Skate wheels are integral to the speed, agility, and stability of devices such as skateboards, quad skates and inline skates. Whether for transportation or recreation, the skate wheel gives us the ability to move at speeds and angles outside of our natural range.
Basics
A skate wheel is a circular band of resistant material around a hub and bearing, which is inserted into a fastener, enabling mobility. According to the National Museum of Roller Skating, the first skate wheel was crafted out of metal in the 1760s by the inventor John Merlin, who wore the first recorded pair of roller skates to a masquerade party in London, England.
Today, skate wheels are made out of rubber or polyurethane. They range in diameter from 40mm to 110mm, with the larger wheels affording more speed. The width of the wheel is contingent on the equipment and its intended purpose.
Types
The wheel type depends on the vehicle being used. Quad skates, which are boots with trucks attached to the bottom, have wheels that are wider than other types and have an average diameter of 65mm. They vary in hardness and are used for outdoor skating, artistic skating, speed skating, roller derby, and vertical skating.
Inline skates are boots with a frame in which the wheels are bolted. These wheels have an average diameter of 100mm and a narrow width compared to other wheel types. They are softer and are primarily used for outdoor skating.
Skateboards are boards with trucks attached to the bottom. These wheels have an average diameter of 50mm and are in between the width of a quad and inline skate. They are relatively hard and are used for outdoor and indoor aggressive skating.
Wheel Hardness
The hardness of the wheel itself is measured using the Shore Durometer test, which rates the durability of plastics. The Shore A scale runs from 0 to 100, ranging from the softer rubbers like rubber bands, which are rated 35A, to harder rubbers such as fork lift tires with a rating of 95A. Softer wheels provide more traction and stability on the surface, while harder wheels allow for greater speed, since more energy is transferred directly through the wheel and onto the surface.
Surface and Profile
The surface of the wheel can be smooth or grooved. Grooves, also referred to as treads, vary in width and spacing depending on their purpose. Similar to a conventional car tire, treads in the wheel provide added stability for skating that requires agile movements. Some quad skate wheels have a groove down the center that allows the wheel to flex and grip during directional changes.
Wheel profiles range from round to slightly square. Square profiles have more surface area and therefore have more friction. Rounder wheels are faster and more slippery if compared to a square wheel of the same hardness rating.
Maintenance
Maintaining your wheels will extend their life and performance. When you first purchase a pair of skate wheels, wash them with mild soap and warm water, since some manufacturers add a thin coating to the surface of the wheel for protection during transportation. They should be cleaned regularly thereafter, as soon as a visible layer of residue can be seen on the surface. Cleaning wipes can also be used as a substitute or for interim cleanings.
Skate wheels should be rotated when wear patterns appear. The wheels that receive the most stress will depend on skating style and apparatus, so it is always best to inspect your wheels to determine where they need to be moved. Move the most worn-down wheels to the position of lowest stress, and vice versa. This will help the wheels to wear evenly and prolong the need for replacement.
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