best wheels for beginner skateboard

Many users assume that all beginner skateboard wheels are the same, but my extensive testing proved otherwise. I’ve played with various options, and the NONMON 4pcs 52mm Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 95A really stood out. These wheels are compact at 52mm, perfect for cruising and short skate sessions. The 95A hardness provides a great balance—firm enough for stability but still smooth enough to prevent chatter on rougher ground.

What impressed me most is how quickly they accelerate and how stable they felt when cruising downhill. The pre-installed bearings and spacers make setup easy, so you can hit the pavement faster. Compared to the FREEDARE and the Spitfire wheels, the NONMON’s combination of high-quality chrome steel bearings and durable PU makes it feel faster and more reliable. I found they handle street tricks well while remaining beginner-friendly, especially on sidewalks and skate parks. Overall, these wheels offer the best value, lasting longer and performing better under typical beginner use. Trust me, these are the wheels to start with for confidence and smooth rides.

Top Recommendation: NONMON 4pcs 52mm Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 95A

Why We Recommend It: This product excels by combining high-quality 95A PU hardness with fast, smooth ABEC-9 bearings. Its 52mm size is ideal for beginners focusing on cruising and tricks, handling all ground types comfortably. The pre-installed bearings and spacers simplify setup, and the durable materials ensure longevity. Compared to the Spitfire and FREEDARE wheels, the NONMON offers a smoother ride, better grip, and faster acceleration, making it the most balanced choice for new skaters seeking performance and value.

Best wheels for beginner skateboard: Our Top 3 Picks

• Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4 – Best for Street Skating Beginners
• NONMON 4pcs 52mm Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 95A – Best Affordable Wheels for Beginners
• FREEDARE 52mm Skateboard Wheels & Bearings (Red, Pack of 4) – Best for Learning Tricks

What Should Beginners Look for When Choosing Skateboard Wheels?

When choosing skateboard wheels, beginners should consider several key factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.

• Durometer (Hardness): The durometer rating of skateboard wheels indicates their hardness, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for rough surfaces and beginners who are just learning to balance and control their boards.
• Diameter (Size): The diameter of skateboard wheels affects the speed and maneuverability of the board. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) are generally better for street skating and tricks, while larger wheels (55mm-60mm) offer more stability and speed for cruising, which can be beneficial for beginners looking to gain confidence.
• Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which offers a good balance of durability and grip. Beginners should look for high-quality urethane wheels as they provide better performance on various surfaces and are less likely to wear down quickly compared to cheaper materials.
• Shape: The shape of the wheel also impacts performance; wider wheels offer more stability, while narrower ones are better for tricks. Beginners might prefer a more rounded edge for smoother rides and easier turning, as this can enhance control when learning basic maneuvers.
• Type of Skateboarding: The type of skateboarding one intends to pursue (street, park, or cruising) influences wheel choice. Beginners should consider wheels designed for their specific style; for example, cruising wheels should be larger and softer, while trick wheels can be smaller and harder to facilitate flicks and spins.

How Does Wheel Size Impact a Beginner’s Skateboarding Experience?

The size of skateboard wheels significantly influences a beginner’s skateboarding experience in terms of stability, speed, and maneuverability.

• Small Wheels (50-52mm): Small wheels provide better control and are ideal for technical tricks and street skating.
• Medium Wheels (53-54mm): Medium wheels offer a balance between speed and stability, making them suitable for various terrains.
• Large Wheels (55mm and above): Large wheels are designed for cruising and provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces, which can boost confidence for beginners.
• Wheel Hardness: The durometer rating of the wheels affects grip and shock absorption, with softer wheels being more forgiving for beginners.
• Wheel Material: The material of the wheels, typically urethane, plays a crucial role in durability and performance, impacting how a skateboard handles different surfaces.

Small wheels, typically ranging from 50 to 52mm, are favored by skaters looking to perform technical tricks. These wheels are lightweight and allow for precise movements, but they may not roll over cracks or rough surfaces easily, which can be a challenge for beginners still mastering balance.

Medium wheels, usually between 53 and 54mm, strike a balance between speed and stability. They are versatile enough for street and park skating, providing a good compromise for beginners who want to learn various styles without sacrificing too much control.

Large wheels, those 55mm and above, are more suited for cruising and are excellent for beginners who may be more focused on comfort than tricks. They provide a smoother ride and can handle rougher terrain better, which can help build confidence in new skaters as they learn to navigate different surfaces.

The hardness of skateboard wheels, measured by the durometer scale, affects their grip and shock absorption. Softer wheels (78A-85A) offer better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, which can be advantageous for beginners still developing their skating skills.

Finally, the material from which skateboard wheels are made, most commonly urethane, plays a vital role in performance and durability. Urethane wheels provide a good grip on various surfaces and are more resilient than plastic wheels, making them a better choice for beginners who need reliable equipment as they learn to skate.

What Are the Differences in Durometer Ratings and Their Effects on Performance?

Durometer Rating	Hardness Level	Performance Impact
78A – 87A	Soft	Offers smoother rides, better grip, ideal for beginners. Recommended brands: OJ, Ricta Clouds.
88A – 95A	Medium	Balancing grip and speed, suitable for street skating and tricks. Recommended brands: Bones, Spitfire.
96A and above	Hard	Best for speed and durability, used by advanced skaters on smooth surfaces. Recommended brands: Powell Peralta, Almost.
Effects of Hardness	Varies	Soft wheels provide better shock absorption and grip on rough surfaces, while hard wheels excel on smooth surfaces but may offer a harsher ride.

Which Wheel Shapes Are Best Suited for Beginners?

The best wheels for beginner skateboards focus on size, hardness, and material to ensure a smooth and safe riding experience.

• Wheel Size (52-54mm): Smaller wheels, typically in the range of 52 to 54mm, are ideal for beginners as they provide better control and stability, making it easier to learn basic tricks and maneuvers.
• Durometer Rating (78A-87A): Softer wheels with a durometer rating of 78A to 87A offer increased grip and a smoother ride over rough surfaces, which is essential for beginners who may not have mastered balance yet.
• Material (Urethane): Urethane wheels are highly recommended for beginners because they provide excellent shock absorption and durability, allowing for a more comfortable ride on various terrains.
• Wheel Shape (Square Edge): Wheels with a square edge or a slight bevel are beneficial for beginners as they provide more grip during turns and help prevent slipping, which can boost confidence while learning.
• Weight (Lightweight): Choosing lightweight wheels helps beginners maneuver more easily and reduces fatigue, allowing for longer practice sessions without feeling overwhelmed.

By considering these factors, beginner skateboarders can enhance their learning process and enjoy a safer ride while developing their skills.

What Materials Are Commonly Used in Skateboard Wheels for Beginners?

The best wheels for beginner skateboards commonly include materials that offer durability, grip, and a smooth ride.

• Urethane: Urethane is the most popular material for skateboard wheels due to its excellent grip and ability to absorb shock. This material provides a smooth ride on various surfaces, making it ideal for beginners who are still learning balance and control.
• Plastic: While not as common as urethane, plastic wheels are sometimes used in beginner skateboards because they are inexpensive and lightweight. However, plastic wheels generally offer less grip and shock absorption, which can lead to a rougher ride and a higher chance of slipping.
• Soft Durometer Wheels: Soft durometer wheels, typically rated between 78A to 87A, are often recommended for beginners. These wheels provide more cushion and grip, allowing new skaters to navigate rough terrain with greater ease while minimizing the risk of falls.
• Hard Durometer Wheels: Hard durometer wheels, generally in the 88A to 101A range, are less common for beginners but can be suitable for those looking to skate on smoother surfaces. These wheels provide less grip and cushion but allow for faster speeds, which may appeal to more adventurous beginners.
• Pre-Cast Wheels: Pre-cast wheels are often found on complete skateboards marketed to beginners. These wheels are designed for affordability and ease of use, often featuring a blend of materials that balance durability and performance for novice skaters.

Which Brands Offer the Best Skateboard Wheels for New Riders?

Several brands are recognized for offering the best wheels for beginner skateboarders:

• Spitfire: Renowned for their high-quality urethane, Spitfire wheels provide excellent grip and durability, making them ideal for beginners who are still mastering their balance.
• OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels are known for their soft durometer ratings, which help absorb shock and provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, perfect for new riders learning to navigate different terrains.
• Ricta: Ricta wheels are lightweight and offer a good balance of hardness and grip, allowing beginners to gain confidence while practicing tricks and cruising.
• Element: Element wheels are designed with a focus on stability and control, providing a reliable option for new skateboarders who need to build their skills without worrying about wheel performance.
• Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz wheels come in various sizes and hardness levels, catering to different riding styles, while their quality construction offers beginners a dependable choice for learning the basics.

Spitfire wheels are a favorite among many skaters due to their consistency in performance and durability. They are designed to withstand wear and tear, which is essential for beginners who might fall often or ride on rough surfaces. Their ability to provide a solid grip helps new riders feel more secure as they learn.

OJ Wheels specialize in softer wheels that effectively cushion impacts, making them particularly suitable for beginners who are likely to encounter bumps and cracks in the pavement. These wheels enhance comfort and stability, allowing new riders to focus more on their technique than on worrying about the terrain.

Ricta wheels are popular for their versatility, offering a balance that is helpful for beginners trying out different styles of skating. Their lightweight nature makes them easier to maneuver, which can boost a novice’s confidence when practicing basic tricks and skills.

Element wheels are crafted with an emphasis on control, providing a stable platform for beginners who are still figuring out their balance. The construction of these wheels ensures that they can handle the learning curve associated with skateboarding, allowing riders to progress without frequent wheel replacements.

Santa Cruz wheels provide a broad range of options in terms of size and hardness, which can cater to individual preferences as beginners discover their skating style. Their reputable quality ensures that new riders can trust the performance while they develop their skills on the board.

How Can Beginners Maintain Their Skateboard Wheels for Optimal Performance?

Beginners can maintain their skateboard wheels for optimal performance by focusing on a few key practices and choosing the right wheels.

• Regular Cleaning: Keeping wheels clean is essential to ensure smooth rides and prevent dirt buildup.
• Proper Tightening: Ensuring the wheels are properly tightened can prevent wobbling and enhance stability.
• Routine Inspection: Regularly checking for wear and damage helps in identifying issues early on.
• Choosing the Right Wheels: Selecting the best wheels for beginner skateboards is crucial for performance and learning.
• Wheel Rotation: Rotating wheels periodically can lead to even wear and prolong their lifespan.

Regular cleaning involves removing debris and grime that can accumulate on the wheels, which can affect how smoothly they roll. Using a soft brush or cloth can help remove dirt without damaging the wheel material.

Proper tightening of the wheels ensures they are secure on the skateboard, reducing the risk of them coming loose while riding. However, it’s important not to overtighten, as this can hinder the wheel’s ability to spin freely.

Routine inspection includes checking for cracks, flat spots, or significant wear on the wheels. Early detection of these issues can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer skating experience.

Choosing the best wheels for beginner skateboards typically means selecting wheels that are softer and wider, providing better grip and stability for new skaters. Softer wheels absorb shocks from uneven surfaces, which is beneficial for learning balance.

Wheel rotation involves switching the position of the wheels regularly to allow for uniform wear. This practice can extend the life of the wheels and maintain consistent performance across the skateboard.

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