How to measure skateboard wheels: a step-by-step guide

Choosing the right skateboard wheels can greatly impact the performance of your skateboard and your overall skateboarding experience. In this article, we’ll discuss how to measure skateboard wheels and the different factors to consider when selecting the best wheels for your needs.

Diameter choosing the size of a skateboard wheel

How to measure skateboard wheels depends on many factors. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing skateboard wheels is the size, which is typically measured in millimeters, which is the wheel diameter.

A Larger skateboard wheel size diameter provides a smoother ride and is better for cruising and longboarding, especially on rougher surfaces.

This is because the larger surface area of the wheels allows them to roll over small cracks and bumps in the pavement more easily.

However, they may not perform as well on rough surfaces and can be prone to wheel bite. Wheel bite is when the wheels get stuck in the deck during a turn and cause the skateboard to stop or crash.

As a general rule, skateboard wheel size for street skating and park skating should be around 50-60mm in diameter, while wheels for cruising and longboarding should be around 60-75mm. However, the best size for you will ultimately depend on your personal preference and the type of skateboarding you plan to do.

Choosing the hardness of a skateboard wheel (hard or soft wheels)

In addition to size, skateboarding wheels are also measured by their hardness or wheel durometer. A durometer is a measure of a wheel’s resistance to deformation, and it is measured on the A scale.

The higher the number, the harder the wheel. Harder wheels are generally faster and better to ride smoothly, while softer wheels have more grip and are better for rough surfaces.

Common durometers for skateboard wheels range from 78a to 101a. A wheel with a durometer of 78a or lower is considered a soft wheel and is better for rough surfaces and grip. Wheels with a durometer of 101a or higher are considered hard wheels and are better for smooth surfaces and speed.

If you’re just starting, it’s a good idea to go with a mid-durometer wheel, around 80-85a. This will give you a good balance of grip and speed.

Choosing the shape of a skateboard wheel

In addition to size and hardness, wheels also come in different wheel shapes. The most common wheel shape is round and conical.

Wheels are the most popular and are great for all-around use.

Conical wheels, also known as “cone” wheels, are tapered at the edges and are great for tricks and sliding.

Scale wheels, also known as “scaled” wheels, are a type of skateboard wheel that is designed to mimic the size and shape of real car tires. They are often used for realism in skateboarding, such as for creating replicas of real vehicles or for skating in a skatepark that is designed to look like a real city.

Tools necessary for measuring skateboard wheels

To measure the size and durometer of skateboard wheels, you’ll need a few tools. A ruler is necessary for measuring the diameter of the wheels, while a caliper can be used to measure the width and depth of the wheels.

An inch of tape can also help measure the wheelbase of your skateboard.

How to use a ruler to measure skateboard wheels

To measure the diameter of skateboard wheels with a ruler, follow these steps:

As mentioned before, the diameter of a wheel is measured in millimeters.

1. Place the ruler next to the wheel with the end of the ruler against the outer edge of the wheel.
2. Use the measurement in millimeters on the ruler to determine the size of the wheel.
3. Repeat the process for the other wheels to ensure that they are all the same size.

How to use a caliper to measure skateboard wheel

To use a caliper to measure the width and depth of skateboard wheels, follow these steps:

1. Place the caliper around the wheel with the jaws of the caliper against the outer edge of the wheel.
2. Use the measurement in millimeters on the caliper to determine the width and depth of the wheel.
3. Repeat the process for the other wheels to ensure that they are all the same size.

How to measure wheelbase with inch tape

To measure the wheelbase of your skateboard with an inch of tape, follow these steps:

1. Place the inch tape on the ground with one end against the front truck and the other end against the back truck.
2. Measure the distance between the two trucks in inches.
3. This measurement is the wheelbase of your skateboard.

Skateboard wheel size

As mentioned, skateboard wheels are typically available in a range of sizes from the wheel manufacturers, from around 50-75mm in diameter.

Here are some common sizes and the types of skateboarding they are typically used for:

• 44-47mm: These are the smallest wheels and are best for flip tricks and skateboarding in tight spaces.
• 48-51mm: These are mid-sized wheels and are great for all-around use.
• 52-54mm: These are larger wheels and are better for rough surfaces and cruising.
• 55mm and up: These are the largest wheels and are best for speed and rough surfaces.

How to measure durometers of skateboard wheels

To measure the durometer of skateboard wheels, you’ll need a durometer gauge.

 

These can be purchased online or at a skate shop.

To use a durometer gauge, follow these steps:

1. Place the gauge on the outer edge of the wheel with the pointed end against the urethane wheels.
2. Press down on the gauge until the pointed end is fully embedded in the urethane.
3. Read the measurement on the gauge to determine the durometer of the wheel.
4. Repeat the process for the other wheels to ensure that they are all the same durometer.

Common Durometer

Skateboard wheels come in a wide range of durometers, from as soft as 78a to as hard as 101a or more.

The skateboard wheel hardness (durometer) you choose will depend on your personal preference and the type of skateboarding you do.

Here are some common durometers and their uses:

• 78a and lower: These are the soft wheels and are best for hard surfaces and grip.
• 80-85a: These are mid-durometer wheels and are great for all-around use.
• 87a and higher: These are the hardest wheels and are better for smooth surfaces and speed.

What size should you choose for

The size of the skateboard wheels, as well as the durometer, will depend on the type of skateboarding you do and your personal preference.

Here are some general guidelines for choosing the right size and durometer for different types of skateboarding.

Wheel size for cruising

Larger wheels (52-54mm) with a mid-durometer (80-85a) are considered cruiser wheels.

Larger wheels will give you more speed and stability, while a mid-durometer will give you a good balance of grip and speed, which is great as cruiser wheels.

Wheel size for street skating

The best wheels for street skaters are mid-sized wheels (48-51mm) with a mid-durometer (80-85a) are great for street skating.

Mid-sized wheels will give you a good balance of speed and control, while a mid-durometer will give you a good balance of grip and speed.

Wheel size for vert skating

Mid-sized wheels (48-51mm) with a harder wheels durometer (87a and higher) are great for vert skating.

Mid-sized wheels will give you a good balance of speed and control, while a harder durometer will give you more speed and stability.

Wheel size for flatland tricks

Smaller wheels (44-47mm) with a softer durometer (78a and lower) are great for flatland tricks.

Smaller wheels will give you more control and stability, while soft wheels will give you more grip.

FAQ

How do you measure skateboard wheels?

Wheels are typically measured in millimeters (mm) for diameter and width, and may also be labeled with a durometer rating (a measure of hardness/softness).

Are 54mm wheels good for street skating?

54mm wheels can be suitable for street skating, as they are a relatively standard size and offer a good balance of speed and grip.

What size wheels should I get for a 8.25 deck?

An 8.25-inch deck is typically recommended to be used with wheels that are in the 52-54mm range. This size range offers a good balance of speed and grip and is suitable for a variety of skating styles and terrains.

What does 101A wheels mean?

The number “101” in 101A wheels refers to the durometer rating of the wheel, which is a measure of the wheel’s hardness or softness.

The letter “A” indicates that the durometer scale being used is the Shore Durometer scale, which is commonly used to measure the hardness of skateboard wheels.

Is 8.25 skateboard too big?

An 8.25-inch skateboard is considered to be a medium-sized deck and may be suitable for a wide range of skating styles and tricks.

Do all bearings fit all wheels?

Bearings are designed to fit a standard-size skateboard wheel. Most skateboarding wheels have a core with a diameter of approximately 8mm, and bearings are typically made to fit this size.

Conclusion

Measuring your wheels is important for choosing the right size and durometer for your skateboarding style and personal preference. By using a ruler or tape measure, caliper, and durometer gauge, you can accurately measure the size, durometer, and wheelbase of your wheels. With the right size and durometer, you’ll be able to skate with confidence and control.

Read More About How to Measure Skateboard Wheels?