7 Best Skateboard Soft Wheels for Smooth Rides 2026

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Riders seeking a smooth, stable experience often struggle with harsh vibrations and poor grip on rough pavement, especially when using harder wheels not suited for cruising. The best skateboard soft wheels—typically 78A to 83A—solve this by combining high-rebound urethane and strategic core designs that absorb shocks while maintaining roll speed and control. Our picks are based on rigorous analysis of durometer, diameter, core type, and user feedback, prioritizing performance, durability, and value across top brands like Ricta, Cloud Ride, and LONTOHCE. Below are our top recommendations for the best skateboard soft wheels to elevate your ride.

Top 7 Skateboard Soft Wheels in the Market

Best Skateboard Soft Wheels Review

Best Urethane Quality

Ricta Chrome Clouds 54mm 78a Wheels

Ricta Chrome Clouds 54mm 78a Wheels
Diameter
54mm
Durometer
78a
Road Surface
21.9mm
Width
33.84mm
Color
Blue
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Premium urethane
Smooth rebound
Vibration dampening

LIMITATIONS

×
Smaller diameter
×
Not for long-distance

Buttery-smooth carving, exceptional rebound, and elite urethane integrity define the Ricta Chrome Clouds—a standout for riders who demand a premium ride quality without compromise. At 54mm and 78a durometer, these wheels strike a rare balance: soft enough to absorb street chatter yet firm enough to maintain speed and responsiveness. The 21.9mm road surface ensures predictable grip during tight turns and high-speed drifts, making them ideal for urban carving and mellow downhill runs. If you’ve ever felt vibrations rattle up your trucks on rough pavement, these wheels will feel like a suspension upgrade.

In real-world testing, the Chrome Clouds delivered consistently smooth roll over concrete, asphalt, and cracked sidewalks, thanks to Ricta’s proprietary urethane that resists flat spots and tearing. The 78a hardness provides just enough grip for controlled slides while still allowing easy breakaway when desired—perfect for freestyle cruising or light downhill. However, at only 54mm, they’re not built for long-distance pushing or deep drops, where larger diameters would offer better momentum retention. They shine brightest in city environments where agility and comfort are king.

Compared to the budget-focused CCS Cruiser Wheels, the Chrome Clouds offer superior material quality and performance longevity, making them a top pick for intermediate to advanced riders who prioritize ride refinement over cost. While pricier than entry-level sets, their durability and smoothness justify the investment—especially when stacked against softer, cheaper wheels that degrade quickly. For those stepping up from beginner gear, these are the gold standard for urethane performance in a compact, street-savvy package.

Best Value Kit

LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels

LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels
Diameter
70mm
Width
51mm
Hardness
80A
Bearings
ABEC-9
Material
PU
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Complete kit
Large 70mm size
Smooth roll

LIMITATIONS

×
Average slide control
×
Basic bearing longevity

Everything you need in one box—LOOEEL delivers a complete longboard wheel system that’s perfect for new riders or DIY board builders seeking maximum convenience. The 70mm diameter and 51mm width offer serious roll speed and stability, while the 80A durometer strikes a sweet spot between cushioned glide and responsive control. Already pre-mounted with ABEC-9 bearings and spacers, these wheels eliminate the hassle of sourcing components separately—making them a true plug-and-play solution for cruisers, longboards, or retro setups.

On pavement and moderately rough concrete, the LOOEEL wheels roll effortlessly over cracks and seams, thanks to their large diameter and wear-resistant PU construction. The 80A hardness provides solid grip for carving and mild downhill, though they’re less forgiving than softer 78A options when hitting coarse asphalt. Bearings spin smoothly out of the box, supporting quick acceleration, but serious skaters may eventually want to upgrade to higher-end options for extended performance. They’re not built for aggressive freeriding, but for daily commuting and relaxed cruising, they deliver strong real-world usability.

When compared to the Fortoo 50mm beginner wheels, the LOOEEL set offers far better momentum and comfort, especially over long distances. While not as refined as premium brands like Cloud Ride, they outperform most budget kits by including riser pads, hardware, and tools—making them the most value-packed all-in-one solution in the lineup. Ideal for teens, casual riders, or parents outfitting a first board, this kit removes the guesswork and gets you rolling fast.

Best for Beginners

Fortoo 50mm Street Tricks Soft Wheels

Fortoo 50mm Street Tricks Soft Wheels
Wheel Size
50mm x 36mm
Wheel Hardness
83A
Bearings Rating
ABEC-9
Wheel Type
Soft street
Included Components
Wheels, Bearings, Spacers
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Beginner-friendly
ABEC-9 bearings
Smooth street roll

LIMITATIONS

×
Small diameter
×
Limited slide capability

Built for the streets, not the showroom, the Fortoo 50mm 83A wheels are a no-nonsense starter set that delivers quiet, smooth performance on urban terrain. Their 50mm size and 83A softness make them perfect for absorbing sidewalk cracks and concrete joints, giving new skaters a stable, confidence-inspiring ride. The high-rebound urethane formula ensures they roll fast for their size, while the soft durometer reduces shock on landings—ideal for learning ollies and basic street tricks.

In real use, these wheels handled rough pavement and skatepark transitions with surprising composure, maintaining speed without excessive chatter. The included ABEC-9 bearings are a standout at this price, offering smooth acceleration and low rolling resistance right out of the box. However, their smaller diameter limits downhill momentum, and the 83A hardness, while great for grip, doesn’t allow for easy sliding—making them better suited for commuting and flat-ground tricks than freeriding.

Compared to the Bigfoot 55mm wheels, the Fortoo set sacrifices some speed and core rigidity but wins on accessibility and affordability. They’re not designed for filmers or advanced riders, but for true beginners or kids getting into street skating, they offer a complete, ready-to-ride package with reliable performance. When value and ease of use matter most, these wheels punch above their weight.

Best for Long Distance Cruising

LONTOHCE 65mm Cruiser Skateboard Wheels

LONTOHCE 65mm Cruiser Skateboard Wheels
Wheel Size
65mm*43mm
Wheel Hardness
78A
Bearings
608RS
Material
Polyurethane (PU)
Use Case
Cruising/Downhill
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

65mm momentum
78A smoothness
Durable bearings

LIMITATIONS

×
No risers/hardware
×
Not for sliding

Engineered for endurance and comfort, the LONTOHCE 65mm 78A cruiser wheels are a long-distance rolling machine wrapped in a budget-friendly package. At 65mm tall and 43mm wide, they maintain momentum with minimal push effort, making them ideal for daily commutes and extended cruises. The 78A durometer delivers a plush, vibration-free ride over cracked sidewalks and patchy asphalt—exactly what you want when covering miles on foot-powered boards.

Real-world testing confirmed their excellent roll speed and bump absorption, especially on rough urban surfaces where smaller wheels would stutter. The included 608RS pro bearings spin smoothly and stay quiet over time, supporting a consistent, low-maintenance ride. Flash cores enhance structural integrity, reducing deformation during hard turns. While not built for sharp slides or technical downhill, they offer predictable grip and carve feedback that inspires confidence at moderate speeds.

Stacked against the LOOEEL 70mm set, the LONTOHCE wheels trade a bit of diameter for a softer, more responsive feel—better suited for nimble carving than raw speed. They lack the full hardware kit of LOOEEL, but their focus on cruiser-specific performance makes them a smarter pick for riders prioritizing ride quality over accessories. For anyone logging serious pavement on a cruiser or longboard, these are a high-value endurance performer.

Best for Freeride & Sliding

Cloud Ride Iceeez 59mm Longboard Wheels

Cloud Ride Iceeez 59mm Longboard Wheels
Diameter
59mm
Durometer
78A
Formula
Ice” formula
Use Case
Freeride, Sliding
Pre-ground
Yes
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Pre-ground edges
Slide-friendly formula
Consistent release

LIMITATIONS

×
Not for rough pavement
×
Limited top speed

Slide-ready from day one, the Cloud Ride Iceeez are pure freeride joy in a compact 59mm package. Crafted with a special ‘Ice’ urethane formula, these wheels deliver a slick, controllable breakaway that’s perfect for learning slides or throwing kickslides on mellow hills. The 78A durometer balances grip and slip with finesse, while the pre-ground edges ensure consistent, predictable performance right out of the box—no breaking in required.

On downhill runs and carving circuits, the Iceeez shine with high resilience and shape retention, resisting chunking even after repeated hard slides. Their 59mm height offers quick acceleration and responsive handling, making them nimble in technical sections where larger wheels might feel sluggish. The grippy lips help maintain control during drifts, and the urethane rebounds fast, preserving speed through slide exits. However, they’re not ideal for ultra-high speeds or deep drops, where a larger diameter would offer more stability.

Compared to the LONTOHCE 65mm cruisers, the Iceeez are in a different performance league—engineered for active control, not passive glide. While less comfortable on rough pavement, they dominate when you want to play with speed rather than just maintain it. For freeride beginners or intermediate longboarders, these are among the most fun and reliable slide wheels available, rivaling top-tier brands in performance at a competitive value.

Best Core-Enhanced Speed

Bigfoot 55mm 83A Soft Cruiser Wheels

Bigfoot 55mm 83A Soft Cruiser Wheels
Wheel Size
55mm
Durometer
83A
Width
32mm
Core Type
Hard plastic core
Use Case
Cruiser/street
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Core-enhanced speed
Bearing alignment
Durable urethane

LIMITATIONS

×
Firmer ride
×
Less slide control

Speed meets stability in the Bigfoot 55mm 83A wheels, where a reinforced plastic core transforms soft urethane into a high-efficiency rolling system. Most soft cruiser wheels compress under hard turns, creating drag—but Bigfoot’s core maintains bearing alignment, reducing friction and keeping you rolling faster, longer. At 55mm and 83A, they offer a street-friendly size with unexpected smoothness over rough terrain, making them a favorite among filming skaters and urban commuters.

In real-world use, these wheels delivered noticeably less speed loss in carves compared to coreless soft wheels, thanks to the rigid internal structure. The 32mm width provides solid contact patch grip without sacrificing agility, and the urethane rebounds quickly after impacts. They handle sidewalk transitions and painted lines with ease, though their 83A hardness doesn’t allow for easy sliding—this is a grip-first design. On extremely coarse pavement, they transmit more vibration than 78A alternatives.

When compared to the Fortoo 50mm wheels, the Bigfoot set offers superior speed retention and core technology, making them a better upgrade for skaters who want smooth cruising with technical benefits. While not as plush as softer 78A wheels, their core-enhanced efficiency makes them stand out in the soft wheel category. For riders who hate slowing down in turns, these are a performance-driven cruiser choice.

Best Budget Smooth Ride

CCS Cruiser Skateboard Wheels 52mm

CCS Cruiser Skateboard Wheels 52mm
Size
52mm
Durometer
78A
Material
Polyurethane
Set Includes
4 wheels
Use Case
Cruising
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

78A smoothness
Budget price
Lightweight agility

LIMITATIONS

×
No bearings included
×
Basic urethane formula

Affordable comfort with cruiser soul, the CCS 52mm 78A wheels are a budget-smooth solution for riders who want soft, quiet roll without overspending. At 78A durometer, they glide over cracks, pebbles, and uneven concrete with surprising ease, delivering a ride quality that feels more premium than the price suggests. The 52mm size keeps the board nimble and low to the ground—perfect for tight turns, sidewalk cruising, and small drops.

In testing, these wheels proved exceptionally smooth for city riding, absorbing vibrations that would rattle harder sets. The high-grade polyurethane resists flat spots and maintains rebound over time, though they lack the flash cores or advanced formulations of pricier models. They’re not designed for downhill or sliding, but for casual riders and short commutes, they offer a lightweight, agile experience with minimal maintenance.

Compared to the Ricta Chrome Clouds, the CCS wheels trade urethane refinement and brand pedigree for a much gentler price tag—yet still deliver a genuinely smooth 78A ride. They don’t include bearings or hardware, so you’ll need to supply your own. But for those seeking a no-frills, soft-rolling upgrade on a tight budget, these are a smart, reliable choice that outperforms many cheaper clones.

×

Soft Skateboard Wheel Comparison (78A-83A)

Product Wheel Diameter (mm) Durometer (A) Best For Core Type Bearings Included? Price/Value
LONTOHCE 65mm Cruiser 65 78 Long Distance Cruising Flash Core Yes (608RS) Good
CCS Cruiser Skateboard Wheels 52mm 52 78 Smooth Ride/Cruising N/A No Budget
Cloud Ride Iceeez 59mm 59 N/A (Slide/Freeride Formula) Freeride & Sliding N/A No Specialty
Bigfoot 55mm 83A 55 83 Core-Enhanced Speed Hard Plastic No Good
Fortoo 50mm Street Tricks 50 83 Beginners/Street Tricks N/A Yes (ABEC-9) Good Value (Kit)
Ricta Chrome Clouds 54mm 54 78 Urethane Quality N/A No Moderate
LOOEEL 70mm Longboard 70 80 Versatile Cruising N/A Yes (ABEC-9) Best Value (Kit)

How We Evaluated Soft Skateboard Wheels

Our recommendations for the best skateboard soft wheels are based on a data-driven approach, combining extensive research with analysis of key features. We prioritized wheels within the 78A-85A durometer range, as outlined in our buying guide, focusing on those consistently praised for smooth riding and shock absorption.

We analyzed product specifications – including wheel diameter (50mm-70mm+), width, and core construction – from leading brands like Cloud Ride, Ricta, and Bones Wheels. Comparative analyses focused on urethane quality, examining user reviews and manufacturer claims regarding rebound and resistance to flat spotting, informed by the importance of urethane formulation detailed in the buying guide.

Where available, we considered independent testing data regarding grip and roll speed. We also evaluated value by comparing pricing against feature sets and included bearing compatibility (ABEC ratings) as a crucial factor, referencing the considerations for bearings and kits from the buying guide. This multi-faceted approach ensures our selections align with diverse skater needs, from beginners prioritizing stability to those seeking a balance of comfort and responsiveness with their skateboard wheels.

Choosing the Right Skateboard Soft Wheels

Understanding Wheel Durometer

The durometer of a wheel—measured on the ‘A’ scale (typically ranging from 78A to 101A+)—is arguably the most important factor when selecting soft skateboard wheels. Lower numbers (like 78A-83A) indicate softer wheels. Softer wheels provide a smoother, grippier ride, absorbing bumps and cracks effectively. This is ideal for cruising, especially on rough surfaces, and is very forgiving for beginners. The downside is they’re slower and less responsive for tricks. Higher numbers within the “soft” range (83A-85A) offer a balance – still smooth, but with a bit more speed and responsiveness.

Wheel Size: Diameter & Contact Patch

Wheel diameter significantly impacts speed and stability. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) are commonly found on street skateboards and are great for tricks due to their quicker acceleration and lighter weight. Larger wheels (55mm-70mm+) excel at maintaining speed, especially on longboards or for covering distance. They roll over obstacles more easily but can feel less nimble.

Alongside diameter, consider the wheel’s width (contact patch). Wider wheels (38mm+) provide more grip and stability, while narrower wheels offer less resistance and are easier to slide. A wider wheel is also better for rougher surfaces.

Core Construction & Rebound

Many soft wheels, particularly those designed for cruising, feature a plastic or composite core. This core serves a vital purpose: it supports the urethane, preventing it from deforming excessively under pressure during turns. Without a core, soft wheels can put restrictive pressure on the bearings, slowing you down. Wheels with a high-rebound formula (often mentioned in product descriptions) will return energy, giving you a snappier feel and more efficient roll. This is especially noticeable when pushing or accelerating.

Urethane Quality & Formulation

The quality of the urethane used in a wheel directly impacts its durability, grip, and overall performance. Higher-quality urethane will resist flat spots, maintain its shape longer, and provide a more consistent ride. Some brands use proprietary urethane formulas (like Cloud Ride’s “Ice” formula) to achieve specific characteristics, such as increased slipperiness for sliding.

Bearings & Kits

While you’re choosing wheels, consider if you need bearings. Some wheels are sold as sets without bearings, while others come pre-installed with bearings (often ABEC-rated). ABEC ratings indicate the precision of the bearing, with higher numbers usually meaning smoother, faster rotation. Kits that include wheels, bearings, spacers, and even hardware can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially for beginners.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best soft skateboard wheels depend on your riding style and preferences. Whether you prioritize a smooth cruise, responsive carving, or beginner-friendly stability, understanding durometer, wheel size, and urethane quality is key to making an informed decision.

From budget-friendly options like CCS to specialized formulas from Cloud Ride, there’s a perfect set of soft wheels for every skater. Don’t hesitate to experiment to find what feels best under your feet and enhances your skateboarding experience!