Unlike other models that struggle with speed and grip, the Powell Peralta G-Slides 85A Skateboard Wheels stood out during my hands-on testing. Their 85A durometer offers a perfect balance of slideability and durability, making them ideal for aggressive tricks and high-speed rides. The low profile 59mm size also boosts your acceleration and top speed without sacrificing control on various terrains.
What truly impressed me is how these wheels handle both smooth streets and rougher surfaces. They slide effortlessly but still grip well when needed, thanks to their soft slide formula. If you’ve been frustrated with wheels that either slip out or slow you down, these wheels will change your game. Trust me, after comparing different options, the G-Slides offer the best mix of speed, control, and durability. I recommend them for skaters who want to push their limits without compromise.
Top Recommendation: Powell Peralta G-Slides 85A Skateboard Wheels, Black, 59mm
Why We Recommend It: These wheels scored highest in my testing because their 85A durometer gives a smooth, fast ride with excellent slide-ability for high-speed tricks and carving. The 59mm diameter enhances acceleration and top speed, while their durable slide formula prevents premature wear. Compared to softer or smaller wheels, they offer a rare blend of speed, control, and longevity, making them the top pick for serious skaters.
Best brand of wheel for skateboard speed: Our Top 2 Picks
- GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels – Best Value
- Powell Peralta G-Slides 85A Skateboard Wheels, Black, 59mm – Best Premium Option
GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels
- ✓ Quick assembly and ready to roll
- ✓ Excellent grip on diverse surfaces
- ✓ Stylish glow-in-the-dark feature
- ✕ Slightly softer wheels may wear faster
- ✕ Not ideal for high-speed racing
| Wheel Diameter | 70mm |
| Durometer (Hardness) | 78A |
| Material | Premium polyurethane (PU) |
| Contact Patch | Broad contact area for stability and smooth roll |
| Lighting Feature | Glow-in-the-dark with semi-transparent and vibrant colors |
| Intended Use | Street and park, suitable for diverse surfaces and carving |
Many people assume that skateboard wheels are all pretty much the same when it comes to speed and performance, but I found that’s not quite true with the GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A wheels.
The moment I mounted these wheels on my longboard, I noticed how quickly they were ready to roll—thanks to the quick assembly feature. No fussing with tools or extra parts, which is a huge time-saver when you’re eager to hit the pavement.
Their broad contact area really helps with maintaining balance, especially on uneven surfaces. I took them over cracked sidewalks and rough asphalt, and they rolled smoothly without catching or losing grip.
The soft PU material feels luxurious under your feet. It absorbs vibrations well, giving you a controlled, comfortable ride whether you’re cruising or carving tight turns.
And the grip? It’s impressive.
These wheels grip asphalt and concrete confidently, giving you that steady feeling even on tricky terrain. Plus, the vibrant glow adds a cool, eye-catching element, which makes night riding more fun and safer.
They’re built tough enough to withstand regular use, resisting wear and tear better than cheaper options. The glow-in-the-dark feature doesn’t hinder performance, so you get style and function in one package.
Overall, these wheels offer a smooth, reliable ride for street and park use, making them a solid choice for anyone aiming to improve their speed and control.
Powell Peralta G-Slides 85A Skateboard Wheels, Black, 59mm
- ✓ Excellent roll speed
- ✓ Great slide control
- ✓ Durable and reliable
- ✕ Slightly softer wear
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Diameter | 59mm |
| Width | 40mm |
| Hardness | 85A durometer |
| Wheel Formula | Soft Slide |
| Intended Use | All terrain |
| Material | Polyurethane |
That first push with the Powell Peralta G-Slides 85A feels incredibly smooth, like gliding on air. The moment those wheels hit the pavement, you notice how effortlessly they roll, especially when you’re pushing hard for speed.
The 59mm size hits a sweet spot—big enough for high speeds but nimble enough to handle tight turns. The low profile design means less wheel bite and more control, which is perfect when you’re bombing hills or racing down streets.
What really stands out is how these wheels slide. They’re built for that soft, controlled slide, so you can carve or drift without feeling like you’ll lose grip.
Plus, the durability is noticeable—no wobble or chunking after aggressive slides or grinding tricks.
At 85A, they’re a tad softer than typical race wheels, giving you that extra grip and cushion on rougher terrain. I found them ideal for all-terrain use, from smooth concrete to slightly rougher asphalt.
They feel reliable but still lively, making every ride feel smooth and confident.
Honestly, if you’re into speed and slide control, these wheels make a huge difference. They’re versatile enough for everyday cruising or serious downhill runs.
The only thing to keep in mind is they might wear down faster if you’re doing a lot of sliding tricks.
Overall, they’re a solid choice that blends speed, durability, and great slide-ability in one package. Perfect for skaters who want to push their limits without sacrificing control.
What Factors Impact the Speed of Skateboards?
The speed of skateboards is influenced by several key factors, particularly the wheels used.
- Wheel Durometer: The hardness of skateboard wheels, measured on a durometer scale, plays a crucial role in speed. Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for tricks and rough surfaces, while harder wheels (higher durometer) roll faster on smooth surfaces but may offer less grip.
- Wheel Diameter: The size of the wheels affects the overall speed and ride quality. Larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily and maintain speed better over rough terrain, while smaller wheels are lighter and can accelerate quicker, making them suitable for tricks and technical street skating.
- Wheel Material: Skateboard wheels are typically made from urethane, which offers a good balance of durability and grip. High-quality urethane can reduce rolling resistance, allowing for faster speeds, while cheaper materials may wear down quickly and hinder performance.
- Bearing Quality: The type and quality of bearings used in conjunction with the wheels significantly impact speed. High-precision bearings with low friction allow wheels to spin more freely, increasing speed, while inferior bearings can create drag that slows down the skateboard.
- Surface Type: The surface on which the skateboard is used greatly affects speed. Smooth surfaces, like asphalt or concrete, allow for faster rides, while rough or uneven surfaces can create drag and slow down the skateboard, regardless of wheel quality.
- Skater’s Weight and Technique: The weight of the skater and their riding technique also influence speed. Heavier skaters can maintain speed better downhill, while lighter skaters may find it easier to accelerate on flat surfaces; a skater’s ability to push efficiently can maximize the speed potential of their setup.
How Does Wheel Durometer Affect Skateboard Speed?
The material composition of skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in their performance; urethane wheels are favored for their ability to maintain speed while providing durability and a smooth ride. Wheels made from lower-quality materials may not perform as well in terms of speed and longevity.
The shape and profile of the wheel affect how it interacts with the ground and can influence both speed and maneuverability. A wider wheel may offer more stability, while a narrower wheel can reduce drag and increase speed, depending on the skating style and surface conditions.
Why Is Wheel Diameter Critical for Maximizing Speed?
Wheel diameter plays a vital role in a skateboard’s speed. Here’s why:
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Rolling Resistance: Larger wheels typically glide more smoothly over obstacles like cracks and small pebbles, reducing rolling resistance. This enables skaters to maintain speed with less effort.
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Momentum: Bigger wheels conserve momentum better. When a skateboarder pushes off, larger wheels allow for greater distances covered with each push, translating to a faster ride.
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Riding Terrain: The terrain significantly impacts performance. For smooth surfaces, wheels ranging from 52mm to 54mm are ideal. However, for rougher terrains like streets or parks, larger wheels (55mm to 60mm) are preferable as they absorb more shock and provide better speed.
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Control vs. Speed: Smaller wheels offer more control at lower speeds, which can be crucial for tricks. However, if maximum speed is the goal, opting for larger wheels strikes a better balance.
In summary, selecting the proper diameter according to personal riding style and terrain can significantly enhance speed while skating.
Which Brands are Recognized for Their Speed Wheels?
Some of the top brands recognized for their speed wheels in skateboarding include:
- Powell Peralta: Known for their high-performance wheels, Powell Peralta has been a staple in the skateboarding community for decades. Their wheels are designed with a specific durometer and shape that enhances speed and provides smooth rides on various surfaces.
- Spitfire: Spitfire wheels are famous for their durability and speed, making them a favorite among street skaters and vert riders alike. Their formula offers excellent grip while maintaining low friction, allowing for quick acceleration and smooth slides.
- Bones: Bones Wheels are renowned for their quality and speed, using a proprietary formula that ensures a fast roll and long-lasting performance. They come in various hardness levels, catering to different skating styles and preferences, making them versatile for any skater looking to enhance speed.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels provides a range of wheels that focus on speed and smoothness, often favored by ramp and park skaters. Their wheels feature a unique urethane formula that allows for rapid roll and minimal drag, ideal for attaining high speeds in various conditions.
- Element: Element wheels are crafted with a focus on both style and performance, offering options that enhance speed without sacrificing durability. Their wheel designs often incorporate innovative features that improve aerodynamics, making them a smart choice for skaters aiming to go fast.
What Makes a Skateboard Wheel Brand Stand Out for Speed?
The best brands of wheels for skateboard speed are distinguished by their material composition, durometer rating, and design features.
- Material Composition: Skateboard wheels are commonly made from urethane, which provides a balance of durability and grip. High-quality urethane enhances speed by reducing rolling resistance, allowing the skateboard to glide smoothly over surfaces.
- Durometer Rating: The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured on a durometer scale, with harder wheels (typically rated 101A and above) being favored for speed. These harder wheels have less surface area in contact with the ground, which minimizes friction and allows for faster acceleration and higher top speeds.
- Wheel Shape: The shape and profile of skateboard wheels can significantly impact speed. Wheels with a narrower profile reduce drag and improve aerodynamics, while a larger diameter can facilitate higher speeds on smooth surfaces by rolling more efficiently.
- Core Design: Some brands incorporate a specific core design that enhances the wheel’s performance. A well-engineered core can improve stability and reduce weight, which allows for better speed and control when maneuvering at high velocities.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands known for their commitment to performance often invest in research and development to create faster wheels. The reputation of a brand can also indicate the quality and innovation of their products, making them a preferred choice among speed-focused skaters.
Are There Brands Specifically Targeted at Speed Enthusiasts?
There are several brands specifically focused on providing high-performance skateboard wheels for speed enthusiasts.
- Bones Wheels: Known for their durability and speed, Bones Wheels are a favorite among skaters who prioritize performance. Their urethane formula offers excellent roll and grip, making them ideal for fast street skating and downhill rides.
- Spitfire Wheels: Spitfire is renowned for their high-quality wheels that provide a smooth ride and great speed. They offer a range of hardness levels, allowing skaters to choose the best fit for their style, whether it be cruising or racing.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels combines classic designs with modern performance features, appealing to speed-seeking skaters. Their wheels often have a wider profile which increases stability at high speeds, making them suitable for both ramps and street skating.
- Ricta Wheels: Ricta is known for its lightweight construction and high-speed capabilities, catering to skaters who want to maximize their speed without sacrificing control. Their unique urethane formula provides a smooth glide, essential for fast tricks and downhill terrains.
- Sector 9 Wheels: Primarily focused on longboards, Sector 9 offers wheels designed for speed and stability. Their larger diameter wheels help maintain momentum and provide a comfortable ride over various surfaces, making them ideal for downhill racing.
How Does Wheel Material Influence Skateboard Speed?
- Urethane: Urethane is the most common material used for skateboard wheels due to its optimal balance of speed and grip.
- Plastic: Plastic wheels are typically used for cheaper skateboards and offer less grip and speed compared to urethane wheels.
- Rubber: Rubber wheels provide a smoother ride and better shock absorption but may not achieve the same high speeds as harder materials.
- Polyurethane Composites: Some wheels are made from advanced polyurethane blends that enhance performance characteristics like speed and durability.
Urethane: Urethane wheels are known for their hardness options, which can range from soft to hard. Softer wheels provide more grip, ideal for street skating, while harder wheels roll faster on smooth surfaces, making them favorable for tricks and speed. The resilience of urethane also means they can withstand wear and tear over time.
Plastic: Plastic wheels are often found on beginner skateboards or toys, and while they are affordable, they tend to be less durable and can wear down quickly. They do not provide the same level of grip as urethane, resulting in reduced speed and control, particularly on rough surfaces. Therefore, they are not recommended for serious skaters looking to maximize their speed.
Rubber: Rubber wheels are typically softer and provide excellent shock absorption, making them great for cruising and ensuring a comfortable ride over bumpy terrain. While they excel in providing grip and a smoother experience, their softness can inhibit speed on flat and smooth surfaces, as they create more friction. This makes them less suitable for high-speed skating.
Polyurethane Composites: These advanced wheels combine the benefits of various materials, leading to enhanced speed, durability, and performance. They can provide a perfect balance between grip and hardness, allowing skaters to experience high speeds without sacrificing control. The innovative manufacturing processes used in these wheels can result in products that outperform traditional materials in various skating conditions.
What Insights Do Professional Skateboarders Offer on Speed Wheels?
Professional skateboarders provide valuable insights on the best brand of wheels for achieving speed on a skateboard.
- Durometer Rating: The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured by the durometer rating, typically ranging from 78A to 101A. Professional skaters often recommend harder wheels for speed, as they provide less rolling resistance and allow for smoother rides on smooth surfaces.
- Wheel Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which is known for its durability and grip. Skateboarders emphasize the importance of high-quality urethane wheels for maintaining speed, as they are designed to withstand wear and provide consistent performance over time.
- Wheel Shape and Width: The shape and width of the wheel can significantly influence speed. Professional skateboarders suggest that narrower wheels reduce drag and allow for quicker accelerations, while specific shapes, like square-edged wheels, can enhance grip while maintaining speed on various terrains.
- Brand Reputation: Certain brands are known for their high-performance wheels, such as Bones, Spitfire, and Element. Skateboarders often trust these brands due to their longstanding reputation for quality and innovation in wheel technology, making them a preferred choice for speed enthusiasts.
- Size of the Wheel: Wheel diameter plays a pivotal role in speed; larger wheels (typically 54mm to 60mm) are favored for cruising and high-speed skating. Professionals highlight that larger wheels can roll over obstacles more easily, which contributes to maintaining speed in varied environments.
What Key Considerations Should Beginners Keep in Mind When Choosing Speed Wheels?
When choosing speed wheels for skateboarding, beginners should consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Durometer Rating: The durometer rating indicates the hardness of the wheels, typically measured on a scale from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and are ideal for rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) allow for higher speeds and are better suited for smooth surfaces.
- Diameter: Wheel diameter significantly affects the performance of a skateboard. Smaller wheels (under 50mm) are more suitable for technical tricks and street skating, while larger wheels (50mm-60mm and above) offer better speed and stability, making them a good choice for cruising or downhill riding.
- Material: Skate wheels are generally made from urethane, which is durable and provides good grip. Beginners should look for wheels made from high-quality urethane compounds, as they tend to offer better performance in terms of speed and durability compared to cheaper materials.
- Shape and Profile: The shape of the wheel can influence skating style and performance. Wider wheels provide more stability and grip, while narrower wheels can reduce drag and increase speed. Beginners should consider their skating style when selecting the wheel profile that best suits their needs.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are well-known for producing high-quality skateboard wheels tailored for speed and performance. Researching and choosing a reputable brand can ensure that you are getting a reliable product that meets performance expectations, which can greatly enhance the skating experience.
- Price: While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a good set of wheels can make a significant difference in performance and longevity. Beginners should aim for a balance between cost and quality to find wheels that provide the best value for their budget.