Every skateboarder knows that investing in a good set of bearings can significantly change the way a ride performs. But do you know bearings require maintenance too? Although often overlooked, lubricating your bearings regularly enhances their longevity and most importantly, keeps your skateboard riding safe.
Given the variety of lubricants available out there, finding the right one can be challenging. Whether you’re a skilled rider or a novice skater, lubricants play an important role in keeping your bearings at their peak. Get ready to roll and feel the difference with the best lubricant for skateboard bearings featured in this review.
Outperform and improve your overall riding experience with these 12 skateboard bearing lubricants!
Bones Skate Bearing Lubricant
– Protects bearings against corrosion
– A little amount goes a long way
– Makes bearings feel brand new
Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant
– Best value for money
– Provide lubrication under extreme conditions
– Gives you maximum reach and precise coverage
Liberty Oil Synthetic Lubricant
– Prevents metal corrosion
– Safe on plastic and painted surfaces
– Prevents leaks and spills
Table of Contents
- Best Lubricant for Skateboard Bearings Reviews
- 1. Bones Speed Cream Skate Bearing Lubricant
- 2. Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant
- 3. Liberty Oil Synthetic Lubricant
- 4. Oust Bearings Speed Clean Kit
- 5. Bones Skate Bearings Cleaning Unit
- 6. 3-IN-ONE Multipurpose Oil
- 7. SONIC Citrus Skate Bearing Cleaner
- 8. Super Lube Multi-Purpose Synthetic Oil
- 9. Ardent 0270-A Reel Bearing Lube
- 10. Liquid Bearings 100% Synthetic Lubricant
- 11. Park Tool PolyLube 1000 Bicycle Grease
- 12. Squeaks Gone All-Purpose Lubricant
- What to Look for When Buying Lubricant for Skateboard Bearings
- Other Important Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Best Lubricant for Skateboard Bearings Reviews
1. Bones Speed Cream Skate Bearing Lubricant
The bones speed cream is a great product from this brand that’s well-recognized for producing quality urethane bushings. It comes as no surprise that it’s highly rated and popular. This skateboard lubricant is specially made to protect against corrosion and reduce friction for a safer and more comfortable riding experience.
What I like most about this synthetic skate bearing lube is that it’s formulated with low viscosity and can withstand high temperatures. Soon after applying this solution to my bearings, I immediately noticed how much faster they performed. Also, don’t let its size deceive you as this half-ounce bottle lasts a while since a little goes a long way!
As dirt, dust, grime, and mud accumulate on my bearings, the more rigid and noisy they get, so I’m glad I came across this bearing lubricant. Without a doubt, it helps increase speed, prolongs the life of my bearings, and makes for a smooth ride. This stuff works like a champ as it makes my bearings feel like new again!
- Protects bearings against corrosion and reduces friction
- Low viscosity and high temperature endurance
- A little amount goes a long way
- Increases speed, prolongs the life of bearings, and makes for a smooth ride
- Makes bearings feel brand new
- The large bottle tip makes it difficult to apply precisely
2. Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant
If you’re hard-pressed to find a lubricant that penetrates deeply into hard to reach parts, your search ends here. The Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant comes in a drip bottle with a straw, giving you maximum reach and precise coverage. Furthermore, the high-grade petroleum oils this product is formulated with provide optimum lubrication under extreme temperatures and humidity.
Another remarkable feature of this skateboard bearing lube is its solvents, which efficiently break down grime, dirt, and other contaminants that cling onto my bearings and flush them right out. I don’t even have to worry about rust and corrosion as the special additives from this product repel moisture too. Metal to metal friction just doesn’t stand a chance with this lube in tow!
Squeaks and creaks can be annoying and worrisome. This light viscosity lubricant instantly loosened my seized bearings without the messy build-up. True to its promise, a few drops maximized the performance of my bearings — they spin more fluidly and move so much faster now!
- Gives you maximum reach and precise coverage with its straw applicator
- High-grade petroleum oils provide lubrication under extreme conditions
- Efficiently breaks down and flushes out grime, dirt, and other contaminants
- Special additives repel moisture to prevent rust and corrosion
- Reduces friction, makes bearings spin faster and more fluidly
- Best value for money
- Loaded with Teflon that can be harmful when inhaled and ingested
3. Liberty Oil Synthetic Lubricant
Cleaning, protecting, and improving the condition of your bearings is made easy and convenient with this 100% synthetic oil. What sets it apart is its stainless steel, pharmaceutical-grade needle tip dispenser that will allow you to distribute the product precisely. This lubricant’s patented Luer Lock Cap also prevents leaks and spills.
This oil is formulated with modifiers that protect and bond metal to reduce wear and friction. Furthermore, this skateboard bearing oil prevents metal corrosion and can also be used on gears and sliding metal parts. I like how it is not too thick or too thin and offers excellent lubrication even on plastic and painted surfaces.
Using the needle tip dispenser allows me to easily get into crevices without having to dismantle or disassemble my bearings. This feature alone saves me a lot of time and offers a great deal of convenience! The easy-squeeze bottle also makes it easy for me to control the amount of oil I’m dispensing as I go, making it economical for use.
- Comes with a needle tip for easy and precise application
- Patented Luer Lock Cap prevents leaks and spills
- Formulated with friction modifiers that protect and bond metal
- Prevents metal corrosion
- Not too thick or too thin, safe on plastic and painted surfaces
- Easy-squeeze bottle makes it easy to control the amount of oil being dispensed
- The color of the oil is much darker compared to how it’s advertised
4. Oust Bearings Speed Clean Kit
Before lubrication, your bearings need to be thoroughly cleaned, and the Oust Bearings Speed Clean Kit is exactly what you need to get the job done right. It comes complete with a bearing holder, washing container, and a citrus cleaning solvent that’s a safe substitute for toxic cleaning solutions that are harmful to your health. What’s more, it’s non-damaging.
With the aid of this kit, you can clean your bearings without the risk of damaging your bearing races or ball retainer. It’s also versatile enough to accommodate a wide range of bearing brands, as long as the product is 8mm. What I like most about this kit is the cleaning solution that’s included; it cleans my bearings efficiently without hazardous chemicals and other toxic ingredients.
This kit is well-designed and gives you great value for its price! The bearings can be easily stacked together but can still roll to allow you to get all that excess cleaner off. It does make bearing maintenance quick and easy without the risk of losing them in the process.
- Complete kit with a bearing holder, washing container, and cleaning solvent
- Non-damaging to bearings
- The cleaning solvent is non-toxic and efficient
- The bearing holder accommodates a wide range of bearing brands
- Well-designed and gives great value for its price
- The lid of the washing container leaks when shaken vigorously
5. Bones Skate Bearings Cleaning Unit
Cleaning your skateboard bearings the old school way can be a tedious and time-consuming process, but it doesn’t have to be with the help of this skate bearings cleaning unit from Bones!
Its washing container is made of high-density polyurethane for durability and comes with unique bearing spacers so you can apply equal amounts of solvent on each. This cleaning unit is also compatible with all types of skate bearings, making it a truly versatile product.
I love how this product makes cleaning my bearings less of a chore! Simply unscrew the wingnut, add your bearings and the spacers, replace the wingnut, pour in your preferred cleaning solution, and shake. My bearings come out squeaky clean and ready for action every time!
If you find yourself reconditioning your bearings every so often, this cleaning unit is exactly what you need for a convenient and mess-free experience. Your bearings won’t come into contact with each other because of the spacers provided, allowing you to thoroughly cleanse and rinse each bearing with ease. For this reason alone, I don’t see myself maintaining my bearings with any other cleaning tool.
- The washing container is made of high-density polyurethane for durability
- Includes spacers that allow equal application of solvent on each bearing
- Compatible with all types of skate bearings
- Makes cleaning your bearings a convenient and mess-free experience
- Does not come with a cleaning solution
6. 3-IN-ONE Multipurpose Oil
After investing in a good set of bearings, make their maintenance worry-free with a few drops of this multipurpose oil from 3-IN-ONE. True to its claim, it cleans, protects, and lubricates in one go!
Its Marksman Twist Spout provides ease of use as it helps you dispense the product exactly where you need it. More importantly, it’s an effective solution that deeply penetrates rust to loosen nuts and bolts, lubricate moving parts and pivot points, and reduce friction.
It comes as no surprise to me that this brand has been trusted by households and professionals alike since 1894 due to its efficiency and convenience. Apart from my skateboard bearings, I love how I can use this lube on just about anything around the house like tools, hinges, and joints. I count on this lubricant to prolong the life of my bearings and stop corrosion on its tracks.
This product also gives you complete control over the amount of lube you dispense because of its easy-squeeze bottle design — this means no more struggling with rigid containers that dispense too much or too little at a time. It’s cost-efficient, and when used sparingly, a bottle goes a long way. I highly recommend keeping it handy for all the rusty, dirty moving parts in your household.
- It cleans, protects, and lubricates in one go
- Deeply penetrates rust and lubricates moving parts to reduce friction
- Its Marksman Twist Spout provides ease of use
- Versatile product that prevents corrosion
- Easy-squeeze bottle design allows you to dispense the right amount of product
- Cost-efficient when used sparingly
- The consistency of this lubricant is runny
7. SONIC Citrus Skate Bearing Cleaner
Toxic cleaners are hazardous to work with, so I’m glad I stumbled upon this Citrus Skate Bearing Cleaner from SONIC. It cleans bearings thoroughly without the use of harmful chemicals and boasts of 100% citrus power. Furthermore, it’s not diluted with water, so you don’t have to worry about rusting.
I specifically like how this cleaning solution prolongs the life of my skateboard bearings and make them spin like new! This cleaner effectively breaks down dirt, grime, and other contaminants that slow bearings down and contribute to rusting and corrosion. This stuff is fast and easy to use.
Typical garage solvents are toxic and can cause skin irritation. This solution is just what you need to make your bearings emerge spotless without the use of noxious chemicals. Also, you can use it to refill the Sonic Turbo Wash or any other bearing cleaning system.
- Cleans bearings thoroughly with 100% citrus power
- Undiluted with water to prevent rusting
- Effectively breaks down dirt, grime, and other contaminants
- Fast and easy to use
- No harmful chemicals
- Can be used to refill the Sonic Turbo Wash or any other bearing cleaning system
- Leaves an oily residue on bearings
8. Super Lube Multi-Purpose Synthetic Oil
This multi-purpose synthetic oil from Super Lube is specially formulated for industrial equipment and machinery, so just imagine what it can do for your skateboard bearings! While providing superior lubrication, it also dramatically reduces rust, friction, and corrosion. What sets this lubricant apart from the rest is that it’s clean, environment-friendly, and food-grade.
Anything that squeaks, rolls, swivels, and slides doesn’t stand a chance against this lube. Unlike conventional oils, this product has a wide operating temperature range, making it suitable for use even in harsh weather conditions. Apart from your skateboard bearings and other metal objects, you can use it safely on wood, painted surfaces, and on most plastic and rubbers, which I find beneficial.
This lube protects my bearings better than oil because of its high viscosity. Regular oil formulas tend to slip off quite quickly while this one doesn’t, so I know I can rely on its thicker consistency for prolonged protection — but trust me when I say this lube is still extremely slick despite this! As a result, my bearings roll, glide, and perform so much better.
- Provides superior lubrication while reducing rust, friction, and corrosion
- Clean, environment-friendly and food-grade
- Can be used in harsh weather conditions
- Can be used safely on wood, painted surfaces, and on most plastic and rubbers
- High viscosity provides prolonged protection
- Is extremely slick
- The nozzle-tip doesn’t offer as much precision upon application
9. Ardent 0270-A Reel Bearing Lube
Using the latest in lubrication technology, the Ardent Reel Bearing lube is another great skateboard bearing lubricant to consider. It’s specially formulated to penetrate deep into ball and roller bearings to completely flush out dirt and debris while providing thorough lubrication. Exposure to dirt, grime, and debris can seriously take a toll on their lifespan, so I’m glad this product does an awesome job at cleaning too!
With one use, I immediately noticed a huge difference in the way my bearings glide and perform! It does not contain particles that may contribute to noise and performance issues. I’m also counting on it as a long-term solution for keeping my bearings protected against corrosion and rusting.
This seems to free up bearings a bit more than other bearing lubricants I’ve tried, making them run as smooth as butter! Also, other lubricants tend to leave a sticky and heavy residue on my bearings, so I’m glad this doesn’t do the same. Dispensing just the right amount of product does the trick and prevents lube from accumulating on the surface of my bearings over time.
- Formulated using the latest in lubrication technology
- Penetrates deep into ball and roller bearings to clean and lubricate
- Does not contain particles that may cause noise and performance issues
- Protects against corrosion and rusting
- Makes bearings run smoothly
- This lubricant doesn’t leave heavy or sticky residue on surfaces
- The product doesn’t come with a needle applicator
10. Liquid Bearings 100% Synthetic Lubricant
My Liquid Bearings 100% Synthetic Lubricant is a staple in my skateboard maintenance kit for a good reason. Unlike petroleum-based oils and sprays, it has amazing high and low-temperature characteristics that are an absolute necessity for efficient lubrication. This product’s 100% synthetic formula addresses all lubrication, rust prevention, and corrosion defense requirements you may have.
Aside from skateboard bearings, I fully trust this product to lubricate anything from home appliances, door hinges, gears, and other sliding parts that tend to go rigid over time.
I’m also pleased to know this lubricant doesn’t contain PTFE or graphite, as well as many other additives. Furthermore, it’s non-damaging to plastic, including ABS and polyurethane. You can use it with confidence on painted surfaces too!
For convenience, the high-quality ½ and 1 ½ inch dispensing needles provided allow precise lubrication, ultimately preventing the solution from spilling over. Also, unlike other formulas, this lubricant restores free movement without hardening or turning gummy. My chattery and stiff bearings ride like new again!
- Amazing high and low-temperature characteristics for efficient lubrication
- Covers all lubrication, rust prevention, and corrosion defense requirements
- Works on hinges and other sliding parts
- Non-damaging to plastic and painted surfaces, PTFE and graphite-free
- Includes high-quality ½ and 1 ½ dispensing needles for precise application
- Restores free movement without hardening or turning gummy
- Not odorless as advertised
11. Park Tool PolyLube 1000 Bicycle Grease
This grease from Park Tool maintains the lubricity of my skateboard bearings and does everything I could ever ask for. This lube effectively repels moisture and protects my bearings under the most extreme of conditions because of its high shear strength. It also comes in a handy tube with a nozzle that facilitates precise application and delivery.
Although this is specially made for bicycles, this lube is versatile and works perfectly on my skateboard bearings. It applies seamlessly and makes my bearings spin faster in a snap! It binds to metal well and does an excellent job at keeping rust at bay.
Its viscosity is so high that loose bearings are held in place by this lubricant during assembly; it just doesn’t get any better than that! Also, this is convenient to use. It simply goes on fast and easy without staining and lasts well.
- Repels moisture and protects bearings under the most extreme of conditions
- Comes in a handy tube with a nozzle that facilitates precise application
- Applies seamlessly and makes bearings spin faster
- Binds to metal well and prevents rusting
- High viscosity, stain-free, long-lasting grease that goes on well
- A little pricey
12. Squeaks Gone All-Purpose Lubricant
Stick-slip conditions are known to trigger squeaking, so I’m glad to have stumbled upon a lubricant that gets rid of noise for good. This all-purpose lubricant from Squeaks Gone provides long-term protection from friction, corrosion, and rust, all while keeping your bearings noise-free. Its non-toxic and non-hazardous formula does the job without emitting harmful fumes.
Although I use this product primarily on my skateboard bearings, I like how I can use it on practically anything around the house that needs lubrication, such as hinges, bed frames, fans, and drawers. It works to reduce friction by binding on surfaces and deeply penetrating them, unlike other solvents that only provide superficial coverage. On top of this astounding benefit, it doesn’t attract dirt and dust, either.
While other brands claim to possess the same qualities, this product stands out for being odorless, environment-friendly, and toxin-free while providing better performance. Because it’s highly effective and long-lasting, reapplying this lube frequently is not necessary, making it a cost-efficient solution. It’s also safe around children and pets, so you can purchase it risk-free!
- Provides long-term protection from friction, corrosion, rust, and stops squeaks
- Its non-toxic formula does the job without emitting harmful fumes
- All-purpose lubricant
- Odorless, environment-friendly, and cost-efficient
- Doesn’t attract dirt or dust
- Safe around children and pets
- Can stain clothes and carpets
What to Look for When Buying Lubricant for Skateboard Bearings
Choosing the right lubricant to maintain your bearings can be tricky with countless options and alternatives available for your perusal. Riding exposes your bearings to water, extreme heat, and humidity that could break them down over time. Keeping them in top shape is non-negotiable and critical to your safety and their optimum performance.
When buying a lubricant, it’s imperative to look at the benefits it has to offer. The type of lubricant, its viscosity, and the amount needed for efficient lubrication are of equal importance. Take into account other critical factors such as its ability to resist rust, prevent corrosion and friction. These lubricating products tend to last longer and work more efficiently, giving you more value for your money in the long run.
Other Important Factors to Consider
While you’re at it, you may want to consider its properties and formulation too. It’s always a good idea to go for lubricants that are non-abrasive, non-toxic, and suitable for reconditioning your bearings. The convenience they offer for ease of application comes a close second. A needle or straw-type applicator generally gets the job done more precisely.
Keep in mind that periodically cleaning and lubricating your bearings require a dependable yet inexpensive solution. Give plus points to products with multi-tasking benefits that you can keep handy at home or on the go. Finding a sustainable lubrication routine is critical to the overall performance and safety of your skateboard.
What is lubricant for skateboard bearings? How does it work?
Lubricants primarily function to clean, protect, and lubricate your skateboard bearings. When applied regularly and sufficiently, a lubricant eliminates friction, making your bearings perform faster without obstruction. It also can repel moisture to prevent rust and corrosion and builds a barrier against dirt, grime, and other contaminants that hamper the performance of your bearings.
What are the different types of lubricants for skateboard bearings?
Oil – This type of lubricant is commonly used and can either be petroleum-based or synthetic. Synthetic oils are preferred by most for lubricating skateboard bearings because of their ability to perform in high or low temperatures and other extreme conditions. They lubricate efficiently while repelling water and moisture to prevent rust from setting in and stop corrosion from wreaking havoc.
Grease – Grease lubricants can either have a solid or semi-fluid consistency. Do note that grease becomes more fluid and softens while you’re riding due to the heat you generate as you move. While grease lubricants tend to attract dust and dirt, you can expect this formula to stay on longer than oil lubricants.
Dry Lubricants – This type of lubricant has a waxy consistency that goes on wet and dries on contact. It’s a fast and easy alternative for use in between deep cleaning and lubrication sessions. Although it requires frequent application, it stays on longer compared to its counterparts.
Why do you need skateboard bearing lube?
Keeping your bearings clean and well-lubricated is critical to the overall performance and safety of your board. To keep your bearings in top shape, lubricants prevent general wear and tear by reducing friction between surfaces. They also guard against rust and corrosion and eliminate dirt, dust, and other contaminants that may be detrimental to the performance of your bearings.
What’s more, the right lubricant can withstand extreme temperatures and dissipate excess heat to prolong the life and enhance the performance of your bearings. Using a lubricant for your skateboard bearings is the most efficient and cost-effective way of maintaining them. It’s a must-have for professional and novice riders alike!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most trusted skateboard bearing lubricant brands?
Some of the most trusted brands are Bones, Liberty Oil, Ardent, Tri-Flow, 3-In-One, and Super Lube. These brands are widely used and known for their superior quality, efficiency, and great pricing. You’ll immediately feel the difference in the way your bearings perform.
What can you use to lubricate skateboard bearings?
Aside from readily available lubricant preparations, there are skateboard bearing lubricant alternatives that riders on a tight budget can consider using for the upkeep and maintenance of their bearings. Coconut oil for skateboard bearings is a popular option that some riders turn to. Cooking oil and motor oil for skateboard bearings are among the options too.
How to lubricate skateboard bearings?
After cleaning your bearings thoroughly and drying them, add a drop or two of your lubricant on the bearings and let it sit for a few minutes. Pick up and spin each bearing to distribute the lubricant evenly to each of the ball-bearings inside. Carefully reinstall the bearings in your wheels and place them on the axles.
Can you use olive oil as lube for bearings?
Although olive oil makes an acceptable substitute in the absence of oil or grease lubricants, it goes rancid and can gum up your bearings so it would be best to give it a hard pass. Stick to products that are specially designed for lubricating skateboard bearings for optimum performance and safety. White lithium grease for skateboard bearings is another cost-efficient alternative to consider.
Is it OK to use wd40 on skateboard bearings?
Although WD40 is effective in combating rust, using silicone lubricant for skateboard bearings is one of the best ways to go. WD40 does not contain oil of adequately high viscosity to provide lubrication for skateboard bearings, and this can defeat the purpose of utilizing it. Lubricants do a better job at reducing friction on contact points and preventing corrosion.
Where can I buy?
Skateboard bearing lubricants are widely available for purchase on Amazon, websites that carry skateboarding gear and equipment as well as hardware stores. Make sure you are buying from a reliable source to ensure their efficiency and authenticity. Using substandard lubricants may potentially damage your bearings, compromising your safety.
Conclusion
High-quality lubricants can dramatically improve the overall performance of your skateboard. Checking out reviews online, soliciting the opinion of experienced riders, and following instructions to the letter is highly advisable.
Bearings may be one of the smallest parts of your skateboard and may seem negligible, but they play a vital role in the stability and speed of your board. Aside from good manufacturing, they require regular upkeep and maintenance for added durability and longevity. Because lubricants differ in terms of benefits, pick the one that specifically addresses your riding and maintenance needs.
Finding the best lubricant for skateboard bearings, as simple as it may sound, involves research and a great deal of patience. I hope you found these reviews helpful. After all, knowing exactly what lubricant to get is a liberating experience!
Hi, I am Charles Harris. I opened this site to write as much as I can about my biggest passion – skateboarding!
I started as a clumsy yet passionate rookie 10 years ago to now a still passionate yet much better skateboarder! But I have to tell you, the whole journey has always been fun and rewarding, indeed not without hardship.