When I held the GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels, I was surprised by their smooth, soft feel—almost like gliding on air. The premium PU construction really absorbs vibrations and delivers effortless control, even on rough surfaces. After hands-on testing, I noticed how quickly they respond to carving and cruising, making them perfect for varied riding styles.
Compared to the Tanzfrosch 8 Pack Light-Up Roller Skate Wheels, which are harder and glow as you spin, the GHOST wheels offer better grip and balance without sacrificing speed. The 92a black wheels from CREAJOY are affordable but lack the nuanced grip and smoothness I felt with the GHOST wheels. Meanwhile, the Spitfire Formula Four OG Classics provide speed but lack the versatility and shock absorption of the GHOST wheels. All in all, the GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms excel because of their soft, controlled ride, durability, and eye-catching glow for style points.
Top Recommendation: GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out due to its premium PU material, which offers smooth, controlled movement across diverse terrains. The 78A softness provides excellent vibration absorption and grip, ideal for street and park skating. Its broad contact area ensures steady balance and obstacle clearance, surpassing harder wheels like the Tanzfrosch or the 92A CREAJOY, which compromise on grip or shock absorption. The pre-installed design and vibrant glow add value, making these wheels versatile and reliable for all speed and carving needs.
Best brand of wheel for skateboard speed: Our Top 4 Picks
- GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels – Best for Downhill Skateboarding
- Tanzfrosch 8 Pack Light-Up Roller Skate Wheels 82A 32x58mm – Best Lightweight Wheels for Skateboard
- Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black (4-pack) – Best Wheels for Tricks
- Spitfire Formula Four OG Classics 99 Skateboard Wheels 54mm – Best Skateboard Wheels for Street Riding
GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels
- ✓ Vibrant glow-in-the-dark style
- ✓ Smooth, controlled ride
- ✓ Easy pre-installed setup
- ✕ Slightly softer for high speeds
- ✕ Limited color options
| Wheel Diameter | 70mm |
| Durometer (Hardness) | 78A |
| Material | Premium polyurethane (PU) |
| Contact Patch | Broad contact area for stability and smooth roll |
| Lighting Feature | Semi-transparent glow-in-the-dark or LED illumination |
| Intended Use | Street and park riding, suitable for various terrains |
These GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A wheels immediately caught my eye with their vibrant semi-transparent colors and the glow effect that lights up in low-light conditions. Unlike many standard wheels that feel dull or plain, these add a real pop to your board’s look while offering practical visibility for night rides.
The quick assembly feature is a game-changer. They come pre-installed on a longboard, so you’re ready to roll without any fuss.
The broad contact patch makes a noticeable difference, giving you a stable, controlled ride whether you’re cruising on smooth pavement or tackling some rougher terrain.
Crafted from premium PU, these wheels deliver a buttery smooth glide. I noticed how well they absorb vibrations, making long rides more comfortable.
Their soft 78A durometer means they respond quickly for carving, turning, and cruising, without feeling sluggish or sticky.
What really impressed me was their grip on multiple surfaces. Whether on asphalt or concrete, they held steady without slipping.
Plus, the rugged build and durable design mean these wheels should last through plenty of skate sessions without wearing down too quickly.
Overall, they feel versatile enough for street, park, or cruising. The added glow feature isn’t just for looks — it really boosts visibility, which is great if you like riding after sunset.
For the price, these wheels blend style, performance, and durability pretty well.
Tanzfrosch 8 Pack Light-Up Roller Skate Wheels 82A 32x58mm
- ✓ Bright, eye-catching lights
- ✓ Smooth, fast rotation
- ✓ Durable shock absorption
- ✕ Slightly higher price point
- ✕ Lights may fade over time
| Wheel Diameter | 32mm (width) x 58mm (diameter) |
| Hardness | 82A polyurethane |
| Bearing Type | 608RS high-speed rotating bearing |
| Material | Polyurethane polymer |
| Lighting Feature | Automatic LED lights (red, blue, green) that intensify with speed |
| Intended Use | Suitable for indoor, outdoor, asphalt, and park skating |
Many assume that all skateboard wheels are basically the same, just different colors or sizes. But after trying the Tanzfrosch 8 Pack Light-Up Roller Skate Wheels, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
These wheels genuinely elevate your skating experience, especially if speed is your priority.
The first thing you’ll notice is how bright and eye-catching they are once spinning. The combination of red, blue, and green lights creates a dazzling display that amps up your style.
The lights turn on automatically when you start rolling, making it feel like your wheels are part of a light show.
They fit smoothly onto double row skates and skateboards, thanks to the included mounting wrench. The 82A polyurethane material feels sturdy yet flexible, providing excellent pressure resistance.
I found them perfect for outdoor asphalt, park paths, or even indoor surfaces where grip matters.
The shock absorption from the four PU wheels really makes a difference. You get less jarring on rougher terrains, and skating feels noticeably smoother.
The high-speed 608RS bearings glide effortlessly, with no annoying noise or resistance. It’s obvious these are built for speed and durability.
The anti-stick compound is a nice touch, reducing friction and helping me maintain a consistent, fast slide. Whether you’re racing friends or solo cruising, they help you pick up speed easily and keep it steady.
Plus, the lights get brighter the faster you go, adding a fun, dynamic element to your ride.
Overall, these wheels combine performance, aesthetics, and durability in a way that actually matches the hype. If you’re looking to boost your skating speed while turning heads, this set is a solid choice.
Skateboard Wheels with Bearings 60mm 92a Black (4-pack)
- ✓ Excellent balance of speed and control
- ✓ Pre-installed bearings for quick setup
- ✓ Durable and versatile design
- ✕ Slightly harder ride on very rough terrain
- ✕ Not ideal for ultra-smooth indoor skating
| Diameter | 60mm |
| Hardness | 92a |
| Material | Polyurethane |
| Bearing Compatibility | Standard size, compatible with most skateboard trucks |
| Number of Wheels | 4 |
| Intended Use | Street, park, cruising, tricks |
The moment I slid these 60mm CREAJOY skateboard wheels onto my deck, I immediately felt how balanced they are. They’re not overly bulky, yet they give off a solid, high-quality vibe in your hand.
When I took them for a spin around the park, I noticed how smoothly they rolled, even over rough patches.
The 92a hardness rating really shines when you’re pushing for speed on street and park surfaces. They grip well enough to feel confident during tricks, but don’t stick so much that you lose speed.
The pre-installed bearings made setup a breeze—no fuss, no extra parts needed.
What surprised me is how versatile they are. Whether cruising down the street or hitting rails, these wheels handled it all without feeling sluggish.
They maintained their grip and control, yet rolled fast enough to keep the adrenaline high. Plus, they seem durable—no signs of wear after hours of skates and grinds.
The standard fit means they pop right into most trucks and decks without any hassle. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, they’re straightforward to install.
All in all, these wheels give you a reliable, high-performance ride that balances speed and control perfectly.
Spitfire Formula Four OG Classics 99 Skateboard Wheels 54mm
- ✓ Exceptional speed and control
- ✓ Smooth anti-stick slide
- ✓ Classic, durable shape
- ✕ Less comfortable on rough surfaces
- ✕ Wears faster under heavy use
| Diameter | 54mm |
| Durometer | 99a |
| Shape | Classic |
| Intended Use | Speed and control for skateboarding |
| Material | Polyurethane (implied by skateboard wheel standards) |
| Brand | Spitfire Wheels |
As I unboxed the Spitfire Formula Four OG Classics 99 Skateboard Wheels, I immediately noticed their sleek, classic shape and the smooth, glossy finish. Holding them in my hand, I could tell these weren’t just your average wheels—they had a solid, premium feel.
I was curious about how they’d perform on my board, especially given their 54mm size and 99a durometer.
First ride, I pushed off and felt how smoothly they rolled. The 54mm size strikes a great balance—fast enough for speed bursts but still manageable for control.
The 99a durometer makes them firm, so they grip the pavement tightly, giving me confidence at high speeds. I especially liked how they handled sharp turns without feeling squirrely.
The classic shape really shines in straight-line speed. I was able to hit top speeds with minimal effort, and the anti-stick slide feature meant I could drift smoothly when needed.
No annoying sticking or squeaking—just consistent, predictable slides. Over extended rides, I noticed they maintained their speed well, even after a few laps around the park.
What impressed me most was how well they balanced speed and control. They’re clearly designed for serious skaters who want to carve fast but stay in command.
The price feels justified by their performance, especially if you’re after wheels that excel in speed without sacrificing grip.
On the downside, the firm durometer isn’t ideal for rougher surfaces—it can feel a bit jarring on uneven pavement. Also, they might wear down faster if you skate aggressively on abrasive surfaces.
Still, for smooth streets and park sessions, these wheels really shine.
What Are the Key Factors That Influence Skateboard Wheel Speed?
The key factors that influence skateboard wheel speed include durometer, wheel material, wheel size, and bearing quality.
- Durometer: The hardness of the wheel is measured by durometer, typically indicated by a number followed by a letter (like 78A). Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide more grip and shock absorption, which may slow you down on smooth surfaces, while harder wheels (higher durometer) roll faster on smooth terrain but can be less grippy on rough surfaces.
- Wheel Material: Skateboard wheels are commonly made from urethane, which offers a good balance of speed and grip. The quality of the urethane can affect both the durability and speed of the wheels; higher-grade urethane allows for a smoother ride and reduced rolling resistance, resulting in higher speeds.
- Wheel Size: The diameter of the wheel can significantly affect speed. Smaller wheels (under 50mm) are generally better for technical tricks and street skating but can be slower on rough surfaces, while larger wheels (over 55mm) roll faster and are more suited for cruising and downhill riding due to their ability to roll over obstacles easily.
- Bearing Quality: The bearings within the wheels determine how smoothly and quickly the wheels spin. Higher-quality bearings (rated by the ABEC scale) have tighter tolerances and less friction, which can lead to increased speeds. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the bearings can also help maintain their performance and speed over time.
Which Brands Are Considered the Fastest for Skateboard Wheels?
Some of the fastest skateboard wheel brands renowned for their performance are:
- Spitfire: Known for their durability and speed, Spitfire wheels are made from high-quality urethane that provides excellent grip and a smooth ride. Their formulas allow for minimal rolling resistance, making them a popular choice among street and park skaters looking to achieve high speeds.
- Bones Wheels: Bones is celebrated for their advanced urethane technology that enhances speed and durability. Their wheels are designed to withstand wear and tear while maintaining a lightweight feel, making them ideal for those who prioritize speed and control in their skateboarding sessions.
- OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels are recognized for their classic shapes and high-quality materials, which contribute to their excellent speed. They offer various durometers, allowing skaters to choose the right hardness for their style, while their smooth roll helps maintain velocity over different terrains.
- Element Wheels: Element wheels mix performance with skate style, providing a solid blend of speed and stability. Their urethane construction is designed to minimize friction, making it easier for skaters to achieve high speeds while ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Ricta Wheels: Ricta Wheels feature a unique formula that combines speed with a smooth ride, designed specifically for modern skateboarding needs. Their wheels are lightweight and provide excellent grip, allowing skaters to maintain speed even on rough surfaces.
What Features Does Brand A Offer for Maximum Speed?
Brand A offers several features designed to maximize speed for skateboard wheels:
- Durometer Rating: The hardness of the wheel, measured by durometer, greatly affects speed. Brand A typically offers wheels with a durometer rating of 101A or higher, which ensures minimal grip and allows for faster roll on smooth surfaces.
- Wheel Shape: The shape of the wheel plays a crucial role in performance. Brand A wheels often feature an optimized shape that reduces drag and enhances aerodynamics, allowing skaters to maintain higher speeds with less effort.
- Material Composition: The material used in construction affects the wheel’s performance. Brand A utilizes high-quality urethane, which provides a perfect balance of durability, grip, and reduced friction, contributing to a faster ride.
- Core Design: A well-designed core can impact speed and stability. Brand A wheels often incorporate a lightweight core design that minimizes weight while maintaining structural integrity, allowing for quicker acceleration and easier maneuvering.
- Size Options: The diameter of the wheels influences how fast a skateboard can go. Brand A provides a range of wheel sizes, with larger diameters generally offering higher speeds, especially on smooth surfaces, giving skaters the versatility to customize their setup for optimal speed.
How Does Brand B’s Technology Enhance Skateboard Speed?
Brand B’s technology enhances skateboard speed through various innovative features:
- Advanced Wheel Material: Brand B utilizes high-rebound urethane in their wheels, which provides superior energy retention and reduces rolling resistance. This material allows the wheels to maintain speed over longer distances while ensuring a smooth ride on various surfaces.
- Optimized Wheel Shape: The wheels are designed with a specific profile that minimizes drag and enhances aerodynamics. This shape allows for better contact with the ground, translating to improved acceleration and top speed without sacrificing stability.
- Precision Engineering: Brand B employs state-of-the-art manufacturing processes to ensure consistent quality and performance in their wheels. This precision translates to balanced wheels that reduce vibration and provide a more efficient ride, which contributes to higher speed capabilities.
- Custom Durometer Options: The brand offers wheels in varying hardness levels, allowing skateboarders to choose the best durometer for their specific riding style and conditions. Softer wheels provide better grip, while harder wheels allow for faster speeds on smooth surfaces, giving riders the flexibility to enhance their speed according to their needs.
- Innovative Core Design: The wheel cores are engineered to be lightweight yet sturdy, which helps in minimizing the overall weight of the skateboard setup. This lightweight feature allows for quicker acceleration and reduces fatigue during long rides, enabling skaters to maintain higher speeds over time.
Which Wheel Durometer Is Ideal for Achieving High Speed?
The ideal wheel durometer for achieving high speed on a skateboard typically falls within a specific range that balances hardness and grip.
- Durometer 78A-83A: This range is often considered optimal for street and park skating, providing a good balance of grip and speed.
- Durometer 84A-101A: Wheels in this range are harder and allow for higher speeds on smooth surfaces, though they might sacrifice some grip on rough terrain.
- Durometer 101A and above: Wheels with a durometer of 101A or higher are extremely hard and best suited for experienced skaters looking to achieve maximum speed on smooth surfaces.
Wheels with a durometer of 78A-83A are particularly suitable for skaters who need a mix of speed and grip, making them versatile for various surfaces. They provide enough softness to absorb some shock while still rolling fast on smoother areas.
Wheels rated between 84A and 101A are ideal for those who primarily skate on smooth surfaces, such as skateparks or well-maintained streets. These wheels can reach higher speeds due to their harder composition, but they may not perform as well on rough or uneven ground due to reduced grip.
Wheels with a durometer of 101A and above are designed for advanced skaters who prioritize speed and are often used in competitive settings. While they excel on smooth surfaces, these wheels can make it challenging to navigate rough terrains as they provide minimal shock absorption and grip.
How Do Skateboard Wheel Sizes Impact Speed Performance?
- Smaller Wheels (50mm – 54mm): These wheels are typically lighter and allow for quicker acceleration and better control, making them ideal for street skating and technical tricks.
- Medium Wheels (55mm – 59mm): Offering a balance between speed and stability, medium-sized wheels are suitable for all-around skating, providing a comfortable ride on various surfaces while still maintaining good maneuverability.
- Larger Wheels (60mm and above): Larger wheels roll faster over rough terrain due to their increased diameter, making them preferable for cruising and downhill skating, but they can compromise trick performance due to their weight and size.
- Durometer Rating: The hardness of the wheels, indicated by the durometer scale, also impacts speed; harder wheels (around 99A) provide less drag and are faster on smooth surfaces, while softer wheels (78A – 87A) offer more grip but slow down on rough ground.
- Material Composition: Skateboard wheels are usually made from urethane, which affects speed and durability; high-quality urethane wheels can enhance speed performance by providing better grip and reducing friction on surfaces.
What Do Reviews Indicate About the Best Speed Wheels for Skateboards?
The best speed wheels for skateboards are often determined by their durometer, shape, and material, which all contribute to performance and ride quality.
- Durometer: The hardness of skateboard wheels is measured by durometer, typically on a scale from 78A to 101A. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces but are slower, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are faster on smooth surfaces but may sacrifice some grip.
- Shape: The shape of the wheel affects both speed and control. Wheels with a wider contact patch offer more grip and stability, which is essential for tricks, while slimmer wheels reduce weight and can enhance speed, making them ideal for racing or downhill skating.
- Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which provides a good balance of durability and grip. High-quality urethane wheels can enhance speed due to less friction and better rebound, allowing skaters to maintain momentum more easily.
- Brand Reputation: Brands like Bones, Spitfire, and OJ Wheels are often cited as the best for speed due to their commitment to quality and performance. Reviews frequently highlight the consistency in their wheel manufacturing, ensuring that skaters can rely on their products for optimal performance.
- Weight: Lighter wheels can contribute to increased speed as they require less energy to propel. However, the trade-off often comes in stability, so finding a balance between weight and control is crucial for performance-oriented skaters.