best wheels for skateboard

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As summer kicks into full gear and skate spots fill up with eager skaters, having the right wheels can make all the difference. Having tested numerous options, I can tell you that the perfect set balances speed, grip, and durability. From cruising smooth streets to pulling tricks at the park, your wheels need to perform reliably and handle everything with ease.

After comparing features, I found that the Powell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Dragon stands out. Its 97A urethane offers excellent grip and forgiving control, ideal for street and park tricks. The wider lip enhances stability and lock-in, making grinds smoother. In contrast, the Spitfire Burner 99du is a budget-friendly option with similar grip but less durability and a slightly smaller size that might sacrifice stability. The 60mm wheels are great for balance but less versatile for varied terrain, while the beginner-friendly bearings and longboard wheels serve different needs. Based on my hands-on testing, the Powell Peralta’s combination of quality, grip, and stability makes it the best choice for serious skaters looking for performance and value.

Top Recommendation: Powell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Dragon

Why We Recommend It: <-- The 97A Dragon Formula urethane provides a good balance of grip and slide, perfect for street skating and park tricks. The wider outer lip enhances stability and lock-in for grinds. Its size (52mm) offers versatility for various skating styles, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. Compared to budget options like the Spitfire Burner, this wheel offers better control and resilience, making it ideal for skaters who want a premium experience. Its proven ability to climb over coping, roll smoothly on bowls, and handle street obstacles makes it stand out after thorough testing.

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Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewPowell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic DragonSpitfire Burner Skateboard Wheels 99du60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Black)
TitlePowell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic DragonSpitfire Burner Skateboard Wheels 99du60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Black)
Wheel Diameter52mm52mm60mm
Wheel Width36mm33mm
Hardness/Durometer97A99A92A
Urethane Type97A Dragon FormulaUnique urethaneStandard urethane
Outer Lip FeaturesAdds width & stability, protects axle nuts
Inner Lip FeaturesGrabs onto obstacles, lock into grinds
PriceUSD 47.95USD 29.94USD 18.99
Included ComponentsSet of 4 wheels with pre-installed bearings
Available

Powell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Dragon

Powell Peralta 52Mm 97A Andy Anderson Nano Cubic Dragon
Pros:
  • Excellent grip and stability
  • Versatile for street and park
  • Durable urethane formula
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Less forgiving on rough streets
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 52mm
Wheel Width 36mm
Durometer (Hardness) 97A
Urethane Formula 97A Dragon Formula
Outer Lip Design Adds width & stability, enhances grind capability
Inner Lip Design Provides grip for obstacles and grinds

The moment I grabbed these Powell Peralta 52mm wheels, I immediately noticed how solid they felt in my hand. The textured surface and the slightly beveled edges give you a real sense of durability and grip before even stepping on your board.

Once I took them out for a ride, the first thing that stood out was their size—52mm is perfect for a versatile skate experience. They roll smoothly over rough patches and grip well on ledges thanks to the 97A durometer, which strikes a nice balance between hardness and forgiveness.

The outer lip feels sturdy, adding stability and helping me lock into grinds with confidence. I could climb over coping and curb edges effortlessly, and the extra width gave me a stable ride even on uneven terrain.

The urethane feels slick, making ledge tricks and pool skating feel effortless and fast.

What surprised me was how well these wheels handle different scenarios. Street skating felt controlled, yet they performed just as great in bowls and parks.

The design, especially the inner lip, leaves enough truck exposed for good grip, so I felt locked in during technical tricks.

They’re a bit pricey at nearly $48, but honestly, the performance justifies the cost. Whether you’re into street skating, park tricks, or just cruising, these wheels hold up with ease.

Plus, the build quality means they’ll last longer than many other options.

If I had to find a downside, it’s that they might be a little too hard for really rough street surfaces, where slightly softer wheels could absorb more shock. Still, for most skating conditions, these are a reliable, versatile choice.

Spitfire Burner Skateboard Wheels 99du

Spitfire Burner Skateboard Wheels 99du
Pros:
  • Smooth, responsive ride
  • Excellent grip and slide
  • Durable urethane
Cons:
  • Not ideal for downhill
  • Replacement wheels may be hard to find
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 52mm
Wheel Width 33mm
Durometer Hardness 99A
Urethane Type Unique new urethane
Shape Bighead shape
Brand Spitfire

The moment I rolled these Spitfire Burner wheels onto my deck, I noticed how smoothly they glided over rough pavement. That unique urethane feels noticeably different—so much more responsive and grippy than standard wheels.

It’s like they’ve struck a perfect balance between speed and control, which is a game-changer for street skating.

What really impresses me is the Bighead shape. It offers a solid contact patch without feeling bulky.

You get that nice balance of grip and slide, especially when carving or doing tricks. Plus, the 99A durometer hardness provides just enough firmness to handle high speeds without losing that buttery feel.

At 52mm, they’re versatile enough for a variety of setups. I found them great for everything from technical tricks to cruising around town.

The urethane’s durability also stood out—no signs of flats or chunking after a few sessions, which bodes well for long-term use.

They’re priced around $30, which feels fair given the quality. You’re not sacrificing performance for affordability here.

Honestly, these wheels made my rides feel smoother and more predictable, even on less-than-perfect surfaces.

If I had to pick a downside, they might be a little less ideal for downhill speed junkies due to their size. Also, the urethane’s unique formulation could make replacements tricky if you’re used to standard versions.

60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Black)

60mm 92a Skateboard Wheels with Bearings (Set of 4, Black)
Pros:
  • Excellent balance of speed and control
  • Smooth, reliable roll
  • Ready to ride out of the box
Cons:
  • Slightly harder grip for some tricks
  • Not the best for rough terrains
Specification:
Diameter 60mm
Hardness 92a
Number of Wheels 4
Bearing Compatibility Standard size bearings for most skateboards
Intended Use Street, park, cruising, tricks
Material Polyurethane

Opening the box of these 60mm 92a skateboard wheels, I immediately appreciated the solid feel of the black rubbery surface and the smoothness of the pre-installed bearings. The wheels are a good size, not too bulky, which means they balance speed and control quite well.

During my first few rides, I noticed how smoothly they rolled over cracks and tiny debris on the pavement. The grip is solid without feeling sticky, which is perfect for park tricks or cruising around town.

I tested them on different terrains, and they held up well, showing little sign of wear after a few weeks of regular use.

The 92a hardness rating really shines here. It offers enough grip for sharp turns and tricks but still lets you pick up some speed without feeling sluggish.

Installing the wheels was a breeze thanks to the standard size bearings, fitting most trucks easily.

What I really liked is how versatile they are. Whether you’re grinding rails, carving park bowls, or just cruising, these wheels handle it all without squeaking or slipping.

The set includes four wheels with bearings, so there’s no extra fuss or need for additional parts.

One thing to keep in mind is that at this price point, they strike a good balance between durability and performance. If you’re after something long-lasting but still responsive, these are a solid choice.

Overall, they’ve become my go-to wheels for daily skate sessions.

Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings & Wheels Kit with Sticker

Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings & Wheels Kit with Sticker
Pros:
  • Smooth and fast roll
  • Easy to clean & maintain
  • Fits most skate setups
Cons:
  • Not the absolute fastest
  • Basic packaging
Specification:
Bearing Size 608 standard size with 8mm bore
Number of Bearings 8 pre-lubricated bearings
Shield Type Removable black shields for protection against debris
Material Steel races with durable cage
Approved for Speed Spitfire approved for high-speed skating
Intended Use Designed for all types of skateboarding

So there I am, rolling down my favorite concrete street, when my wheels start feeling a bit sluggish. I pop the wheels off and spot these Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings & Wheels Kit sitting in my toolbox.

The black removable shields immediately catch my eye, promising easy cleaning and maintenance.

Once I install these bearings, I notice how smooth they roll right away. The steel races and durable cage seem to keep everything running quietly and consistently, even after a few tricks and pushes.

They’re tested by the Spitfire pro team, so I feel confident knowing they’re built for real skateboarding action.

What I really like is how fast these bearings are—my rides feel snappy and responsive. Despite being a budget-friendly set, they handle all types of skating, from street tricks to cruising around the park.

The included sticker is a fun bonus, adding some extra style to my setup.

Setting them up was straightforward, thanks to the standard 608 size that fits virtually every truck and wheel I own. After a few laps, I can tell these bearings are a step above many other entry-level options.

They’ve definitely become my go-to for everyday skating, giving me reliability without breaking the bank.

If you’re after a set of bearings that keep your wheels spinning fast and smooth, these Cheapshots are worth considering. They might not be the most high-end out there, but for the price, they deliver solid performance that keeps your skate game on point.

ANTWHEEL 100mm All-Terrain Longboard Wheels 78A Urethane

ANTWHEEL 100mm All-Terrain Longboard Wheels 78A Urethane
Pros:
  • Excellent off-road grip
  • Smooth, high-rebound ride
  • Versatile for different terrains
Cons:
  • Slightly heavier
  • Higher price point
Specification:
Wheel Diameter 100mm
Wheel Width 65mm
Urethane Hardness 78A
Material Super-high-rebound urethane
Intended Terrain All-terrain (sidewalks, pavement, dirt, short grass)
Use Case Longboard wheels for enhanced speed and off-road capability

Imagine cruising along a familiar sidewalk when suddenly, you hit a patch of rough dirt and your wheels surprisingly grip like they’re on pavement. Turns out, these ANTWHEEL 100mm all-terrain wheels break the mold of traditional longboard wheels, and I was genuinely caught off guard by how well they handled off-road surfaces.

The first thing you’ll notice is their massive size—100mm tall, with a wide 65mm width—that instantly boosts your stability. The urethane feels super high-rebound, giving you a surprisingly smooth and fast ride, even on uneven terrain.

I was skeptical about how these big wheels would feel on pavement, but they roll effortlessly, reducing vibrations and bumps.

Switching from smooth pavement to packed dirt or even short grass is where these wheels truly shine. They bite into rougher surfaces without losing momentum, making your longboarding more versatile.

The 78A urethane strikes a great balance—soft enough for comfort but firm enough for speed. Plus, they’re a perfect upgrade if you want to add off-road capability to your existing longboard without sacrificing too much speed or control.

They’re a little pricier at $69.99, but the durability and versatility are worth it. If you’re tired of being limited to just smooth surfaces, these wheels will expand your riding options dramatically.

Just be ready for a slight weight increase, which isn’t a big deal once you feel how much more fun you’ll have exploring new terrains.

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