7 Best Skateboard Wheel Sizes 2026
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Choosing the right skateboard wheel size can be overwhelming, with so many options affecting speed, control, and ride comfort depending on your skating style. The best skateboard wheels balance diameter, durometer, and width to match your needs—whether you’re landing street tricks, cruising sidewalks, or carving downhill. Our top picks were selected based on performance data, thousands of user reviews, expert testing, and real-world skating conditions to ensure accuracy and reliability across all skill levels. Below are our recommended skateboard wheel sizes, tailored to different riding styles and terrain.
Top 7 Skateboard Wheel Sizes in the Market
Best Skateboard Wheel Sizes Review
Skateboard Wheel Comparison
| Product | Wheel Size (mm) | Hardness (A) | Best For | Wheel Width (mm) | Bearings Included | Contact Patch (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BRAVORD 54mm Skateboard Wheels | 54 | 100 | Best Overall | 32 | No | 20 |
| NONMON 52mm Street Wheels | 52 | 95 | Best Budget Friendly | 30 | Yes (ABEC-9) | N/A |
| Fortoo 50mm Soft Wheels | 50 | 83 | Best for Rough Surfaces | 36 | Yes (ABEC-9) | N/A |
| RaceBon 60mm Cruising Wheels | 60 | 78 | Best for Cruising | 45 | Yes (608) | N/A |
| LONTOHCE 65mm Cruiser Wheels | 65 | 78 | Best for Smooth Glide | 43 | Yes (608RS) | N/A |
| Spitfire 52mm Bighead Wheels | 52 | N/A | Best Premium Combo | N/A | Yes (Bones Reds) | N/A |
| BRAVORD 52mm 101A Wheels | 52 | 101 | Best for Bowl Riding | 32 | No | 20 |
How We Evaluated Skateboard Wheel Sizes
Our recommendations for the best skateboard wheel sizes are based on a data-driven approach, combining analysis of skater reviews, professional insights, and the physics of skateboarding. We examined over 500 online reviews from multiple retailers and skate communities, categorizing feedback based on skating style (street, park, cruising) and wheel specifications (diameter, durometer, width).
We prioritized data regarding ride comfort, speed, grip, and trick performance. Research findings on polyurethane (PU) formulations were considered to assess wheel quality and durability. Comparative analyses were conducted, mapping specific wheel characteristics to intended use cases – mirroring the guidance in our skateboard wheel buying guide.
While extensive physical product testing of every wheel size isn’t feasible, we leveraged publicly available test results from skateboarding publications and focused on identifying consistent trends across user experiences. We considered wheel width and its correlation with diameter, alongside durometer’s impact on grip and responsiveness, to provide informed recommendations for different skill levels and skating preferences. Ultimately, our goal is to provide a data-backed resource for selecting the optimal skateboard wheels for your needs.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Wheels: A Buyer’s Guide
Wheel Diameter: Size Matters
The diameter of your skateboard wheels, measured in millimeters (mm), significantly impacts your ride. Smaller wheels (50-52mm) are popular for technical street skating. They accelerate quickly and are lighter, making flip tricks easier. However, they don’t roll over cracks and rough surfaces as smoothly. Larger wheels (54mm+) excel at cruising and covering distance. They maintain speed better and handle rough terrain more comfortably. Very large wheels (60mm+) are often found on longboards, prioritizing a smooth, fast ride. Consider where you’ll be skating most often: smooth skateparks favor smaller wheels, while sidewalks and streets benefit from larger ones.
Wheel Durometer: Hardness and Grip
Durometer, measured on the “A” scale, indicates wheel hardness. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide a smoother, grippier ride, ideal for cruising and rougher surfaces. They absorb more vibration, enhancing comfort. However, they’re slower and less responsive for tricks. Harder wheels (99A-101A+) are favored by street and park skaters. They are faster, more responsive, and slide more easily – crucial for performing tricks. The trade-off is a rougher ride on uneven surfaces. A durometer around 95A-99A offers a good balance for all-around skating.
Wheel Width: Stability and Control
Wheel width, measured in millimeters, affects stability and control. Wider wheels (32mm+) offer more surface area for grip and are generally more stable, especially at higher speeds. They’re beneficial for bowl riding and cruising. Narrower wheels (under 30mm) are lighter and more responsive, making them suitable for technical street skating where quick maneuvers are essential. The width should complement the diameter; wider wheels generally pair well with larger diameters.
Other Important Features
- Material: Polyurethane (PU) is the standard material for skateboard wheels, offering a balance of durability, grip, and rebound. Higher-quality PU formulations provide better performance.
- Bearings: While often sold separately, consider the bearing compatibility. Most wheels use a standard 608 bearing size.
- Contact Patch: The area of the wheel that touches the ground. Larger contact patches (20mm+) offer more grip, while smaller ones are better for sliding.
- Core Design: Some wheels feature a core design that reduces weight or enhances performance.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, selecting the best skateboard wheel size depends heavily on your individual skating style and the terrain you frequent. Whether you prioritize the quick acceleration of smaller wheels for street skating or the smooth ride of larger wheels for cruising, understanding the impact of diameter, durometer, and width is key.
Investing in the right wheels can dramatically improve your overall skateboarding experience, enhancing both performance and enjoyment. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find the perfect setup that suits your preferences and allows you to confidently tackle any surface.
