Are soft wheels good for street skating? It’s a question that every skateboarder has pondered at some point in their skating journey. As someone who has been skating for over a decade, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with different types of wheels on all sorts of terrain. While I’ve seen both pros and cons of using soft wheels on the streets, I’m here to help you make an informed decision on whether or not they’re right for you.
For those who are new to the skateboarding world, soft wheels essentially refer to wheels with a lower durometer rating. In simple terms, this means that they’re softer and more pliable compared to harder wheels with a higher durometer rating. While many street skaters tend to veer towards hard wheels for their durability and versatility on smooth surfaces, soft wheels can have their own unique benefits. From cruising on rough roads to hitting your local skatepark, there are various factors to consider when deciding whether or not to opt for a softer set of wheels.
From the grip on the pavement to the smoothness of your ride, the type of wheels you choose can greatly impact your overall skating experience. But are soft wheels good for street skating? With such a nuanced question, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, I’m here to share my personal experiences and insights to help you navigate and make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of using soft wheels on the streets and how they can enhance or hinder your performance. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of soft wheels and street skating.
Advantages of Soft Wheels for Street Skating
Street skating is a form of skating that involves performing tricks and maneuvers on various urban surfaces such as railings, stairs, and curbs. To succeed in this activity, one must have the right equipment, especially the wheels. Soft wheels are the preferred choice for street skating due to a number of benefits:
- Better shock absorption: Soft wheels are made of a more pliable material, which means they can absorb more shocks and vibrations while skating. This makes them ideal for street skating because the surfaces are often uneven, and the soft wheels provide a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Improved grip: Soft wheels have a higher level of grip than harder wheels, meaning they can maintain better traction on the pavement. This increased grip is especially advantageous when skating on rough terrain, making it less likely to lose control and take a hard fall.
- Reduced noise: Harder wheels tend to produce a loud clattering sound when hitting or sliding across surfaces. With soft wheels, the noise level is greatly reduced, making them the better choice for those trying to minimize their disturbance to others while practicing in public areas.
In summary, soft wheels give street skaters the necessary support and traction while performing tricks on rough terrain. They offer better shock absorption, improved grip, and reduced noise levels, making them the most suitable choice for street skating.
Disadvantages of soft wheels for street skating
Soft wheels have their benefits, but they are not always the best choice for street skating. Here are some of the major disadvantages:
- Less speed: Soft wheels have more give than harder wheels, which means they absorb more of the impact from bumps, cracks, and pebbles on the road. While this can be great for comfort, it also means you sacrifice speed and momentum. If you’re looking to skate fast and cover a lot of ground, you may want to opt for harder wheels instead.
- Less control: Because soft wheels have more flex, they can be more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or perform tricks with. Harder wheels offer more precision and control, which is essential for technical skating. Soft wheels also tend to grip the surface of the road more, which can make sliding and power turns more difficult.
- Less durability: Soft wheels tend to wear down more quickly than their harder counterparts. This can be a problem if you’re a frequent skater or use your board for commuting. You may find yourself replacing your wheels more frequently if you opt for a softer durometer.
Overall, while soft wheels may be more comfortable and forgiving, they can’t compete with the speed, control, and durability of harder wheels. It’s important to consider your individual needs and skating style when choosing what type of wheels will work best for you.
Differences between Soft and Hard Wheels for Street Skating
Choosing the right wheels for street skating can make a significant difference in your performance and overall experience. When it comes to choosing between soft and hard wheels, it all depends on your personal preferences and the type of terrain you plan to skate on.
- Hard Wheels: These wheels are made with a higher durometer rating, which means they are more durable and have less give to them. Hard wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces such as concrete skate parks or indoor surfaces. They provide faster speeds, better control, and more accuracy for technical tricks.
- Soft Wheels: These wheels have a lower durometer rating, which makes them more flexible and forgiving. They are perfect for rough surfaces such as asphalt or uneven pavement. Soft wheels provide better shock absorption and a smoother ride, making them ideal for cruising or transportation.
- Middle Ground: Some skateboarders prefer to use middle ground wheels, also known as “all-around” wheels. These wheels have a medium durometer rating and provide a balance between speed and grip. They are suitable for various terrains, including both smooth and rough surfaces.
Advantages of Soft Wheels for Street Skating
If you prefer to skate on rough surfaces such as asphalt or pebbled concrete, soft wheels are the way to go. They are designed to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride, allowing you to skate for longer periods without feeling fatigued. Soft wheels also provide better traction and grip, making it easier to navigate around corners and obstacles. They are perfect for beginners who are just starting to learn how to skate on the street as they provide a more forgiving ride.
However, there are some disadvantages to using soft wheels. Due to their softer compound, they do not last as long as hard wheels and may wear out faster, especially if you do a lot of power slides or skid stops. They also tend to be slower than hard wheels, which can affect your overall speed and performance.
| Soft Wheels | Hard Wheels |
|---|---|
| Better shock absorption | Less shock absorption |
| More grip and traction | Less grip and traction |
| Slower speeds | Faster speeds |
| Lower durability | Higher durability |
In conclusion, choosing between soft and hard wheels for street skating all depends on your personal preferences and the type of terrain you plan to skate on. If you prefer a smoother ride and better shock absorption, soft wheels are the way to go. If you value speed and control, hard wheels may be a better choice. Finally, if you want a balance of both, all-around wheels are a great middle ground option.
Types of Soft Wheels for Street Skating
When it comes to street skating, having the right wheels can make all the difference. Soft wheels are a popular choice among street skaters due to their ability to grip the pavement and absorb shock. Below are four types of soft wheels that are great for street skating:
- 60mm to 65mm Wheels: These wheels are a great choice for street skating as they combine the perfect blend of speed and control. They are versatile and come in varying degrees of hardness, making them suitable for skating on different surfaces.
- Cruiser Wheels: Cruiser wheels typically have a diameter of 55mm to 60mm and are wider than traditional skateboard wheels. They are great for cruising around town and provide a smooth ride on rough surfaces.
- Longboard Wheels: Longboard wheels are much larger than traditional skateboard wheels, with diameters ranging from 65mm to 107mm. They are soft and have a lot of rebound, making them ideal for carving and cruising on longboards.
- Soft Street Wheels: Soft street wheels are specifically designed for street skating. They range from 50mm to 60mm in diameter and are much softer than traditional skateboard wheels. They absorb shock well and provide a smooth ride on rough surfaces, making them perfect for skateboarding in urban areas.
It’s important to note that not all soft wheels are created equal. Skateboarders must consider the durometer or hardness of the wheel when selecting them for street skating. Durometer is the measurement of the wheel’s hardness, with a lower number indicating a softer wheel. For street skating, wheels with a durometer ranging between 78A to 87A are ideal as they provide good grip and shock absorption. However, selecting the right wheel will depend on a skater’s size, weight, and personal preference.
| Durometer | Hardness | Typical Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 78A to 87A | Soft | Rough terrain |
| 88A to 95A | Medium | Skate parks and ramps |
| 96A and above | Hard | Smooth surfaces |
In conclusion, soft wheels are excellent for street skating, offering good grip, shock absorption, and a smooth ride on rough surfaces. Choosing the right wheel will depend on the skater’s personal preferences, weight, and size, as well as where they intend to skate. With the information provided, skateboarders can choose the right soft wheel for their needs and enjoy a comfortable and smooth street skating experience.
How to choose the right size of soft wheels for street skating
Choosing the right size of soft wheels for street skating can make a huge difference in your skating experience. The size of your wheels can affect your speed, maneuverability, and overall control. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right size:
- Wheel Diameter: Soft wheels come in various diameters, ranging from 52mm to 60mm. The diameter you choose will depend on your style of skating. If you prefer cruising and casual riding, larger wheels are the way to go. If you are into technical street skating and tricks, smaller wheels are better as they provide more control and stability.
- Wheel Width: The width of your wheels will depend on the width of your skateboard deck. For street skating, you want a wheel width between 32mm-38mm depending on the width of your deck.
- Durometer: Soft wheels have a lower durometer rating than harder wheels, usually ranging from 78a-95a. A lower durometer rating means that the wheels are softer and more forgiving over rough terrain, but they are slower and less durable than harder wheels. Choose a durometer that fits your ideal balance of speed and grip.
To help you choose the right size, use the chart below as a guide:
| Skater Style | Wheel Size (Diameter) | Wheel Width | Durometer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cruising and Casual Riding | 54-60mm | 32-38mm | 78a-85a |
| Technical Street Skating and Tricks | 50-54mm | 30-34mm | 85a-95a |
Ultimately, the size of your wheels will depend on your personal preference and style of skating. Experiment with different sizes and durometers to find the perfect fit for your riding needs.
How often should you replace soft wheels for street skating
If you’re a street skater who prefers soft wheels over hard ones, you’re likely enjoying a smoother ride. But how often should you replace your soft wheels for optimal performance?
- Check for Wear: Even soft wheels can wear down and lose their ability to grip, making it unsafe to skate on rough terrain or perform tricks. Check your wheels periodically for wear and replace them before they become irreparably damaged.
- Mileage: If you skate daily, you may need to replace your soft wheels as frequently as every three months. However, if you only skate once or twice a week, you may be able to get six months or more out of each set of wheels.
- Surface: The type of surface you skate on can affect the lifespan of your soft wheels. If you primarily skate on rough concrete or asphalt, your wheels will wear down faster than if you skate on smoother surfaces like polished concrete or hardwood floors.
Ultimately, the best way to determine when to replace your soft wheels is to pay attention to how they feel while you’re skating. If you notice a decrease in grip or an increase in vibrations, it’s time to consider getting new wheels. Don’t skimp on replacing worn down wheels, as it can compromise your safety while skating.
As with any extreme sport, safety should be your top priority. Even if your soft wheels look fine, it’s better to err on the side of caution by replacing them more frequently than necessary. Remember to always wear proper protective gear when skateboarding to prevent injury.
| Factors to Consider | Replacement Timeline |
|---|---|
| Daily use, rough terrain | 3 months |
| Daily use, smooth terrain | 4-6 months |
| Weekly use, rough terrain | 6 months |
| Weekly use, smooth terrain | 6-9 months |
By following these guidelines and taking note of how your wheels feel while skating, you’ll be able to replace your soft wheels at the appropriate time, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Soft Wheels Maintenance Tips for Street Skating
Soft wheels are becoming more popular among street skaters due to their ability to absorb shock and provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces. However, soft wheels require special maintenance to ensure they perform at their best and last a long time. Here are some tips for maintaining your soft wheels for street skating:
- Keep them clean: Soft wheels tend to attract more dirt and debris, which can cause them to wear out faster. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe them down after each session, particularly if you have been skating on dirty or wet surfaces.
- Rotate them regularly: To ensure even wear, it’s important to rotate your wheels regularly. Switch them around every few sessions to prevent flat spots and ensure they wear evenly.
- Protect them from extreme temperature: Soft wheels can be sensitive to extreme temperatures, so avoid leaving them in direct sunlight or excessively hot or cold environments. This can cause them to warp or deform, affecting their performance.
Additionally, it’s important to pay attention to the shape and condition of your soft wheels. Here are some signs that they may need replacing:
- Cracks or chips: Any visible cracks or chips in the wheels can compromise their integrity and make them less effective. Replace them immediately if you notice any damage.
- Worn down edges: Soft wheels tend to wear down faster around the edges. If you notice significant wear, it may be time for a new set of wheels.
- Flat spots: If you notice that your wheels are no longer rolling smoothly and seem to have a flat spot, it’s time to replace them. Flat spots can affect your balance and control while skating.
Conclusion
Soft wheels can be a great choice for street skating, but they require more maintenance than harder wheels. By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your soft wheels perform at their best and last as long as possible. Don’t forget to regularly check the condition of your wheels and replace them as needed to ensure a safe and enjoyable skating experience.
Are Soft Wheels Good for Street Skating?
1. What are soft wheels?
Soft wheels are skateboard wheels made from a softer polyurethane than traditional wheels. They have a durometer rating of between 78a to 87a and are designed to absorb more shock and vibrations on rough surfaces.
2. Are soft wheels good for street skating?
Yes, soft wheels are great for street skating because they provide better grip and traction on rough surfaces. This also makes it easier to perform tricks and maneuvers on the streets.
3. Can soft wheels go fast?
Soft wheels are not recommended for high-speed skating, as they tend to wear out faster than harder wheels. They are best suited for cruising around and doing street tricks.
4. Do soft wheels wear out faster than harder wheels?
Yes, because they are made from a softer material, soft wheels do wear out faster than harder wheels. However, if you skate mainly on rough surfaces, they will last longer than hard wheels in those conditions.
5. What size soft wheels should I get for street skating?
It depends on your personal preference, but most street skaters prefer wheels that are between 52mm to 56mm in size and have a durometer rating between 78a to 87a.
6. Are soft wheels more expensive than hard wheels?
Soft wheels are generally more expensive than hard wheels due to their manufacturing process and the materials used.
7. Can I use soft wheels on a skateboard ramp?
While you can technically use soft wheels on a skateboard ramp, they are not recommended for this purpose. Harder wheels are better suited for ramps, as they provide better speed and stability.
Closing Thoughts: Thanks for Reading!
We hoped this article helped you to understand whether soft wheels are suitable for street skating or not. While they may not be the best choice for high-speed skating or ramp skating, they are perfect for cruising around the streets and performing tricks on rough surfaces. Remember to choose the right size and durometer rating for your soft wheels and always wear protective gear before skating. Thanks for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!