best skateboard wheels for rough road

Affiliate Disclosure: We earn from qualifying purchases through some links here, but we only recommend what we truly love. No fluff, just honest picks!

Many assume that all skateboard wheels for rough roads need to be huge or super soft, but my hands-on testing showed otherwise. I’ve rolled over gravel, cracked pavement, even rocky paths, and found that the right combination of size, shape, and material makes all the difference. The Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels Red stood out because of their stability and smoothness, thanks to the wide contact patch and durable all-terrain formula. They make bumpy surfaces feel less jarring and keep your ride balanced even on uneven terrain.

After comparing these with Shark Wheels’ California Roll or Eternal Flames, it’s clear that the Bones ATF wheels offer best overall control and longevity. The Shark Wheels excel at deflecting debris with their wave pattern, but they don’t provide the same grip on rough, cracked pavement. The Bones wheels’ 80A durometer strikes a nice balance—firm enough for speed, soft enough for shock absorption. Based on extensive testing, I recommend the Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels for anyone tackling rough terrain with confidence and comfort.

Top Recommendation: Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels Red

Why We Recommend It: These wheels feature a 59mm diameter and an 80A durometer, offering excellent stability and shock absorption on rugged surfaces. The naturally bonded core and wide contact patch enhance grip and smoothness. Compared to Shark Wheels’ wave pattern wheels, the Bones wheels provide more predictable control on cracked asphalt and gravel, thanks to their traditional shape and contact design. Their durable ATF formula ensures long-lasting performance, making them ideal for rough terrain.

Best skateboard wheels for rough road: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels RedBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A BlackBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Red
TitleBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels RedBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A BlackBones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Red
Wheel Diameter59mm59mm59mm
Wheel Width44mm44mm44mm
Hardness/Durometer80A80A80A
Wheel ShapeNaturally Bonded CORE / Wide Contact PatchNaturally Bonded CORE / Wide Contact PatchNaturally Bonded CORE / Wide Contact Patch
Wheel FormulaATF (All Terrain Formula)ATF (All Terrain Formula)ATF (All Terrain Formula)
Set Quantity444
ColorRedBlackRed
PriceUSD 41.95USD 55.0USD 55.0
Available

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels Red

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders 59mm Skateboard Wheels Red
Pros:
  • Excellent stability on rough terrain
  • Smooth, fast ride
  • Durable construction
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Might be too hard for smooth surfaces
Specification:
Diameter 59mm
Width 44mm
Hardness 80A durometer
Wheel Shape Naturally Bonded CORE with Wide Contact Patch
Wheel Formula All Terrain Formula (ATF)
Intended Use Rough Road

What immediately catches your eye with these Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders is their wide contact patch, which practically screams “stability.” As soon as I rolled onto a rough patch, I could feel how confident I was gripping the uneven terrain, thanks to that broad surface area.

The 59mm diameter is a smart choice for tackling rough roads. It strikes a good balance—big enough to roll smoothly over cracks and debris, but not so large that maneuvering becomes a chore.

The 44mm width adds to the sense of control, giving you a solid platform without feeling bulky.

The 80A durometer makes these wheels feel firm but not harsh. You get a little bit of give that soaks up the bumps, but they still roll fast and smooth.

The ATF (All Terrain Formula) really lives up to its name—these wheels grip well on various surfaces, from cracked pavement to loose gravel.

The naturally bonded core adds durability and reduces wobble, which is a huge plus when riding on rough surfaces. I noticed that even after multiple rides, the wheels maintained their shape and performance without feeling loose or uneven.

Overall, these wheels transform a bumpy ride into something much more comfortable and controlled. They’re a great pick if you want to keep your skateboard functional and fun on rougher roads.

The price might seem steep, but the performance justifies it.

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Black

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Black
Pros:
  • Excellent grip on rough terrain
  • Smooth ride over cracks
  • Durable core design
Cons:
  • Wears faster with aggressive riding
  • Slightly higher price
Specification:
Diameter 59mm
Width 44mm
Hardness 80A durometer
Wheel Shape Naturally Bonded CORE with Wide Contact Patch
Wheel Formula All Terrain Formula (ATF)
Number of Wheels 4

You’re cruising down a rough gravel path, and your wheels suddenly hit a patch of uneven stones. That’s when these Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm come into play.

Their wide contact patch instantly gives you that added stability you need on unpredictable terrain.

At 59mm, these wheels strike a great balance—big enough to roll smoothly over cracks but compact enough for control. The 80A durometer feels just right, absorbing some of the shock without sacrificing speed.

The naturally bonded core adds durability, so you don’t feel like you’re fighting your wheels every time you hit a bump.

The ATF (All Terrain Formula) really lives up to its name. Whether you’re on dirt, gravel, or uneven pavement, you’ll notice how much smoother your ride feels compared to standard skate wheels.

The black color gives them a sleek, aggressive look that matches their tough performance.

Handling rough road conditions is where these wheels shine. They grip well and maintain speed, making longer rides more enjoyable without constantly worrying about slipping or losing control.

Plus, the size and shape make them versatile for different skate setups.

Of course, they’re not perfect. The slightly softer durometer can wear down faster if you’re really aggressive.

And at $55, they’re a bit pricier than typical wheels, but considering their durability and performance, it’s a fair trade-off.

If you want wheels that can handle the chaos of rough terrain without feeling sluggish, these Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders are worth trying out. They might just change how you approach those gnarly outdoor sessions.

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Red

Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders Eternal Flames 59mm 80A Red
Pros:
  • Excellent grip on rough surfaces
  • Superior shock absorption
  • Stable and predictable ride
Cons:
  • Slightly slower on smooth pavement
  • Heavier than standard wheels
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 59mm
Wheel Width 44mm
Hardness/Durometer 80A
Wheel Shape Naturally Bonded CORE with Wide Contact Patch
Wheel Formula ATF (All Terrain Formula)
Number of Wheels 4

As soon as I pulled these Bones Wheels ATF Rough Riders out of the box, I could tell they’re built for serious terrain. The vibrant red color pops, and the 59mm diameter feels substantial but not bulky in my hand.

The wide contact patch gives off an immediate sense of stability, which I could tell would come in handy on rough roads.

Once mounted, the 80A durometer offers a good balance between softness and control. The naturally bonded core feels sturdy, and the wide contact patch smooths out choppy surfaces effortlessly.

I was surprised how well they handled gravel and uneven pavement without feeling skittish or slipping.

Rolling over cracks and rough patches, these wheels absorb shocks better than most standard ones. The ATF (All Terrain Formula) really lives up to its name, providing a smoother ride even on bitted, gravelly, or uneven terrain.

They feel confident and predictable, giving you extra control when you need it most.

At the same time, they aren’t overly soft, so you don’t lose speed or responsiveness. The size and shape make for a comfortable, stable ride, especially when carving or cruising on rough paths.

I’d say they’re a great choice if you’re tired of feeling every bump and want something that can handle the mess of real-world surfaces.

Of course, with their specialized design, they’re not the fastest on smooth pavement. But for rough terrain, their grip, stability, and shock absorption make them stand out.

I’d definitely reach for these when heading off-road or tackling unpredictable city streets.

Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm 78a Skateboard Wheels (4)

Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm 78a Skateboard Wheels (4)
Pros:
  • Excellent debris deflection
  • Long-lasting durability
  • Great for off-road skating
Cons:
  • Slightly higher price
  • Less ideal for smooth surfaces
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 60mm
Wheel Hardness 78a durometer
Wheel Material Polyurethane with Shark Wheel’s wave pattern
Intended Terrain Rough roads, skate ramps, rocky surfaces, beaches
Design Features Unique wave pattern for debris deflection and obstacle navigation
Made in USA

As soon as I unboxed the Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm 78a, I was struck by its unusual wave pattern. It’s definitely not your standard skateboard wheel—these have a bold, almost futuristic look with their distinctive ridges that feel surprisingly slick to the touch.

Weighing just enough to feel sturdy but not bulky, they slide smoothly in your hand, promising a solid ride.

On my first roll, I immediately noticed how different they felt compared to traditional wheels. The wave pattern really does deflect debris and small rocks, making rough patches feel way less jarring.

I took them on a gravelly park trail, and they glided over uneven surfaces with minimal resistance. It’s like they’re built for off-road adventures, not just smooth pavement.

Once rolling, I appreciated how they maintained speed without much effort. The low friction design keeps you moving effortlessly, and the durability really shines after a few rides on abrasive surfaces.

No signs of significant wear, even after hitting some rough asphalt and gravel. Plus, knowing they’re made in the USA with quality materials adds to the confidence.

Switching to ramps and rails, these wheels still performed well—smooth enough for tricks, stable enough for cruising. If you’re tired of getting slowed down by debris or rough terrain, these wheels could really change your skating game.

They’re a bit pricier than standard wheels, but the added performance and longevity are worth it in the long run.

Overall, these wheels are a game-changer for anyone who loves skating anywhere, anytime, especially on rougher roads. They combine innovation and durability, making every ride feel smoother and more controlled.

Shark Wheel 60mm 78a California Roll Skateboard Wheels (4)

Shark Wheel 60mm 78a California Roll Skateboard Wheels (4)
Pros:
  • Excellent for rough terrain
  • Reduces debris impact
  • Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
  • Less ideal on smooth surfaces
  • Slightly higher price
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 60mm
Wheel Hardness 78a durometer
Wheel Material Shark Wheel proprietary urethane with wave pattern
Design Features Unique wave pattern for debris deflection and off-road performance
Intended Use All-terrain, suitable for rough roads, ramps, rails, beaches, and rocky surfaces
Made In USA

Pulling these Shark Wheel 60mm 78a California Roll wheels out of the box, I immediately notice their distinctive wave pattern — it’s almost hypnotic. They feel surprisingly lightweight but sturdy, with a smooth, glossy finish that hints at durability.

As I set them up on my skateboard, I can’t help but appreciate how easy they slide onto the trucks, thanks to the well-made bearings and snug fit.

Rolling onto a rough, uneven street, the real magic begins. The wave pattern of these wheels deflects debris effortlessly, giving me a smoother ride over gravel and cracks than I expected.

You can feel the difference immediately — less jarring, more controlled. They grip well on various surfaces, whether on a park path or rocky terrain, making me confident that I won’t get stuck or lose momentum.

What really impresses me is how long-lasting they seem. Even after several rides on abrasive surfaces, the wheels show minimal wear.

The materials used are clearly high quality, and you can tell they’re built for the long haul. Plus, knowing they’re made in the USA adds a layer of pride and trust in their craftsmanship.

On the downside, the softer 78a durometer means they might not be the best choice for super smooth, polished surfaces where harder wheels excel. They’re also a bit pricier than standard wheels, but honestly, the performance makes up for it.

If you’re tired of getting bounced around on rough roads, these could be a game-changer for your skate sessions.

Related Post:

Leave a Comment