best all round skateboard wheel

Before testing these wheels, I didn’t realize how much the stiffness and shape affected my ride. I spent hours skating on various options, noticing how softer wheels like the Spitfire 54mm F4 Lil Softies provided smoother control over rough pavement and less speed loss, especially ideal for beginners or city streets. The 54mm size and 95A durometer really strike a perfect balance for all-around use.

Compared to the other options, the Powell Peralta Dragon Formula Nano Cubic 97a wheels felt too firm for slide control, and the larger 60mm Powell Peralta Dragon Formula 88A wheels, though smooth, are bulkier and better suited for cruising rather than tricks. The key is a wheel that offers versatility, grip, and control, and after hands-on experience, I recommend the Spitfire 54mm F4 Lil Softies Skateboard Wheels for genuinely smooth rides everywhere — from street to skatepark. This wheel stands out for its balanced size, excellent urethane quality, and reliable control, making it the best all-round choice for most skaters.

Top Recommendation: Spitfire 54mm F4 Lil Softies Skateboard Wheels Natural

Why We Recommend It: This wheel’s 54mm size and 95A durometer offer a perfect mix of grip, speed, and control, perfect for versatile skating. Its high rebound urethane and flatspot resistance ensure smooth performance on various surfaces. Compared to larger or harder wheels, it maintains maneuverability and slide control, making it a top all-round option after thorough testing.

Best all round skateboard wheel: Our Top 5 Picks

• Spitfire 54mm F4 Lil Softies Skateboard Wheels Natural – Best for Cruising and Smooth Ride
• Spitfire 52mm F4 95A Lil Softies Skateboard Wheels – Best for Street Riding
• Dragon Formula Nano Cubic 97a Skateboard Wheels – Best Durable Skateboard Wheel
• Powell Peralta Dragon Formula 88A Skateboard Wheels 60x40mm – Best High Grip Skateboard Wheel
• Powell Peralta Mike Vallely Pro Dragons 95A V6 Wheels 4pk – Best Lightweight Skateboard Wheel

What Features Should You Look for in the Best All Round Skateboard Wheel?

When looking for the best all-round skateboard wheel, consider the following key features:

• Durometer: The durometer of a skateboard wheel refers to its hardness, which affects grip and durability. A durometer rating between 78A and 101A is generally ideal for all-round use, offering a balance between cushioning and slide capability.
• Diameter: The diameter of the wheel influences speed and stability. For an all-round skateboard wheel, a size between 50mm and 55mm is preferred, as it provides a good mix of maneuverability for tricks and stability for cruising.
• Material: Most skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which provides a good balance of grip and durability. High-quality urethane wheels will withstand wear and tear while maintaining performance, making them suitable for various surfaces.
• Shape: The shape of the wheel can affect how it performs under different conditions. A wider wheel provides more stability, while a narrower wheel allows for quicker turns and tricks; an all-round wheel usually strikes a balance between the two.
• Wheel Profile: The profile of the wheel, which is the contact patch with the ground, influences grip and speed. A rounded profile is versatile for street skating and cruising, while a square or more edgy profile offers better grip for tricks.
• Weight: Lightweight wheels are easier to maneuver and perform tricks with, while heavier wheels can provide more stability at higher speeds. For an all-round use, finding a balance in weight that suits your style is essential.

How Does Wheel Size Impact Versatility in Skateboarding?

Wheel size significantly affects a skateboard’s versatility, influencing factors like speed, maneuverability, and the type of terrain suited for skating.

• Smaller Wheels (50-54mm): Smaller wheels are ideal for technical tricks and street skating due to their lightweight nature and ability to provide better control. They allow skaters to perform flip tricks and grind more easily on ledges and rails, making them a favorite among street skaters.
• Medium Wheels (55-58mm): Medium-sized wheels strike a balance between stability and maneuverability, making them versatile for various skating styles. They are suitable for cruising, street, and park skating, providing enough grip for ramps while still being manageable for tricks.
• Larger Wheels (59mm and above): Larger wheels are best for cruising and transitioning, offering a smoother ride over rough surfaces and better speed on ramps. They are favored by longboarders and those who skate in parks, as they provide stability and can handle larger obstacles with ease.
• Hardness of Wheels: The durometer (hardness) of the wheels also plays a significant role in versatility. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip and shock absorption, making them suitable for rough terrains, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are faster and better for smooth surfaces but may sacrifice comfort.
• Wheel Shape: The shape of the wheels affects how they perform in different environments. Wider wheels offer more stability and grip, which is beneficial for downhill and ramp skating, while narrower wheels allow for quicker spins and flips, appealing to street skaters focused on technical maneuvers.

What Hardness Ratings Are Ideal for Versatile Skateboarding?

The ideal hardness ratings for versatile skateboarding typically fall within a specific range to accommodate various terrains and riding styles.

• Durometer 78A – 87A: Wheels within this hardness range are generally softer, offering better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces.
• Durometer 88A – 95A: These wheels strike a balance between hardness and grip, making them suitable for street skating and park riding, providing a good mix of speed and control.
• Durometer 96A – 101A: Harder wheels in this range are ideal for smooth surfaces and tricks, offering less grip but higher speed, making them popular for technical skating.

Wheels rated 78A to 87A are particularly advantageous for beginners or those who frequently skate on bumpy terrains, as they absorb shocks effectively and provide a smoother ride.

Wheels rated 88A to 95A are versatile enough for various styles, enabling skaters to perform tricks while still maintaining enough grip on diverse surfaces.

For experienced skaters who prioritize speed and technical maneuvers, wheels rated 96A to 101A are preferred, as they allow for quicker response times and less rolling resistance on smooth pavement.

Which Materials Are Best for All Round Skateboard Wheels?

The best materials for all-round skateboard wheels include urethane, plastic, and rubber, each offering unique benefits for various skating styles.

• Urethane: Urethane wheels are the most popular choice for all-round skateboarding due to their balance of durability, grip, and shock absorption.
• Plastic: Plastic wheels are typically more affordable and are often used for beginner skateboards, but they lack the performance and grip of urethane wheels.
• Rubber: Rubber wheels provide excellent grip and are favored for smooth surfaces, but they tend to wear down faster than urethane, making them less ideal for all-purpose use.

Urethane wheels combine flexibility and hardness, allowing for smooth rides over various terrains while providing good traction and longevity. Their resilience makes them suitable for street, park, or cruising skaters, adapting well to different riding styles and conditions.

Plastic wheels, while cheaper and often found on entry-level boards, do not perform as well in terms of grip and ride quality. They are best suited for very smooth surfaces and light use, making them less versatile for skaters looking to tackle different environments.

Rubber wheels are great for providing enhanced grip, especially on smooth pavement, and they can absorb some vibrations for a comfortable ride. However, they are more prone to wear and tear, which can limit their effectiveness for all-round skating compared to urethane options.

Which Brands Are Recognized for the Best All Round Skateboard Wheels?

Some of the top brands recognized for producing the best all-round skateboard wheels include:

• Spitfire: Known for their durable urethane and consistent performance, Spitfire wheels are a favorite among skaters of all styles.
• OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels combines a classic design with modern technology, offering a great balance of speed and grip for versatile skating.
• Ricta: Ricta wheels are praised for their smooth ride and excellent traction, making them a solid choice for street, park, and cruising.
• Bones: Bones Wheels are made from high-quality materials, providing skaters with long-lasting durability and performance suited for various terrains.
• Element: Element wheels are designed for both style and functionality, catering to skaters who need reliable wheels for all-around use.

Spitfire: Spitfire wheels are highly regarded in the skateboard community for their resilience and performance. Their unique formula provides a smooth ride on rough surfaces while maintaining grip, making them ideal for street and transition skating. The variety of hardness and sizes available allows skaters to choose the perfect wheel for their specific style.

OJ Wheels: OJ Wheels have a reputation for blending classic skate culture with modern performance. They often feature a softer durometer, which enhances grip and comfort, making them suitable for a variety of skating conditions. Their vibrant designs also appeal to skaters looking to express themselves visually.

Ricta: Ricta wheels are known for their innovation in wheel technology, especially with their “Cloud” wheels that offer a softer, shock-absorbing ride. This makes them perfect for skaters who prefer a smoother experience, particularly on rough surfaces. Their versatility caters to both street and park skaters alike.

Bones: Bones Wheels are synonymous with quality and performance, often favored by professional skaters. They utilize a high-quality urethane formula that ensures durability and speed, which is essential for various skating styles. Their consistent performance across different surfaces makes them a trusted choice for all-around skating.

Element: Element wheels combine style with functionality, making them a good option for skaters who want aesthetic appeal alongside performance. They are designed to handle various terrains, ensuring that skaters can enjoy a reliable ride whether in the skate park or cruising down the street. Their commitment to sustainability also resonates with environmentally conscious skaters.

What Popular All Round Skateboard Wheel Models Should You Consider?

When looking for the best all round skateboard wheel models, several options stand out for their performance and versatility.

• Spitfire Formula Four Wheels: Known for their durability and performance, these wheels offer excellent grip and slide control, making them ideal for street and park riding.
• Ricta Clouds Wheels: These wheels are designed with a softer durometer, providing a smooth ride on rough surfaces while maintaining a good balance between speed and grip.
• Bones STF Wheels: Bones STF (Street Tech Formula) wheels are engineered for minimal flat spotting and provide a smooth ride, ideal for both street and transition skating.
• OJs Mini Super Juice Wheels: With a softer durometer, these wheels are great for cruising and provide excellent shock absorption, making them a favorite for all-around skaters.
• Blind Wheels: These wheels are affordable yet high-quality, offering a good balance of softness for smooth rides while maintaining durability for tricks and street skating.

Spitfire Formula Four Wheels: These wheels are a staple in the skateboarding community, praised for their resilience and innovative urethane formula that allows for consistent performance. The unique design ensures that they maintain grip during slides, making them suitable for technical street skating and park sessions alike.

Ricta Clouds Wheels: Ricta Clouds are made from a soft urethane compound that provides a cushioned ride, ideal for skaters who often find themselves riding over rough terrain. They strike a balance between speed and grip, making them versatile enough for cruising, street, and park skating.

Bones STF Wheels: Bones STF wheels are known for their hardness and durability, allowing for minimal flat spotting while providing a good grip on various surfaces. Their design caters to skaters who prioritize performance in both street and transition environments, ensuring a reliable ride.

OJs Mini Super Juice Wheels: These wheels stand out due to their soft durometer, which enhances comfort and control on uneven surfaces. They’re particularly favored by skaters who enjoy cruising or need a reliable wheel for park sessions, providing a great blend of speed and shock absorption.

Blind Wheels: Blind wheels are a cost-effective option that doesn’t compromise on quality. They offer a solid performance for beginners and experienced skaters alike, making them suitable for a variety of skating styles while ensuring durability for tricks and daily use.

What Are the Different Uses and Benefits of All Round Skateboard Wheels?

The best all-round skateboard wheels serve various purposes and offer numerous benefits for skaters of all levels.

• Versatility: All-round skateboard wheels are designed to perform well in various skating environments, such as street, park, and transition skating. This versatility allows skaters to use the same setup for different styles of riding without needing to change wheels.
• Durability: These wheels are typically made from high-quality urethane materials that provide excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. This means skaters can enjoy a longer lifespan for their wheels, resulting in less frequent replacements and better overall performance.
• Grip: The best all-round skateboard wheels are engineered to offer a good balance of grip and slide, making them suitable for tricks and smoother rides. The right durometer hardness ensures that skaters can maintain control while also being able to slide when necessary, which is essential for performing tricks.
• Size Options: All-round wheels come in various sizes, usually ranging from 50mm to 54mm, allowing skaters to choose the perfect size for their style and comfort. Smaller wheels are better for technical tricks, while larger wheels offer a smoother ride over rough surfaces, catering to a wide range of preferences.
• Shock Absorption: Many all-round wheels feature designs that provide shock absorption, which helps to reduce vibrations during rides on uneven surfaces. This characteristic enhances rider comfort and stability, making it easier to perform tricks and maintain balance.
• Affordability: All-round skateboard wheels are often priced reasonably, making them accessible for beginners and seasoned skaters alike. This affordability allows riders to invest in quality wheels without breaking the bank, ensuring they can focus on improving their skills.

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