Longboard wheels: types and tips for choosing

Lovers of longboards can ride very entertainingly and even set records. However, a lot depends not only on the training of athletes, but also on the wheelbase. It's time to figure out what it can be and what it means in terms of practical skating.

It is the diameter that is the first criterion that is important to evaluate both for experienced athletes and amateurs. The industry has mastered the production of wheels with an outer section of 0.06 - 0.107 m; most often there are models with a diameter of 70, 80, 90, 100 mm. According to the laws of mechanics: the smaller this size, the lower the maximum speed of movement. However, it will be possible to achieve it in less time. Models with a small wheel are best chosen by inexperienced skaters or those involved in technical slalom.

Medium propellers fall into the general category. If the consumer gets stumped and does not understand what to choose, they should be given preference. Setting speed records will not work, however, the feeling of constant braking disappears. You can ride almost anywhere without fear of a strong shock from any random rock. Large wheels, on the other hand, are suitable for those who want to achieve the highest results when riding.

Thanks to them, it will be possible to practice freeriding, downhill or descend from a mountain at high speed. The sensitivity to obstacles is relatively low. The longboarder will overcome even small cracks in the asphalt without problems. But it's not just the diameter that needs to be considered - the width of the tire is also important. Increasing it allows you to drive on uneven surfaces calmly, but the downside will be a drop in maneuverability; they try to equip slides with narrower wheels.

The key requirement when choosing this indicator is the future use of the longboard. A less rigid wheel holds the trajectory more confidently. Therefore, it is precisely this that can be used in high-speed races. But for slides that should slide, they use more rigid wheels. Important: the most accurate information about this indicator can be found on the labeling of the product itself.

The soft group includes models marked from 73A to 79A. They are preferred for cruisers, that is, for longboards designed to ride on ordinary city streets. Note: For inexperienced riders, there is no point in choosing wheels softer than the 77A and harder than the 83A. Then it will turn out to work out at least at the minimum level the basic techniques and choose the right riding style. The toughest models are now 80–84A.

You need to understand that the stiffness of the wheels should also be selected taking into account the rider's body weight. For children and adolescents, it is advisable to use softer models. But when the load is 80–90 kg, the stiffness should be higher. Otherwise, it will be inconvenient to ride, and the longboard itself will have to be repaired frequently.

Another nuance is the choice of the wheel shape. When it is rectangular, the area of ​​contact with the soil is very large. Grip even on a bad road is improved. This option is suitable for those who like to accelerate and experience the thrill of difficult maneuvers. Slides are usually equipped with round propellers. As for the dimensions, when choosing them, the desired sport is also taken into account:

• dancing, freeriding, leisurely walks - 0.07-0.076 m;
• downhill (descent at high speed) 0.07–0.1 m;
• slalom 0.065 - 0.077 m;
• carving 0.062 - 0.08 m;
• slide - minimum 0.06 m.

In giant slalom and cruising, wheels with a sharp angle are optimal. Freeride and slide are much more enjoyable when using a chamfered prop.

It is extremely important: in any case, there is no point in trusting little-known manufacturers. Experienced athletes prefer products Restless, Landyachtz, Divine; and no one, following their example, complained much. Luminous wheels are valuable for those who want to ride a longboard on normal streets, especially at night.

The rebound is selected individually, taking into account the field of application of the longboard and your own riding style. Therefore, sometimes you have to change the projectile when the experience has already been gained. On long freeride spots on asphalt, propellers are used without rebound.

It is also useful to know how to tighten the slide wheels. Before the start of each season, their tightness is checked very carefully so as not to become a victim of an accident.

When the wheel does not spin well, it means that the bearing has corroded - it is time to replace it. You need to unscrew and tighten the nuts with a special wrench that comes with the delivery.

The tightening of wheels on a longboard for a beginner should be as strong as possible; comfort and safety when driving depend on this. And of course, you should read the instructions carefully.

Tips for choosing wheels for your longboard can be found in the video below.