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
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!
