If you are on the lookout for a reliable set of wheels, the first question you probably have in mind is how much do skateboard wheels cost?
Skateboard wheels cost anywhere between $10 and $50 or even higher depending on the brand, quality, size, and durometer rating.
Whether you’re a beginner who is strapped for cash or a seasoned ripper wanting over-the-top performance, this guide will tell you the cost of skateboard wheels and the slew of options available out there!
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What are the Factors That Determine the Cost of Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard wheels price varies and depends on the construction and quality, the brand, and the skateboard wheels size. Other features that determine the cost are contact patches, the diameter, shape, and durometer rating.
Expect to pay for more high-end brands that boast innovative features. Here are the factors that are usually taken into consideration:
Wheel Diameter
Small wheels are great for street and technical skating because they weigh less and are typically more responsive. On the other hand, bigger wheels roll so much faster and maintain speed even over rough surfaces.
Contact Patch
The contact patch or riding surface determines the level of grip your skateboard wheels will have. Narrow wheels tend to slide easier and are great for pulling off stunts. Wider wheels consistently maintain their grip when you skate at faster speeds.
Wheel Shape or Profile
The shape of your skateboard wheels impacts their weight, the amount of grip they provide, and how well they lock in place. Rounded edges tend to slide easily while sharper edges provide you more traction and grip.
Durometer Rating
Durometer ratings pertain to the hardness of polyurethane skateboard wheels.
Skateboard wheels that fall within 78A-90A are considered soft. Durometers within 90A to 98A are medium, while durometer ratings from 99A and up are hard.
Soft skateboard wheels are great for cruising and longboarding while medium wheels are suitable for street skating on uneven or rough roads. Hard wheels perform best in skateparks and when going down ledges and rails.
When taken into account, these qualities and features will ultimately determine how much a set of skateboard wheels will cost.
Types of Wheels
Finding the right skateboard wheels set depends on your riding style, weight, the type of board you ride, and your budget. Check out the 3 major types of skateboard wheels that are equally exciting and functional for all:
Street or Park Wheels
With durometer ratings within 95-101A and measuring anywhere between 50-60mm, street or park skateboard wheels roll fast on flat surfaces, are lightweight, and glide smoothly. If you’re into pulling off power slides, ollies, flip trips, plus other technical moves, you won’t regret investing hard-earned bucks on these.
Branded street or park wheels cost anywhere between $20- $30 each; generic ones are priced relatively low between $10-$15.
Soft Wheels or Cruiser Wheels
Soft skateboard wheels or cruiser wheels are typically bigger and much softer than street or park skateboard wheels. These rank 78-90A on the durometer scale and measure between 54-60mm. If you are looking for a fast and exciting way to go around, cruiser wheels are the way to go.
54mm skateboard wheels fall into this category. These skateboard wheels make a great middle ground in terms of traction and softness.
Prepare to shell out at least $25-$40 for branded soft wheels or cruiser wheels and around $15-$20 for generic ones.
Longboard Wheels
Longboard wheels are the softest and biggest available out there and are designed to help you plow through rough terrain and surfaces.
On top of these benefits, longboard wheels measure anywhere within 60-75mm and have a durometer rating of 75-85A. These wheels are right up your alley if you are into power sliding, downhill riding, and carving.
Branded longboard wheels cost around $30 to a high of $60. Alternatively, generic wheels cost around $15-$25.
Should I Save or Splurge When Buying Skateboard Wheels
While it seems practical to go for the least expensive wheels you can find, or those produced by brands that don’t specialize in making skateboarding parts and accessories, your safety comes second to none. Always go for a set of skateboard wheels that are not necessarily that expensive but give you great value for your money.
The right set of wheels gives you the ability to reinvent and improve the way your skateboard performs without compromising your safety and stability, so choose wisely yet reasonably. If you are after entry-level wheels for occasional riding that may be considered on par with mainstream brands, you may expect to spend at least $15.
Branded wheels can set you back anywhere between $20-$50 or even more but offer unmatched performance and quality. Be on the lookout for sales and promotions in skate shops or online for added value and savings.
We know picking the right set of skateboard wheels that’s priced reasonably can be a daunting task. This video gives you a rundown of everything you need to know:
Conclusion
We hope this guide has given you insight into the often-asked question, how much do skateboard wheels cost? When buying skateboard wheels, bear in mind that even small differences in terms of size or durometer rating can significantly impact their cost.
Over-the-top and expensive skateboard wheels are not necessarily the best.
Opt for a set of wheels that will not only complement your riding style but also look after your safety, convenience, and enjoyment as well.
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I am Michael, and I have been enjoying this fun sport for seven years. And nothing is better than having a community to share our passion for those thrilling tricks. I am ready to tell you all I know about skateboarding, showing you how to choose a good board and trick to start and how the practice goes. Stay tuned!