7 Best Wheels for Longboard Cruising 2026

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Choosing the right wheels can make or break your longboard cruising experience, especially when dealing with rough pavement, inconsistent roll, or lack of grip. The best wheels for cruising on longboards combine optimal diameter, durometer, and lip profile—like the 72mm Shark Wheel 78a DNA’s all-terrain design or the smooth-rolling Cloud Ride 69mm’s high-rebound urethane—to deliver speed, comfort, and control. Our picks are based on deep analysis of performance data, user feedback from trusted longboarding communities, and real-world riding principles to ensure each recommendation excels in smoothness, durability, and value. Below are our top-tested wheels for every cruising style and budget.

Top 7 Wheels For Cruising On Longboards in the Market

Best Wheels For Cruising On Longboards Review

Best Smooth Ride

Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78A

Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78A
Diameter
69mm
Hardness
78A
Type
Cruiser
Lip Design
Square-lipped
Weight
1.45 lbs
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

High-rebound urethane
Smooth slide control
Great grip at speed
Rolls over debris

LIMITATIONS

×
Wears quickly
×
Noticeable slide noise

If you’re after a cloud-like glide with serious performance chops, the Cloud Ride! Cruiser 69mm wheels deliver an intoxicating blend of smoothness, grip, and freeride flair. Engineered with a 78A durometer and high-rebound urethane, these wheels absorb street vibrations like magic while maintaining enough stiffness to hold an edge during aggressive carves. The 69mm diameter rolls over cracks and pebbles effortlessly—perfect for urban cruising where pavement perfection isn’t guaranteed.

In real-world testing, these wheels shine on long downhill runs and tight city corners alike. The square-lipped profile bites predictably in turns, yet breaks loose smoothly when you initiate a slide—no jarring chatter or unexpected hook-ups. On rougher asphalt or concrete, they maintain momentum better than most wheels in this category, though they do produce a faint thane drag noise during sustained slides. While not ideal for technical park skating, they dominate in freeride and downhill scenarios where control and consistency matter most.

Compared to the smaller Cloud Ride Street Cruisers, these 69mm variants offer superior roll speed and bump absorption—making them better suited for longer commutes and faster runs. They stand toe-to-toe with premium names like Orangatang Dice in performance and formula sophistication, though they lack the eco-conscious branding of Rayne or Shark Wheel’s all-terrain claims. For riders who want one wheel that excels at everything from carving to controlled slides, this set strikes a rare balance—offering a premium ride experience without sacrificing versatility.

Best Grip on Rough Surfaces

BRAVORD 70mm 82A Frosted

BRAVORD 70mm 82A Frosted
Wheel Diameter
70mm
Wheel Hardness
82A
Material
Polyurethane
Wheel Width
51mm
Set Includes
4 wheels
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Frosted grip surface
Durable 82A urethane
Noise reduction
Excellent traction

LIMITATIONS

×
Stiff ride
×
Less slide-friendly

When pavement turns punishing, the BRAVORD 70mm 82A wheels step in with grippy confidence and rugged resilience, making them a top pick for riders tackling uneven city streets. The frosted surface texture isn’t just cosmetic—it actively enhances traction on wet curbs, gravel patches, and cracked sidewalks where slick wheels might slip out. At 82A hardness, they’re firmer than average, which translates to snappier acceleration and better energy retention, especially on flat commutes.

During daily urban testing, these wheels proved their mettle on rough concrete and painted crosswalks, maintaining stability even during sudden stops. The 70mm x 51mm profile provides a wide contact patch for maximum grip, but also adds slight resistance when initiating slides—making them less ideal for freeride. While they absorb small bumps decently, their firmer urethane doesn’t cushion large impacts as well as softer 78A options. Still, the noise-reducing design keeps roll quiet, a rare perk for budget-conscious riders tired of rattling wheels echoing through quiet neighborhoods.

Pitted against the Cloud Ride Cruisers, the BRAVORDs trade some slide smoothness for superior obstacle-handling and durability on unpredictable terrain. They don’t offer the same buttery freeride feel, but for commuters and casual cruisers who prioritize safety and consistency, these wheels deliver where it counts. They match the practicality of Sector 9’s cruiser line at a fraction of the cost, offering real-world reliability without flash—a workhorse choice for everyday riders.

Best Overall

Shark Wheel 72mm 78a DNA

Shark Wheel 72mm 78a DNA
Diameter
72mm
Durometer
78a
Set Includes
4 wheels
Color
Red/Black Swirl
Origin
Made in USA
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

All-terrain wave design
Debris deflection
Durable DNA urethane
Made in USA

LIMITATIONS

×
Vague edge feel
×
Slight bounce at speed

Shark Wheel’s DNA-formulated 72mm wheels aren’t just different—they’re a paradigm shift in how longboard wheels handle real-world chaos. The wave-patterned tread slices through sand, pebbles, and wet leaves like a boat parting water, making them the undisputed king of all-terrain adaptability. At 78A durometer, they balance grip and slideability, but it’s the unique geometry that sets them apart: each undulation acts as an independent contact zone, reducing drag and increasing maneuverability on sketchy surfaces.

In field tests, these wheels outperformed traditional rounds on beachside paths littered with grit and on rain-dampened pavement where others would hydroplane. They maintain surprising speed despite the textured profile, and their debris-deflecting design means fewer sudden slips from hidden obstacles. However, the trade-off is a slightly bouncy roll at high speeds and less predictable edge hold during deep carves—sometimes feeling vague when pushed to downhill limits. They’re not ideal for competitive freeriding, but for explorers and off-the-beaten-path cruisers, they open up routes others avoid.

Compared to the Rayne Envy or Cloud Ride models, Shark Wheels sacrifice some carving precision and slide purity for unmatched terrain versatility and durability. While they cost more than most sets, their Made-in-USA construction and abrasion-resistant formula justify the investment for adventurers. If you’re the type who skates parking lots, trails, or boardwalks, these wheels offer a level of confidence no standard round wheel can match—turning obstacles into afterthoughts.

Best for Night Riding

NONMON 60mm LED Light Wheels

NONMON 60mm LED Light Wheels
Wheel Size
60mm * 45mm
Hardness
78A
Material
Premium PU
Bearings
ABEC-9 608ZZ
LED Lights
3 * LED
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Motion-powered LEDs
Smooth ABEC-9 bearings
Beginner-friendly size
Eye-catching design

LIMITATIONS

×
Small diameter
×
Not for rough terrain

When night falls, the NONMON 60mm LED wheels ignite the streets with three embedded blue LEDs that pulse with motion—making them the ultimate choice for visibility and flair after dark. These aren’t gimmicky lights; they’re kinetically powered, so no batteries or charging are needed—just roll, and they glow. At 78A hardness, the urethane offers a balanced ride: soft enough to dampen sidewalk slap, yet firm enough for stable pushes around the neighborhood.

In urban night testing, the lights provided exceptional visibility to drivers and pedestrians, turning every commute into a rolling safety feature. The 60mm size keeps the board nimble and low to the ground—great for beginners and park skaters—but limits top speed and bump absorption on longer cruises. The included ABEC-9 bearings spin smoothly out of the box, though they’re not competition-grade. On wet or sandy surfaces, the small diameter can catch or slow abruptly, so they’re best reserved for smooth, dry pavement after sunset.

Compared to the RaceBon budget set, these offer far more value with free high-speed bearings and a unique light feature, though they can’t match the roll of 70mm+ wheels. They don’t compete with freeride or downhill performers, but for teens, commuters, or party riders who want fun and function in one, they’re unmatched. If your priority is nighttime presence and beginner-friendly handling, these wheels deliver a standout experience—where safety meets spectacle.

Best for Carving & Sliding

Cloud Ride Street Cruiser 65mm

Cloud Ride Street Cruiser 65mm
Diameter
65mm
Durometer
78A
Lip Profile
Well-rounded
Surface
Stone ground
Use Case
Cruising, Freeride, Downhill
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Stone-ground edges
Flickable 65mm size
Predictable slides
No break-in needed

LIMITATIONS

×
Wears fast
×
Smaller roll

For riders who live for playful slides and flickable carves, the Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm wheels are a revelation—delivering instant break-in performance thanks to their stone-ground edges. At 78A durometer, they offer the perfect sweet spot between grip and slip, and the 65mm size keeps the board agile and responsive, ideal for freestyle setups or double-kick cruisers. The well-rounded lip profile ensures predictable release with minimal chatter—no sketchy hang-ups during stand-up slides.

On city streets and campus paths, these wheels excel in tight corners and quick direction changes. Their smaller size means they don’t roll over cracks as smoothly as 69mm+ wheels, but they accelerate faster and feel more connected to the board during technical maneuvers. The high-rebound urethane maintains energy through pump tracks and slalom runs, though they wear down quicker during heavy sliding sessions. For freeriders who prioritize consistency and control, these are a dream—no break-in period, no surprises.

Compared to the larger Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm, these trade some bump absorption and top-end speed for superior flickability and slide initiation. They go head-to-head with Orangatang Kegel in versatility but at a more accessible price. If your style leans toward urban slashing, bus stops, or slide jams, these wheels are purpose-built for fun—offering a pro-level freeride feel right out of the box.

Best Community-Tested

Rayne Envy 70mm 77A

Rayne Envy 70mm 77A
Diameter
70mm
Durometer
77A
Lip Profile
Rounded lips
Core Type
Side set cores
Riding Style
Downhill/Freeride
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Rounded slide lips
Eco-friendly build
Community-tested
Smooth slide release

LIMITATIONS

×
Average roll speed
×
Limited color options

Born from real rider feedback and relentless prototyping, the Rayne Envy 70mm 77A wheels are a testament to community-driven design—offering buttery-smooth slides and chatter-free release that downhill and freeride skaters crave. The 77A softness gives a forgiving ride over rough patches, while the side-set core and rounded lips allow the wheel to pivot cleanly during drifts, eliminating the grabby feel that plagues many entry-level freeride wheels.

In real-world use, these wheels handle everything from steep hill runs to alley-oop slides with surprising poise. The 70mm diameter maintains momentum well and rolls over debris better than smaller options, while the slightly softer urethane cushions landings during tricks or drops. They’re not the fastest-accelerating wheels, but their predictable slide behavior makes them ideal for learning or refining technique. On wet or dusty surfaces, they lose grip gradually—giving riders time to react—unlike some harder wheels that break loose suddenly.

Stacked against the Shark Wheels, the Envy set trades all-terrain versatility for superior slide purity and downhill control, all while supporting eco-conscious manufacturing. They match the performance of pricier Blood Orange or Loaded wheels but at a fraction of the cost. For riders who value sustainability without sacrificing shred, these wheels stand out—proving that green doesn’t mean soft on performance.

Best Budget Friendly

RaceBon 60mm 78A Cruiser Wheels

RaceBon 60mm 78A Cruiser Wheels
Diameter
60mm
Width
45mm
Hardness
78A
Material
Polyurethane
Bearings
608 with spacers
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Budget-friendly
Free bearings
Smooth roll
Easy handling

LIMITATIONS

×
Small for rough roads
×
Basic urethane formula

For riders on a tight budget who still want solid performance and full kit convenience, the RaceBon 60mm wheels are a no-frills triumph—delivering smooth 78A roll and free pre-lubricated ABEC-9 bearings in one ultra-affordable package. The high-resilience PU formula provides a stable, grippy ride on sidewalks and smooth asphalt, making them ideal for beginners or casual skaters who want reliability without complexity.

In everyday use, these wheels handle light carving and short commutes with ease. The 60mm size keeps the board low and manageable, great for kids or park skaters, though they struggle on cracked pavement or at higher speeds. The free steel bearings and spacers are a standout bonus—many budget sets skimp here, but these spin smoothly and last longer than expected. While they don’t support aggressive freeriding, they’re more than capable for learning basics or neighborhood cruising.

Compared to the NONMON LED set, the RaceBon wheels offer similar size and hardness but skip the lights for better value in pure performance. They can’t match the durability of Cloud Ride or Rayne urethane, but for the price, they punch far above their weight. If you need a reliable starter set that won’t break the bank, these wheels are the smart entry point—proving budget doesn’t mean bad vibes.

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Longboard Wheel Comparison: Cruising

Product Diameter (mm) Durometer (A) Best For Key Features Bearings Included? Price Point
Shark Wheel 72mm 78a DNA 72 78 Best Overall All-terrain, debris deflection, Made in USA No Mid-Range
RaceBon 60mm 78A Cruiser Wheels 60 78 Best Budget Friendly 60mm diameter, 78A hardness, includes 608 bearings Yes Budget
Cloud Ride Street Cruiser 65mm 65 78 Best for Carving & Sliding Versatile, pre-ground for easier sliding, good grip No Mid-Range
Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78A 69 78 Best Smooth Ride Carving & cruising, high rebound urethane, square lip No Mid-Range
Rayne Envy 70mm 77A 70 77 Best Community-Tested Smooth slides, rounded lips, freeride-focused No Mid-Range
BRAVORD 70mm 82A Frosted 70 82 Best Grip on Rough Surfaces Frosted surface for slip resistance, high-quality polyurethane No Mid-Range
NONMON 60mm LED Light Wheels 60 78 Best for Night Riding LED lights, 78A hardness, includes ABEC-9 bearings Yes Budget

Testing & Analysis: Finding the Best Longboard Wheels for Cruising

Our recommendations for the best wheels for cruising on longboards aren’t based on opinion, but rigorous data analysis and a focus on established longboarding principles. We prioritize evaluating longboard wheels based on the core features outlined in our Buying Guide – diameter, durometer, and lip profile – and how they interact with real-world riding conditions.

We analyze user reviews across multiple platforms (Reddit’s r/longboarding, online retailers) to identify consistent feedback regarding grip, roll speed, smoothness, and durability. Comparative analyses of wheel specifications (sourced directly from manufacturers) are performed, focusing on polyurethane formulas and core designs. We cross-reference this data with established physics principles relating to wheel size and durometer to predict performance.

While physical testing of every wheel isn’t always feasible, we leverage in-depth reviews from experienced longboarders and publications specializing in action sports, prioritizing those with documented testing methodologies. This allows us to create a weighted scoring system, factoring in suitability for typical cruising surfaces and rider skill levels, ultimately guiding our longboard wheel selections. We consider the intended use case – prioritizing smoothness and roll speed for distance cruising versus grip for navigating varied terrain.

Choosing the Right Longboard Wheels for Cruising

Wheel Diameter: Size Matters

The diameter of your wheels significantly impacts your cruising experience. Larger wheels (69mm – 75mm+) roll faster and handle cracks and rough surfaces more easily. This is because a larger wheel has more surface area to roll over obstacles. They require more effort to accelerate, but once up to speed, they maintain momentum well. Smaller wheels (55mm – 65mm) accelerate quicker and are more responsive for carving and tighter turns. They’re great for smooth surfaces but can feel bumpier on rough terrain. Consider where you’ll be cruising most often – smooth pavement favors smaller wheels, while varied surfaces benefit from larger ones.

Wheel Durometer: Finding the Right Hardness

Durometer, measured by the “A” scale, indicates wheel hardness. Softer wheels (78A – 85A) provide more grip and a smoother, more comfortable ride, especially on rough surfaces. They absorb vibrations well, but wear down faster and are less efficient for long distances. Harder wheels (86A+) roll faster and are more durable, making them ideal for smooth surfaces and sliding. However, they offer less grip and transmit more vibrations. For general cruising, a 78A-82A wheel is a good starting point, offering a balance of grip and smoothness.

Wheel Lip Profile: Grip and Slide Characteristics

The shape of the wheel’s edge, or lip, dramatically affects how it interacts with the road. Rounded lip profiles offer predictability and are easier to break into a slide, making them popular for freeride and downhill styles. Square lip profiles provide maximum grip and are excellent for carving and maintaining control. These are great for confident cruisers who want to feel locked in. Many wheels offer a hybrid lip design, balancing both grip and slide capabilities.

Other Important Considerations

  • Material: Polyurethane (PU) is the standard material for longboard wheels. Higher-quality PU formulas offer better rebound, durability, and grip.
  • Bearings: While not part of the wheel itself, the quality of your bearings impacts roll speed and smoothness. ABEC ratings indicate precision, but aren’t the sole determinant of bearing quality.
  • Core Design: Some wheels feature different core designs to affect weight distribution and slide characteristics.
  • Surface Type: Consider the primary surfaces you’ll be riding on. Rough asphalt, concrete, or smooth park surfaces will all influence the best wheel choice.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best longboard wheels for cruising depend on your individual preferences and riding conditions. Whether you prioritize speed, smoothness, grip, or budget, there’s a wheel out there to enhance your experience.

By understanding the impact of diameter, durometer, and lip profile, you can confidently select wheels that match your cruising style and terrain. Don’t be afraid to experiment to find what feels best – a little research goes a long way toward a more enjoyable ride!