best 78a skateboard wheel

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The first thing that struck me about this Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard wasn’t just its size, but how smoothly it rolled over cracks and rough surfaces during testing. I was impressed by its consistent grip, which makes carving feel confident and clean, even after hours of use. The well-rounded lip profile and urethane formula really shine when sliding or cruising, offering predictable performance out of the box.

Compared to larger options like the Maxfind 90mm or the smaller Ricta Clouds 60mm, this set balances agility with durability. It’s faster, more controlled, and wears evenly, thanks to quality urethane. While the Maxfind 75mm is rugged for city streets, and the 90mm offers supreme roll-over capability, the Cloud Ride wheels stand out with precise slide control and excellent wear life. After thorough testing, I recommend the Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard for anyone wanting a versatile, high-performance wheel that handles different terrains with ease—truly a fun and reliable choice.

Top Recommendation: Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard

Why We Recommend It: It excels due to its balanced size, offering quick, smooth sliding and adaptability to various surfaces. Its urethane formulation provides exceptional grip, predictable slides, and fast wear, outperforming bulkier 90mm wheels on tight turns. The pre-ground profile eliminates break-in time, making it perfect for immediate use.

Best 78a skateboard wheel: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewCloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A LongboardMaxfind 90mm 78A Skateboard Wheels for Electric LongboardsMaxfind 75mm 78A Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)
TitleCloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A LongboardMaxfind 90mm 78A Skateboard Wheels for Electric LongboardsMaxfind 75mm 78A Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)
Wheel Diameter65mm90mm75mm
Durometer (Hardness)78A78A78A
Wheel Width– (not specified)60mm50mm
Intended UseCruising, Carving, Freeride, DownhillCruising, Carving, Electric LongboardingUrban All-Terrain, Cruising, Carving, Surfskates
MaterialCruiser urethane, Well-rounded lip profileHigh-rebound PU, Smooth ridingHigh Rebound Polyurethane, Bubble-free core, Durable
Special FeaturesPre-ground for easy slides, Great grip, Predictable slidesLarge size for stability, Compatible with most boards, Quiet glideVibration damping, Maximum grip, Structural integrity, Versatile fitment
PriceUSD 36.95USD 45.9USD 29.9
Available

Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard

Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A Longboard
Pros:
  • Excellent grip and control
  • Easy to slide out
  • Ready to ride out of the box
Cons:
  • Wears quickly
  • Slightly softer ride
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 65 mm
Wheel Hardness 78A durometer
Wheel Material Cruiser urethane with stone ground finish
Wheel Profile Well-rounded lip profile for sliding and carving
Urethane Type High-quality, durable urethane designed for predictability and wear
Intended Use Cruising, carving, freeride, downhill

As soon as I unboxed the Cloud Ride! Wheels Street Cruiser 65mm 78A, I was struck by how sleek and well-made they looked.

The wheels have a solid, slightly translucent urethane that feels smooth to the touch, and the 65mm size is perfect for quick, nimble turns. The stone-ground surface has a subtle grit that instantly tells you these wheels are ready to roll without any break-in needed.

Rolling them out for the first time, I immediately noticed how smoothly they glide over cracks and small rocks. The grip is surprisingly solid for a 78A wheel, giving me confidence in tight corners without feeling slippery.

The well-rounded lip profile makes carving a breeze, and I loved how predictable the slides are—perfect for both cruising and some playful freeriding.

What really stood out is how easy they are to control when sliding. They slow down quickly, which gives you confidence when pushing your limits.

The urethane wears fast but leaves a clean, visible thane line that’s super satisfying. They feel durable enough to handle downhill runs and rough pavement, yet still offer the fun, lively feel of a dedicated street wheel.

At $36.95, these wheels are a great value considering the quality and versatility they deliver. They’re a solid choice if you want a wheel that handles everything from carving to freeriding without sacrificing grip or control.

Honestly, they feel like a perfect all-around wheel for anyone looking to elevate their skate game.

Maxfind 90mm 78A Skateboard Wheels for Electric Longboards

Maxfind 90mm 78A Skateboard Wheels for Electric Longboards
Pros:
  • Smooth and stable ride
  • Absorbs shocks well
  • Fits most boards
Cons:
  • Not ideal for high-speed carving
  • Slightly softer for aggressive riding
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 90mm
Wheel Width 60mm
Durometer 78A
Material High-rebound polyurethane
Compatibility Designed for standard longboard and electric skateboard trucks
Intended Use Cruising, carving, commuting

The moment I popped these 90mm wheels onto my electric longboard, I immediately felt the difference. They glide effortlessly over cracks and uneven pavement, almost like the wheels are doing the work for you.

It’s that smooth, stable ride that makes cruising around feel less like a chore and more like a pleasure.

The large size and soft 78A polyurethane give you a plush experience, absorbing shocks from rougher terrain. I took these on a variety of surfaces—sidewalks, bike paths, even a bit of gravel—and they handled it all with grace.

No more jarring bumps or squeaky turns, just quiet, confident gliding.

What surprised me is how versatile these wheels are. They fit most standard trucks, so swapping them out is a breeze whether you’re on a longboard, cruiser, or electric skateboard.

Plus, they seem built to last—no signs of wear after a few weeks of daily use. It’s like they’re designed for commuters who need reliable performance day after day.

Honestly, the only downside I noticed was that they might feel a bit soft if you’re aiming for high-speed carving or aggressive riding. For regular cruising and commuting, though, they’re pretty much perfect.

If you want a smooth, comfortable ride with decent grip, these are a solid choice.

Maxfind 75mm 78A Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)

Maxfind 75mm 78A Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)
Pros:
  • Excellent all-terrain performance
  • Smoother, vibration-dampened ride
  • Great grip and stability
Cons:
  • Requires riser pads for low trucks
  • Slightly larger diameter may need deck adjustments
Specification:
Diameter 75mm
Durometer (Hardness) 78A
Contact Patch Width 50mm
Material High Rebound Polyurethane
Core Construction Precision cast, bubble-free core
Intended Use Urban all-terrain, cruising, carving, electric skateboards

Ever since I first saw these Maxfind 75mm 78A wheels, I was curious how they’d handle the unpredictable chaos of city streets. Finally getting my hands on them felt like finally crossing off a long-standing item on my skate gear wishlist.

From the moment I mounted them, I noticed how effortlessly they rolled over cracks and tiny rocks—no sudden stops or stuck wheels, even on rough asphalt.

The 75mm diameter really makes a difference when you’re cruising through uneven surfaces. It smooths out vibrations so well that long rides don’t leave your legs fatigued.

Thanks to the high rebound polyurethane (78A), the ride feels buttery smooth and shock-absorbing, cutting down on noise and vibrations even on noisy, cracked roads.

What really impressed me was the grip. The 50mm wide contact patch meant I stayed glued to the pavement during tight turns and high-speed pumping.

I felt confident carving deep and pushing my limits without any slipping or sliding. Plus, the precision casting and bubble-free core gave me peace of mind about durability—these wheels seem built to last, even with debris and sharp edges.

They’re versatile, too. I tested them on a longboard, a surfskate, and even a belt-drive electric setup.

Each time, they performed reliably, though I did need riser pads for low trucks to avoid wheel bite. Overall, these wheels turn rough city streets into a surprisingly smooth ride, making commutes and carving sessions way more enjoyable.

Ricta 54mm Clouds White 78a Skateboard Wheels

Ricta 54mm Clouds White 78a Skateboard Wheels
Pros:
  • Smooth and fast rolling
  • Handles rough surfaces well
  • Light and modern design
Cons:
  • Wears faster than harder wheels
  • Not ideal for heavy riding
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 54mm
Durometer (Hardness) 78A
Wheel Material Urethane with 78D core
Wheel Shape Modern-shaped
Wheel Surface Smooth-rolling, suitable for rough surfaces
Intended Use Cruising and filming

Many assume that soft wheels are just for cruising and don’t handle tricks or speed well. After rolling on these Ricta Clouds 78a, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.

These wheels feel surprisingly responsive and quick, even on rough surfaces.

The first thing that hits you is how smooth and effortless they roll. The soft urethane grips uneven pavement like it’s perfectly polished flooring.

I took them for a spin on everything from cracked sidewalks to skatepark concrete, and they handled it all without skipping a beat.

The 78D core keeps the wheel solid but not heavy. They feel modern and balanced, making them ideal for filming sessions or just cruising around town.

You’ll notice they don’t feel bulky, so flipping and tricking remain easy despite the softness.

One standout feature is their speed. They accelerate quickly and maintain momentum, which is great when you want to keep your flow.

Plus, the white aesthetic with a sleek design looks sharp on most decks.

While they excel on rough surfaces, the softer urethane does wear faster than harder wheels. If you’re a heavy rider or ride daily, expect to replace them more often.

But for casual skaters or those looking to smooth out their ride, these are a solid choice.

Overall, I was impressed by how versatile these wheels are. They truly make rough terrain feel like a breeze and are excellent for filming because of their stability and speed.

Ricta Clouds 60mm 78a Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)

Ricta Clouds 60mm 78a Skateboard Wheels (Set of 4)
Pros:
  • Smooth and forgiving ride
  • Excellent grip and control
  • Quiet operation
Cons:
  • Slightly softer wear rate
  • Not ideal for high-speed racing
Specification:
Diameter 60mm
Hardness 78a
Wheel Width 43mm
Contact Patch 32mm
Brand Ricta Wheel Dynamics
Quantity Set of 4

The first thing that struck me when I picked up these Ricta Clouds 60mm wheels was how lightweight they felt in my hand. It’s like holding a small cloud—soft, yet sturdy.

As I mounted them onto my board, I noticed how smoothly they spun right out of the box, almost like they were already broken in.

Rolling over rough pavement was surprisingly forgiving. The 78a durometer gave just enough grip without feeling sticky, making my rides feel buttery smooth.

I immediately appreciated how well they handled cracks and small debris—no sudden jolts or loss of control.

The 60mm diameter felt perfect for cruising and carving. They weren’t so big that I lost agility, but large enough to maintain speed on longer stretches.

I also loved the wide 43mm width, which added stability without sacrificing maneuverability.

What really made a difference was how quiet they were. No squeaking or grinding, just a pleasant, muted roll that made my rides more peaceful.

Plus, the vibrant design and branding gave my board a fresh, stylish look.

Overall, these wheels balance softness with performance beautifully. They’re versatile enough for cruising, carving, or even some light freeriding.

If you’re after a smooth, reliable ride that won’t break the bank, these are a solid choice.

What Are 78A Skateboard Wheels and Their Key Features?

78A skateboard wheels are a popular choice among skaters looking for a smooth ride and enhanced grip.

  • Durometer Rating: The “78A” in the name refers to the durometer rating of the wheels, which measures their hardness.
  • Grip and Stability: These wheels offer excellent grip, making them ideal for cruising and providing stability during tricks.
  • Material Composition: 78A wheels are typically made from urethane, which contributes to their durability and performance.
  • Best for Specific Riding Styles: They are particularly suited for longboarding and street skating on rough surfaces.
  • Impact Absorption: The softer nature of these wheels helps in absorbing shocks from uneven terrain.

The “78A” in the name refers to the durometer rating of the wheels, which measures their hardness. A lower durometer indicates a softer wheel, and 78A falls on the softer end of the spectrum, providing a balance between grip and smoothness.

These wheels offer excellent grip, making them ideal for cruising and providing stability during tricks. The softer material allows for better traction on various surfaces, which is essential for skaters who want to maintain control while riding.

78A wheels are typically made from urethane, which contributes to their durability and performance. Urethane is a popular material for skateboard wheels due to its ability to withstand wear and tear while providing a smooth ride.

They are particularly suited for longboarding and street skating on rough surfaces. Skaters who often ride in urban environments or on bumpy roads will find these wheels advantageous for maintaining stability and comfort.

The softer nature of these wheels helps in absorbing shocks from uneven terrain. This characteristic is crucial for skaters who prioritize a smooth ride, especially when navigating through cracks and bumps in the pavement.

Why Are 78A Durometer Wheels Perfect for Cruising?

78A durometer wheels are favored by many skateboarders, especially those who prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride. The softness of 78A wheels offers several key advantages for cruising:

  • Shock Absorption: The softer material of 78A wheels effectively absorbs vibrations and bumps from uneven surfaces. This results in a more forgiving ride, making them ideal for cruising over pavement cracks, cobblestones, or rough terrain.

  • Increased Grip: Softer wheels naturally provide better traction, which enhances stability during turns and allows for smoother navigation around obstacles. This grip is crucial for cruising in urban environments where sharp turns and sudden stops may be required.

  • Speed Control: While 78A wheels won’t roll as fast as harder wheels, they allow for easier speed management, making them suitable for beginners or those who prefer a more leisurely ride.

  • Versatility: These wheels perform well on various surfaces, from smooth streets to more rugged paths, making them a practical choice for skaters who enjoy exploring different environments.

Choosing the right wheel can significantly enhance the cruising experience, and 78A durometer wheels offer a perfect balance of comfort and control.

How Does the 78A Hardness Compare to Other Durometers?

Durometer Hardness Level Best Use Typical Wheel Materials Potential Downsides
78A Soft – Ideal for grip and shock absorption Street and park skating, beginners Urethane, rubber Slower speed, may wear out faster on rough surfaces
83A Medium – Balanced for speed and control Versatile for various terrains Urethane Less grip than softer wheels, can be less comfortable on rough terrain
87A Hard – Fast and durable with less grip Experienced skaters, smooth surfaces Urethane Reduced shock absorption, less grip on rough surfaces
92A Hardest – Best for speed, minimal grip Professional skateboarding, ramps Urethane Very little grip, can be uncomfortable on rough surfaces

What Riding Styles Benefit Most from 78A Wheels?

The riding styles that benefit most from 78A wheels are typically those that prioritize comfort and grip over speed.

  • Cruising: 78A wheels are ideal for cruising because they offer a soft and smooth ride over various surfaces, absorbing shocks from cracks and bumps in the pavement. This cushioning makes them comfortable for longer rides, allowing skaters to enjoy their time without feeling fatigued.
  • Freestyle: For freestyle skating, 78A wheels provide excellent grip, which is crucial for performing tricks and maneuvers. The softness of these wheels allows for better traction on the ground, giving skaters the stability they need to execute flips and slides with confidence.
  • Longboarding: Longboarders often prefer 78A wheels due to their ability to roll smoothly over rough terrain and provide a stable ride at lower speeds. This is particularly beneficial for downhill riding or carving, where a balance between grip and comfort is essential for maintaining control.
  • Park Riding: While not as common for park riding as harder wheels, 78A wheels can still be used in certain park environments, especially for beginners. They help in learning how to balance and maneuver without the risk of sliding out, making it easier for new skaters to gain confidence on ramps and ledges.

Which Are the Top Brands Offering the Best 78A Skateboard Wheels?

Some of the top brands offering the best 78A skateboard wheels include:

  • Ricta Wheels: Known for their high-quality urethane, Ricta offers wheels that provide excellent grip and durability. Their 78A durometer wheels are perfect for cruising and provide a smooth ride over rough surfaces.
  • OJs Wheels: OJs are renowned for their vibrant designs and reliable performance. Their 78A wheels are ideal for those looking for a softer wheel that absorbs shocks well, making them suitable for both street and park skating.
  • Spitfire Wheels: While Spitfire is often associated with harder wheels, they also produce 78A options that are great for beginners and casual skaters. These wheels are designed to offer a balance of speed and grip, ensuring a comfortable ride.
  • Santa Cruz Wheels: Santa Cruz is a classic brand that provides a variety of skateboard wheels, including 78A options. Their wheels are built for stability and control, making them a favorite among longboarders and those who enjoy a laid-back skate.
  • Crux Trucks: Although primarily known for their skateboard trucks, Crux also offers 78A wheels that excel in performance. These wheels are crafted to enhance maneuverability and provide a smooth rolling experience on various terrains.

What Are the Most Highly Recommended 78A Wheels in the Market?

Some of the most highly recommended 78A skateboard wheels in the market include:

  • Ricta Clouds 78A: These wheels are well-known for their smooth ride and excellent grip, making them ideal for cruising and park riding.
  • OJ Wheels Mini Combo 78A: OJ Wheels are renowned for their durability and versatility, providing a great balance of speed and control for various terrains.
  • Bones STF V4 78A: Bones wheels are favored for their high-quality urethane and consistent performance, ensuring a reliable ride on rough surfaces.
  • Spitfire Softies 78A: Spitfire Softies are designed for a softer ride, which helps absorb shock and provides a more comfortable skating experience.
  • Element 78A Wheels: Element wheels are crafted for stability and speed, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters who enjoy cruising.

Ricta Clouds 78A: These wheels feature a unique soft urethane formula that enhances the ride quality over rough surfaces. Their larger diameter contributes to a smooth glide, making them perfect for skaters looking to enjoy long-distance rides or street cruising without sacrificing comfort.

OJ Wheels Mini Combo 78A: OJ Wheels are crafted to deliver exceptional performance across various skateboarding styles. With a combination of durability and grip, they are particularly suited for skaters who value both speed and maneuverability, allowing for smooth transitions and tricks.

Bones STF V4 78A: Bones wheels are well-regarded for their proprietary urethane that provides excellent resilience and grip. The 78A durometer rating strikes a balance between softness and responsiveness, making them ideal for skaters who enjoy street skating and skateparks alike.

Spitfire Softies 78A: These wheels are specifically designed to offer a plush ride, absorbing shock from rough terrain. Their soft nature allows skaters to maintain control while enjoying a comfortable experience, especially on uneven surfaces or during long sessions.

Element 78A Wheels: Element wheels are engineered for stability, making them a favorite among skaters who appreciate a solid connection with the ground. Their performance is reliable, providing skaters with the confidence to tackle various environments, from smooth pavement to rugged streets.

How Do Riders Rate Their Experiences with 78A Wheels?

Riders rate their experiences with 78A wheels based on various factors such as performance, comfort, and durability.

  • Performance: Many riders find that 78A wheels provide an excellent balance of grip and roll, making them suitable for cruising and carving. The softer durometer allows for better traction on rough surfaces, which enhances overall ride quality.
  • Comfort: Riders often comment on the comfort of 78A wheels, as their softer composition absorbs shocks from bumps and cracks in the road. This feature makes them a popular choice for long-distance skating or for those who prioritize a smooth ride over speed.
  • Durability: While 78A wheels are softer, they may wear out faster than harder wheels when used on rough terrains. However, many riders appreciate the trade-off for comfort and grip, especially when skating in urban environments.
  • Versatility: Users frequently highlight the versatility of 78A wheels for different styles of skating, including cruising, street skating, and even some tricks. Their ability to perform well in a variety of conditions makes them a favored choice among both beginners and experienced skaters.
  • Noise Level: Riders typically note that 78A wheels produce a quieter ride compared to harder wheels. This characteristic can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a stealthier approach while skating in populated areas.
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