How Much Do Skateboard Wheels Cost? Compatibility and Price
- Ed Riley
- August 22, 2022
If you are into skateboarding, then you are probably also on the lookout for the best quality skateboard wheels. That’s because what’s a good quality skateboard without some amazing wheels? You could be a beginner or a seasoned skater, but great wheels will make a lot of difference.
If you have become tired of looking for the best wheels for your skateboard, then this guide is for you. This article covers all the information starting from beginner’s information about the cost of skateboard wheels to a range of the available options.
Are the Skateboard Wheels Compatible with the Decks?
Before riding a skateboard or attaching wheels to a skateboard, you should ensure that the skateboard wheels are compatible with the deck. It is possible to attach longboard wheels to a skateboard, but the condition is that they cannot be larger than 70 mm. You need to place and also attach bolts to prevent wheel bite.
To put this into light, skateboard wheels will determine how far your skateboard deck will go when you are riding it. The materials that the skateboard wheels are made of, the diameter, all these things will also determine the compatibility of the wheels with the decks.
Factors Determining the Cost or Pricing of Skateboard Wheels
The price of skateboard wheels generally varies depending on the diameter, contact patch, wheel shape or profile, and durometer rating. Usually, more expensive brands of wheels have a higher price. Let’s take a look at some of the factors in depth.
Diameter of the Wheels
Small wheels are more receptive or responsive. Thus, these are the best for street-style skating. The smaller wheels also have less weight. On the contrary, bigger wheels may have more weight but glide easily on rougher surfaces. The plus point about bigger wheels is that they will also roll more smoothly.
Exposure to Contact Patch
The contact patch is the surface on which the skateboard wheels will have contact. The kind of surface determines the level of grip that your wheels will have. Narrower wheels will glide more smoothly on any kind of contact patch or surface.
On the other hand, broader wheels help to maintain grip and also ensure that you can easily speed.
Shape or Profile of the Skateboard Wheels
The shape of the skateboard wheels is fundamental for determining how effectively they will slide on any given surface. Moreover, the shape of the wheels is also crucial to determine the amount of grip they will have and whether they will attach securely to the deck.
Rounder edges glide effortlessly, while sharper edges make sure that the wheels maintain traction with the surface.
Rating of Durometer
Skateboard wheels are given durometer ratings based on the hardness that polyurethane gives them. 78A-90A longboard wheels are considered soft. Durometer scores between 90A and 98A are considered medium, while those between 99A and 100A are considered hard.
When longboarding or cruising on smooth surfaces, soft longboard wheels are ideal, while medium wheels are best for rougher areas. Skate parks with ledges and rails are the finest places to use hard wheels.
Skateboard wheel prices are influenced by a variety of factors, including the quality and features listed above.
Skateboard Wheels Type
Finding the right kind of wheels for your skateboard deck depends on several factors, such as your weight, the kind of deck that you ride, and also how much you can pay. Before considering all of these factors, you must get introduced to the types of wheels.
Below, let’s glimpse the three major types of wheels.
Street or Park Wheels
Street or park skateboard wheels with durometer ratings of 95-101A with a diameter of 50-60mm roll quickly on flat surfaces, are light, and glide smoothly. These wheels are perfect for doing ollies, power slides, and other tricks like these.
If you buy branded street wheels, their price will range from $20-$30 per wheel. The non-branded ones cost less at $10-$15.
Cruisers- Also Known As Soft Wheels
Wheels for soft skateboards, such as cruisers, are larger and softer than those for street or park skateboards. These have a durometer rating of 78-90A and a diameter ranging from 54-60mm. Cruiser wheels are the best option if you want to ride your deck swiftly and adventurously.
For premium soft wheels or cruiser wheels, expect to pay between $25 and $40, and for generic ones, between $15 and $20.
Longboard Wheels
Longboard wheels may be found with a durometer value of 75-85A and a diameter of 60-75mm. If you like power skidding, downhill surfing, and carving, these wheels are for you.
Longboard wheels with a name brand may cost anywhere from $30 to $60. Generic wheels, on the other hand, cost between $15 and $25.
Is It Worth Splurging for Skateboard Wheels Or Should I Save Money?
Your safety is our top priority. While it is important that you do not spend too much cash to buy these skateboard wheels, it is also important that you buy wheels that will give you value for money.
The right kind of wheels will give you the flexibility to ride however you want, without compromising your safety. If you want generic wheels for beginners, then expect to shell out at least $15.
Branded wheels require you to spend anywhere from $20-$60. But branded wheels will also offer you the optimum performance at this price. Picking the right set of skateboard wheels may seem like a daunting task, but we have tried to make it easier for you.
How Much Do Skateboard Wheels Cost? Wheels Price Breakdown
This section aims to give you a thorough breakdown of the skateboard wheel costs.
Branded street wheels cost between $20-$30, while the generic ones cost between $10-$15. The price range of soft wheels or cruisers may range from $15 to $40. On the contrary, the more expensive longboard wheels cost anywhere between $30 to $60. The lesser expensive longboard wheels cost between $15 to $25.
Final Words....
Before bidding farewell, we would like to thank you for reading our guide about the price of skateboard wheels. Keep in mind that your safety should be your top priority, so opt for skateboard wheels that will ensure your safety. Moreover, it is also important that you look for wheels that will fit your riding style.
That’s all! We hope you will buy the right kind of wheels for your skateboard deck.
