Roll Smoothly: A Guide to Longboard Wheels

Introduction

Longboarding, a thrilling and popular sport, offers riders the freedom to glide smoothly over various terrains. While the deck, trucks, and bearings play crucial roles in the performance of a longboard, the often-overlooked heroes are the longboard wheels. These essential components determine how you ride, where you can ride, and the overall feel of your longboarding experience. In this article, well take a closer look at longboard wheels, exploring their different aspects and why they matter.

Wheel Diameter and Durometer

Diameter: The diameter of longboard wheels plays a significant role in how they perform. Smaller wheels (around 60mm or less) are great for technical tricks and street riding due to their low center of gravity, while larger wheels (70mm and up) are ideal for cruising, downhill racing, and rough terrain, as they roll over cracks and obstacles more easily.

Durometer: Durometer measures the hardness of the wheels. Longboard wheels typically range from 75A (soft) to 101A (hard), with the lower end providing more grip and shock absorption for rough surfaces and the higher end offering greater speed and slide ability. Softer wheels are excellent for carving and commuting, while harder wheels are favored for downhill and sliding.

Wheel Shape

Longboard wheels come in various shapes, and each shape offers different characteristics:

Square-Edged Wheels: Square-edged wheels provide more grip when carving and are favored by downhill riders for precise control during high-speed descents.

Rounded-Edge Wheels: Rounded-edge wheels are more versatile, offering a balanced mix of grip and slide. They are suitable for various riding styles, making them a popular choice among longboarders.

Offset or Center-Set Wheels: Offset and center-set wheels affect the placement of the wheels core relative to the outer edges. Offset wheels offer a smoother slide, making them great for freeride and sliding, while center-set wheels provide a more predictable slide ideal for technical tricks and dancing.

Wheel Core

The core of a longboard wheel can also influence your ride:

Cored Wheels: Some longboard wheels have a core that extends to the wheels outer edges. These wheels maintain their shape throughout their lifespan and provide consistent performance.

Side-Set or Offset Cores: Wheels with side-set or offset cores offer a different feel during slides and turns, making them popular for freeriding and technical riding.

Center-Set Cores: Center-set cores allow for easy rotation, making them suitable for sliding and dancing tricks.

Conclusion

Longboard wheels are a critical component of your setup, influencing your rides speed, stability, grip, and versatility. To maximize your longboarding experience, consider the type of terrain youll be riding on and your preferred riding style when selecting the right wheels for your board. Whether youre a downhill racer, a cruiser, or a freestyler, choosing the right longboard wheels tailored to your needs will enhance your performance and overall enjoyment of this exhilarating sport.

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