Choosing Your Skateboard Wheels and Roll with Four

Choosing skateboard wheels are easy but there are several things to take into account. You’ll need to decide what brand, graphic, size and durometer is right for you.

Your selection of size is the most important factor to consider. Smaller wheels are generally used for more technical and street skating; where as larger wheels will ride better when skateboarding in parks and bowls or heavy terrain with transitions.

The next this you need to know is durometer of the wheel, this is a numerical value allowing you to determine whether the wheel is softer or harder. Most wheels are in the range of 97a to 99a. Basically the way it works is that the smaller the number, the softer the wheel, the larger, the harder. Larger wheels are generally a bit softer.

Dual durometer is just what it means. There are two durometers for the wheel. The core is harder, while the outside surface area is softer. There are a few reasons for this; first of all, the internal area is called the "bearing seat" and by making this area harder, it protects the bearing from crushing or losing its shield. Bearings don't usually crush, but it is an option that some wheel manufacturers pass along to skateboarders.

It's also worth pointing out that softer urethane is generally slower than harder urethane. So depending on the durometer, it may make a huge difference. Cored wheels can also be lighter than a standard urethane wheel depending on the core construction.