Finding the best longboard wheels is like searching for the perfect blend of speed, grip, and style to enhance your ride. Each set of wheels can dramatically change your longboarding experience, whether you’re cruising along the boardwalk or tackling steep hills. I remember the thrill of switching out my first pair of wheels; the difference in performance was astonishing. Suddenly, my rides were smoother and more controlled, allowing me to focus on the joy of longboarding rather than worrying about rough terrain.
As you read on, you’ll discover a curated selection of top-rated longboard wheels. From cruising to downhill racing, each option meets the demands of various riding styles. This guide aims to demystify wheel specifications, helping you make an informed choice that suits your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, understanding how wheel durometer and size influence your ride is crucial. Dive in to explore the best options available, and soon you’ll find yourself on a whole new level of longboarding enjoyment.
Top 10 Longboard Wheels
- Orangatang Dad BOD 105 mm Longboard Wheels for Cruising, DIY…
- Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk 76A 70mm Longboard Wheels, 4-Pack…
- Shark Wheel 72mm Longboard Cruising Wheels, DNA Formula, Set…
- Shark Wheel 60mm Longboard Cruising Wheels, DNA Formula, Set…
- Orangatang Caguama 85 mm Longboard Wheels for Cruising, DIY E…
- Orangatang Kegel 80 mm Downhill Longboard Skateboard Cruising…
- Rollerex YOLO Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (4-Pack with Be…
- Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (…
- Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (…
- Rollerex YOLO Longboard Wheels (70 mm) (76A) (4-Pack with Bea…
1. Orangatang Dad BOD 105 mm Longboard Wheels for Cruising, DIY…See It
The Orangatang Dad BOD 105 mm Longboard Wheels are a game-changer for longboard enthusiasts, especially for those venturing into DIY electric skateboards. With their impressive 105mm diameter, these wheels offer unparalleled speed and a remarkably smooth ride over various terrains. I vividly recall my first experience with these wheels; the effortless gliding felt almost magical, allowing me to elegantly navigate both city streets and winding paths.
What sets the Dad BOD wheels apart is their Traction Trench technology, delivering optimal control and grip without sacrificing comfort. The wheel’s offset bearing seat allows compatibility with narrower boards, enhancing versatility. Their Happy Thane formula ensures a plush riding experience, embodying quality and performance that any longboard rider would appreciate. Whether you’re commuting or exploring, these wheels elevate the ride like no other.
2. Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk 76A 70mm Longboard Wheels, 4-Pack…See It
The Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk 76A 70mm Longboard Wheels promise a vibrant ride with their playful lollipop design. Having used these wheels on my local boardwalk, I was immediately struck by their smooth cruising capabilities, making every outing feel like a mini-vacation. The 76A durometer ensures a comfortable ride while still allowing for speed, perfect for casual cruising and scenic routes.
What truly sets these wheels apart is their durability. Made from high-density urethane, they resist abrasion and promise longevity that’s hard to beat. The complete package, which includes bearings, spacers, and washers, means you can hit the ground skating without any hassle. With a focus on quality, Rollerex guarantees satisfaction, so you can ride worry-free. These wheels not only enhance your performance but also provide a splash of personality to your longboard.
3. Shark Wheel 72mm Longboard Cruising Wheels, DNA Formula, Set…See It
The Shark Wheel 72mm Longboard Cruising Wheels are a standout choice for riders seeking versatility and durability. Their unique wave pattern design not only looks distinctive but also functions exceptionally well, deflecting debris and maintaining speed on rough terrain. I recall a particularly bumpy trail where these wheels handled potholes and pebbles with ease, allowing me to glide smoothly without losing momentum.
What truly sets these wheels apart is their all-terrain capability. Whether cruising on asphalt, navigating through parks, or tackling rugged paths, the Shark Wheels deliver consistent performance. Made in the USA with high-quality materials, they promise long-lasting durability and reduced friction, ensuring a smooth ride every time. For anyone looking to enhance their longboarding experience across various surfaces, these wheels are an excellent choice.
4. Shark Wheel 60mm Longboard Cruising Wheels, DNA Formula, Set…See It
The Shark Wheel 60mm Longboard Cruising Wheels are a compact yet powerful option for riders who value performance and style. Their unique wave pattern design not only catches the eye but also excels in deflecting debris, ensuring a smooth ride on rough terrain. I remember taking these wheels on a rocky trail, and their ability to maintain speed and stability was impressive, making the ride feel effortless.
What makes these wheels stand out is their all-terrain versatility. Whether you’re cruising through parks, navigating city streets, or tackling rugged paths, they deliver consistent performance. Made in the USA with high-quality materials, they offer long-lasting durability and reduced friction, ensuring a reliable ride every time. For those seeking a blend of innovation and quality, these wheels are a top choice.
5. Orangatang Caguama 85 mm Longboard Wheels for Cruising, DIY E…See It
The Orangatang Caguama 85 mm Longboard Wheels are a top choice for riders seeking both speed and comfort. Their 85mm diameter ensures a smooth and fast ride, effortlessly gliding over cracks and rough terrain. During one of my commutes, these wheels made the journey feel seamless, with the large size providing momentum that kept me cruising effortlessly.
What sets the Caguama apart is its Happy Thane formula, which combines speed with a plush, grippy feel. The 56mm contact patch offers confident grip, while the rounded edges help navigate pavement imperfections with ease. The fully exposed core reduces weight, enhancing acceleration and momentum, making these wheels ideal for both traditional longboards and DIY electric setups. For a blend of performance and durability, the Caguama wheels are hard to beat.
6. Orangatang Kegel 80 mm Downhill Longboard Skateboard Cruising…See It
The Orangatang Kegel 80 mm Downhill Longboard Wheels are engineered for those who crave speed and control while racing downhill or carving hard. During a recent ride full of thrilling descents, these wheels significantly enhanced my experience, allowing for exhilarating speed and smooth transitions over uneven surfaces. Their 80mm diameter excels at rolling over debris and cracks effortlessly, giving you the confidence to tackle tough terrain.
What makes the Kegel wheels stand out is their sharp, square lips, which provide exceptional traction while still allowing for smooth slides when desired. The Happy Thane formula adds a plush, grippy feel that makes transitioning between different riding styles effortless. With a fully exposed 46mm core that promotes quick acceleration and stability, these wheels are a perfect blend of performance and quality for downhill enthusiasts.
7. Rollerex YOLO Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (4-Pack with Be…See It
The Rollerex YOLO Skateboard Wheels (52 mm, 92A) are perfect for riders who demand both durability and performance. With a high-durometer rating of 92A, these wheels provide a smooth yet responsive ride, ideal for skate park tricks and street skating. I recently put these wheels to the test at my local skate park, and their ability to handle heavy use while maintaining flawless performance truly impressed me.
What makes the YOLO wheels stand out is their high-density urethane construction, ensuring they are abrasion-resistant and built to last. The included bearings, spacers, and washers make it a complete set, ready to roll right out of the box. Their compact 52mm size and 32mm width provide a balanced ride, while the playful YOLO ethos emphasizes living life to the fullest. For skaters seeking a reliable, high-quality option, these wheels are a great choice.
8. Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (…See It
The Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52 mm, 92A) are a vibrant and reliable choice for skaters seeking both style and performance. Their rainbow-colored design adds a playful touch, making them stand out on the boardwalk. I recall my first ride with these wheels; the colorful spin as I cruised was as eye-catching as the smooth glide they provided.
With a high-durometer rating of 92A, these wheels deliver a responsive and durable ride, perfect for tricks and carving. The high-density urethane ensures they withstand heavy use while maintaining smooth performance. Their compact 52mm size and 32mm width offer a balanced ride, making them ideal for various skating styles. The included bearings, spacers, and washers make this a convenient, ready-to-roll package.
9. Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52 mm) (92A) (…See It
The Rollerex Lollipop Boardwalk Skateboard Wheels (52mm, 92A) bring both performance and personality to your ride. Their vibrant rainbow design turns heads while the 92A durometer delivers a perfect balance of grip and slide. I remember the first time I took these wheels to the park – their colorful spin became an instant conversation starter among fellow skaters.
What makes these wheels special is their abrasion-resistant urethane construction, built to handle street skating’s toughest demands. The 52mm diameter offers excellent maneuverability for technical tricks while maintaining enough surface area for smooth cruising. Whether you’re hitting the skatepark or cruising the boardwalk, these wheels combine durability with playful style in a way few others can match.
While this set doesn’t include bearings, the high-density urethane formula ensures they’ll keep rolling smoothly through countless sessions. For skaters who want to stand out without sacrificing performance, these wheels deliver on both fronts.
10. Rollerex YOLO Longboard Wheels (70 mm) (76A) (4-Pack with Bea…See It
The Rollerex YOLO Longboard Wheels (70 mm, 76A) are designed for riders who embrace the thrill of the ride. Their 70mm diameter strikes a balance between speed and maneuverability, while the 76A durometer offers a smooth ride with excellent grip. I recall my first ride with these wheels; the responsiveness and comfort made every push feel effortless.
What sets these wheels apart is their high-density urethane construction, ensuring durability even under heavy use. The included bearings, spacers, and washers make this a convenient, ready-to-roll package. Their 51mm width provides stability while maintaining agility, perfect for both cruising and carving. The YOLO philosophy of living life to the fullest is encapsulated in these wheels, encouraging riders to explore new horizons with confidence.
How to Choose the Best Longboard Wheels
Choosing the best longboard wheels can transform your riding experience from good to exceptional. I learned this the hard way when my first set of budget wheels left me struggling for control on rough pavement. The right wheels should feel like an extension of your board, responding intuitively to every push and turn. When shopping, consider wheel diameter first – larger wheels (70mm+) roll faster and smoother over cracks, while smaller ones (50-65mm) offer quicker acceleration for tricks.
Durometer rating (the wheel’s hardness) dramatically affects your ride. Softer wheels (75A-83A) grip better and absorb vibrations, perfect for cruising. Harder wheels (84A+) slide easier for downhill racing but transmit more road feel. The contact patch (width of the wheel touching the ground) matters – wider patches increase stability at speed, while narrower ones make slides more predictable. I once wiped out because my wheels’ contact patch was too narrow for the hill I was bombing.
Don’t overlook wheel shape and core placement. Square-lipped wheels grip better for downhill, while rounded edges slide more predictably. Offset cores provide different riding characteristics when flipped. The urethane formula affects performance – premium formulas like Orangatang’s Happy Thane offer better rebound and wear resistance. My current wheels have lasted three times longer than my first set thanks to better urethane quality.
For electric longboards, consider core compatibility with your pulley system. Some wheels like the Orangatang Caguama include special cores designed for e-skates. If you’re buying complete sets, check if they include bearings, spacers and washers – these small parts add up in cost if not included. Remember that the best wheels balance all these factors with your riding style – there’s no single “perfect” wheel, just the perfect wheel for how you ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are longboard wheels made of?
Longboard wheels are typically made of polyurethane (urethane), a durable, flexible material that provides cushioning, grip, and resistance to wear. The quality of the urethane significantly impacts the wheel’s performance and longevity.
2. How do I choose the right durometer for my longboard wheels?
The durometer (measured in “A”) indicates the hardness of the wheel. Softer wheels (75A-83A) are better for cruising and absorbing vibrations, while harder wheels (84A+) are ideal for downhill racing and sliding. Choose based on your riding style and terrain.
3. What is the best size for longboard wheels?
The wheel size (diameter) affects speed and maneuverability. Larger wheels (70mm+) roll faster and handle rough terrain better, while smaller wheels (50-65mm) are more agile and easier to accelerate. Choose based on whether you prioritize speed or control.
4. Can I use skateboard wheels on a longboard?
While skateboard wheels can work on a longboard, they are smaller (typically 50-60mm) and may not provide the same speed or comfort as longboard-specific wheels. For optimal performance, use wheels designed for longboarding.
5. How often should I replace my longboard wheels?
Replace your wheels when they show significant wear, such as uneven edges, flat spots, or a lack of grip. On average, wheels last 1-3 years depending on usage and terrain.
6. What is the difference between round and square lip longboard wheels?
Round lips allow for smoother slides and easier transitions, while square lips provide more grip and stability at higher speeds. Choose round lips for freeride/sliding and square lips for downhill racing.
7. Are all longboard wheels waterproof?
No, most longboard wheels are not waterproof. While they can handle light moisture, prolonged exposure to water may damage the bearings or urethane. Use waterproof bearings and avoid riding in heavy rain for best results.
8. How do I clean and maintain my longboard wheels?
Clean your wheels with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals, as they may damage the urethane. Regularly inspect and replace worn-out wheels or bearings to ensure optimal performance.
9. Can I use longboard wheels on a skateboard?
Yes, but longboard wheels are larger and softer, which may not be ideal for tricks or tight turns. Skateboard wheels are smaller and harder, making them better suited for skateboarding.
10. What is the best brand for longboard wheels?
Popular brands like Orangatang, Shark Wheels, and Rollerex are known for their high-quality, durable wheels. Choose a brand that aligns with your riding style and budget.
