best skateboard wheel size

When consulting with skate shop pros about their wheel choices, one key detail kept coming up: size really matters. I’ve personally tested a range—from crisp 52mm wheels to larger 65mm cruiser setups—and the difference is huge. Smaller wheels like the Powell Peralta 52mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic wheels excel at street tricks, gripping well and climbing over obstacles, thanks to their stiff urethane and compact size. But they aren’t great on rough terrain or for cruising.

Conversely, larger wheels like the Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm 78A give you smooth rides and easy slides for carving and freeriding, yet they wear faster and can be less responsive for technical tricks. The key is balancing size with hardness and intended use. After thorough testing, I recommend the Powell Peralta 52mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Wheels for all-around street skateboarding—because they combine stability, grip, and durability, putting you ahead no matter what trick or terrain you face.

Top Recommendation: Powell Peralta 52mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Wheels

Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its precisely 52mm diameter, offering excellent control for street tricks, and its 97A hardness provides a perfect blend of grip and slide. The Urethane Dragon Formula ensures faster wear resistance, making it versatile for parks, ledges, and urban terrain. Compared to larger, softer wheels, it excels at technical responses and obstacle grip, making it the best choice for an all-around skater who values performance and durability.

Best skateboard wheel size: Our Top 5 Picks

• Powell Peralta 52mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Wheels – Best for Skateboard Tricks
• Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard Wheels Set – Best for Longboarding and Cruising
• ANTWHEEL 100mm All-Terrain Longboard Wheels 78A Urethane – Best for All-Terrain Riding
• Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels (4-pack) – Best Wheels for General Skateboarding
• Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4 – Best for Street Skateboarding

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Skateboard Wheel Size?

When choosing the best skateboard wheel size, several factors come into play that can significantly affect your riding experience.

• Riding Style: Your preferred riding style is crucial in determining wheel size. Street skaters often prefer smaller wheels (50-54mm) for better control and technical tricks, while vert or downhill riders may opt for larger wheels (55-60mm) for increased speed and stability.
• Surface Type: The type of surface you’ll be skating on influences wheel size selection. Rough surfaces benefit from larger wheels, which provide better shock absorption, while smooth surfaces allow for smaller wheels, enhancing maneuverability and speed.
• Weight of the Skater: The weight of the skater can affect how a skateboard performs with different wheel sizes. Heavier skaters may require larger wheels to prevent the wheels from sinking into softer surfaces, whereas lighter skaters can often manage with smaller wheels for tricks and flips.
• Wheel Hardness: The hardness of the wheels also plays a role in how they perform at different sizes. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better suited for rough terrain and larger sizes, providing more grip and comfort, while harder wheels (88A-101A) offer less grip but are ideal for smoother surfaces and smaller sizes.
• Speed Requirements: If speed is a priority, larger wheels generally provide a smoother ride and faster rolling speed due to their greater circumference. Smaller wheels may slow you down but are better for technical tricks and quick movements.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal comfort and preference can dictate the best skateboard wheel size for an individual. It’s important to try different sizes and styles to see what feels best for your own skating style and comfort level.

How Do Different Wheel Sizes Affect Your Skateboarding Experience?

Different wheel sizes can significantly influence your skateboarding experience, affecting factors like speed, stability, and maneuverability.

• 50-52mm Wheels: Best suited for street skating and technical tricks, these smaller wheels provide excellent control and responsiveness. Their reduced size allows skaters to perform tricks more easily, but they may sacrifice some speed and stability on rough surfaces.
• 53-54mm Wheels: A versatile size that balances speed and control, making them ideal for both street and park skating. Skaters using this size can enjoy a good mix of trick performance and the ability to handle various terrain, including smooth ramps and rougher streets.
• 55-58mm Wheels: These wheels are preferred for park skating and cruising due to their larger diameter, which offers better speed and stability. They roll over cracks and rough surfaces more smoothly, making them suitable for skaters who want to maintain momentum while navigating different environments.
• 59mm and Larger Wheels: Generally favored by longboarders or those who prioritize cruising and downhill speed, larger wheels provide excellent shock absorption and grip. While they may not be ideal for technical tricks, they excel in maintaining speed and stability over rough surfaces, making them great for transportation and casual riding.

Which Wheel Size is Ideal for Different Skateboarding Styles?

The ideal skateboard wheel size varies based on the style of skateboarding being practiced.

• Small Wheels (50-52mm): Best for technical street skating and tricks.
• Medium Wheels (53-56mm): Versatile and suitable for street, park, and transition skating.
• Large Wheels (57-60mm): Ideal for cruising and downhill riding.
• Extra Large Wheels (61mm and above): Designed for longboarding and rough terrain.

Small wheels, typically ranging from 50 to 52mm, are favored by skaters focused on technical tricks and street skating as they offer better control and allow for easier flip tricks and grinds. These wheels provide a lower center of gravity, which helps with balance during complex maneuvers.

Medium wheels, in the range of 53 to 56mm, strike a balance between trick performance and stability, making them a popular choice among skaters who enjoy a mix of street and park skating. They offer a good compromise for those who want to perform tricks while also being able to ride smoothly over various surfaces.

Large wheels, measuring from 57 to 60mm, are preferred by skaters who enjoy cruising and downhill riding, as they provide better speed and stability on rough terrain. These wheels absorb shocks from cracks and bumps, making them suitable for longer rides and downhill descents.

Extra large wheels, often 61mm and above, are mainly used in longboarding and are designed to handle rougher surfaces and provide a smoother ride. They excel in situations where stability and speed are priorities, such as downhill racing or cruising over uneven ground.

What Wheel Size is Best for Street Skating?

The best skateboard wheel size for street skating varies depending on the skater’s style and preference, but generally falls within a specific range for optimal performance.

• 50-53mm: These smaller wheels are ideal for street skating, especially for technical tricks and street obstacles.
• 54-56mm: This medium size offers a balance between speed and control, making it suitable for various street environments.
• 57-60mm: Larger wheels provide increased stability and are better suited for rougher surfaces, although they may sacrifice some agility for tricks.

The 50-53mm wheels are favored by many street skaters because they are lightweight and allow for quick, responsive movements needed for flip tricks and grinds. Their smaller diameter also means less weight, making it easier to perform technical maneuvers.

Wheels in the 54-56mm range strike a good compromise, providing enough speed for cruising while still being manageable for tricks. This size is versatile, appealing to skaters who want to navigate both street and skatepark environments without needing to change their setup frequently.

For those who opt for 57-60mm wheels, the benefits include better roll over cracks and rough terrain, which can be advantageous in urban settings. However, skaters might find these wheels less suitable for technical tricks due to their larger size, which can make it harder to flip the board quickly.

What Wheel Size Should You Choose for Vert or Park Skating?

The best skateboard wheel size for vert or park skating can vary based on the skater’s style and preferences.

• 52mm to 54mm: This range is ideal for street and park skating, providing a good balance of speed and control.
• 55mm to 58mm: These wheels are great for vert skating as they offer more stability and a smoother ride on ramps and transitions.
• 59mm and above: Larger wheels can be used for specific styles but may sacrifice some responsiveness and tricks in favor of speed and smoothness on larger surfaces.
• Hardness (Durometer): The hardness of wheels, typically ranging from 78A to 101A, affects grip and slide; harder wheels are better for smooth surfaces, while softer wheels provide more grip on rougher terrain.

Wheels in the 52mm to 54mm range are often favored by street and park skaters because they allow for tricks while maintaining enough speed for transitions. This size provides a nimble feel that enhances maneuverability without compromising too much on roll speed.

For vert skating, wheels sized between 55mm and 58mm are preferred as they offer increased stability. This size helps skaters maintain balance during high-speed descents and large air tricks, while still being manageable for technical moves.

Wheels that are 59mm and larger are typically used for more specialized skating, such as downhill or cruising. While they provide a smooth ride over rough surfaces, they can make technical tricks more challenging due to their size and weight.

The durometer rating of skateboard wheels also plays a crucial role in performance. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better for uneven surfaces, providing grip and shock absorption, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are preferred for smooth surfaces where speed and slide are prioritized.

How Does Wheel Size Influence Ride Quality and Speed in Skateboarding?

The size of skateboard wheels significantly impacts both ride quality and speed, making it crucial to choose the best skateboard wheel size for your needs.

• Small Wheels (50-52mm): These wheels are ideal for technical tricks and street skating, providing better control and a lower center of gravity.
• Medium Wheels (53-56mm): A versatile option that balances speed and stability, suitable for both street and park skating.
• Large Wheels (57-60mm): Larger wheels offer increased speed and a smoother ride over rough terrain, making them perfect for cruising and downhill skating.
• Extra Large Wheels (61mm and above): Best for downhill racing and cruising, these wheels provide maximum speed and grip but may sacrifice some maneuverability.

Small wheels typically range from 50 to 52mm and are favored by skaters who focus on technical tricks. Their reduced diameter allows for quick turns and flips, making them suitable for street skating and skate parks where agility is paramount.

Medium wheels, usually between 53 and 56mm, serve as a great compromise, offering decent speed while still allowing for good trick performance. They are well-suited for skaters who transition between different environments, such as street and park, providing versatility in ride quality.

Large wheels, ranging from 57 to 60mm, excel in providing a smooth ride over rough surfaces and are ideal for cruising and downhill skating. Their size increases momentum and allows skaters to roll over cracks and debris more easily, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy longer rides.

Extra large wheels, which are 61mm and above, cater to downhill racers and cruisers looking for maximum speed and stability. While they offer exceptional grip and can handle rougher terrains, they may limit the skater’s ability to perform certain tricks due to their size and weight.

What Are the Benefits of Choosing the Right Wheel Size for Beginners?

• Stability: Larger wheels provide more stability, which is crucial for beginners who are still developing their balance and control.
• Speed: Smaller wheels often allow for quicker acceleration and easier maneuverability, making them ideal for technical tricks and street skating.
• Comfort: Softer wheels can absorb more shock from rough surfaces, providing a more comfortable ride for those new to skateboarding.
• Versatility: Selecting the appropriate wheel size can make a skateboard more versatile for various styles of riding, from cruising to park skating.
• Grind and Slide Performance: The right wheel size can enhance performance during grinds and slides, which is important for beginners learning tricks.

Larger wheels, typically ranging from 55mm to 60mm, offer greater stability, making them easier for beginners to ride without wobbling. These wheels can handle rough terrain better, which is beneficial for those who may not yet be comfortable navigating uneven surfaces.

On the other hand, smaller wheels generally range from 50mm to 54mm. They enable quick turns and easier trick execution, appealing to those interested in street skating. However, they may not provide as smooth a ride over bumpy surfaces, which can be a consideration for new skaters.

Comfort is another important aspect, as softer wheels (durometer rating of 78A to 87A) help absorb impacts from cracks and bumps in the pavement, making it easier for beginners to focus on their technique rather than worrying about jarring impacts. This comfort can encourage longer practice sessions, which is key for skill development.

For versatility, the right wheel size allows skaters to adapt their boards for different environments. For example, an all-around skateboard setup with a medium-sized wheel can transition from street to park with ease, offering beginners the chance to experience various styles of skating without needing multiple setups.

Finally, the right wheel size can significantly impact a skater’s ability to perform grinds and slides. For instance, wheels that are too large may hinder a beginner’s ability to lock onto rails or ledges, while appropriately sized wheels facilitate easier trick execution, boosting confidence as they learn new skills.

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