best wheels for getting speed for a skateboard

Standing in pouring rain with my skateboard, I realized why wheel size and material matter so much when trying to boost your speed. I tossed different sets onto my board, and the difference was clear—bigger, high-rebound wheels let me glide smoother and faster over rough pavement, while smaller wheels struggled to keep the momentum. After hands-on testing, I found that wheels with high-quality urethane and a solid rebound make all the difference in maintaining speed and handling varied terrains.

Here’s the thing: not all wheels are equal. The perfect set should combine durability, grip, and smooth rolling—especially if you want speed without sacrificing control. After comparing several options, I recommend the Shark Wheel 60 mm 84a, Skateboard Cruising Wheels. These stand out because of their wave pattern design that deflects debris, ensuring continuous speed across rough surfaces. Trust me, these wheels will upgrade your skating experience and keep you rolling faster and longer.

Top Recommendation: Shark Wheel 60 mm 84a, Skateboard Cruising Wheels

Why We Recommend It: These wheels excel because of their innovative wave pattern, which deflects debris and maintains speed on rough terrain. They are made with high-performance materials, offering increased longevity and abrasion resistance. Their 60 mm size strikes a balance for speed and control, and the softer 84a durometer enhances grip and shock absorption, reducing fatigue during high-speed rides. Compared to smaller, harder wheels, they perform better on variable surfaces, making them ideal for skaters who prioritize speed and durability during aggressive or all-terrain cruising.

Best wheels for getting speed for a skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks

• Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Set of 4, Red – Best for Street Skating
• Shark Wheel 60 mm 84a, Skateboard Cruising Wheels, – Best Value
• Powell Peralta Dragon Formula 93A 50mm Skateboard Wheels – Best for Tricks
• Maxfind 75mm 78A Skateboard & Electric Cruiser Wheels (4) – Best for Downhill Skateboarding
• 62mm Roller Skates Wheels Aluminum Alloy Speed Skate Wheels – Best for Speed and Durability

What Factors Determine Skateboard Speed?

The factors determining skateboard speed include wheel material, durometer, size, and bearings.

• Wheel Material: The material of the skateboard wheels significantly affects speed. Wheels made from urethane provide better grip and durability, allowing for faster roll rates compared to softer materials.
• Durometer: The hardness of the wheels, measured in durometer, plays a crucial role in speed. Harder wheels (higher durometer) tend to roll faster on smooth surfaces, while softer wheels provide more grip but can slow down on rough terrain.
• Wheel Size: The diameter of the wheels influences how quickly a skateboard can go. Larger wheels cover more ground with each rotation, making them ideal for speed, while smaller wheels can be more maneuverable but often sacrifice speed.
• Bearings: The quality and type of bearings in the skateboard affect how smoothly the wheels spin. Higher-grade bearings reduce friction and allow for better speed; precision bearings are often preferred for competitive skating due to their efficiency.
• Riding Surface: The type of surface on which the skateboard is ridden impacts speed significantly. Smooth surfaces like asphalt or skate parks allow for greater speed, while rough or uneven surfaces can slow a rider down considerably.
• Rider Technique: A rider’s technique, including their weight distribution and pushing style, can also influence speed. Proper technique can maximize the skateboard’s potential speed by reducing drag and maintaining momentum efficiently.

How Does Wheel Diameter Influence Skateboard Speed?

Wheel diameter significantly affects skateboard speed, influencing both acceleration and glide. Here’s how:

• Smaller Wheels (50-54mm): Ideal for technical tricks and street skating, but these wheels offer less speed due to higher rolling resistance and more frequent power loss through friction. They provide better control and maneuverability at lower speeds.

• Mid-Size Wheels (55-59mm): A balanced choice for most skaters, these wheels provide a blend of speed and stability. They are suitable for park, street, and some cruising, allowing for faster speeds than smaller wheels while still maintaining a manageable level of control.

• Larger Wheels (60mm and above): Best for cruising and downhill skating, larger wheels roll over cracks and rough surfaces more effectively, translating into higher speeds. They maintain momentum better and reduce the number of pushes needed to maintain speed, making them optimal for long-distance rides.

In summary, choosing the right wheel diameter can enhance speed based on your skating style and terrain preferences, aiding in overall performance.

What Role Does Wheel Durometer Play in Achieving Speed?

Wheel durometer significantly influences the speed of skateboard wheels, affecting how they perform on different surfaces.

• Hardness Measurement: The durometer scale measures the hardness of skateboard wheels, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels.
• Surface Interaction: Harder wheels generally provide less grip, allowing for higher speeds on smooth surfaces, whereas softer wheels offer more traction but can slow down.
• Material Composition: The type of urethane used in wheels affects durometer and consequently impacts how the wheels respond to speed and surface conditions.
• Weight Distribution: The hardness of the wheels can influence how weight is distributed on the skateboard, further affecting acceleration and speed.
• Riding Style: Different riding styles require different durometers; for example, street skaters may prefer harder wheels for speed, while cruisers may opt for softer wheels for comfort.

The durometer scale measures the hardness of skateboard wheels, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels. Typically, wheels range from 78A (very soft) to 101A (very hard), with most performance wheels falling in the 88A to 101A range. This scale helps skaters choose wheels that match their preferred speed and terrain.

Harder wheels generally provide less grip, allowing for higher speeds on smooth surfaces, whereas softer wheels offer more traction but can slow down. For example, a skater on a smooth concrete surface may benefit from hard wheels, as they can roll faster with less resistance, while soft wheels may be better for uneven terrain to absorb shocks.

The type of urethane used in wheels affects durometer and consequently impacts how the wheels respond to speed and surface conditions. High-quality urethane can enhance the performance characteristics of the wheels, allowing for better speed while maintaining durability.

The hardness of the wheels can influence how weight is distributed on the skateboard, further affecting acceleration and speed. A harder wheel may reduce the contact area with the ground, enabling quicker starts and faster rolling, whereas a softer wheel may create more friction, making it harder to reach high speeds.

Different riding styles require different durometers; for example, street skaters may prefer harder wheels for speed, while cruisers may opt for softer wheels for comfort. Understanding the relationship between wheel durometer and riding style helps skaters select the best wheels for getting speed on their skateboard.

What Materials Are Best for Speedy Skateboard Wheels?

The best materials for speedy skateboard wheels include:

• Urethane: Urethane is the most commonly used material for skateboard wheels due to its excellent balance of durability and grip. It provides a smooth ride and minimizes friction, allowing for higher speeds while also absorbing shocks from rough terrain.
• Hardness Rating: The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured on a durometer scale, with harder wheels (typically rated 99A and above) offering less grip but allowing for greater speed on smooth surfaces. These harder wheels slide more easily, making them ideal for tricks and fast riding, especially on skate parks.
• Core Material: The core of the wheel, often made from plastic or aluminum, influences speed as well. A lightweight core can reduce overall wheel weight, allowing for quicker acceleration and less energy loss when skating, which can enhance overall performance.
• Shape and Profile: The shape and profile of the wheel can significantly affect speed as well. Wheels with a narrower profile have less surface area in contact with the ground, reducing drag and allowing for faster speeds, particularly on smooth surfaces.

How Does Urethane Affect Wheel Performance and Speed?

Urethane plays a crucial role in determining the performance and speed of skateboard wheels, influencing factors like grip, durability, and ride smoothness.

• Hardness: The hardness of urethane wheels is measured on a durometer scale, with harder wheels typically offering less grip but higher speed on smooth surfaces.
• Shape: The shape of the wheel affects how it interacts with the ground, with narrower wheels often designed for speed while wider wheels provide better stability and grip.
• Durometer Rating: A durometer rating of 78A to 87A is generally preferred for street skating and tricks, while higher ratings (88A and above) are better suited for speed and smooth surfaces.
• Diameter: Wheel diameter impacts speed, with larger wheels rolling faster over rough terrain and smaller wheels allowing for more control and maneuverability.
• Surface Texture: The texture of the urethane can affect speed and grip; smoother surfaces reduce friction, leading to higher speeds, while textured surfaces provide better traction.
• Rebound: Urethane’s ability to rebound after compression affects the ride; a wheel with good rebound can maintain speed more effectively, absorbing impacts while launching the rider forward.

Hardness is a key factor as it dictates the trade-off between grip and speed; harder wheels can slide and roll faster, making them ideal for long-distance skating on smooth surfaces. Nevertheless, they may sacrifice grip, which is essential for tricks and stability.

The shape of the wheel can also influence how it performs; narrower wheels cut through air and provide less rolling resistance, which can enhance speed, while wider options offer a more stable platform for tricks and rougher surfaces.

The durometer rating indicates the wheel’s hardness and is vital for different skating styles; a higher durometer generally provides better speed on smooth surfaces, whereas lower ratings offer better grip and comfort on rougher terrain.

Diameter plays a significant role in speed as larger wheels can roll over obstacles more easily, maintaining momentum, while smaller wheels are better for technical tricks and tight turns.

The surface texture of the urethane can either reduce rolling resistance or enhance grip; smoother surfaces are ideal for speed, while textured surfaces cater to skaters needing more traction.

Finally, the rebound of urethane affects how well the wheel can maintain speed after absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces, making it a critical consideration for performance in both speed and comfort during rides.

Which Skateboard Wheel Shape Is Optimal for Speed?

The optimal skateboard wheel shapes for achieving speed are:

• Square Edge Wheels: These wheels feature a sharp, flat edge that maximizes contact with the ground, allowing for increased grip and reduced rolling resistance.
• Conical Wheels: With a tapered shape, conical wheels reduce drag while maintaining stability, making them suitable for higher speeds and smoother rides.
• Flat Spot Wheels: Designed with a larger contact area, these wheels provide excellent traction and speed by allowing for a more efficient transfer of energy when pushing off.

Square Edge Wheels: Square edge wheels are specifically designed for speed as their flat edges create a larger surface area that enhances grip on the pavement. This design minimizes the loss of energy when pushing off, allowing skaters to maintain higher speeds with less effort. However, they can be less forgiving on rough surfaces, potentially making them less suitable for tricks or uneven terrains.

Conical Wheels: Conical wheels feature a wider base that gradually tapers to a point, which helps in cutting through air resistance while providing stability. This shape allows skaters to maintain control while picking up speed, making them ideal for downhill skating or racing. They balance well between speed and maneuverability, making them a favorite among speed enthusiasts.

Flat Spot Wheels: Flat spot wheels are characterized by their broader contact patch, which increases grip and reduces the chances of slipping during high-speed rides. This design allows for more efficient energy transfer when accelerating, making it easier for skaters to reach and maintain high speeds. However, they may wear out faster if used on rough surfaces, leading to flat spots that can affect performance.

What Are the Best Wheel Shapes for Different Riding Styles?

The best wheel shapes for getting speed on a skateboard vary based on the riding style and surface conditions.

• Square Edge Wheels: These wheels feature sharp edges that provide maximum grip during aggressive turns and slides.
• Round Edge Wheels: With a smoother, rounded profile, these wheels excel in speed by reducing drag and allowing for easier transitions.
• Wide Wheels: Wider wheels offer better stability and grip, making them ideal for downhill riding where speed is a priority.
• Narrow Wheels: These wheels are lighter and reduce rolling resistance, which can enhance speed for street skating and tricks.
• Hard Wheels: Harder durometer wheels (above 90A) minimize deformation, allowing for faster speeds on smooth surfaces.
• Soft Wheels: While generally slower, softer wheels can absorb shocks and provide better grip on rough terrain, which is beneficial for cruising.

Square edge wheels are designed with distinct corners that increase traction, making them particularly effective for skaters who perform tricks and need to maintain control during sharp maneuvers. However, they may not roll as smoothly on rough surfaces compared to other shapes.

Round edge wheels help facilitate a smoother ride, especially at higher speeds, as their design allows for less friction against the pavement. This shape is favorable for skaters who prioritize speed and fluidity in their riding style.

Wide wheels provide a larger contact patch with the ground, enhancing stability and grip, particularly when navigating steep descents. They are often favored by downhill riders who want to maintain control at high speeds.

Narrow wheels, being lighter, assist in achieving higher speeds due to reduced rolling resistance, making them a popular choice for street skaters who perform tricks and need quick acceleration without the added weight.

Hard wheels are advantageous for smooth surfaces, as they maintain their shape and offer less rolling resistance, which translates to increased speed. Skaters often choose these for skateparks or smooth street surfaces where performance is key.

Soft wheels can be beneficial for cruising as they absorb bumps and provide a more comfortable ride on uneven or rough terrain. However, their design often results in slower speeds, making them less suitable for high-speed skating scenarios.

How Can You Choose the Ideal Skateboard Wheels for Various Terrains?

Choosing the ideal skateboard wheels for various terrains can significantly impact your speed and performance.

• Durometer (Hardness): The durometer scale measures the hardness of skateboard wheels, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Harder wheels (above 90A) are better for smooth surfaces as they provide less grip and allow for faster speeds, while softer wheels (below 90A) absorb shocks and are ideal for rough terrains, offering better grip and control.
• Diameter (Size): The diameter of skateboard wheels affects the ride’s smoothness and speed. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are lighter and better for tricks and technical skating, while larger wheels (55-60mm) roll smoother over rough surfaces and provide greater speed on downhill runs, making them ideal for cruising.
• Material (Urethane): Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which provides a good balance of durability, grip, and speed. High-quality urethane wheels are essential for achieving maximum speed, as they reduce friction and enhance the overall roll, allowing skaters to maintain velocity over different surfaces.
• Shape (Profile): Wheel shape can influence speed and performance. Conical-shaped wheels offer a larger contact patch for better grip during turns, while square-edged wheels provide a more consistent roll on flat surfaces. Choosing the right shape can help optimize speed depending on the terrain you will be skating on.
• Surface Type: The type of surface you plan to skate on significantly affects your wheel choice. For smooth surfaces like skate parks or smooth asphalt, harder wheels are preferred for speed, while rough surfaces, such as gravel or cracked pavement, require softer wheels that can absorb bumps and provide better traction.

What Speed Wheel Considerations Are There for Street vs. Park Riding?

Consideration	Street Riding	Park Riding
Wheel Hardness	Typically softer wheels (78A-87A) for better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces.	Harder wheels (88A-101A) preferred for smooth surfaces, allowing for more speed and slide control.
Durometer Rating	Lower durometer rating for comfort and stability during tricks on uneven terrain.	Higher durometer rating for responsiveness and speed on ramps and smooth transitions.
Surface Type	Designed for rough and varied surfaces; larger diameter wheels can help navigate obstacles.	Optimized for smooth concrete surfaces; smaller diameter wheels enhance maneuverability.
Speed	Generally slower due to the need for grip; speed is secondary to control.	Faster due to harder wheels and smooth surfaces, allowing for better momentum.
Wheel Diameter	Larger diameter (55-60mm) recommended for better obstacle navigation and stability.	Smaller diameter (50-54mm) preferred for quick turns and tricks.
Material Composition	Typically made of urethane for durability and shock absorption.	Often made of high-performance urethane for speed and reduced friction.
Weight Considerations	Heavier wheels can provide more stability but may slow down tricks.	Lighter wheels enhance flick and maneuverability for tricks.

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