WHAT IS THE BEST SKATEBOARD WHEEL FOR ME?

Posted on 13 April 2025
By George Stix
Posted in skateboard, wheels
0

When it comes to choosing the best skateboard wheel for your setup, it really comes down to one key question: what kind of skating do you actually want to do? At Stix SGV, we've seen every type of skater roll through our doors—from crusty pool rippers to curb technicians and everything in between—so we get it. The right wheel can elevate your session, reduce fatigue, and just make your board feel right. Let's break down what matters most when picking wheels and which ones we back at the shop.

First up, durometer. That's a fancy word for how hard the wheel is. Street skaters and technical heads usually lean toward something in the 99a-101a range. These wheels slide when you need them to, lock into grinds cleanly, and don't weigh you down. We always recommend Spitfire Formula Fours for street skating—especially the Classic Shape (99a or 101a) for an all-around solid feel or the Radial Full if you're looking for a wider, more stable ride for impact-heavy skating. If you're more into smooth power slides and a forgiving ride, go with the OG Slime Balls or OJ From Concentrates in a 87a-95a for a bit more grip and flex.

Next, let’s talk size. Wheel diameter affects your speed, acceleration, and how high you sit off the ground. At 52mm-54mm, you're looking at ideal sizes for street skating, keeping you low and responsive. STIX SGV carries a range of these in Bones STF, Mini Logo A-Cuts, and the aforementioned Spitfires. If you're bombing hills or hitting vert, bump it up to 56mm-60mm. We carry Spitfire Bighead 58mm and OJ Elite Hardlines for exactly that kind of terrain. Park rats and bowl skaters often go for these bigger sizes for speed and smoother rides across transition.

Wheel shape matters more than most people realize. Conical shapes like Spitfire Conical Fulls or OJ Nomads offer more surface contact for control, while narrower shapes like Bones V5 Sidecuts are great for flicks and slides. If you're learning tricks and want a forgiving shape, we recommend trying Mini Logo C-Cuts, which balance stability with a clean release.

If you’re just starting out, we suggest going with something in the 52mm-54mm size range, with a softer durometer around 90a-95a. Wheels like the OJ From Concentrates 95a, Ricta Clouds 92a, or Mini Logo Soft 90a are perfect for beginners. These offer a bit more grip and smoothness over rougher surfaces, helping new skaters gain confidence without being punished by every crack or pebble.

We can't leave out graphics and color. While they don’t affect performance, a sick graphic never hurts. STIX SGV keeps the racks fresh with limited-run colorways, including collabs with pro riders and art-based drops. Whether you're into classic Spitfire flames, sci-fi Slime Balls, or minimalist Bones setups, we've got something that matches your vibe.

At the end of the day, the best skateboard wheel for you is the one that meets your terrain, supports your style, and keeps you stoked to skate. Stop by any of our locations in Monrovia, Claremont, or South Pasadena, and we’ll help you pick the perfect set for your setup. No gimmicks, just skateboarding.

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