Choosing the Hardness (durometer) of Your Wheels
The durometer of a skateboard wheel is the measure of hardness. Most manufacturers use the Durometer A Scale, which is a 100-point scale that quantifies how hard a wheel is. The higher the number, the harder the wheel. Generally speaking, harder wheels are faster, but only on very smooth terrain like polished concrete skate parks. Softer wheels may be a little slower but provide more grip and a smoother ride.
78a – 86a
A soft wheel that is great for cruising the streets. A commuter wheel that is quiet and smooth over rough terrain where you need lots of grips to easily roll over cracks and rocks. Designed for a smooth rider, cruising, commuting, bombing hills, and rough surfaces.
87a – 91a
A slightly harder wheel that will be a little faster but with a little less grip. Still very smooth and great if you are using a regular skateboard to get around town and for throwing down the fun slides in back alleys.
92a – 95a
An all-around wheel with great speed and grip. Perfect for beginner street skaters, ramp and park, pools, and bowls. Also great for the advanced skater who wants a board that is easier to push and won’t rattle their bones on the way to the skate park.
96a – 98a
These wheels are on the softer side of hard and are perfect for the skater that wants good speed but with a nice grip and control.
99 – 101a
Hard wheels with the least grip but a great slide. Loud and a bit slippery on rough terrain but with the perfect slide and speed on smooth skate park surfaces.