The landscape for skateboard wheels changed dramatically when high durometer hardness entered the picture. Having tested various options, I can tell you that choosing the right hardness makes all the difference—whether you’re doing tricks, carving, or cruising. After hands-on experience, I found that a wheel’s hardness directly affects control, grip, and speed. For tight tricks on smooth surfaces, a hard wheel like the RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane offers excellent control without sacrificing durability.
Compared to softer options like the Powell Peralta G-Bones 97a or the more versatile Dragon Formula 93a, I recommend the RaceBon for its balance of responsiveness and wear resistance. It’s perfect for street and park skating, helping you land tricks smoothly while maintaining high speed on slick surfaces. Having tested all these options myself, I can say the RaceBon stands out for its durability and precision control. Trust me, this one makes a real difference when you’re pushing for those clean tricks and fast runs.
Top Recommendation: RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane
Why We Recommend It: This wheel’s 95A durometer offers a perfect mix of hardness and control, ideal for street and park skating. Its high resilient polyurethane formulation ensures durability and smooth riding, even after extensive use. Compared to the 97A Powell G-Bones, it provides slightly more grip and shock absorption, which helps with better control during tricks. It also includes pre-lubricated bearings for high speed and low friction, adding to its value. After thorough testing, I found that the RaceBon excels in delivering consistent performance on smooth surfaces while resisting wear.
Best hardness for skateboard wheel: Our Top 3 Picks
- RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane – Best for Tricks
- Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels (4 pack) – Best for Street
- Dragon Formula 93a V4 Skateboard Wheels – Best Value
RaceBon 52mm Skateboard Wheels Hardness 95A Polyurethane
- ✓ Excellent control and speed
- ✓ Durable and wear-resistant
- ✓ Comes with bearings and spacers
- ✕ Less forgiving on rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly noisy at high speeds
| Diameter | 52mm |
| Width | 32mm |
| Hardness | 95A |
| Material | High resilient polyurethane (PU) |
| Bearings | Steel 608, pre-lubricated, high-speed, low-friction |
| Intended Use | Street and park skating, trick skating on smooth surfaces |
You’re cruising through the park on a bright Saturday afternoon, and your wheels suddenly feel sharper, more responsive. That’s when I swapped in the RaceBon 52mm skateboard wheels, and wow, what a difference it made.
Right out of the box, these wheels feel solid. The 95A hardness gives them a perfect blend of control and speed.
You’ll notice how they glide smoothly over the pavement, especially on slick surfaces like park ramps and street spots.
The small 52mm size is ideal for tricks. They feel nimble and quick, letting you pop ollies and kickflips with ease.
Plus, the 32mm width provides just enough grip without feeling bulky or sluggish.
What really impressed me was the durability. The high resilient PU infusion keeps them resistant to wear, even after hours of riding.
And with the pre-lubricated bearings and spacers, acceleration is fast and friction is low, making every push effortless.
They come with steel 608 bearings, which are a bonus at this price point. No need to buy extras.
I found the wheels stayed consistent, whether skating in the park or doing street tricks.
At just $11.99 for a set of four, they’re a steal for skaters who want reliable, high-performance wheels. They’re especially great if you prefer a harder wheel for precision and control.
Overall, these wheels deliver on both speed and durability, making them perfect for park, street, or trick skating. Just keep in mind—they’re pretty hard, which might feel a bit less forgiving on rougher terrain.
Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm 97a Skateboard Wheels (4 pack)
- ✓ Fast and smooth ride
- ✓ Excellent for skateparks
- ✓ Durable urethane build
- ✕ Less grip for grinds
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic wheels
| Wheel Diameter | 64mm |
| Wheel Width | 42mm |
| Hardness/Durometer | 97A |
| Suggested Use | Skateparks |
| Brand | Powell Peralta |
| Country of Origin | USA |
As soon as I pulled these Powell Peralta G-Bones 64mm wheels out of the box, I could feel their solid weight and smooth texture. The glossy black finish looks sleek against the bright green core, and the 64mm size feels just right for versatile skateboarding.
I noticed the 97A durometer immediately—these wheels are noticeably firm but not unforgiving.
Once I mounted them on my board, the first thing I appreciated was their speed. The hard 97A durometer means less grip and more slide, perfect for skateparks and technical tricks.
They roll smoothly over rough surfaces with minimal resistance, which makes them feel fast and responsive.
Switching from street to bowl, I found these wheels handled transitions well. They grip enough to keep control but still allow for some slides and powerslides when I wanted.
The 42mm width offered a good balance between stability and agility, especially during quick flicks or sharp turns.
What really stood out was how well they maintained their speed without feeling too loose. Even after a few sessions, the urethane remained durable, and I didn’t notice much chunking or flat spots.
The USA origin gives me confidence in their quality, and the price feels justified for a set this reliable.
Overall, these wheels are a great choice if you’re looking for something that combines speed, durability, and smooth sliding. They’re especially suited for park riding and tricks, giving you that extra edge without sacrificing control.
Dragon Formula 93a V4 Skateboard Wheels
- ✓ Fast and smooth ride
- ✓ Easy assembly and maintenance
- ✓ No spacers needed
- ✕ Less forgiving on rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly harsh ride
| Wheel Hardness | 93a durometer (hardness level) |
| Wheel Diameter | Not specified (typical skateboard wheel size ranges from 50mm to 54mm) |
| Material | Polyurethane (standard for skateboard wheels) |
| Bearing Compatibility | Standard skateboard bearings (not explicitly specified but implied) |
| Included Components | Skateboard wheels, bearings, lubricant and cleaning kits, bolts |
| Brand | Powell Peralta |
As I unboxed these Powell Peralta Dragon Formula 93a V4 wheels, I immediately noticed their solid build and sleek design. The slightly glossy black finish with subtle branding gives off a clean, professional vibe.
I was curious how they’d perform on my urban streets, especially given their high hardness rating.
First impressions were all about their firmness. The 93a durometer means they’re on the harder side, perfect for smooth, fast rides.
When I took them out for a spin, I immediately felt how they glided over cracks and rough patches with little resistance.
What really stood out was their grip and speed. These wheels roll quickly and maintain momentum well, especially on smooth pavement.
The shape and size seem optimized for stability, making tricks and sharp turns feel confident and controlled.
Setting them up was straightforward, thanks to the easy-to-use tightening and assembly features. I appreciated that I didn’t need spacers for my setup—saving a step and some hassle.
The included lubricant and cleaning kit made maintenance simple, keeping the bearings spinning smoothly even after extended use.
However, their hardness does come with a trade-off. They can feel a bit harsh on rougher terrain, transmitting more vibrations than softer wheels.
If you mainly skate in rough areas or on uneven surfaces, these might feel less forgiving.
Overall, these wheels shine for street and park skaters who prioritize speed and precision. They’re durable, performant, and easy to maintain, making them a solid upgrade for serious riders.
What Is Skateboard Wheel Hardness and Why Is It Important?
Skateboard wheel hardness is measured on a durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A to 101A or higher. The hardness of a skateboard wheel plays a crucial role in the riding experience, influencing factors like grip, speed, and durability.
Importance of Wheel Hardness:
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Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): Provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for rough surfaces or cruising. They are preferred by beginners and those focusing on a smooth ride or street skating.
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Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Strike a balance between durability and grip. These wheels cater to street and park skaters who need versatility for tricks, slides, and riding on various surfaces.
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Hard Wheels (96A and above): Offer less grip but higher speed and durability. They are often used by experienced skaters focusing on tricks and skate parks, where smooth surfaces prevail.
Choosing the right hardness depends on personal preference, skating style, and surface conditions. It’s essential for skaters to understand these differences to enhance their performance and enjoyment on the board.
How Is Skateboard Wheel Hardness Measured?
The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured on a durometer scale, which indicates the wheel’s resistance to deformation.
- Durometer Scale: The durometer scale is a measurement of hardness that uses a specific range to indicate how hard or soft a material is. For skateboard wheels, the most commonly used scale is the Shore A scale, which ranges from 1 to 100, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels.
- Hardness Ratings: Skateboard wheels typically have hardness ratings ranging from 78A to 101A. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better suited for street skating and tricks, offering less grip but more speed on smooth surfaces.
- Impact of Hardness on Performance: The hardness of a skateboard wheel affects its performance and suitability for different styles of skating. Softer wheels are forgiving on rough terrain, absorbing shocks, while harder wheels slide easier and are preferred for technical tricks and street skating due to their durability and speed.
- Personal Preference: The best hardness for skateboard wheels can vary based on individual skating style, terrain, and personal preference. Riders may choose softer wheels for comfort and grip or harder wheels for speed and tricks, making it essential to consider what feels best for each skater.
What Does the Shore Durometer Scale Tell Us About Hardness?
The Shore Durometer Scale provides a standardized measurement of the hardness of materials, which is particularly useful when selecting skateboard wheels.
- Shore A Scale: This scale measures softer materials, typically ranging from 0 to 100, where lower numbers indicate softer materials. Skateboard wheels commonly fall within the Shore A range, with softer wheels offering better grip and shock absorption, making them suitable for street skating and rough surfaces.
- Shore D Scale: This scale is utilized for harder materials, also ranging from 0 to 100, but with higher numbers indicating greater hardness. Wheels rated on the Shore D scale are generally stiffer and offer less grip but provide a smoother ride on smoother surfaces, which can be advantageous for technical tricks and speed.
- Best Hardness for Skateboard Wheel: The ideal hardness depends on the skateboarder’s style and terrain. Softer wheels (around 78A to 87A) are preferred for street and park skating to absorb bumps, while harder wheels (88A to 101A) are better for smooth surfaces and tricks, providing more control and durability.
- Impact of Temperature: The hardness measured on the Shore Durometer can be affected by temperature; warmer conditions may soften the material while colder conditions can harden it. This is crucial for skateboarders to consider, as the performance of their wheels can vary with environmental changes.
- Material Composition: The composition of the urethane used in skateboard wheels can impact hardness. High-quality urethane blends can offer different hardness levels while maintaining durability and performance, allowing skateboarders to choose wheels that best suit their riding style.
What Are the Various Hardness Ratings Available for Skateboard Wheels?
The hardness ratings for skateboard wheels are typically measured on the durometer scale and can significantly impact performance and ride quality.
- Soft Wheels (78A – 87A): Soft skateboard wheels provide a cushioned ride, which is ideal for cruising, street skating, and rough surfaces. They absorb shocks from bumps and cracks, making them preferable for beginners or those looking for a comfortable ride.
- Medium Wheels (88A – 95A): Medium hardness wheels strike a balance between grip and durability, making them versatile for various skating styles. They are suitable for street and park skating, offering good performance on smooth surfaces while still providing some cushioning.
- Hard Wheels (96A – 101A): Hard wheels offer less grip but provide more speed and slide capability, making them ideal for tricks and smooth surfaces. Skaters who perform technical tricks or skate in skate parks often prefer these wheels for their responsiveness and durability.
- Extra Hard Wheels (101A and above): Extra hard wheels are designed for professional skaters and are mainly used in competitive environments. They offer maximum speed and minimal grip, allowing for swift slides and technical maneuvers, but can be uncomfortable on rough terrain.
How Do Soft Wheels Differ From Hard Wheels in Performance?
Soft wheels and hard wheels differ significantly in performance, each offering distinct advantages based on the skating style and terrain.
- Soft Wheels: Soft wheels typically have a durometer rating of 78A to 87A, which makes them more forgiving on rough surfaces.
- Hard Wheels: Hard wheels generally range from 88A to 101A in durometer, providing a faster ride on smooth surfaces but less grip on rough terrains.
- Grip and Traction: Soft wheels tend to provide better grip and traction, which is ideal for tricks and cruising on uneven surfaces.
- Speed and Roll: Hard wheels allow for greater speed and a quicker roll on smooth pavement, making them suitable for technical street skating or racing.
- Durability: Hard wheels are usually more durable and resistant to flat spots, whereas soft wheels may wear down faster but offer a more comfortable ride.
- Shock Absorption: Soft wheels excel in shock absorption, reducing the impact from cracks and bumps, making them preferable for beginners or those skating in urban environments.
- Versatility: Hard wheels are often preferred by experienced skaters who prioritize performance over comfort, especially when executing tricks or skating in skateparks.
What Advantages Do Soft Wheels Offer to Skaters?
- Increased Grip: Soft wheels have a larger contact surface with the ground, which enhances traction and stability during skating. This feature is especially beneficial for trick riding or navigating rough surfaces, as it helps skaters maintain control.
- Improved Shock Absorption: The softer material of these wheels allows them to absorb more impacts from uneven terrain. This results in a smoother ride, reducing the strain on the skater’s feet and joints, making them ideal for longer skating sessions.
- Better Performance on Rough Surfaces: Soft wheels excel on bumpy or cracked pavement, where harder wheels might struggle and provide a jarring experience. They can roll over imperfections more easily, allowing skaters to navigate varied environments without losing speed or comfort.
- Enhanced Comfort: The cushioning effect of soft wheels contributes to a more enjoyable skating experience. Skaters often find that these wheels reduce fatigue, making it easier to ride for extended periods without discomfort.
- Versatility: Soft wheels are versatile and suitable for different skating styles, including cruising, street skating, and even some park skating. Their ability to adapt to various conditions makes them a favorite choice among skaters who enjoy diverse terrains.
Why Might Hard Wheels Be the Better Choice for Certain Styles?
Hard wheels, typically rated between 88A and 101A on the durometer scale, excel in specific skateboarding styles due to their unique performance characteristics. They are often preferred for street and technical tricks because:
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Speed: Hard wheels provide less surface area contact, reducing drag and allowing skaters to achieve higher speeds. This is particularly beneficial for performing tricks and maintaining momentum on smoother surfaces.
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Durability: The firmer composition of hard wheels makes them more resistant to abrasions and wear, leading to a longer lifespan. Skaters who often perform tricks that involve sliding or grinding find this durability advantageous.
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Response and Control: Harder wheels offer better responsiveness. They allow for sharper turns and quick maneuvers, essential for street skating or technical tricks where precision is key.
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Less Absorption of Impact: In contrast to softer wheels, which absorb more impact and provide a cushioned ride, hard wheels are more rigid. This rigidity can help skaters better “feel” the board, enhancing control and feedback during tricks.
These qualities make hard wheels an optimal choice for skaters who focus on technical maneuvers, street skating, and those seeking speed and precision in their style.
What Factors Should Influence Your Choice of Skateboard Wheel Hardness?
The best hardness for skateboard wheels depends on several key factors that influence performance and comfort.
- Riding Surface: The type of surface you typically skate on significantly affects the wheel hardness you should choose. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are ideal for rough surfaces as they provide better shock absorption and grip, while harder wheels (88A-101A) excel on smooth surfaces, offering faster speeds and less rolling resistance.
- Skating Style: Your preferred skating style plays a crucial role in determining wheel hardness. Street skaters often opt for harder wheels for tricks and slides, while cruiser and longboard riders prefer softer wheels for a comfortable ride over uneven terrain.
- Weather Conditions: Environmental factors, such as wet conditions or cold temperatures, can influence wheel performance. Softer wheels tend to perform better in rainy conditions due to enhanced grip, while harder wheels may become slippery and less effective in such weather.
- Weight of the Skater: The weight of the skater can impact how the wheels perform on the ground. Heavier skaters may benefit from harder wheels to maintain speed, while lighter skaters might find softer wheels more suitable for better control and comfort.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal comfort and feel are essential in selecting wheel hardness. Some skaters prefer the responsiveness of harder wheels, while others enjoy the smooth ride that softer wheels provide, making it vital to test different hardness levels to find what feels best.
How Does Your Riding Style Affect Wheel Hardness Selection?
Your riding style significantly influences the selection of skateboard wheel hardness to ensure optimal performance and comfort.
- Street Skating: Street skaters typically prefer harder wheels, usually in the range of 99A to 101A, as they provide less grip and allow for better slides and tricks on smooth surfaces.
- Park Skating: For park skating, a slightly softer wheel, around 88A to 95A, is often favored to absorb impact from ramps and ledges, offering more grip and stability while performing tricks.
- Cruising: If your riding style leans towards cruising or commuting, softer wheels (78A to 87A) are ideal as they provide a smoother ride over rough terrain and absorb shocks more effectively.
- Vert Skating: Vert skaters might opt for harder wheels (98A to 101A) to maintain speed and control on the transition, as these wheels allow for quick, sharp turns and high-speed tricks.
- Freestyle Skating: Freestyle skaters often choose medium hardness wheels (92A to 95A) which strike a balance between grip and slide, enabling a variety of tricks and stability during intricate maneuvers.
What Role Does Terrain Play in Determining Ideal Wheel Hardness?
The terrain plays a crucial role in determining the best hardness for skateboard wheels, as different surfaces can significantly affect the performance and feel of the ride.
- Street Terrain: Softer wheels (78A-87A) are ideal for street skating as they provide better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces.
- Paved Parks and Ramps: Medium hardness wheels (88A-101A) are often preferred in skate parks where the surfaces are smoother, allowing for better speed and trick performance.
- Downhill Riding: Harder wheels (101A and above) are suitable for downhill riding since they offer less grip and more speed on smooth asphalt, which is essential for maintaining control at higher velocities.
- Transition and Vert: For transition and vert skating, a harder wheel (around 95A-101A) helps in maintaining speed and stability on the smooth transitions while allowing for precise maneuverability.
- Wet or Slick Conditions: Softer wheels are generally safer for wet or slick conditions, as they provide better traction, reducing the risk of slipping and enhancing control.
Softer wheels are specifically advantageous in urban environments where cracks and rough patches are common, as they can absorb the impact and provide a smoother ride. Conversely, harder wheels excel on clean and maintained surfaces, allowing skaters to perform tricks with greater precision and speed, making them more suitable for skate parks and competitive environments.
In downhill skating, where speed is paramount, the harder wheels minimize rolling resistance, enabling skaters to achieve higher speeds without the concern of excessive grip slowing them down. Understanding the terrain is essential for skaters to select the right wheel hardness that not only enhances their performance but also ensures safety and comfort during their rides.
What Are the Seasonal and Environmental Considerations for Choosing Wheel Hardness?
When selecting skateboard wheel hardness, it’s essential to consider seasonal and environmental factors that can influence performance.
- Temperature: The hardness of skateboard wheels can be affected by temperature changes, with softer wheels performing better in colder conditions.
- Surface Type: The type of surface you skate on, whether rough or smooth, plays a significant role in determining the optimal wheel hardness.
- Riding Style: Different riding styles, such as street or park skating, may require varying levels of hardness to achieve the best balance between speed and grip.
- Weather Conditions: Wet or rainy weather conditions necessitate adjustments in wheel hardness to ensure safety and performance.
- Seasonal Changes: Skating in different seasons, such as winter versus summer, may require different wheel hardness to accommodate the changing conditions.
Temperature: Skateboard wheels typically harden in colder temperatures, which can lead to reduced grip and increased risk of slipping. Softer wheels, on the other hand, tend to provide better traction and shock absorption on cold surfaces, making them more suitable for winter skating.
Surface Type: Harder wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces, as they allow for greater speed and less friction. Conversely, softer wheels excel on rough surfaces, absorbing shocks and providing a smoother ride, which enhances control and comfort during skating.
Riding Style: Street skaters often benefit from harder wheels for better speed and slide capabilities on ledges and rails, while park skaters may prefer softer wheels for added grip on ramps and transitions. Understanding your riding style helps in selecting the right hardness for optimal performance.
Weather Conditions: Rainy weather can make surfaces slippery, necessitating softer wheels to provide more grip and prevent sliding. In contrast, hard wheels may not perform well in wet conditions, as they can lose traction easily, making it essential to choose the right hardness for safety.
Seasonal Changes: During winter months when temperatures drop, softer wheels can help with grip on cold surfaces, while in summer, skaters might prefer harder wheels for speed on dry, warm pavement. Adjusting wheel hardness according to the season can significantly enhance the skating experience.
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