Wheelin' and Dealin'

Part 1: Wheels. What's the deal with 'em?

There are a couple of things you should know about wheels if you want to invest in a set and it's a given that you'll need some if you intend to do any kind of skating at all. Note: They make board go.

Now that you're aware, let's get to the point.

Aside from the graphics, which should have nothing to do with your purchase, about the only variations you'll find in wheels is in the size, which is measured in millimeters and the hardness, which is measured in durometer ratings.

Size

There've been smaller throughout skateboarding antiquity but given years of trial and testing these days what's considered small is somewhere there and about 54 millimeters. Anything smaller than that tends to flatspot easily and has a higher chance of getting caught in some unfortunate cracks in the road. So, while some supertechs prefer bitty, tiny most others simply stick with this higher range of regular small.

Smaller wheels are highly suitable for technical street skating because they are lighter and make for easier flip tricks. They're also shorter in diameter, which puts the rider closer to the ground insuring a lower center of gravity and better balance all around.

Second option size wise takes it up a notch in range and serves to broaden your options. While bigger wheels are a bit heavier, they also allow for rougher terrain and beg you let's go faster. They can surely take the cracks and get you extra speed. So if your soul's desire says cruise and rip it up, check the bigs. They range from 55 to upwards of 60 millimeters.

Hardness

Harder wheels are faster, slide easier and make a fair share of noise. If stealth is your game these probably aren't for you but if you're into street and you ever want to pull a decent bluntslide you'll probably need to give it your utmost consideration. In and over 98A durometer for this is what you seek. When it doubt about the hardness, bite and your teeth'll tell. Afterall, what's higher tech than the human body - for real?

Softer wheels are good for gripping and cruising. The softer they are they slower they go so manufacturers will tend to compensate by making softer bigger. Check your nearest longboard setup for verification on this. Note, anything under 97A will work for just scooting around but folks that ride ramps or pools will tend to stick with midsize [95-97] because it's a little grippier.

Now, without seeking anyone else's approval go out and buy and do that which works out best for you.

That be it - check it.