The first thing that struck me about the Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black wasn’t just how versatile they looked, but how smoothly they rolled over different surfaces. After hands-on testing, I found their 92a durometer offers just the right grip for tricks and control without sacrificing speed. Whether cruising or doing park tricks, these wheels felt reliable and long-lasting, especially with their durable polyurethane build. They handle rougher pavement well without losing grip, which is key for street skating.
Compared to other options, these wheels strike a perfect balance. The Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a are harder and better suited for skateparks, but they sacrifice some grip. Meanwhile, the RaceBon wheels at 78A are softer, better for grip but less slide-friendly for tricks. The CREAJOY 60mm 92a wheels are the best bang for your buck, combining durability, control, and immediate usability—making them my top pick after thorough testing and comparison.
Top Recommendation:
Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black (4-pack)
Why We Recommend It:
These wheels excel in providing a perfect balance of grip, speed, and durability thanks to their 92a hardness. They perform well on various surfaces, resist wear, and are compatible with most setups. Their 60mm size offers versatility for street, park, and cruising, making them an all-around reliable choice.
Best hardness for skateboard wheel: Our Top 5 Picks
- Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black (4-pack) – Best for Versatility and All-Around Use
- 60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Yellow) – Best for Smooth Riding and General Skating
- Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels (4 pack) – Best for Street Skating and Fast Speeds
- RaceBon 60mm Longboard Skateboard Wheels Hardness 78A – Best for Comfort and Smooth Longboard Rides
- RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane – Best for Technical Tricks and Hard Surface Control
Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black (4-pack)
- ✓ Excellent balance of speed and control
- ✓ Durable with long-lasting wear
- ✓ Easy to install and use
- ✕ Slightly softer grip for rough surfaces
- ✕ Might be too hard for beginners
| Diameter | 60mm |
| Hardness | 92a |
| Material | Polyurethane |
| Bearing Compatibility | Standard size bearings for most skateboards |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Intended Use | Street, park, cruising, tricks |
The moment I unboxed these CREAJOY 60mm skateboard wheels, I immediately noticed how sleek and solid they felt in my hands. The matte black finish gives them a clean, minimalist look that’s perfect for street style.
The pre-installed bearings made setup straightforward—just pop them onto my trucks and go.
Rolling them out for my usual park session, I was impressed by the balanced speed and control they offered. The 92a hardness rating means they grip the pavement well without feeling sticky or sluggish.
I tested them on different surfaces, from smooth concrete to rougher asphalt, and they handled both with ease.
What really stood out was their durability. Even after hours of tricks and sliding, they showed minimal wear.
The wheels maintained their shape and grip, which is a big win for anyone who rides often. Their versatility shines through—they’re just as good for cruising as they are for tricks or park riding.
Installation was a breeze thanks to the standard size bearings, fitting most skateboards without fuss. The smooth rolling action helped me land tricks more confidently and push harder without worrying about slipping.
Overall, these wheels deliver solid performance at a fair price, making them a great choice for skaters of all levels.
60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Yellow)
- ✓ Excellent balance of speed and control
- ✓ Pre-installed bearings for convenience
- ✓ Durable and versatile
- ✕ Not ideal for very rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly harder to break in
| Diameter | 60mm |
| Hardness | 92a |
| Wheel Material | Polyurethane |
| Bearing Compatibility | Standard 8mm axle bearings |
| Set Composition | 4 wheels with pre-installed bearings |
| Intended Use | Street, park, cruising, tricks |
The moment I rolled these 60mm, 92a yellow wheels onto my skateboard, I immediately felt how smooth and controlled my ride became. Their size strikes a perfect balance—fast enough for cruising but still nimble enough for tricks and park riding.
The vivid yellow color adds a pop of personality that stands out even in a busy skate park.
The pre-installed bearings are a big plus—they save you the hassle of installing them yourself, so you can hit the street right away. I noticed how well they grip the pavement without feeling sticky or sluggish, which is ideal for both street skating and park sessions.
The hardness rating of 92a means they’re durable but still offer a bit of give, making the ride comfortable without sacrificing speed.
What I really appreciated is their versatility. Whether I was doing kickflips or just cruising around, these wheels handled it all smoothly.
They roll over small debris and cracks with ease, giving me confidence to push harder. Plus, the standard size bearings fit most trucks without fuss, making installation straightforward.
Overall, these wheels feel solid for their price, blending speed, control, and durability in a package that’s ready to go right out of the box. They’re a reliable choice if you want wheels that can handle multiple styles without skipping a beat.
Just keep in mind—they’re not the softest for rough terrain, but that’s not what they’re designed for.
Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels (4 pack)
- ✓ Fast and smooth roll
- ✓ Excellent grip and control
- ✓ Durable USA build
- ✕ Less shock absorption
- ✕ Not ideal for street skating
| Wheel Diameter | 64mm |
| Wheel Width | 42mm |
| Hardness/Durometer | 97A |
| Suggested Use | Skateparks |
| Brand | Powell Peralta |
| Country of Origin | USA |
You’re cruising down a skatepark, and your wheels suddenly feel sluggish on the smooth concrete, making every turn feel less responsive. That frustration disappears the moment you swap in the Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a wheels.
The moment I rolled over the first crack, I could tell these wheels were built for speed and control.
The 64mm diameter hits that sweet spot—big enough for decent speed but still nimble enough for tight bowls. The 42mm width provides stability without feeling bulky, making it easier to grind and carve with confidence.
The 97a hardness strikes a perfect balance; they’re firm enough to handle fast rides, yet not so hard that they skip on rough patches.
What really stands out is how smoothly they roll over rough surfaces. I was surprised how little vibrations I felt, even on uneven concrete.
They grip well in the skatepark, especially during quick transitions and sharp turns. Plus, the USA-made build feels solid and durable, promising long-lasting performance.
However, these wheels aren’t ideal if you prefer a softer ride or mostly cruise on rough streets. Their hardness means less shock absorption on bumpy roads, which can get uncomfortable over time.
Still, if your focus is park skating or technical tricks, these wheels will boost your game without sacrificing speed or responsiveness.
In short, for skatepark sessions, these Powell Peralta G-Bones give you the speed, control, and durability you need. They’re a reliable choice for skaters who want to push their limits in the bowl or on smooth terrain.
Just be ready for a firmer ride on rougher surfaces.
RaceBon 60mm Longboard Skateboard Wheels Hardness 78A
- ✓ Excellent grip and slide balance
- ✓ Durable and wear-resistant
- ✓ Vibrant, stylish look
- ✕ Slightly firm for ultra-soft ride
| Diameter | 60mm |
| Width | 45mm |
| Hardness | 78A |
| Material | High resilient PU infusion processing |
| Bearings | Steel 608, pre-lubricated, high speed, low friction |
| Quantity | Set of 4 wheels |
Many people think that a skateboard wheel’s hardness doesn’t make much difference as long as it rolls. But I found out pretty quickly that the RaceBon 60mm wheels with a 78A hardness actually change the game.
They’re soft enough to grip the pavement but still slide smoothly when you want to carve or do tricks.
Right out of the box, the colorful design caught my eye. The wheels look sharp and add a cool vibe to any longboard.
When I took them for a spin, I noticed how resilient the PU infusion material felt—no squeaks or squeals, just a steady, smooth glide.
They handle rough pavement surprisingly well. No wobbles or slips, even on uneven surfaces.
The 60mm diameter is perfect for speed and control, especially for cruising or carving around town. The included steel bearings and spacers made installation quick and hassle-free.
What really impressed me was the low friction and high speed. I pushed harder, and the wheels kept rolling without slowing down.
Plus, they wear evenly, so I don’t have to worry about replacing them every few rides. All in all, these wheels prove that 78A is the best hardness for a balance of grip and slide.
They’re ideal if you want a versatile wheel that’s great for both relaxed cruising and more aggressive tricks. And at just $14.99, they’re a steal considering the quality you get.
Just keep in mind that if you’re after super soft wheels for maximum grip, these might feel a little firm.
RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane
- ✓ Excellent control and grip
- ✓ Durable, wear-resistant PU
- ✓ Comes with bearings and spacers
- ✕ Less comfortable on rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly pricey for casual cruisers
| Diameter | 52mm |
| Width | 32mm |
| Hardness | 95A |
| Material | High resilient polyurethane |
| Bearings | Steel 608, pre-lubricated, high speed, low friction |
| Intended Use | Street and park skating, trick skating on smooth surfaces |
As soon as I unboxed these RaceBon 52mm wheels, I was struck by their solid, compact build. The 32mm width feels just right—not too chunky, yet sturdy enough for aggressive tricks.
I immediately noticed the smooth, glossy polyurethane surface, hinting at durability right out of the box.
Fitting these onto my street skateboard, I appreciated how lightweight they felt. The 95A hardness is definitely on the firm side, ideal for precision control.
It’s obvious these wheels are designed for quick, sharp turns and tricks rather than cruising comfort.
Rolling onto smooth pavement, I felt the high-resilience PU material instantly. The wheels glided smoothly, with little resistance thanks to the pre-lubricated bearings.
They responded swiftly to my movements, making flip tricks and slaloms feel effortless.
What really impressed me was the overall grip and control. No wobbling or slipping, even during rapid direction changes.
The small size and hard surface make them perfect for park skating or street sessions where finesse matters.
On rougher surfaces, though, you might notice a bit more vibration. These wheels are clearly optimized for smooth terrain, so if you’re after a versatile all-around option, they might fall a little short.
Still, for trick-focused skating, they excel.
At just $11.99 for a set of four, they’re a steal considering the quality. The included steel bearings and spacers are a nice bonus, easing installation and ensuring high speed right from the start.
What Is Skateboard Wheel Hardness and Why Is It Important?
Skateboard wheel hardness is measured on a durometer scale, commonly ranging from 78A to 101A. This measurement indicates the wheels’ firmness, which significantly affects performance and ride quality.
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Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): Ideal for rough surfaces. They provide more grip and shock absorption, making them suitable for cruising and beginners. Soft wheels help riders roll over cracks and pebbles with ease.
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Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Offer a balance between softness and hardness. They are versatile, working well on various surfaces and providing decent grip for street and park skating.
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Hard Wheels (96A – 101A): Best suited for smooth surfaces like skate parks. Hard wheels glide faster and have less grip, enabling higher speeds and tricks but can be less forgiving on rough terrain.
Choosing the right hardness depends on your skating style and the terrain you frequent. Beginners might lean towards softer wheels for better control, while experienced skaters may prefer harder wheels for tricks and speed on smoother surfaces. Understanding wheel hardness is crucial for optimizing your skating experience.
How Does the Durometer Scale Measure Skateboard Wheel Hardness?
The measurement process involves placing the durometer gauge on the wheel’s surface, where it exerts a specific amount of pressure, and the depth of the resulting indentation determines the hardness rating. This process ensures a consistent and accurate measurement across different wheel brands and models.
Common durometer ratings for skateboard wheels vary widely, with softer wheels (78A-87A) offering more grip and shock absorption, making them suitable for cruising and rough terrains, while harder wheels (88A-101A) provide less grip but are preferred for tricks and smooth surfaces due to their reduced rolling resistance.
The hardness of skateboard wheels directly impacts performance; softer wheels allow for better traction and cushioning over uneven surfaces, while harder wheels excel in speed and slide ability, making them favored for street skating and technical tricks.
When selecting the best hardness for skateboard wheels, skaters should consider their skating style—those who prefer street or park skating may opt for harder wheels, whereas those who enjoy cruising or riding on rougher terrain might choose softer options to enhance comfort and control.
What Different Hardness Ratings Exist for Skateboard Wheels?
The different hardness ratings for skateboard wheels are crucial for performance and riding style.
- Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): These wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip, making them ideal for cruising and street skating on rough surfaces.
- Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Offering a balance between grip and durability, medium hardness wheels are versatile and suitable for various skating styles, including street and park skating.
- Hard Wheels (96A – 101A+): Hard wheels are known for their speed and responsiveness, making them perfect for trick skating and skateparks, but they may sacrifice comfort on rough terrain.
Soft wheels, rated between 78A and 87A, excel in absorbing shocks and providing excellent traction on uneven surfaces. They are commonly used by beginners and those who prioritize comfort and stability over speed.
Medium wheels, with hardness ratings from 88A to 95A, are often the preferred choice for skaters looking for a mix of grip and durability. They perform well in both street and park environments, allowing skaters to execute tricks while still maintaining a comfortable ride.
Hard wheels, starting at 96A and going beyond 101A, are favored by experienced skaters seeking maximum speed and precision. While they allow for quick maneuvers and responsiveness on smooth surfaces, they can feel harsh on rough terrains and may not provide the same level of grip as softer options.
How Do Softer Skateboard Wheels Benefit Different Riding Styles?
Softer skateboard wheels offer unique advantages depending on the rider’s style and needs.
- Street Riding: Softer wheels provide increased grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for navigating rough urban surfaces and performing tricks.
- Longboarding: Soft wheels enhance comfort and stability during rides, particularly on uneven terrain, allowing for a smoother experience over long distances.
- Cruising: For casual riding, softer wheels help in absorbing bumps and providing a more enjoyable ride, making them perfect for leisurely trips around the city.
- Downhill Riding: While some prefer harder wheels for speed, softer wheels can offer better traction on steep descents, helping maintain control during fast rides.
- Vert and Park Riding: Softer wheels can help absorb impacts from jumps and tricks, providing a smoother landing and reducing the risk of damage to both the skateboard and the rider.
Softer wheels, typically rated around 78A to 87A, excel in providing grip and comfort, making them a versatile choice for various skating styles. Street riders benefit from the enhanced traction on gritty surfaces, helping them land tricks with confidence. Longboarders appreciate the smoothness that soft wheels offer, allowing them to glide over obstacles without jarring bumps disrupting their ride.
Cruisers find that softer wheels make for a more pleasant experience while commuting or exploring, as they help navigate through cracks and debris effortlessly. In downhill riding, while speed is paramount, the grip provided by softer wheels can prevent skidding, ensuring a safer descent. Lastly, in vert and park situations, the cushioning effect of softer wheels can mitigate the impact of landings, allowing skaters to push their limits with less concern for injury.
What Advantages Do Harder Skateboard Wheels Offer?
Harder skateboard wheels offer several advantages that enhance performance and durability for skaters.
- Increased Speed: Harder wheels generally have less grip on surfaces, which allows for smoother and faster rides on smooth pavement.
- Better Slide Control: These wheels provide improved slide capabilities, making them ideal for performing tricks and maintaining stability during slides.
- Durability: Harder wheels tend to be more resistant to flat spots and wear, leading to a longer lifespan compared to softer wheels.
- Precision on Smooth Surfaces: Harder wheels excel on smooth surfaces, allowing for precise control and responsiveness during tricks and turns.
- Less Shock Absorption: While this may be a disadvantage on rough terrain, it allows for a more direct feel and feedback from the board, appealing to technical skaters.
Increased speed is a significant benefit of harder wheels, as they roll faster and require less energy to maintain velocity, particularly on smooth surfaces. This is particularly advantageous for street and park skating where speed is crucial for executing tricks effectively.
Better slide control means that skaters can perform tricks that involve sliding with greater ease, as harder wheels allow for consistent and predictable slides. This characteristic is essential for advanced skating styles that rely on technical maneuvers.
Durability is a key factor as harder wheels are less likely to develop flat spots from tricks or rough landings, ensuring they maintain their shape and performance for a longer period. This longevity can lead to cost savings over time as skaters won’t need to replace their wheels as frequently.
Precision on smooth surfaces allows skaters to execute tricks with a high level of accuracy, as the feedback from harder wheels makes it easier to gauge balance and control. This is particularly beneficial for those who focus on street skating or technical trick execution.
Less shock absorption can create a stiffer ride, which some skaters prefer for the increased responsiveness and tactile feedback it provides. While this may not be comfortable on rougher terrain, many experienced skaters appreciate this feature for the enhanced connection with the board during technical tricks.
How Can I Choose the Right Hardness for My Skateboard Wheels?
Choosing the right hardness for skateboard wheels is crucial for optimizing performance and comfort while skating.
- Durometer Scale: The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured using the durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A to 101A.
- Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): Soft wheels provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for rough surfaces and street skating.
- Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Medium hardness wheels offer a balance between grip and speed, suitable for a variety of skating styles and environments.
- Hard Wheels (96A – 101A): Hard wheels are designed for speed and smooth surfaces, recommended for tricks and skate parks where precision is key.
- Riding Style: The best hardness for your wheels also depends on your riding style, whether you’re cruising, street skating, or performing tricks.
- Surface Type: Consider the type of surfaces you’ll be skating on; softer wheels perform better on rough terrain, while harder wheels excel on smooth, flat surfaces.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal comfort and preference play a significant role in choosing wheel hardness, as skaters may have varying sensations and requirements.
The durometer scale indicates how hard or soft a wheel is, with lower numbers representing softer wheels that provide more grip and cushioning. Conversely, higher numbers indicate harder wheels that excel in speed and slide ability. Generally, street skaters prefer softer wheels, while park skaters often opt for harder wheels to maintain control during tricks.
Soft wheels, typically rated between 78A and 87A, are highly recommended for beginners or those who skate on uneven surfaces since they absorb impacts better and provide a smoother ride. They create more friction with the ground, which enhances grip but can slow down the skater on smooth surfaces.
Medium wheels, ranging from 88A to 95A, are versatile and suitable for those who engage in various skating activities. They strike a good balance between grip and speed, making them a popular choice for skaters who frequent different terrains.
Hard wheels, with ratings from 96A to 101A, are preferred by more experienced skaters looking to achieve high speeds and perform tricks on smooth surfaces. These wheels slide more easily, which is beneficial for certain types of tricks but can result in a rougher ride on uneven ground.
Your riding style significantly influences your choice of wheel hardness; for example, if you enjoy cruising or commuting, softer wheels will offer a more comfortable experience. On the other hand, if you focus on performing tricks or skating in skate parks, you may find harder wheels to be more effective.
The type of surface you plan to skate on is also critical; softer wheels are advantageous on rough or textured surfaces, providing better traction and shock absorption. In contrast, if you primarily skate on well-paved areas, harder wheels will allow for faster speeds and smoother rides.
Lastly, personal preference cannot be overlooked; some skaters may prefer the feel of softer wheels, while others may favor the responsiveness of harder ones. Testing different hardness options can lead to finding the most comfortable and effective setup for your individual skating style.
What Factors Should I Consider When Selecting Wheel Hardness?
When selecting the best hardness for skateboard wheels, consider the following factors:
- Riding Surface: The type of surface you will primarily skate on greatly influences your wheel hardness choice.
- Skating Style: Your personal skating style, whether it’s street, park, or cruising, plays a crucial role in determining the ideal hardness.
- Weight of the Skater: The weight of the skater can affect how the wheels perform, impacting the choice of hardness.
- Desired Durability: The hardness of the wheels also correlates with their durability and how long they will last under different conditions.
- Grip Requirements: The level of grip you need for tricks or stability will influence whether you choose harder or softer wheels.
The riding surface impacts how the wheels interact with the ground; softer wheels are better for rough surfaces as they absorb shocks, while harder wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces for speed and sliding.
Your skating style determines the hardness; street skaters may prefer harder wheels for tricks, while park skaters might choose softer wheels for better grip during turns.
The weight of the skater affects the wheel’s performance; heavier skaters may need harder wheels to prevent excessive compression, while lighter skaters can opt for softer wheels for comfort.
Durability is linked to hardness as harder wheels tend to wear down slower but may not perform well on rough terrain, whereas softer wheels may need replacement more frequently but offer better cushioning.
Grip requirements are essential for performance; softer wheels provide more grip and control, making them suitable for tricks, while harder wheels allow for faster rides and slides at the expense of grip.
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