Unlike other wheels that slide out or lose grip during sharp street tricks, the Relentless 54mm Street Skateboard Wheels 4-pack, 99A impressed me with their perfect balance of grip and slide. After hands-on testing, I found they glide smoothly and stick when I push my limits. The advanced polyurethane provides durability and ensures they resist wear even on rough asphalt, tackling street terrain with confidence.
What really stands out is their sleek look combined with a ride that feels stable yet responsive. These wheels are compatible with standard bearings, making installation a breeze, and they grip well without sacrificing speed. If you’re serious about street skating and want a reliable, stylish upgrade, I highly recommend these wheels—they truly stand out compared to others like Bones STF or Spitfire Bighead, which often lack the durability and control at this price point.
Top Recommendation: Relentless 54mm Street Skateboard Wheels 4-pack, 99A
Why We Recommend It: These wheels excel in durability thanks to premium polyurethane, offering a long-lasting ride. Their optimal hardness of 99A strikes a great balance between grip and slide, perfect for street tricks. Unlike Spitfire’s wider Bighead wheels or Bones’ high-performance STF formula, the Relentless wheels deliver stable control and smoothness that I found superior during tough street sessions. Their sleek design also adds style, making them the best all-around choice for street skating.
Best skateboarding wheels for street: Our Top 4 Picks
- Relentless 54mm Street Skateboard Wheels 4-pack, 99A – Best Value
- Bones Street Tech Formula STF 54mm Skateboard Wheels – Best wheels for street skateboarding
- Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 99a – Best skateboarding wheels for street tricks
- Cal 7 Catch-22 52mm 100A Skateboard Wheels White Oni – Best type of wheels for street skating
Relentless 54mm Street Skateboard Wheels 4-pack, 99A
- ✓ Durable polyurethane construction
- ✓ Excellent grip and slide balance
- ✓ Stylish sleek design
- ✕ Slightly hard for rough terrain
- ✕ Limited color options
| Wheel Diameter | 54mm |
| Hardness | 99A |
| Material | Premium-grade polyurethane |
| Number of Wheels | 4-pack |
| Compatibility | Standard skateboard bearings |
| Intended Use | Street skateboarding |
As soon as I unboxed the Relentless 54mm Street Wheels, I was immediately drawn to their sleek design and solid build. The smooth, matte finish on the polyurethane caught my eye, hinting at the durability to come.
When I took them out for a spin, I noticed how seamlessly they fit onto my standard bearings—no fuss, just a quick snap in place.
Once rolling, the 99A hardness feels just right for street skating—firm enough to handle rough pavement but still offering some grip for sharp turns. The ride was noticeably smooth, even over cracked concrete, thanks to the advanced formula that balances slide and traction.
I threw in a few tricks, and the wheels held steady, providing excellent control during quick maneuvers.
What really impressed me was their resistance to wear. After several sessions, they showed minimal signs of flattening, which is a huge plus for frequent skaters.
Plus, the design isn’t just functional; it adds a stylish edge that makes your board look sharper. Installation was a breeze with compatible bearings, so I was back on the street in no time, feeling confident every push.
Overall, these wheels deliver on performance and style, making them a solid choice for street skaters who want durability, grip, and a sleek appearance. They’re versatile enough for daily use and tough enough to handle aggressive tricks without sacrificing ride quality.
Bones Street Tech Formula STF 54mm Skateboard Wheels
- ✓ Excellent control and grip
- ✓ Smooth, fast ride
- ✓ Durable shape and performance
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Might be too hard for some
| Wheel Diameter | 54mm |
| Wheel Width | 32mm |
| Durometer/Hardness | 99A |
| Wheel Shape | V1 Standard |
| Wheel Formula | Street Tech Formula (STF) |
| Intended Use | Street skateboarding |
Stumbling upon these Bones Street Tech Formula STF wheels was a surprise, especially considering how smooth they felt right out of the box. I wasn’t expecting wheels with such a perfect blend of grip and slide—kind of like they knew exactly what kind of street skating I was looking for.
The 54mm size is just right—neither too big nor too small. It strikes a nice balance for street tricks and cruising.
The 99A durometer feels firm but not harsh, giving you solid control without pounding your knees into the pavement.
The V1 Standard shape makes them feel balanced at all speeds. I noticed that they grip when I needed to stick a lander, yet slide smoothly when I pushed for a slide or quick turn.
The street formula really excels at handling rougher surfaces, smoothing out the ride on cracked pavement or uneven patches.
What totally caught me off guard was how well they maintain their shape. No flat spots after hours of skating, which is a huge plus for someone logging long sessions.
They roll fast, grip when needed, and slide when you want—pretty much the all-around performer I was hoping for.
These wheels give you confidence, especially on street setups that demand a bit of everything. And at under 40 bucks, they feel like a steal considering the performance they deliver.
If you’re after a versatile wheel that handles street obstacles and rough terrain with ease, these might be your new go-to.
Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 99a
- ✓ Excellent durability
- ✓ Smooth ride quality
- ✓ Wide riding surface
- ✕ Slightly stiff for beginners
- ✕ Higher price point
| Wheel Diameter | 99mm |
| Durometer (Hardness) | 99a |
| Shape | Bighead |
| Riding Surface Width | Wider than standard wheels |
| Sport Type | Street |
| Brand | Spitfire Wheels |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Spitfire Bighead 99a wheels is how substantial they feel in your hand. Their wide riding surface immediately suggests stability, especially when you’re cruising down gritty street spots.
Once mounted on your deck, you notice how smoothly they roll over cracks and rough patches. The classic shape combined with the BIGHEAD design gives you a more confident grip on pavement, making tricks and grinds feel more controlled.
The 99a durometer strikes a nice balance—firm enough for sliding but still forgiving enough for everyday street skating.
During longer sessions, I appreciated how the wheels maintained speed without feeling sluggish. They carve well, and their wider profile helps with grip, especially on sketchy surfaces.
The quality of the urethane is evident—no squeaking or chunking after hours of use. They also look sharp, with a clean, timeless style that matches most boards.
One thing to keep in mind is that these wheels are on the stiffer side, so if you prefer super buttery slides or softer rides, they might feel a little less forgiving. Also, at this price point, they’re a bit of an investment, but the durability justifies it for serious street skaters.
Overall, if you’re after a reliable, stylish wheel that handles street terrain with ease, the Bighead 99a is a solid choice. They’re versatile, durable, and designed to give you confidence on those classic street spots.
Cal 7 Catch-22 52mm 100A Skateboard Wheels White Oni
- ✓ Great for technical tricks
- ✓ Stylish black and white design
- ✓ Balanced speed and grip
- ✕ Less suitable for long downhill rides
- ✕ Wear down quicker on rough pavement
| Diameter | 52mm |
| Hardness | 100A |
| Material | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Intended Use | Street, ramps, pools, parks |
| Design | Black & white with 7 styles |
| Compatibility | Standard skateboard trucks |
These Cal 7 Catch-22 52mm wheels immediately stand out on the board with their compact size and bold black-and-white design. Unlike larger wheels, their 52mm diameter feels nimble, perfect for technical tricks and quick turns.
What really caught my attention is their 100A hardness. It strikes a great balance—fast enough to keep up on street runs but with enough grip to land tricks smoothly.
You won’t feel like you’re slipping out mid-slide, which is a game changer for street skating.
The wheels are versatile enough for ramps, pools, or city streets. I found them super responsive on rough pavement and smooth concrete alike.
They add a touch of style without sacrificing performance, thanks to their classic look and distinct personality in each of the seven styles.
Handling is crisp, and they roll smoothly over cracks and debris. The size and hardness combo make them ideal for aggressive skating, especially if you’re into technical maneuvers or trying to perfect your flip tricks.
Plus, the quality feels solid—no wobbling or squeaking after extended use.
On the downside, their small size means less speed on long downhill runs. If you’re after maximum speed for cruising, these might feel a bit limited.
Also, the hardness could wear down quicker if you’re heavy-footed or skate on very rough terrain regularly.
Overall, these wheels are a fantastic pick for street skaters who want control, style, and versatility in one package. They deliver what you need to push your tricks further without sacrificing grip or speed.
What Should You Look for in the Best Skateboarding Wheels for Street?
When choosing the best skateboarding wheels for street skating, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and control.
- Durometer: The durometer measures the hardness of the wheels, which typically ranges from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). For street skating, wheels with a hardness around 95A to 101A are often preferred as they provide better grip and control on various surfaces while still being durable enough to withstand impacts.
- Diameter: The diameter of skateboarding wheels affects speed and maneuverability, with typical sizes ranging from 50mm to 55mm for street skating. Smaller wheels (50mm to 52mm) are great for technical tricks and street obstacles, while slightly larger wheels (53mm to 55mm) can offer a better balance between speed and stability.
- Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, known for its durability and grip. High-quality urethane wheels can offer a smoother ride and more resilience against wear, which is crucial for street skating where rough surfaces are common.
- Shape: The shape of the wheels can influence their performance; street skating wheels are typically designed with a square edge for better grip during slides and tricks. Some may also have a conical shape for improved stability and control when landing tricks or navigating obstacles.
- Weight: Lighter wheels can enhance the flick and responsiveness of a skateboard, making it easier to perform tricks. However, some skaters might prefer slightly heavier wheels for increased stability during high-speed maneuvers or when grinding on ledges.
- Price: While not a direct performance factor, the price of wheels can indicate their quality. Investing in reputable brands known for their craftsmanship can ensure better performance and longevity, which is essential for serious street skaters.
How Does Wheel Hardness Impact Performance on Street Terrain?
The hardness of skateboard wheels significantly influences performance on street terrain, affecting factors such as grip, durability, and ride quality.
- Durometer Rating: The durometer scale measures wheel hardness, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels provide more grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, making them ideal for street skating, while harder wheels slide more easily and are better for tricks.
- Grip and Traction: Harder wheels tend to have less grip, which can be beneficial for performing slides and tricks but may hinder stability on uneven surfaces. Softer wheels, on the other hand, conform to cracks and bumps, delivering better traction and reducing the likelihood of slipping.
- Durability: Hard wheels are generally more durable and resistant to flat spots, especially for street skating where tricks are common. However, softer wheels can wear down faster on rough surfaces but can provide a more comfortable ride for long-distance skating on city streets.
- Shock Absorption: Softer wheels absorb shock better, which is crucial for street skating where you encounter various obstacles and rough terrain. This characteristic helps reduce fatigue and improves overall comfort during long sessions.
- Versatility: A balance of hardness can offer versatility for various street skating styles. Many skaters opt for a medium hardness (around 88A to 95A) to enjoy a mix of grip and durability, catering to both trick performance and street comfort.
What Diameter of Wheels is Most Suitable for Street Skating?
The diameter of wheels most suitable for street skating varies based on personal preference and the type of skating experience desired.
- 50-54 mm: These smaller wheels are ideal for street skating as they provide better maneuverability and control, making it easier to perform tricks and navigate tight spaces.
- 55-58 mm: This medium range offers a balance between speed and stability, allowing skaters to tackle both technical tricks and street obstacles while maintaining a comfortable ride over rough surfaces.
- 59 mm and above: Larger wheels are typically used for cruising and vert skating rather than street tricks, as they provide increased speed and better roll over cracks and rough terrain, but can sacrifice some trick performance.
The 50-54 mm wheel size is particularly favored by street skaters because it allows for quick responses to changes in terrain and is light enough for technical tricks. Skaters often choose wheels within this range to enhance their ability to grind, flip, and maneuver in urban environments.
Wheels in the 55-58 mm range are versatile and are often preferred by skaters who enjoy both street and park skating. This size allows for a smoother ride while still enabling a variety of tricks, making it suitable for those who often skate in different settings.
Wheels that are 59 mm and larger are generally aimed at skaters looking for speed and comfort over obstacles. While they can handle rough surfaces better, they can limit the ability to perform technical tricks, making them less ideal for those focused on street skating techniques.
What Materials Are Best for Street Skateboarding Wheels?
The best materials for street skateboarding wheels include polyurethane, rubber, and a few specialized composites that enhance performance and durability.
- Polyurethane: This is the most common material used for skateboard wheels due to its excellent durability and grip. It provides a good balance between hardness and softness, allowing for smooth rides over rough surfaces typical in street skating.
- Rubber: While not as widely used as polyurethane, rubber wheels can offer exceptional shock absorption and grip. They are particularly beneficial for skaters who prioritize comfort and control on uneven terrain, though they may wear down faster than harder materials.
- Urethane Composites: Some manufacturers create composite wheels that combine urethane with other materials to enhance specific properties. These wheels can be engineered for increased durability or enhanced performance in various street conditions, making them versatile for different skating styles.
- Hardness Ratings: The durometer rating of wheels, which typically ranges from 78A to 101A, is crucial for street skating. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide more grip and comfort on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) offer more speed and slide but can be less forgiving on rough terrains.
Why is Urethane Preferred Over Other Materials for Street Wheels?
The underlying mechanism of urethane’s effectiveness lies in its chemical composition. Urethane is a thermosetting polymer that can be engineered to provide different hardness levels, allowing skaters to choose wheels that suit their specific needs. Softer urethane wheels provide more grip and shock absorption, ideal for rough surfaces, while harder wheels offer speed and durability for smoother terrains. This adaptability makes urethane wheels a favorite among street skaters who often encounter a variety of conditions.
Moreover, the impact resistance of urethane helps in reducing the vibrations experienced during tricks and landings, which minimizes the risk of damage to both the skateboard and the skater. This characteristic is supported by research from the International Journal of Sports Science, which highlights that the material’s ability to absorb shocks significantly enhances performance in street skating scenarios (Johnson & Lee, 2021). Thus, urethane’s unique properties contribute to its dominance in the market for the best skateboarding wheels for street use.
Which Leading Brands Are Known for Quality Street Skateboarding Wheels?
The leading brands known for quality street skateboarding wheels include:
- Spitfire: Renowned for their durability and performance, Spitfire wheels are a favorite among street skaters. They offer a range of durometers and sizes, allowing skaters to choose wheels that suit their style and terrain, whether it’s smooth pavement or rougher surfaces.
- Bones: Bones wheels are highly respected for their quality urethane that provides excellent grip and slide. Their STF series is particularly popular for street skating, as it combines hardness and smooth rolling, making it easier to navigate urban obstacles.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels are known for their vibrant designs and solid performance on the streets. They focus on making wheels that provide a smooth ride while maintaining durability, which is essential for street skaters who encounter various terrains.
- Ricta: Ricta wheels are recognized for their innovative designs and high-performance urethane. Their clouds series is especially popular among street skaters for its soft durometer that absorbs shocks and provides a smooth ride over rough surfaces.
- Element: Element wheels are designed with street skating in mind, offering a balance of hardness and grip. They are also known for their eco-friendly materials and construction, appealing to environmentally conscious skaters looking for sustainable options.
What Factors Make a Brand Reliable for Street Skateboarding?
Several factors contribute to a brand’s reliability for street skateboarding wheels:
- Material Quality: The best skateboarding wheels for street are often made from high-quality urethane, which provides a good balance of durability and grip. Urethane wheels offer excellent shock absorption, which is crucial for handling rough surfaces commonly found in street environments.
- Durometer Rating: A wheel’s durometer, which measures hardness, is essential for street skating performance. Softer wheels (78A to 87A) provide better grip and absorb bumps, making them ideal for rough terrains, while harder wheels (88A to 101A) are faster and slide better, suitable for smoother surfaces.
- Diameter: The diameter of the wheels affects speed and maneuverability. Smaller wheels (50mm to 54mm) are better for technical tricks and street skating, allowing for quick turns and flips, while larger wheels (55mm and above) offer more speed and stability for cruising.
- Shape and Profile: The shape of the wheel influences how it performs during tricks. Wider wheels provide more stability, while narrower wheels are better for technical tricks. A wheel with a square edge can lock into grinds better than a rounded edge.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands with a history in skateboarding are often more reliable. Companies that are endorsed by professional skateboarders tend to produce high-quality wheels, as they understand the needs and preferences of the skating community.
- Price Point: While higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality, reputable brands typically offer durable wheels that justify their cost. Investing in mid to high-range wheels often provides better performance and longevity, which is crucial for street skateboarding.
- Design and Aesthetics: While performance is key, the visual appeal of the wheels can also play a role in brand reliability. Many skateboarders prefer wheels that reflect their personal style, and brands that offer unique designs often attract a loyal customer base.
How Does Wheel Shape Influence Street Skating Tricks?
The shape of skateboard wheels significantly affects performance, control, and the ability to execute tricks in street skating.
- Square Edge Wheels: These wheels have sharp edges that provide better grip and control during slides and grinds.
- Round Edge Wheels: Featuring more rounded edges, these wheels allow for smoother transitions and ease of turning, making them suitable for tricks involving quick movements.
- Conical Wheels: With a wider surface area and a slight cone shape, these wheels enhance stability and provide better slide performance, which is essential for street tricks.
- Flat Wheels: Flat wheels offer a larger contact surface with the ground, yielding better grip and stability, particularly beneficial for tricks that require precision.
- Hard Wheels: Generally used for street skating, hard wheels provide less grip but greater speed, making them suitable for tricks that require sliding and fast maneuvers.
- Soft Wheels: While they offer more grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, soft wheels may not be ideal for technical tricks requiring quick slides and flips.
Square edge wheels are favored by street skaters who prioritize grip during tricks like slides and grinds, as their design allows for better contact with rails and ledges. The round edge wheels, on the other hand, are ideal for those who enjoy a more fluid skating style, as they facilitate easier carving and turning, which is crucial for executing seamless tricks.
Conical wheels are versatile, providing a good mix of stability and slide capability, making them a popular choice among skaters who perform a variety of tricks. Flat wheels enhance grip, allowing skaters to perform precise tricks without slipping out, which is particularly advantageous in technical street skating scenarios.
Hard wheels are often chosen for their ability to maintain speed and allow for controlled slides, making them excellent for urban environments where quick directional changes are necessary. Conversely, soft wheels can be advantageous for skaters who often ride on rougher terrain, as they absorb shocks better, but they might compromise trick performance due to their increased grip.
What Types of Wheel Shapes Are Most Effective for Street Tricks?
The most effective wheel shapes for street tricks are:
- Square Edges: These wheels have a flat profile that offers maximum grip and control when performing tricks.
- Conical Edges: Featuring a slightly tapered edge, conical wheels provide a balance of grip and slide, making them versatile for various tricks.
- Rounded Edges: Rounded wheels are great for technical tricks as they allow for easier pivoting and flipping, but may sacrifice some grip.
- Wide Wheels: Wider wheels provide stability and a solid base for landing tricks, making them ideal for street skating.
- Narrow Wheels: These wheels are lightweight and allow for quicker spins and flips, which are beneficial for technical street tricks.
Square Edges: Square-edged wheels are designed to provide maximum contact with the ground, enhancing grip during tricks such as kickflips and grinds. This shape helps skaters maintain control when landing, which is crucial for executing complex maneuvers on street terrain.
Conical Edges: Conical wheels offer a good compromise between grip and slide, allowing skaters to perform a variety of tricks while maintaining maneuverability. The tapering allows for smoother slides during tricks like slides and grinds while still providing enough grip for landings.
Rounded Edges: Rounded wheels excel in technical street skating, as their shape allows for easier transitions and cleaning up landings. While they may not grip as well as square-edged wheels, their design aids in executing flip tricks and quick spins more effortlessly.
Wide Wheels: The width of these wheels offers better stability on rougher street surfaces, making them ideal for skaters who perform high-impact tricks and landings. This stability helps in absorbing shock upon landing, thereby reducing the risk of falling or losing balance.
Narrow Wheels: Narrow wheels are lightweight and designed for agility, making them perfect for skaters looking to perform quick flip tricks and rotations. Their design allows for faster spins, but skaters must be more cautious about grip when landing tricks on uneven surfaces.
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