Understanding the wheel hardness scale is the single most important factor for optimizing your ride. Choosing the correct durometer directly impacts your speed, grip, and overall comfort on the pavement.
This complete guide breaks down how the durometer scale works for skateboards and inline skates. You will learn expert tips for matching wheel hardness to your specific terrain and riding style. Keep reading to master the science of your setup.
Best Skateboard and Inline Skate Wheels for Every Surface
Bones Wheels STF V5 Sidecut – Best for Street Skateboarding
The Bones Wheels STF V5 Sidecut 99A are the top choice for technical street skating. Their patented Slip-Tech Formula reduces flat spots while offering a smooth slide. This set is ideal for skaters who need durability and consistent performance on rough asphalt.
Ricta Wheels Clouds 78A – Best for Smooth Cruising
The Ricta Wheels Clouds 78A provide an ultra-smooth ride over cracks and pebbles. Their soft durometer absorbs vibration, making them the best option for commuters. These wheels are highly recommended for longboarders and casual cruisers who prioritize comfort over speed.
Labeda Asphalt Millenium – Best for Inline Speed Skating
The Labeda Asphalt Millenium 82A wheels offer superior grip and rebound for outdoor inline skating. Their high-rebound urethane reduces energy loss, allowing for faster acceleration. This model is ideal for fitness skaters tackling long distances on varied pavement.
Understanding the Durometer Scale for Skateboard and Skate Wheels
The durometer scale measures the hardness of polyurethane wheels. This measurement directly determines how your board or skates perform on different surfaces. Most skaters use the “A” scale, which ranges from ultra-soft 75A to rock-hard 101A.
What Do the Numbers on the Wheel Hardness Scale Mean?
Lower numbers like 78A to 87A indicate soft wheels that grip the pavement. These wheels absorb vibrations from cracks, making them perfect for cruising and rough roads. Higher numbers like 99A to 101A are hard wheels designed for smooth skateparks and technical tricks.
Key Takeaway: Softer wheels (75A-87A) offer grip and comfort. Harder wheels (95A-101A) offer speed and slide control. Choose based on your riding surface.
How to Choose Wheel Hardness for Your Riding Style
Your riding style dictates the ideal durometer. For street skating and flip tricks, hard wheels around 99A provide the pop and slide you need. For long-distance skating or commuting, soft wheels between 78A and 82A prevent foot fatigue.
- Street Skating: 99A – 101A for slides and tricks on smooth concrete.
- Cruising & Commuting: 78A – 87A for grip on rough asphalt and cracks.
- Inline Fitness: 82A – 85A for a balance of speed and vibration dampening.
The Relationship Between Wheel Hardness and Speed
Many beginners think harder wheels are always faster. In reality, hard wheels are faster only on perfectly smooth surfaces. On rough roads, soft wheels actually maintain speed better because they don’t bounce off every bump.
How to Read the Wheel Hardness Scale: A vs. B Durometers
Most skate wheels use the Shore A durometer scale, but some manufacturers use the B scale. Understanding the difference prevents you from buying the wrong wheels. The B scale measures harder materials, so a 78B wheel is significantly firmer than an 80A wheel.
Comparing the A Scale and B Scale for Skate Wheels
The A scale is standard for skateboard and inline skate wheels. It measures hardness from 0A (gel-like) to 100A (very hard). The B scale starts where the A scale ends, making it ideal for high-performance speed wheels.
- 78A to 87A: Soft, grippy, and comfortable for rough surfaces.
- 88A to 95A: Medium hardness, balancing grip and slide for park skating.
- 96A to 101A: Hard, fast, and slippery for smooth concrete and vert ramps.
- 78B to 85B: Ultra-hard, used only for professional racing on polished floors.
Key Takeaway: Stick with the A scale for 99% of skateboarding and inline skating. Only consider B scale wheels if you are racing indoors on super-smooth surfaces.
Why Wheel Hardness Matters for Slide Performance
Hard wheels around 99A to 101A are designed for controlled slides. They have less grip, allowing you to break traction easily for tricks. Soft wheels grip too much, making slides difficult and unpredictable.
Matching Durometer to Wheel Diameter
Wheel diameter also affects your ride quality. Larger wheels (60mm+) paired with soft durometer offer the smoothest ride. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) with hard durometer are best for technical street skating and flip tricks.
| Durometer Range | Best Diameter | Best Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 78A – 87A | 56mm – 65mm | Rough asphalt, cracks |
| 88A – 95A | 52mm – 58mm | Park, ramps, smooth streets |
| 96A – 101A | 50mm – 54mm | Skateparks, vert, smooth concrete |
Common Wheel Hardness Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many skaters buy wheels that are too hard for their local terrain. This mistake leads to a harsh, chattery ride that kills your confidence. Avoiding these common errors will save you money and improve your skating experience immediately.
Mistake 1: Choosing Hard Wheels for Rough Pavement
New skaters often buy 99A wheels because pros use them. However, pros skate on smooth skatepark concrete, not city streets. If your local spots have cracks and pebbles, stick with 78A to 87A wheels for a much smoother ride.
Mistake 2: Ignoring the Wheel Hardness Scale for Inline Skates
Inline skaters frequently overlook durometer when buying replacement wheels. Using hard 85A wheels on rough bike paths causes painful vibrations in your knees. Soft 78A to 82A wheels absorb shock and reduce joint strain during long fitness skates.
Key Takeaway: Match your wheel hardness to your primary surface, not to what the pros use. Soft wheels on rough ground will always outperform hard wheels.
Mistake 3: Confusing Hardness with Quality
A higher durometer number does not mean a better wheel. Wheel quality depends on the urethane formula, not just the hardness rating. Premium wheels like Bones STF or Ricta Clouds use advanced urethane that performs better at any durometer.
- Low-quality hard wheels: Chip easily, develop flat spots, and feel dead.
- High-quality soft wheels: Rebound well, last longer, and offer consistent grip.
- Tip: Always buy from reputable brands for the best urethane performance.
How to Test Wheel Hardness Before Buying
Most online shops list the durometer clearly in the product description. If you are shopping in-store, press your thumbnail into the wheel. A soft wheel will indent easily, while a hard wheel will resist the pressure completely.
Maintaining Your Wheels Based on Their Hardness Rating
Proper maintenance extends the life of your wheels and keeps performance consistent. The care routine differs significantly between soft and hard durometer wheels. Following these tips will prevent premature wear and flat spots.
How to Rotate Wheels for Even Wear
Hard wheels around 99A to 101A wear down faster on your dominant foot. Rotate your wheels every two weeks to distribute wear evenly across all four. Swap the front wheels to the back and flip them so the worn side faces inward.
- Remove all four wheels from your skateboard or inline skates.
- Swap front wheels with back wheels on the same side.
- Flip each wheel so the outside edge faces the inside of the truck.
- Tighten axle nuts until snug, then back off a quarter turn.
Key Takeaway: Rotating and flipping wheels every 10-15 hours of skating prevents uneven wear and extends wheel life by up to 50%.
Cleaning Bearings for Different Wheel Hardness
Soft wheels (78A to 87A) absorb more road debris, which clogs your bearings faster. Clean your bearings monthly if you skate soft wheels on rough surfaces. Hard wheels (95A to 101A) typically stay cleaner since they are used on smooth skatepark concrete.
- Soft wheels: Clean bearings every 4-6 sessions with isopropyl alcohol.
- Hard wheels: Clean bearings every 10-12 sessions or when they feel sluggish.
- Always: Re-lube bearings with speed cream after cleaning for best performance.
When to Replace Wheels Based on Durometer Wear
Soft wheels wear down faster because they grip the pavement aggressively. Replace them when the diameter decreases by 4mm to 5mm. Hard wheels last longer but develop flat spots; replace them immediately if you feel a thumping vibration while rolling.
Wheel Hardness Scale for Different Skateboarding Disciplines
Each skateboarding discipline demands a specific durometer for optimal performance. Using the wrong hardness can ruin your experience and hold back your progression. Here is exactly what durometer you need for each style of skating.
Best Wheel Hardness for Street Skateboarding
Street skaters need hard wheels for slides, grinds, and flip tricks. The sweet spot is 99A to 101A on smooth concrete or skatepark surfaces. These wheels break traction easily for powerslides and maintain speed for gap jumps.
Best Wheel Hardness for Cruising and Longboarding
Cruisers and longboarders require soft wheels to handle rough pavement. Wheels between 78A and 80A absorb vibrations from cracks and pebbles. This durometer range provides maximum grip for carving and downhill stability.
Key Takeaway: Street skaters need 99A-101A for tricks. Cruisers need 78A-80A for comfort. Vert skaters need 95A-97A for grip on ramps.
Best Wheel Hardness for Vert and Bowl Skating
Vert skaters need a middle-ground durometer for grip and speed. Wheels around 95A to 97A offer enough grip to hold lines on transition. They also provide a smooth rollout for landing big airs without sliding out.
- Street: 99A – 101A for slides and technical tricks.
- Cruising: 78A – 80A for comfort on rough roads.
- Vert/Bowl: 95A – 97A for grip on ramp surfaces.
- Park: 92A – 95A for a balance of speed and control.
Best Wheel Hardness for Inline Skate Disciplines
Inline skaters also need discipline-specific durometers. Fitness skaters benefit from 82A to 85A wheels for outdoor durability. Aggressive inline skaters prefer 88A to 92A for grinding and landing on coping.
| Discipline | Recommended Durometer | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Street Skate | 99A – 101A | Easy slides and flip tricks |
| Cruising | 78A – 80A | Vibration absorption |
| Vert/Bowl | 95A – 97A | Grip on transitions |
| Inline Fitness | 82A – 85A | Outdoor durability |
How Temperature and Weather Affect Wheel Hardness Performance
Temperature dramatically changes how your wheels feel on the pavement. Cold weather makes wheels harder, while heat makes them softer. Understanding this effect helps you adjust your setup for year-round skating.
Skating in Cold Weather with Hard Durometer Wheels
When temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), hard wheels become brittle and slippery. A 99A wheel can feel like a 101A wheel in cold conditions. This increases the risk of sliding out unexpectedly during turns or tricks.
- Below 50°F: Switch to wheels 2-3 durometer points softer than usual.
- Below 32°F: Use wheels rated 78A to 83A for adequate grip.
- Warning: Hard wheels can crack or chip in freezing temperatures.
Key Takeaway: Cold temperatures make wheels feel harder. Drop your durometer by 2-3 points when skating in winter to maintain grip and safety.
Skating in Hot Weather with Soft Durometer Wheels
Heat softens polyurethane, making wheels feel stickier than their rating suggests. A 78A wheel on a 90°F (32°C) day can feel like a 75A wheel. This extra grip is great for carving but can slow you down on flat ground.
Adjusting Wheel Hardness for Indoor vs. Outdoor Skating
Indoor skateparks are climate-controlled and have smooth surfaces. You can use harder wheels like 99A to 101A year-round indoors. Outdoor surfaces fluctuate with temperature, so adjust your durometer based on the season and pavement quality.
| Condition | Effective Durometer Change | Recommended Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Cold (below 50°F) | Feels 2-3 points harder | Go 2-3 points softer |
| Hot (above 85°F) | Feels 2-3 points softer | Go 2-3 points harder |
| Wet pavement | Reduced grip overall | Avoid skating; use soft wheels if necessary |
Wheel Hardness Scale for Beginners: Your First Set of Wheels
Choosing your first set of wheels can be overwhelming with so many durometer options. Beginners should prioritize comfort and control over speed and slide performance. The wrong choice can make learning frustrating and slow your progress.
Best Wheel Hardness for Adult Beginners
Adult beginners should start with medium-soft wheels around 87A to 92A. This durometer offers enough grip to feel stable while allowing some slide for basic turns. These wheels work well on both skatepark concrete and smooth neighborhood streets.
Best Wheel Hardness for Kids and Lightweight Skaters
Lighter skaters put less force on their wheels, so they need softer durometer options. Kids under 100 pounds should use wheels between 78A and 85A. Softer wheels deform slightly under their weight, providing the grip needed for safe stopping.
Key Takeaway: Beginners should avoid wheels harder than 92A. Start with 87A to 92A for a forgiving ride that helps you learn basic skills safely.
Beginner Wheel Buying Checklist
Use this checklist when shopping for your first set of wheels. It ensures you get the right durometer, size, and shape for learning. Follow these guidelines to avoid common beginner mistakes.
- Durometer: 87A to 92A for balanced grip and slide.
- Diameter: 52mm to 54mm for easy control and stability.
- Shape: Square-edged for consistent contact with the ground.
- Brand: Stick with reputable names like Bones, Ricta, or Spitfire.
When to Upgrade to Harder Wheels
Once you can ollie comfortably and ride switch, consider harder wheels. Move up to 95A to 99A when you want to learn slides and powerslides. This transition usually happens after 3 to 6 months of consistent practice.
| Skill Level | Recommended Durometer | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Absolute Beginner | 78A – 85A | Balance and pushing |
| Intermediate | 87A – 92A | Ollies and basic tricks |
| Advanced | 95A – 101A | Slides and technical tricks |
Conclusion: Master the Wheel Hardness Scale for Better Skating
Understanding the wheel hardness scale transforms your skating experience instantly. You now know how to match durometer to your terrain, style, and local weather conditions.
Start with soft wheels for comfort, then progress to harder wheels as you improve. Your setup should always match your primary skating surface first.
Apply these tips today and feel the difference in your next session. Your feet and joints will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Wheel Hardness Scale
What does the wheel hardness scale mean for skateboards?
The wheel hardness scale measures how soft or hard your polyurethane wheels are. It uses the Shore A durometer system, with lower numbers meaning softer wheels and higher numbers meaning harder wheels.
Softer wheels (78A-87A) grip the ground and absorb vibrations. Harder wheels (95A-101A) slide easily and maintain speed on smooth surfaces. Your choice depends entirely on your skating terrain and style.
What is the best wheel hardness for beginners on skateboards?
Beginners should start with medium-soft wheels around 87A to 92A. This durometer offers enough grip to feel stable while learning basic tricks like ollies. It also provides some slide control for safe stopping.
Avoid starting with wheels harder than 95A, as they feel too slippery for new skaters. Stick with 87A to 92A for the first 3 to 6 months of practice for the best learning experience.
How do I choose wheel hardness for my inline skates?
For inline fitness skating on outdoor paths, choose wheels between 82A and 85A. This durometer balances speed with vibration absorption on rough pavement. Harder wheels will transmit too much shock to your knees.
For aggressive inline skating, choose 88A to 92A wheels for better grind performance. Indoor speed skaters can use 78B to 85B wheels, but these are too hard for outdoor use.
Which is better: soft wheels or hard wheels for skateboarding?
Neither is universally better; the right choice depends on your terrain. Soft wheels (78A-87A) are better for rough streets, cracks, and commuting. They offer superior grip and comfort for cruising.
Hard wheels (99A-101A) are better for smooth skateparks, technical tricks, and slides. Most skaters own two sets of wheels: one soft set for cruising and one hard set for the skatepark.
What durometer wheels do professional skateboarders use?
Most professional street skateboarders use wheels between 99A and 101A. This allows them to slide easily on ledges and rails. Pro vert skaters often use slightly softer wheels around 95A to 97A for better grip on transition.
Remember that pros skate on perfectly smooth skatepark concrete. Their wheel choice will not work well on the rough streets where most beginners practice.
How does temperature affect the wheel hardness scale?
Cold temperatures make wheels feel harder than their rated durometer. A 99A wheel can feel like a 101A wheel when skating below 50°F. This increases the risk of sliding out unexpectedly during tricks.
Hot temperatures make wheels feel softer and stickier. A 78A wheel on a 90°F day feels like a 75A wheel. Adjust your durometer by 2-3 points softer in winter and 2-3 points harder in summer.
What is the difference between the A scale and B scale durometer?
The A scale is standard for most skateboard and inline skate wheels. It measures hardness from 0A to 100A, with 100A being the hardest. The B scale measures harder materials beyond the A scale range.
A 78B wheel is significantly harder than an 80A wheel. The B scale is only used for high-performance indoor speed skating wheels. Stick with the A scale for 99% of skateboarding and inline skating needs.
How often should I replace my skateboard wheels based on wear?
Replace soft wheels (78A-87A) when their diameter decreases by 4mm to 5mm. Soft wheels wear down faster due to their grip on rough pavement. Check your wheel diameter every month if you skate regularly.
Replace hard wheels (95A-101A) immediately if you feel a thumping vibration while rolling. This indicates a flat spot from sliding. Hard wheels last longer than soft wheels but require replacement when damaged.