Inline Skate Wheels

What to Consider When Selecting Inline Skate Wheels?

Inline skate wheels are available in various sizes, shapes, and levels of hardness. When selecting the most suitable wheels for inline skates, you must reflect on the type of environment you plan to skate in, alongside your favoured skating style.

Understanding Inline Skate Wheels

Size

The diameter of inline wheels varies from 60 mm (quite small) to 125 mm (large). Smaller wheels are ideal for shorter journeys and for skaters requiring increased agility, such as those who practise slalom or roller hockey. Enthusiasts of speed, long-distance, and marathon skating should opt for larger wheels. This category of wheel offers exceptional travel distance and speed.

Profile

The wheel profile of inline skates is determined by their shape and influences how the skates make contact with the ground. A wide, flat wheel provides superior grip and traction but is less effective at sliding on most surfaces. Round wheels offer reliable stability and turning capability, making them popular among urban skaters and those who enjoy freestyle. For speed skaters and long-distance rollers, narrower, sharper-edged wheels are preferred due to their minimal rolling resistance and effective power transfer.

Durometer

The hardness of the wheels is quantified by the durometer. Wheel hardness is evaluated on an A-type scale ranging from 0A to 100A. The typical durometers for inline skate wheels range between 68A (soft) and 90A (hard). Softer wheels are preferable for situations where grip is essential and speed is not the top concern, such as on the slick surface of an indoor rink. They also help to create a smoother ride, making them suitable for rough asphalt. With reduced friction, harder wheels are excellent for urban skaters navigating smooth concrete at the skate park, as well as those striving to reach peak speeds.

Interested in learning how to swap out your skate wheels? Look into our guide on How to Change Inline Skate Wheels.