Skateboard wheels

Skateboard wheels - reliable models available at SportanoThe skateboard wheels are one of the key elements influencing the characteristics of the ride. Their variety allows you to adapt the equipment to your individual needs and riding style. For beginners and advanced skateboarders alike, a well-chosen pair of wheels can make a significant difference to comfort, speed and riding technique.Structure and mechanics of wheels: what influences their performance?When you look at a skateboard wheel, you might think it's a simple structure, but in fact there's a whole science behind how it works. The shape, profile and internal structure of each caster has a direct impact on how it will perform during the ride. In the centre of the caster is a hole where the bearings are embedded. These small components are responsible for the smooth rotation of the caster and their quality can significantly affect the speed and comfort of the wheel. The side surfaces of the caster, known as the walls, can be straight or angled, which affects the contact surface and the angle of inclination, which in turn affects grip and manoeuvrability. In addition, the caster's profile, or cross-section, can be narrow or wide. Narrow profiles usually offer more speed, while wide profiles offer better stability and grip. The thickness of the wheel also makes a difference: thicker wheels grip the road better but may be slower, while thinner wheels are faster but may offer less grip.Materials and hardness: how does the choice of material affect the the ride?When we take a closer look at skateboard wheels, we can see that the material from which they are made and their hardness are crucial to the quality of the ride. These two characteristics determine how the wheel reacts to different surfaces, how long it will last and the experience it conveys to the rider during the ride. Polyurethane is the most commonly used material in the manufacture of skateboard wheels. Its popularity is due to its durability, abrasion resistance and ability to absorb vibrations. Polyurethane wheels offer a smooth ride and are suitable for most riding conditions and styles. However, not all polyurethane wheels are the same. Different formulations and manufacturing technologies can affect their properties such as grip, speed or abrasion resistance. The hardness of the caster, measured on the Shore (A) scale, is equally important. Hardness affects how the wheel reacts to bumps and how well it grips the surface. Softer wheels (in the 78A-85A range) offer better grip, which is ideal for pavements or uneven surfaces. They also provide a more comfortable ride by absorbing shocks. On the other hand, harder wheels (above 90A) can offer more speed but can be more slippery, which works well in skatepark environments. The balance between hardness and material is key for any skateboarder. For those looking for speed and smoothness on smooth surfaces, harder wheels made from durable polyurethane are ideal. On the other hand, riders who prefer to ride on pavements and uneven surfaces can opt for softer wheels that absorb shocks better. When choosing wheels for your skateboard, it's worth considering what environment you'll be riding in most often and what your priorities are - whether it's speed, grip or comfort. A well-chosen hardness and quality of material can make a significant difference to your skateboarding experience.Size and diameter: the importance of wheel sizeWhen it comes to skateboarding, size really does matter, especially when it comes to wheels. The diameter of a wheel, measured in millimetres, refers to the size of the wheel from one side to the other. Larger wheels offer a faster ride as they cover more ground per revolution. They tend to be chosen by those who ride longboard skateboards or by those who want to move quickly around town. On the other hand, smaller wheels are definitely more manoeuvrable and offer a better riding feel, making them an ideal choice for street and park skateboarders. Another important factor is the width of the caster, which affects the contact area with the ground. Wider wheels have a larger contact area for better grip, while narrower wheels reduce drag, which can speed up the ride. Choosing the right wheel diameter and width is key depending on the rider's riding style and preferences. Whether you are looking for speed, manoeuvrability, stability or a combination of these qualities, the size and diameter of the wheel will have a significant impact on your skateboarding experience.