 608rs standard sizing guarantees compatibility across skateboards, longboards, scooters, and spinners.

In testing, they performed adequately for light use—cruising, beginner tricks, and short commutes—delivering a decent roll on clean surfaces. However, they lack the precision and smoothness of higher-end models, and their steel construction shows wear quickly under heavy use. The double seals help, but they’re not foolproof in wet conditions, and the grease breaks down faster than in premium sets. Best used as spares or for low-intensity applications, they’re not built for aggressive skating.

Compared to the 8-piece KVENI steel pack or Spitfire Cheapshots, this 20-pack wins on volume and value per unit, not performance. They’re ideal for skate shops, schools, or families with multiple boards needing affordable replacements. While they can’t compete with Bones Reds or ceramics in speed or durability, their low per-unit cost and solid build make them the go-to for bulk buyers who prioritize quantity without sacrificing basic quality.