Skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane or urethane, and they come in many different materials. While the main ingredient is the same for every wheel, the process to make them varies widely. In this article, we’ll explain what skateboard wheels are made of and how those raw materials affect performance.
What Are Skateboard Wheels Made Of?
Skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane or urethane [1], with the latter being the most common type. Urethane is a synthetic polymer that is durable and flexible, making it an ideal material for skateboard wheels.
The hardness of urethane varies depending on the recipe used to make the wheels, but it generally falls somewhere between 75A and 90A on the Shore hardness scale. Softer wheels are better for cruising and carving, while harder wheels are better for street skating and park skating.
Are Skateboard Wheels Plastic?
No, skateboard wheels are not made of plastic. While plastic is a synthetic polymer like urethane, it is not as durable or flexible. Plastic is also much harder than urethane, which would make for a very uncomfortable ride.
What Are the Different Types of Skateboard Wheels?
Skateboard wheels come in many different sizes, shapes, and durometers. The size of the wheel is measured in mm, and it generally ranges from 50mm to 60mm. The shape of the wheel affects how the board turns and handles. Round wheels are better for cruising and carving, while square or conical wheels are better for street skating and park skating.
The durometer is a measure of how hard the wheel is, and it is typically expressed on the Shore hardness scale. Softer wheels are better for cruising and carving, while harder wheels are better for street skating and park skating.
How Are Skateboard Wheels Made?
Skateboard wheels are made by pouring molten urethane into a mold. The mold is typically made of metal or aluminum, and it is designed to create the desired shape and size of the wheel. Once the urethane cools and hardens, the wheels are ejected from the mold and they are ready to be used.
How Long Do Skateboard Wheels Last?
Skateboard wheels generally last anywhere from one to six months. The lifespan of a wheel depends on how often you skate and what type of skating you do. Street skating and park skating are harder on wheels than cruising and carving, so those wheels will need to be replaced more often.
What Are the Benefits of Skateboard Wheels?
Skateboard wheels offer a number of benefits, including durability, flexibility, and performance. Urethane is a very durable material, so skateboard wheels can withstand a lot of abuse. They are also flexible, which makes them ideal for absorbing the impact of tricks and landings. The hardness of the urethane also affects performance.
In general, softer wheels are better for cruising and carving, while harder wheels are better for street skates and park skating.
What Wheels Do Street Skaters Use?
Street skaters typically use wheels that are 50mm to 60mm in size and have a hardness of 80A to 90A. The larger size provides stability and speed, while the harder durometer ensures good grip and durability.
What Wheels Do Park Skaters Use?
Park skaters typically use wheels that are 50mm to 60mm in size and have a hardness of 75A to 85A. A softer durometer enables simple grinding and sliding with more stability.
What Wheels Do Cruiser Skaters Use?
Cruiser skaters typically use wheels that are 50mm to 60mm in size and have a hardness of 70A to 80A. The greater size offers stability, while the softer durometer guarantees a pleasant ride.
What Are Some of the Best Skateboard Wheels on the Market?
Some of the best skateboard wheels on the market include the Spitfire Formula Four Radials, the Bones STF V5 Series, and the Powell Peralta Mini Cubics.
Spitfire Formula Four Radials are made of high-quality urethane and they come in a variety of sizes and durometers. The Bones STF V5 Series is also made of high-quality urethane and it comes in a variety of sizes and durometers. The Powell Peralta Mini Cubics are made of high-quality urethane and they come in a variety of sizes and durometers.
Conclusion
Skateboard wheels are an important part of your skateboard setup. The right wheels can help you perform better and they can make your skating experience more enjoyable. There is no one “best” wheel, so it’s important to find the right ones for your skating style. With so many different options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect wheels for you.
