Wheel Tutorial

We list wheels by two principal numbers - e.g. 100mm x 88a. The first number is always the overall diameter in millimeters. The second is the durometer or hardness of the wheel, with 100 being something meant to approach diamond hardness. The harder the wheel the more durable and longer lasting the wheel is likely to be. It will also be more slippery and absorb little or no shock, resulting in a rough ride. Softer wheels normally offer better grip and softer ride but wear more rapidly.

If you see a third number in millimeters between the other two - e.g. 76mm x 45mm x 78a - it is the width of the wheel and normally applies to longboard or skateboard wheels which vary in width. All inline and scooter wheels, by contrast, are a flat 25mm wide.

Next we normally mention rebound and performance. Rebound means how high the wheel will bounce when dropped. In practice, this means how much the wheel "pushes back" when compressed. This rebound or push back - which has nothing to do with durometer - is the principal factor in performance.
If it applies, we will mention that the wheel was poured in the U.S. because United States leadership in high quality polyurethane has yet to be equaled by most foreign manufacturers.

Finally, unless otherwise noted, all wheels are made for 608 (8mm) bearings.

To see all wheels of any particular size or durometer, type your preferred number into our search box in the top right hand section of any page.