Choosing your skateboard wheel: a quick tip
Any skater will tell you that there is no thrill in the world that can quite equal that of cruising on a skateboard. Surely, few things can give you more sense of freedom than gliding at full speed with nothing between you and the earth apart from your much-loved board.
Whether you are a budding skater or you and your skateboard have been companions for years, it’s important to get to know your board so you can maintain it in the best way possible. Part of your knowledge should be about choosing skateboard wheels. All skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane, a kind of hard and heavy-duty rubber. Be sure you select the right ones so you can enjoy your skating sessions to the fullest.
When it comes to preferring skateboard wheels, there are fundamentally two essential things that you have to consider. The first one is the diameter. The diameter basically refers to the height of the wheel. The average diameter of most skateboards range from 52 mm to 60 mm. As it comes to selecting the right diameter, take your own height and built into consideration. Children, teenagers as well as shorter and slimmer skaters will fare well with 55 mm maximum. Taller and heavier skaters will skate best with wheels ranging from 56 mm to 60 mm. In fact, 60 mm is usually the most that you should get. Anything over 60 may not be suitable for your average skating parks.
The second factor that you should consider when choosing skateboard wheels is how hard or tough the wheels are. Just like the height of a wheel, there is a term describing this stat and this is durometer. The normal durometer that most skaters need is 99a. If you’re a beginner then you must go with softer wheels so you can effortlessly skate without tripping over rocks, etc.
Remember a good skateboard wheel like BP Blackbird is one that provides proper support and suits your style of skateboarding. Thus, be certain to select the right size according to how you’re going to make use of the wheel. As well, be sure to choose the type that matches your skill level and improve your performance.
