Thursday, January 1, 2009

Be familiar with your skateboard wheels

By Todd Martin

While selecting a skateboard, nearly everyone focus on the size, length, traction, and in particular the design. Even as these are all significant factors, other facts are often ignored, such as the skateboard wheels. Wheels don't just maintain your board rolling -- they are also dependable to keep you on your feet as you undertake different terrains.

The majority of skateboard wheels are finished of polyurethane, a kind of hard rubber. They are intended to survive high friction and make contact with rough surfaces, such as dirt and concrete. They come in different sizes and hardness levels, and selecting the proper wheel can very much perk up your performance.

Durometer A scale is used to measure the hardness of skateboard wheel. From 75a to 99a this scale represents increasing hardness. You may also see skateboards marked 100a or higher, but don't be fooled " the A scale just goes up to 99. Street skateboard wheels are generally extremely hard, which allows them to slow down fast and accumulate power as you go along. This makes it appropriate for tricks and jumps. The similar is true with vert wheels, which are typically used on ramps, uphill, and upward curves. Softer wheels offer superior maneuvering and speed control, making them perfect for slalom racing and long boards.

Size is also an important factor when choosing skateboard wheels. As a rule of thumb, your wheels should be appropriate for your body size. For teens and children, the recommended wheel size is 52 to 55 mm. The size for adults should be 56 to 60 mm. The smallest wheels are usually the street wheel type, which measure from 48 to 55 mm. Vert and slalom skateboard wheels range from 56 to 75 mm.

Once you have decided to buy skateboard wheels that suit you, the big question is to find one at a right price. Nowadays your best bet is to buy online; they have wide variety of skateboard wheels like chocolate skateboard wheels and skateboard accessories that come with 30-days money back guarantee. Also for all your efforts you will save your time and your money.

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