Imagine gliding down a smooth hill, wind in your hair, the perfect carve feeling effortless. What’s the secret ingredient to that amazing ride? Often, it’s the unsung heroes of your longboard: the wheels! But step into any skate shop, or browse online, and you’re hit with a rainbow of colors, sizes, and materials. It’s enough to make your head spin, right?
Choosing the right longboard wheels can feel like a puzzle. Too small, and you’ll get stuck on cracks. Too big, and you might get wheel bite. Want to cruise comfortably? Need to slide smoothly? The wrong wheels can turn a dream ride into a bumpy, frustrating mess. It’s a common headache for riders, from beginners to seasoned pros.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to break it all down. We’ll explore what makes each type of wheel unique and how to match them to your riding style. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to pick wheels that make your longboard feel like an extension of your feet, ready for any adventure you throw at it.
Our Top 5 Longboard Wheels Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Longboard Wheels Detailed Reviews
1. Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 80A Shr Mountain Cruisers
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to fly down hills with the Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 80A Shr Mountain Cruisers! These black, 76mm wheels are built for speed and control. They measure 76mm by 53mm, giving you a big footprint for a smooth ride.
What We Like:
- The 80A Super High Rebound (SHR) hardness gives you awesome grip and keeps you stable even when you’re going super fast.
- The offset core helps these wheels hug corners and turns, so you can carve with confidence.
- You get predictable and controlled slides, which is great for advanced riders.
- These Mountain Cruisers are made for riders who love going fast, like in slalom or downhill skateboarding.
- The big 76mm size helps you keep your top speed longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- The larger size might make them feel a little heavier for beginners.
- Their specialized design means they might not be the best choice for casual cruising or tricks.
If you’re serious about speed and want to push your limits, these Bigfoot wheels are a fantastic choice. They deliver the performance you need for exhilarating downhill rides.
2. LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels 80A Contains ABEC-9 Bearings and Spacers
Rating: 9.1/10
Upgrade your ride with the LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels. These transparent frosted wheels are designed to give your longboard, cruiser, or mini cruiser a smoother and more enjoyable experience. They come ready to install with ABEC-9 bearings and spacers already in place, plus all the hardware and riser pads you need. This kit is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to get into longboarding or refresh their current setup.
What We Like:
- The 70mm diameter and 80A hardness offer a great balance for various terrains, from smooth concrete to rougher pavement.
- The PU material provides a soft grip, making cornering feel more controlled and comfortable.
- ABEC-9 bearings are included and installed, promising fast, quiet, and durable rolling for your street skills.
- The complete package includes wheels, bearings, spacers, riser pads, and hardware, so you have everything to get rolling.
- These wheels fit a wide range of skateboards, including longboards and mini cruisers, making them versatile.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 80A hardness is good for grip, more advanced riders might prefer a harder wheel for speed on very smooth surfaces.
- The “transparent frosted” look, while appealing, might show dirt and scuffs more easily over time.
This LOOEEL wheel kit is a solid choice for beginners and casual riders looking for a smooth and complete upgrade. You’ll be cruising in no time.
3. Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to roll faster and smoother with the Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle. This kit gives you everything you need to upgrade your skateboard or longboard. You get eight high-quality bearings, plus four spacers and eight washers. These parts work together to make your wheels spin better. It’s a great way to boost your ride’s performance.
What We Like:
- The rubber shields are easy to take off. This makes cleaning your bearings a breeze.
- Less friction means your wheels spin faster and longer.
- The nylon ball retainer makes the bearings strong and speedy.
- They come pre-lubricated with Speed Cream. This racing lubricant helps them perform their best right away.
- The “Skate Rated” design means they are built for top performance and last a long time.
- The bundle includes spacers and washers. This saves you extra trips to the store.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the rubber shields are removable, some users might prefer a fully sealed bearing for extreme dirt conditions.
- The included lubricant is excellent, but dedicated skaters might want to experiment with different types for specific riding styles.
This bundle offers fantastic value for any skater looking to improve their board. You’ll notice a significant difference in speed and how smoothly you ride.
4. Cloud Ride! Wheels Iceeez 59mm 78A Longboard Wheels
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to shred with the Cloud Ride! Wheels Iceeez 59mm 78A. These urethane longboard wheels are built for fun and speed. They’re perfect for longboarding, skateboarding, carving, cruising, downhill, and freeriding. Their special “Ice” formula makes them super slick, so you can slide easily without losing momentum. These wheels are designed for both beginners learning to slide and experienced riders looking for a playful setup.
What We Like:
- Ultra slick formula makes sliding incredibly easy and fun.
- Keeps speed even during slides, so you don’t slow down too much.
- Grippy lips and soft urethane help you stay in control while sliding.
- High resiliency means the wheels keep their shape and last a long time.
- Pre-ground for instant, consistent slides right out of the box.
- Great for learning to slide and freeride your longboard.
- High-quality urethane is poured with great attention to detail for durability.
- Compares well to top brands like Orangatang and Sector 9.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 59mm size might be a bit small for riders who prefer larger wheels for faster top speeds on very long downhill runs.
- While great for freeriding, they might not be the absolute best choice for pure downhill racing where maximum grip is essential.
If you want a wheel that lets you have a blast learning to slide and enjoy carving, the Iceeez are a fantastic choice. They offer a fun and predictable ride for a great price.
5. LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels 80A Contains ABEC-9 Bearings and Spacers
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to upgrade your ride? The LOOEEL 70mm Longboard Wheels are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their longboard or skateboard experience. This black set comes complete with everything you need to get rolling smoothly. The 70mm wheels are designed for a comfortable ride over various surfaces, and the included ABEC-9 bearings ensure a fast and quiet glide. Plus, you get riser pads and hardware, making this a convenient all-in-one package for your board.
What We Like:
- The 70mm diameter and 80A hardness offer a smooth and grippy ride on most pavements.
- ABEC-9 bearings and spacers are pre-installed for quick setup and offer fast, quiet rolling.
- The package includes riser pads and hardware, providing a complete upgrade solution.
- These wheels are versatile and fit many types of skateboards and longboards.
- They are made from durable, wear-resistant PU material.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 80A hardness might be a little too soft for extremely advanced riders seeking maximum speed.
- While good for general use, the included hardware might not be heavy-duty enough for very aggressive skating.
This LOOEEL wheel set offers great value and performance for everyday cruising and beginner riders. It’s an easy way to give your skateboard or longboard a noticeable boost.
Choosing the Right Longboard Wheels: Your Ultimate Guide
Finding the perfect longboard wheels can make a huge difference in how your board rides. Whether you’re cruising down hills, carving through town, or just enjoying a smooth ride, the right wheels are essential. This guide will help you understand what to look for so you can pick the best wheels for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for longboard wheels, keep these important features in mind:
- Diameter (Size): This is how big the wheel is. Bigger wheels roll over bumps more easily and give you more speed. Smaller wheels are lighter and help you turn faster.
- Durometer (Hardness): This tells you how hard the wheel is. It’s measured with a number and a letter, usually “A.” A lower number means a softer wheel, and a higher number means a harder wheel.
- Contact Patch: This is the part of the wheel that touches the ground. A wider contact patch gives you more grip, which is great for sliding and carving. A narrower patch is lighter and helps you turn more easily.
- Lip Shape: The edge of the wheel is called the lip. Rounded lips are better for sliding because they break free from the pavement easier. Sharp lips offer more grip.
- Core: The core is the center part of the wheel where the bearings go. Some cores are designed to be lighter or stronger.
Important Materials
Most longboard wheels are made from **polyurethane (PU)**. This material is tough and bounces back well, which is why it’s perfect for wheels. Different types of polyurethane can make wheels feel softer or harder, grip better, or slide more easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The **quality of the polyurethane** is a big deal. High-quality PU will last longer and perform better. Wheels made with cheaper materials might wear down quickly or not grip as well.
The **manufacturing process** also matters. Well-made wheels will be perfectly round and balanced. This means they’ll roll smoothly without wobbling. Poorly made wheels can feel bumpy and slow you down.
The **size and shape** of the wheel also affect quality for your ride. A wheel that’s too big for your board might rub when you turn. A wheel that’s too hard might feel slippery on rough roads.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your **riding style** should guide your wheel choice.
- Cruising: For smooth rides around town or on bike paths, you’ll want bigger, softer wheels. These soak up bumps and vibrations, giving you a comfortable ride. Look for wheels around 70mm-80mm in diameter with a durometer of 78A-85A.
- Carving: If you love to lean into turns and make smooth, flowing movements, softer wheels with a good contact patch are your friends. They offer excellent grip. Wheels around 65mm-70mm with a durometer of 78A-85A work well.
- Downhill: For speed demons, harder wheels are often preferred. They slide easier and are less likely to grip unexpectedly, which can cause crashes at high speeds. Larger diameters help maintain speed. Consider wheels 70mm+ with a durometer of 80A-90A.
- Freestyle/Tricks: Lighter, smaller wheels are better for tricks. They make it easier to pop your board and spin it in the air. Smaller contact patches help with slides. Wheels around 54mm-60mm with a durometer of 90A-100A are common.
Remember, there’s no single “best” wheel. It all depends on what you want to do with your longboard!
Longboard Wheel FAQs
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when buying longboard wheels?
A: The most important thing is to think about how you want to ride your longboard. Are you cruising, downhill, or doing tricks?
Q: How does wheel size affect my ride?
A: Bigger wheels roll over cracks and bumps more easily and go faster. Smaller wheels are lighter and help you turn quicker.
Q: What does “durometer” mean for wheels?
A: Durometer is a number that tells you how hard the wheel is. A lower number means a softer wheel, and a higher number means a harder wheel.
Q: Should I get soft or hard wheels?
A: Soft wheels give you more grip and a smoother ride, which is good for cruising and carving. Hard wheels are better for sliding and going fast, like in downhill skating.
Q: What is a “contact patch”?
A: The contact patch is the part of the wheel that touches the ground. A wider patch gives you more grip.
Q: What material are longboard wheels usually made from?
A: Most longboard wheels are made from polyurethane (PU).
Q: Can I use skateboard wheels on my longboard?
A: While you can, longboard wheels are generally bigger and softer than skateboard wheels, which is better for the typical longboard riding style.
Q: How do I know if my wheels are good quality?
A: Good quality wheels are made from good polyurethane, are perfectly round, and are balanced. They will feel smooth when you ride.
Q: Will I need to change my wheels often?
A: Good quality wheels can last a long time. You might need to change them if they get worn down from riding or if you want to try a different type of wheel for a new riding style.
Q: Where can I buy longboard wheels?
A: You can buy longboard wheels at skate shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers that sell skateboarding equipment.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.