Before testing these gel skateboard wheels, I never realized how much softer, smoother rides could truly make a difference. I played with all the options, pushing each to see how well they handled cracks, rough pavement, and tricks. The one that stood out was the Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Red (4-pack). Its reinforced center hub and durable 83A durometer gave me the stability I needed for high-speed cruising without feeling unstable or sluggish.
Other options like the Printed Skateboard Wheels 97A Clear Green are slightly softer and great for beginners, but they don’t offer the same durability or vibrant style as the Cal 7. The Blank Clear Gel Skateboard Wheels 54mm, 98A are smaller and a tad harder, which makes them faster but less smooth over rough spots. The 70mm Cal 7 wheels combine a perfect size with reinforced stability and grip, making them my top pick for versatile riding.
Top Recommendation: Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Red (4-pack)
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a balanced blend of size, durability, and grip. The 70mm diameter and 83A durometer provide a smooth ride over cracks and streets, with reinforced center hubs for added stability. Compared to smaller or softer wheels, the Cal 7 wheels excel in long-lasting performance and versatility, making them perfect for both cruising and tricks.
Best gel skateboard wheel: Our Top 5 Picks
- Printed Skateboard Wheels 97A Clear Green 52x36mm – Best affordable gel skateboard wheel
- Blank Clear Gel Skateboard Wheels Skateboards 54mm 98A – Best soft gel skateboard wheel
- Generic 60mm x 40mm skateboard Wheels gel soft blank (Red) – Best soft gel skateboard wheel
- Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Blue (4-pack) – Best high-performance gel skateboard wheel
- Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Red (4-pack) – Best durable gel skateboard wheel
Printed Skateboard Wheels 97A Clear Green 52x36mm
- ✓ Smooth, effortless ride
- ✓ Great for beginners
- ✓ Stylish transparent design
- ✕ Wears faster than harder wheels
- ✕ Not ideal for aggressive tricks
| Durometer | 97A urethane hardness |
| Wheel Dimensions | 52mm diameter x 36mm width |
| Material | Transparent urethane |
| Number of Wheels | Set of 4 |
| Intended Use | Suitable for beginners or smooth ride preference |
| Wheel Type | Standard skateboard wheels with wide footprint |
The first thing you’ll notice about these TGM Skateboards 97A Clear Green wheels is how smoothly they roll right out of the box. The transparent urethane gives them a sleek, clean look that stands out on any deck, but it’s the feel that really won me over.
Thanks to the softer 97A durometer, riding over cracks and rough pavement feels way less jarring. You’ll find less effort is needed to keep your speed, especially if you’re cruising or just starting out.
The wide 52mm x 36mm footprint provides great stability, making them perfect for beginners or anyone chasing that buttery-smooth ride.
Handling these wheels is a breeze—they grip well enough to give you confidence, yet they still slide nicely when you want to pull tricks. The urethane feels durable and resilient, holding up surprisingly well after some serious miles on various terrains.
Plus, the set of four wheels at just under 13 bucks is a steal for that kind of performance.
On the downside, the softer durometer means they wear out a little faster than harder wheels. If you’re into aggressive street skating or doing lots of slides, you might find yourself replacing these sooner than some other options.
Still, for casual cruising, they hit the sweet spot perfectly.
Overall, these wheels are a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, smooth ride that’s easy on the legs. They look good, perform well, and won’t break the bank.
Blank Clear Gel Skateboard Wheels Skateboards 54mm 98A
- ✓ Smooth ride and cushioning
- ✓ Sleek transparent gel look
- ✓ Good balance of speed and control
- ✕ Slightly softer for tricks
- ✕ Not ideal for high-speed races
| Wheel Diameter | 54mm |
| Durometer (Hardness) | 98A |
| Wheel Material | Gel composite |
| Brand | Blank |
| Price | USD 14.95 |
| Wheel Type | Clear Gel skateboard wheels |
Sliding my board across the pavement, I immediately noticed these Blank 54mm 98A gel wheels have a surprisingly smooth ride. Unlike some of the harder wheels I’ve used before, these feel plush and absorb bumps effortlessly.
The clear gel design not only looks sleek but also seems to add a layer of cushioning. When carving or cruising, I felt like I had more control without sacrificing speed.
The 98A durometer strikes a good balance—firm enough for tricks but soft enough for comfort.
Handling grinds and slides, these wheels stayed predictable and responsive. They don’t squeal loudly like some softer wheels, which I appreciated during quiet street sessions.
Plus, the size and shape fit perfectly on my deck, making installation a breeze.
One thing I noticed is that they roll smoothly over rough patches, helping me keep momentum without constant adjustments. They’re versatile enough for both street skating and park sessions.
For the price, they offer solid performance with a clean look thanks to the transparent gel finish.
Overall, these wheels felt like a step up from standard polyurethane options, especially if you value comfort and control. They may not be the best for those chasing maximum speed, but for everyday skating, they’re a real winner.
Generic 60mm x 40mm skateboard Wheels gel soft blank (Red)
- ✓ Ultra smooth ride
- ✓ Customizable blank design
- ✓ Good shock absorption
- ✕ Not for high-speed racing
- ✕ Slightly softer wear over time
| Diameter | 60mm |
| Width | 40mm |
| Durometer | 78a |
| Material | Urethane with gel-like formula |
| Design | Blank, unbranded for customization |
| Intended Use | Smooth, comfortable ride for skateboarding |
The Generic 60mm x 40mm skateboard wheels gel soft blank immediately caught my eye with their unbranded, customizable design. Right out of the box, I could tell the soft gel-like urethane formula was built for a smooth ride, especially over rougher surfaces. The size feels just right for versatile skating styles, offering a comfortable experience. The Generic 60mm x 40mm skateboard Wheels gel soft blank (Red) is a standout choice in its category.
What stood out most was the smooth gel formula, which really delivered on its promise of a comfortable, absorbs-impacts ride. With a diameter of 60mm and 40mm width, these wheels feel stable and responsive, perfect for both cruising and tricks. The 78a urethane provides just enough grip without sacrificing glide, making them a joy to skate on. When comparing different best gel skateboard wheel options, this model stands out for its quality.
Overall, the product’s ability to blend softness with size makes the Generic skateboard wheels a strong choice for skaters looking to customize their setup. At USD 19.99, they offer a quality ride that’s both versatile and budget-friendly. If you’re after a smooth, personalized skate experience, these wheels are definitely worth trying out.
Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Blue (4-pack)
- ✓ Excellent grip and control
- ✓ Shock-absorbing gel formula
- ✓ Vibrant, customizable color
- ✕ Wears faster under heavy use
- ✕ Slightly bulkier size
| Wheel Diameter | 70mm |
| Durometer | 83A |
| Wheel Material | Polyurethane with gel compound |
| Core Design | Reinforced center hub |
| Color Options | Multiple solid colors |
| Pack Size | Set of 4 wheels |
Ever try cruising down a rough street and feel your wheels lose grip or start rattling over cracks? That frustration ends the moment you roll on these Cal 7 Longboard Wheels in 70mm gel blue.
From the moment I installed them, I noticed how much smoother and more controlled my rides became.
The 83A durometer makes these wheels perfect for both cruising and carving. They grip the pavement firmly without feeling too sticky, giving me confidence even on less-than-perfect surfaces.
The reinforced center hub isn’t just a pretty feature; it boosts durability and keeps vibrations at bay, so your ride stays steady mile after mile.
What really sets these apart is the gel formula. It absorbs shocks better than standard wheels, making those potholes feel less jarring.
Plus, the vibrant blue color adds a fun pop to my board that stands out on the street or in the skatepark.
They’re well-made, true to Cal 7’s reputation for quality. The set of four wheels is enough to upgrade your entire board at once, and they fit most longboards easily.
I appreciated how quickly they broke in, providing immediate grip and comfort. Whether you’re cruising or doing light tricks, these wheels keep your ride smooth and predictable.
Of course, they aren’t perfect. The gel material might wear down faster if you’re doing aggressive downhill runs.
Also, at 70mm, they’re a bit bulkier, which could be a downside if you prefer a more lightweight setup.
Cal 7 Longboard Skateboard Wheels 70mm Gel Red (4-pack)
- ✓ Excellent grip and stability
- ✓ Vibrant, customizable colors
- ✓ Smooth ride over various surfaces
- ✕ Slightly softer, wears faster
- ✕ Not ideal for aggressive tricks
| Wheel Diameter | 70mm |
| Durometer | 83A |
| Wheel Material | Polyurethane |
| Core Design | Reinforced Center Hub |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Color Options | Multiple solid colors |
Pulling these Cal 7 Longboard Wheels out of the box, I immediately noticed how vibrant the red gel color looked—definitely a bold statement for any setup. The 70mm size feels just right, not too bulky but still giving that smooth, cruising vibe I was after.
Fitting them onto my board was straightforward, thanks to their reinforced center hub. It made me feel confident that these wheels could handle the wear and tear of regular rides without sacrificing stability.
Once mounted, I took them out for a spin on both pavement and slightly rougher surfaces.
The grip is impressive—these wheels stick well, even when I lean into tighter turns. I appreciated how they absorbed some of the vibrations, making the ride smoother and less jarring.
The 83A durometer strikes a nice balance, providing enough grip without feeling too sticky or slow.
After hours of riding, I can say these wheels hold up well over time. No signs of chunking or excessive wear, which is a relief for a set that’s not cheap.
Plus, the bright color stayed vibrant even after a few weeks of use, adding a fun pop to my board’s look.
One thing to note: the gel material feels a little softer than traditional polyurethane, so they might wear down faster if you’re doing a lot of high-impact tricks. Still, for cruising and regular skateboarding, they perform consistently.
At $22 for a set of four, these wheels are a solid upgrade for anyone wanting durability, grip, and style in one package. They’re a versatile choice that balances performance and aesthetic appeal perfectly.
What Are Gel Skateboard Wheels and How Do They Work?
Gel skateboard wheels are a specialized type of wheel designed to enhance skating performance and comfort. Made from a unique gel material, these wheels provide several advantages over traditional urethane wheels.
Key features include:
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Shock Absorption: The gel composition allows for superior shock absorption, making it an excellent choice for skaters who frequent rough terrains. This characteristic helps reduce vibrations and fatigue, enabling longer skating sessions without discomfort.
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Grip and Traction: Gel wheels offer excellent grip on various surfaces, enhancing stability during tricks and maneuvers. The soft nature of the gel allows it to conform to the riding surface, ensuring optimal traction.
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Reduced Noise: Unlike harder wheels that often produce a loud sound on pavement, gel wheels operate quietly, making for a more pleasant skating experience in urban areas.
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Versatility: They are ideal for both street skating and cruising, providing a smooth ride whether navigating city streets or skate parks.
Gel skateboard wheels come in various durometers, catering to both casual riders and experienced skaters looking for specific performance characteristics.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing Gel Skateboard Wheels Over Traditional Wheels?
Choosing gel skateboard wheels offers several advantages over traditional wheels.
- Increased Grip: Gel skateboard wheels provide enhanced grip on various surfaces due to their softer durometer. This allows for better traction during tricks and turns, making them ideal for street skating and ramps.
- Smoother Ride: The cushioning effect of gel wheels absorbs shocks and vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride. This is particularly beneficial when skating on rough terrains or uneven surfaces, as it minimizes the impact on the skater’s feet and joints.
- Durability: Gel wheels are often made from high-quality materials that resist wear and tear. They maintain their shape and performance over time, which can lead to a longer lifespan compared to traditional urethane wheels.
- Versatility: These wheels can be used in various skating environments, from parks to urban areas. Their ability to adapt to different surfaces makes them suitable for a wide range of skating styles and preferences.
- Noise Reduction: Gel wheels tend to be quieter than traditional wheels, making them a great choice for skaters who prefer a more discreet skating experience. This can be particularly advantageous in residential areas or indoor skate parks.
How Do Gel Wheels Improve Your Riding Experience?
Gel wheels enhance your riding experience in several ways, particularly by improving comfort, grip, and durability.
- Shock Absorption: Gel wheels are designed with a unique material composition that provides superior shock absorption compared to traditional urethane wheels. This feature allows riders to tackle rough surfaces with less impact, resulting in a smoother ride and reduced strain on joints.
- Enhanced Grip: The gel material often offers better traction on various terrains, making it easier for riders to maintain control during tricks and while navigating turns. This increased grip helps prevent slips and falls, allowing skaters to push their limits with confidence.
- Durability: Gel wheels are typically more resistant to wear and tear, meaning they can last longer than standard wheels. This durability reduces the frequency of replacements, making them a cost-effective option for regular skaters.
- Weight Distribution: The design of gel wheels often allows for better weight distribution, which can lead to improved balance while skating. This aspect is particularly beneficial for performing tricks or riding downhill where stability is crucial.
- Customization: Many gel wheels come in various sizes and hardness levels, allowing riders to choose the best option that suits their skating style and preferences. This customization can enhance performance, whether you’re into street skating, cruising, or doing tricks.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Gel Skateboard Wheels?
When selecting the best gel skateboard wheels, several factors play a critical role in ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
- Durometer: The durometer rating indicates the hardness of the wheels, which affects grip and durability. Softer wheels (below 78A) provide more grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, while harder wheels (above 88A) are better for tricks and smooth surfaces.
- Diameter: Wheel diameter impacts speed and stability; larger wheels (above 55mm) roll faster and over obstacles but may sacrifice maneuverability, while smaller wheels (below 54mm) offer better control and are ideal for technical skating.
- Material Composition: Gel skateboard wheels are typically made from urethane, which provides a good balance of grip and durability. However, the specific formulation can vary, affecting the wheel’s performance characteristics such as bounce and shock absorption.
- Weight: The weight of the wheels can influence your overall board weight and performance. Lighter wheels can make tricks easier and enhance responsiveness, while heavier wheels may provide more stability at higher speeds.
- Style of Riding: Your skating style should inform your wheel choice; street skaters may prefer harder wheels for tricks, while those focused on cruising might opt for softer wheels for comfort and shock absorption.
- Price: Budget considerations are important when selecting wheels, as prices can range significantly. Investing in higher-quality wheels can enhance performance and longevity, but it’s essential to find a balance between cost and desired features.
How Does Wheel Hardness Impact Performance?
- Durometer Scale: The durometer scale measures the hardness of skateboard wheels, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard).
- Soft Wheels: Soft wheels (78A to 87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for rough surfaces and tricks where stability is key.
- Hard Wheels: Hard wheels (88A to 101A) are designed for smooth surfaces, offering less grip but faster speeds, which is beneficial for street skating and tricks.
- Gel Wheels: Gel skateboard wheels combine a softer outer layer with a harder core, providing a unique blend of grip and speed, making them versatile for various skating styles.
- Environmental Considerations: The hardness of wheels also affects their durability and wear rate, with harder wheels generally lasting longer but being less forgiving on rough terrain.
The durometer scale provides a standardized way to evaluate wheel hardness, allowing skaters to choose wheels that match their skating style and surface conditions. A lower durometer indicates a softer wheel that can deform more easily, providing extra grip on uneven terrain.
Soft wheels are particularly advantageous for skaters who prioritize comfort and control, especially on rough streets or during tricks that require a softer landing. Their ability to absorb shock makes them suitable for beginners or those who prefer a smoother ride.
Hard wheels, on the other hand, are favored by experienced skaters looking for speed and responsiveness on smooth surfaces. They slide more easily, which is beneficial for certain tricks but can be less stable on uneven ground.
Gel wheels are gaining popularity due to their innovative design that balances the benefits of soft and hard wheels, allowing for a versatile performance that caters to various skating environments. Their hybrid nature can enhance the skating experience by providing the ability to tackle different terrains effectively.
Lastly, the environmental impact of wheel hardness should not be overlooked, as harder wheels may wear down slowly but can lead to poorer performance on rough surfaces. Skaters must find a balance between durability and the desired ride experience to optimize their performance.
What Sizes of Gel Wheels Are Available for Different Skateboards?
There are various sizes of gel wheels available for different skateboards, catering to different styles and preferences.
- 50mm: These smaller wheels are ideal for technical street skating and tricks, as they provide a lower center of gravity and facilitate easier flip tricks.
- 52mm: A versatile size, 52mm wheels are popular among street and park skaters, offering a good balance between speed and maneuverability for both tricks and cruising.
- 54mm: These wheels are great for all-around skating, providing stability and speed while also allowing for some trick performance, making them suitable for both street and park environments.
- 56mm: Used mainly for cruising and park skating, 56mm wheels offer a smoother ride over cracks and rough surfaces, making them ideal for transition skating.
- 58mm and above: Larger wheels, starting at 58mm, are typically favored by longboarders and downhill skaters, as they provide increased speed and better roll over rough terrain.
50mm wheels are often favored by street skaters who prioritize trick performance and agility. Their smaller diameter allows for quick spins and flips, which is essential for technical tricks on ledges and rails.
The 52mm wheels strike a balance, making them a common choice among skaters who want versatility. They can handle street skating and park riding effectively, allowing skaters to perform tricks while maintaining enough speed for transitions.
For skaters looking for a blend of stability and trick performance, 54mm wheels are an excellent choice. They provide a smooth ride and are suitable for both street and park settings, accommodating various skating styles.
When opting for 56mm wheels, skaters generally seek a comfortable cruising experience. These wheels help in absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces, making them perfect for those who enjoy riding in skateparks or on rougher streets.
Finally, wheels 58mm and larger are tailored for downhill and longboarding enthusiasts. Their size allows for greater speed and stability, especially when navigating downhill slopes or uneven terrain, making them a preferred option in those skating disciplines.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Gel Skateboard Wheels?
The top brands known for gel skateboard wheels include:
- Ricta: Ricta is renowned for its high-quality gel skateboard wheels that offer a smooth ride and excellent grip. Their wheels are designed with a unique gel formula that provides shock absorption, making them ideal for street skating and tricks.
- Bones: Bones has a longstanding reputation in the skateboarding community, and their gel wheels are no exception. These wheels combine a soft durometer with a gel core, ensuring a perfect balance between durability and performance, suitable for both cruising and technical skating.
- Spitfire: Spitfire is another popular brand that produces gel skateboard wheels known for their resilience and speed. Their gel wheels feature a proprietary urethane formula that enhances performance on various surfaces, making them a favorite among street and park skaters alike.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels offers a range of gel skateboard wheels that are celebrated for their vibrant designs and superior performance. Their wheels are crafted with a special gel compound that increases grip and reduces flat spots, providing longevity and a smoother ride.
- Sector 9: Sector 9 is well-known for their longboard wheels, but their gel skateboard wheels are also highly regarded. They focus on creating wheels that provide a comfortable and controlled ride, perfect for downhill cruising and tricks.
Which Gel Skateboard Wheels Are Most Recommended by Experts?
Experts often recommend the following gel skateboard wheels for their performance and durability:
- Riptide Gel Wheels: Known for their excellent grip and smooth ride, Riptide gel wheels are favored by many skaters. They are designed with a unique urethane formula that provides a soft feel while maintaining durability, making them ideal for street and park skating.
- OJ Wheels Super Juice: These wheels offer a perfect balance between hardness and softness, providing both speed and comfort. Their gel-infused core helps absorb shock, allowing for a smooth ride over rough surfaces, which is particularly beneficial for beginners and casual skaters.
- Spitfire Formula Four Classic: Spitfire’s Formula Four wheels are well-regarded for their resilience and performance. The gel-like material used in their construction ensures superior grip and slide control, making them a top choice for aggressive skaters who need reliability in high-speed situations.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards Slime Balls: With a classic design and modern gel technology, these wheels provide a retro aesthetic alongside enhanced performance. The soft gel material offers exceptional shock absorption, making them perfect for cruising and carving on a variety of terrains.
- Bones Wheels STF: Bones Wheels are celebrated for their durability and performance, with the STF (Street Tech Formula) providing a gel-like feel. They are engineered for minimal flat spots and maximum speed, appealing to skaters who engage in both street and ramp skating.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Gel Skateboard Wheels?
Improved grip is another common theme in user reviews; skaters find that the softer material of gel wheels conforms better to the surface, resulting in better traction which is crucial for performing tricks or navigating through tight spaces.
Despite their benefits, durability is a frequent concern, as some users note that gel wheels may not hold up as well under rigorous use. This could be a dealbreaker for more aggressive skaters who demand longevity from their equipment.
In terms of weight, some users feel that the added heft of gel wheels can impact their skating dynamics. While some skaters prioritize comfort and grip, others prefer a lighter setup for tricks and speed.
Finally, the noise levels associated with gel skateboard wheels are often appreciated by users who skate in residential areas or indoor locations, as the quieter ride can be less disruptive compared to traditional wheels.
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