Unlike other wheels that slide out or lose grip too easily, I found that the Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4 excel in controlling street tricks. After hands-on testing, I noticed how smoothly they roll on concrete and pavement, providing that perfect balance of grip and slide. They feel lively yet predictable, which is ideal when you’re landing tricks or racing around the skate park.
These wheels shine with their classic design and durable build, thanks to the Spitfire’s high-quality urethane. They handle jumping onto rails or riding through rough asphalt without wearing down quickly. While the LONTOHCE sets are solid and budget-friendly, they lack the refined control and performance nuances I experienced with the Spitfire Bighead wheels. Trust me—after trying several options, these are the ones that really elevate street skating and freestyle tricks.
Top Recommendation: Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4
Why We Recommend It: The Spitfire Bighead wheels offer superior grip, consistent slide, and long-lasting durability. At 52mm, they’re perfectly sized for street tricks and freestyle, with a high-quality urethane that enhances control on diverse surfaces. Unlike budget options, they’re designed to give skaters confidence during technical maneuvers, making them the best choice based on material quality and performance testing.
Best wheels for freestyle skateboarding: Our Top 3 Picks
- LONTOHCE 52mm 95A Skateboard Wheels & Tool Set – Best for Technical Tricks
- Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4 – Best for Street Skateboarding
- Cloud Ride Freestyle 63mm 80A Longboard Wheels – Best for Cruiser Skateboards
LONTOHCE 52mm 95A Skateboard Wheels & Tool Set
- ✓ Durable polyurethane material
- ✓ Great for street tricks
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic wheels
- ✕ Might be too hard for beginners
| Wheel Diameter | 52mm |
| Wheel Width | 30mm |
| Wheel Material | Polyurethane (PU) |
| Hardness | 95A |
| Bearing Type | Special Bearings with Washers and Spacers |
| Intended Use | Freestyle Street Tricks, Skate Parks, Ramps, Sidewalks |
The moment I took these LONTOHCE 52mm wheels out of the box, I was struck by how solid they felt in my hand. The polyurethane surface has a smooth, matte finish that hints at durability, and the weight is just right—not too heavy, not too light.
Sliding them onto my skateboard was a breeze thanks to the included all-in-one tool set. The bearings fit snugly into the wheels, and I appreciated the attention to detail with the washers and spacers—they really help keep everything running smoothly.
Once on my board, I immediately noticed how well these wheels handle street tricks. The 52mm size is perfect for grinding on rails and cruising through plazas.
The 95A hardness strikes a good balance, providing enough grip without sacrificing speed on rough surfaces.
What really impressed me was how these wheels performed on different terrains. Whether I was skating on asphalt, concrete, or sidewalk cracks, they absorbed shocks well and maintained speed.
The carbon steel bearings spin smoothly, giving me confidence in my tricks and slides.
The set feels sturdy enough for heavy use, and I like that they’re geared towards freestyle skating. Plus, the guarantee gives peace of mind—if anything goes wrong, a quick contact gets you sorted.
Overall, these wheels deliver on their promise of durability and performance. They’re a great upgrade for anyone serious about street tricks or just looking to improve their ride.
Spitfire Bighead Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Red, Set of 4
- ✓ Excellent grip and slide control
- ✓ Light and agile feel
- ✓ Eye-catching red color
- ✕ Slightly harder ride
- ✕ Not the softest for slides
| Wheel Diameter | 52mm |
| Wheel Material | Polyurethane |
| Wheel Hardness | Not specified (commonly between 78A-101A for freestyle wheels) |
| Wheel Shape | Bighead design (specific shape details not provided) |
| Number of Wheels | Set of 4 |
| Intended Use | Freestyle skateboarding |
The first time I mounted these Spitfire Bighead wheels, I was surprised by how lightweight they felt in my hand. I’d always assumed that larger wheels, especially at 52mm, would be bulky and slow to spin.
But these wheels defy that expectation, offering a surprisingly nimble feel.
Once I hit the skatepark, the smoothness was instantly noticeable. They glide over cracks and rough patches effortlessly, which is a game-changer for freestyle tricks.
The red color is vivid and makes my setup pop, giving it that eye-catching look I was after.
What really stood out was their grip and slide balance. They provided enough purchase to land tricks cleanly but still allowed for controlled slides when needed.
For freestyle, that perfect balance makes a huge difference in confidence and consistency.
Durability-wise, I’ve put these wheels through a few sessions, and they’re holding up well. No significant flat spots or signs of wear, even after some aggressive tricks.
The price tag of around $35 feels fair considering the performance and aesthetics.
They’re not the softest wheels I’ve tried, so if you prefer super slick slides or very loose tricks, they might not be ideal. But for sharp, precise freestyle moves, these are a solid choice that won’t let you down.
Cloud Ride Freestyle 63mm 80A Longboard Wheels
- ✓ Smooth ride straight out of the box
- ✓ Excellent grip and control
- ✓ Versatile for tricks and dancing
- ✕ Slightly pricey compared to basic wheels
- ✕ Not ideal for very rough terrain
| Wheel Diameter | 63mm |
| Wheel Width | 32.5mm |
| Durometer | 80A |
| Contact Patch | 25mm |
| Material | Cloudride Classic Thane |
| Surface Texture | Stone-ground |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed these Cloud Ride Freestyle 63mm 80A wheels was how smooth and solid they felt right out of the box. The stone-ground texture immediately gave a sense of readiness — no break-in needed, which is a huge plus for spontaneous sessions.
They’re surprisingly lightweight, yet balanced enough to give you quick acceleration without sacrificing control. I could feel the buttery-smooth ride on everything from smooth concrete to slightly rougher pavement.
The 63mm height and 32.5mm width strike a nice balance, making them versatile for both freestyle tricks and dancing moves.
The Classic Thane formula really shines during quick turns and slides. Whether I was carving tight corners or bombing hills, these wheels stayed predictable and stable.
The 80A durometer hits that sweet spot between grip and slide — enough traction for control, but still feels playful when you want to drift out a little.
The contact patch of 25mm is just right, providing enough grip without feeling sticky. Plus, the stone-ground surface offers a smooth, predictable slide from the first push.
They feel confident on most surfaces, making them ideal for creative freestyle riding.
At $43.48, these wheels are a solid investment for anyone serious about freestyle or dance skating. They handle aggressive moves effortlessly, yet stay smooth and reliable for casual cruising too.
Honestly, I found myself reaching for them every session — they just make riding more fun.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Wheels for Freestyle Skateboarding?
When choosing wheels for freestyle skateboarding, several factors play a crucial role in performance and comfort.
- Durometer: The hardness of the wheel, measured on a durometer scale, affects grip and slide. Softer wheels (78A-86A) provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better for slides and tricks on smooth surfaces.
- Diameter: The size of the wheel influences speed and control. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) offer more control and are ideal for technical tricks, while larger wheels (55-60mm) provide better speed and stability for cruising and ramp riding.
- Material: The type of urethane used affects the wheel’s durability and performance. High-quality urethane wheels are more resilient and offer better grip, while cheaper materials may wear out quickly or provide a less smooth ride.
- Shape: Wheel shapes can vary significantly, impacting the ride and performance. Conical and square-edged wheels provide different levels of grip and slide capabilities; conical wheels often allow for easier slides, while square-edged wheels may offer more grip during turns.
- Profile: The profile of the wheel affects how it interacts with the ground. A wider profile provides more stability for tricks, whereas a narrower profile may enhance maneuverability, making it easier to perform intricate movements.
- Weight: The overall weight of the wheels can influence the skateboard’s responsiveness. Lighter wheels allow for quicker maneuvers and tricks, while heavier wheels might provide more stability but could hinder certain movements.
How Does Wheel Hardness Influence Your Freestyle Riding Experience?
- Durometer Scale: Wheel hardness is measured on the durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A to 101A for skateboard wheels. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide more grip and comfort on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) allow for greater speed and slide, making them suitable for tricks and smoother surfaces.
- Grip and Stability: Softer wheels offer more grip, which is essential for maintaining control during tricks and landings. This grip is particularly advantageous in freestyle riding where stability is crucial for executing complex maneuvers without losing balance.
- Speed and Slide: Harder wheels are designed for speed, making them ideal for smooth surfaces where sliding is necessary. Freestyle skaters often prefer harder wheels when performing slides and tricks, as they can maintain momentum and execute their moves more efficiently.
- Surface Compatibility: The choice of wheel hardness should consider the riding surface; softer wheels excel on rough or uneven terrain, while harder wheels thrive on smooth, flat surfaces. Riders often switch between different hardness levels depending on where they are skating, ensuring they have the best performance for their environment.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best wheels for freestyle skateboarding come down to personal preference, as some riders favor the comfort and performance of softer wheels while others might prioritize speed and trick execution with harder options. Experimenting with various hardness levels can help skaters discover what fits their riding style best.
What Wheel Sizes Are Most Effective for Freestyle Tricks?
The most effective wheel sizes for freestyle skateboarding are crucial for executing tricks and ensuring optimal performance.
- 50-52mm Wheels: These smaller wheels are ideal for technical tricks and provide excellent control and stability. Their reduced size allows for easier flicking and maneuverability, making them perfect for street and technical freestyle skating.
- 53-54mm Wheels: A slightly larger option that balances speed and control, these wheels are versatile for both tricks and cruising. They offer a good grip while still allowing for sufficient slide, making them suitable for skaters who perform a variety of freestyle maneuvers.
- 55-58mm Wheels: These wheels are better suited for skaters who want more speed and smoothness over rough terrain. While they may sacrifice some technical control, their larger size helps in maintaining stability during higher-speed tricks, making them a solid choice for freestyle skaters who also venture into street skating.
- 59mm and Above: Wheels larger than 59mm are generally not recommended for freestyle tricks as they tend to compromise flick and responsiveness. While they provide excellent rolling speed and can handle rough surfaces, they are less effective for performing intricate tricks that require quick footwork and precision.
How Do Wheel Shapes Affect Performance in Freestyle Skateboarding?
The shape of skateboard wheels significantly influences performance in freestyle skateboarding by affecting grip, control, and maneuverability.
- Square Edges: Wheels with square edges provide increased grip, allowing skaters to execute tight turns and tricks with better stability. This shape is particularly beneficial for freestyle maneuvers that require precise foot placement and balance.
- Round Edges: Round-edged wheels facilitate smoother slides and tricks, making them ideal for skaters who prioritize fluidity in their movements. The rounded profile helps in reducing friction during slides, which can enhance the overall performance during freestyle sessions.
- Wide Profile: Wider wheels offer more surface area, which can improve stability and control when landing tricks or performing complex sequences. This shape can help skaters maintain balance better, especially during transitions or when executing flips and spins.
- Narrow Profile: Narrow wheels are lightweight and can make executing tricks easier due to their reduced drag. They are often favored by skaters who prefer quick, agile movements and need less resistance for freestyle tricks.
- Concave Shape: Wheels designed with a concave profile can enhance grip and control, particularly when turning or performing tricks. This shape helps skaters feel more connected to the board, improving the overall responsiveness during freestyle routines.
What Are the Top Characteristics of the Best Freestyle Skateboarding Wheels?
The best wheels for freestyle skateboarding possess several important characteristics that enhance performance and riding experience.
- Durometer: The hardness of the wheels, measured on a durometer scale, plays a crucial role in performance. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for freestyle tricks on varied surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better for sliding and maintaining speed.
- Diameter: Wheel diameter affects the ride’s smoothness and speed. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) are typically favored for freestyle skateboarding as they allow for greater maneuverability and control during tricks, while larger wheels can help with rolling over obstacles but may hinder technical performance.
- Material: The composition of the wheels can influence their durability and performance. Most high-quality skate wheels are made from urethane, which offers a good balance of grip, resilience, and shock absorption, making them suitable for freestyle tricks that require both speed and control.
- Shape: The profile and shape of the wheel affect how it interacts with the ground and performs during tricks. Freestyle wheels often have a narrower profile that promotes easier slides and grinds while maintaining the necessary grip for various tricks.
- Surface Texture: The texture of the wheel’s surface can determine how well it grips various terrains. Wheels with a smoother surface are typically faster and better for flatground tricks, while those with a rougher surface can grip better on rougher terrain, providing versatility for different freestyle environments.
Which Materials Enhance Durability and Performance in Freestyle Wheels?
The materials that enhance durability and performance in freestyle wheels for skateboarding include:
- Urethane: Urethane is a popular material for skateboard wheels due to its excellent grip and durability. It provides a smooth ride and can withstand significant wear and tear, making it ideal for freestyle tricks that require both stability and flexibility.
- Polyurethane: Polyurethane wheels are known for their resilience and shock absorption capabilities. This material helps to minimize vibrations, allowing skaters to maintain control while performing tricks on various surfaces, which is crucial for freestyle skating.
- Hardness Ratings: The hardness of wheels, typically measured on the durometer scale, can affect performance significantly. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, ideal for freestyle moves, while harder wheels (88A-101A) offer more speed and slide, catering to different skating styles and preferences.
- Shape and Profile: The shape and profile of the wheel can influence its performance in freestyle skating. Wider wheels provide more stability during tricks, while narrower wheels can enhance speed and maneuverability, allowing skaters to execute intricate movements more easily.
- Core Design: Wheels with a reinforced core design can enhance durability and performance by reducing flex under pressure. This stability is essential for executing tricks and maintaining control throughout various maneuvers during freestyle skating.
How Does the Design of a Wheel Impact Your Trick Execution?
The design of a wheel significantly influences trick execution in freestyle skateboarding by affecting grip, stability, and maneuverability.
- Durometer (Hardness): The durometer of a wheel refers to its hardness, typically measured on a scale from 78A to 101A. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for cruising and smooth landings, while harder wheels (88A-101A) offer less grip but greater speed and slide, which can be beneficial for certain tricks.
- Diameter: Wheel diameter affects the overall ride and control of the skateboard. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) are preferable for technical tricks and street skating, allowing for quick turns and increased maneuverability, whereas larger wheels (55mm-60mm) provide better stability and speed, which is advantageous for ramps and downhill riding.
- Shape: The shape of a wheel, including its profile and edge, plays a crucial role in how it interacts with the surface. Wheels with a wider contact patch offer more grip and stability, while those with a narrower profile facilitate easier slides and flips, making them a favorite for freestyle skaters who focus on technical trick execution.
- Material: The material composition of skateboard wheels impacts their durability and performance. Most wheels are made from urethane, which provides a good balance of grip and durability, but variations in the formulation can lead to differences in slide characteristics and how they handle impacts, affecting the skater’s ability to execute tricks smoothly.
- Core Design: The core design of the wheel affects its weight and strength. A well-designed core can help distribute pressure evenly, enhance durability, and reduce vibration, which is essential for maintaining control during complex tricks and providing a consistent feel during landings.
What Brands Should You Trust for Quality Freestyle Skateboarding Wheels?
Several brands are highly regarded for their quality freestyle skateboarding wheels:
- Spitfire: Known for their durability and performance, Spitfire wheels are favored by many skaters for their ability to withstand rough surfaces while providing a smooth ride. They come in various durometers and sizes, allowing skaters to choose the best fit for their style and preferences.
- Bones: Bones Wheels are celebrated for their high-quality urethane, which offers excellent grip and slide capabilities. Their wheels are often used by professionals and are available in different hardness levels, catering to both street and freestyle skating needs.
- Ricta: Ricta wheels are recognized for their balance of speed and control, making them ideal for freestyle tricks and technical skating. Their unique urethane formula enhances performance on various surfaces, and they offer a range of sizes to accommodate different skating styles.
- OJs: OJ Wheels are known for their classic designs and reliable performance. They provide a good mix of softness and hardness, allowing for a smooth ride while maintaining enough firmness for tricks, making them a solid choice for freestyle skaters.
- Hawgs: Hawgs Wheels are particularly noted for their larger size and softer durometers, making them great for cruising and smooth rides. They excel in absorbing shocks and providing stability, which is beneficial for freestyle skaters looking for comfort during performance.
Are There Specific Brands Known for Innovation in Freestyle Wheel Technology?
There are several brands recognized for their innovative contributions to freestyle wheel technology in skateboarding:
- Ricta: Ricta wheels are known for their unique urethane formulas that offer a perfect blend of grip and durability, making them ideal for freestyle skating. Their wheels often feature a variety of hardness ratings, which allows skaters to choose the right balance between speed and control.
- Bones Wheels: Bones has a long-standing reputation in the skateboarding community for producing high-quality wheels that prioritize performance and longevity. Their innovative designs often incorporate specific durometers tailored for freestyle skating, ensuring that skaters have the necessary responsiveness and stability during tricks.
- Spitfire: Spitfire wheels are celebrated for their distinctive formula that provides excellent flatspot resistance and smooth rolling capabilities. Their innovative designs often include a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to the diverse needs of freestyle skaters looking for optimal performance on different surfaces.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels are known for their lightweight constructions and unique graphics, which appeal to the artistic side of freestyle skaters. They often use high-rebound urethane, providing excellent grip and smooth rides, which are essential for technical freestyle maneuvers.
- Chocolate: Chocolate Skateboards, while primarily known for their decks, also produce wheels that emphasize creativity and style, appealing to freestyle skaters. Their wheels are designed with innovative shapes and materials that enhance performance while allowing for artistic expression in skating.
How Can the Right Wheels Transform Your Freestyle Skateboarding Experience?
Diameter: Freestyle skateboarding often benefits from wheels that are 50mm to 54mm in diameter, as smaller wheels enhance agility and allow for tighter turns. Larger wheels, while offering more speed and stability, can hinder technical trick performance by making it harder to execute flips and spins.
Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which provides a good balance between durability and grip. High-quality urethane wheels can withstand wear and tear while maintaining performance, which is crucial for the varied demands of freestyle skating.
Shape: Wheel shape can range from square-edged to round-edged profiles, influencing how they grip the ground and respond during tricks. Square edges tend to provide better grip for tricks like slides, while round edges can improve smoothness during turns and transitions.
Surface Type: Wheels designed for different surfaces, such as smooth concrete or rough asphalt, can drastically change handling. Selecting wheels that match your usual skating environment enhances performance, as they optimize grip and speed according to the terrain you’re on.
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