What Are Skateboard Wheels Made Of?

Skateboard wheels are one of the most important parts of a skateboard. They are designed to be durable and withstand the pressure of your board landing and jumping on ramps.

These are made of a variety of materials, but the most common type is polyurethane. Polyurethane is a synthetic material that is durable and has a high resistance to wear. It is also flexible, which makes it ideal for skateboarding.

Other materials used to make skateboard wheels include PVC, rubber, and even metal. The choice of material depends on the type of skating you are doing and your personal preference.

In this article, we will discuss what materials are used to make skateboard wheels and what makes each one of them special. Also, we will talk about the different types of skateboard wheels, how to choose the right wheel for your board, and how to maintain your wheels. So, let’s get started.

What Are Skateboard Wheels Made Of?

Skateboard wheels are made of a variety of materials, here, we will explain each in detail.

• Polyurethane: Polyurethane, or “PU,” is the most common material used in skateboard wheels. It is also the softest, creating a smoother ride. Many beginners choose PU wheels because they are easier to control.
• PVC: PVC, or “polyvinyl chloride,” is a harder plastic that is sometimes used in skateboard wheels. PVC wheels are not as common as PU wheels.
• Metal: Metal skateboard wheels are very rare. You might see them on vintage boards or high-end custom boards, but they are not common. Metal wheels are very hard, which makes them difficult to control. They are also very slippery, so they are not ideal for street skating.

Impact of Wheel Material on Skateboarding

The material of your skateboard wheels will have a big impact on how your board rides. So, it is important to choose the right material for the type of skating you want to do.

For example, if you want to do street skating, you will want a softer wheel that can roll over cracks and give you a smooth ride. However, if you want to do vert skating, you will want a harder wheel that can grip the ramp and give you a fast ride.

How To Choose The Right Wheel For Your Board?

Now that you know what materials are used to make skateboard wheels, you need to know how to choose the right wheel for your board. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your skateboard wheels:

• Purpose: The first step in choosing the right skateboard wheel is to know what type of skating you will be doing. Are you going to be skating on the street, in the park, or just cruising around?
• Size: Skateboard wheels range in size from 50mm to 60mm. The larger the wheel, the faster you will go. The smaller the wheel, the easier it will be to control your board. So, you should choose accordingly.
• Hardness: Next, you should look for the right hardness for your skateboard wheels. The hardness of a skateboard wheel is measured by a durometer. The higher the durometer, the harder the wheel. Harder wheels are better for street skating because they are more resistant to flat spots. Softer wheels are better for park skating because they are better forgiving when you land tricks.
• Material: The fourth step is to pick the proper material for your skateboard wheels. The most common materials are polyurethane and PVC. Polyurethane is the softer of the two materials, making it easier to control. PVC is the harder of the two materials, making it more resistant to flat spots.
• Brand: The fifth and final step is to prefer the trusted brand for your skateboard wheels. There are many different brands of skateboard wheels on the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

How To Maintain Your Skateboard Wheels?

Skateboard wheels need to be cleaned regularly to remove dirt and grime. The best way to clean your wheels is to use a mild soap and water solution. You can also use a wheel cleaning solution, but be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle.

To clean your wheels, remove them from your skateboard and scrub them with a soft brush. Rinse the wheels with clean water and dry them with a towel.

It is also important to rotate your wheels regularly. Rotating your wheels will help them last longer. To rotate your wheels, remove them from your skateboard and turn them over so that the other side is facing up. Put the wheels back on your skateboard and ride as usual.

When Should You Replace Your Skateboard Wheels?

Skateboard wheels should be replaced when they start to show signs of wear. The most common sign of a worn wheel is a flat spot. Flat spots occur when the wheels are not rotated regularly and the tread wears down in one spot.

Another sign that your wheels need to be replaced is if they start to crack or chip. Cracks and chips can occur from normal wear and tear, or from hitting obstacles while skating.

Final Thoughts

The right skateboard wheels can make a big difference in how your board rides. Be sure to choose the right size, hardness, and material for the type of skating you will be doing. And don’t forget to maintain your wheels by cleaning and rotating them regularly.

We hope this guide has helped you understand the material and components that wheels are composed of. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to solve your doubts.