The scale actually goes from 1 – 100 but that's the range within skate wheels (the scale measures hardness of anything). You'll want a soft wheel generally indoors, and harder wheels outdoors. Softer is slower. Harder is faster. Higher the number, harder the wheel.

What does 78A mean on rollerblade wheels?

78A (Multi-Surface) – Wheels with this rating are considered “multi-surface” because they provide enough hardness for use on (sealed) cement and wood surfaces. 78As provide enough grip on smooth indoor surfaces, especially for heavier players in the 190 to 250-lb range.

Are 90a wheels soft?

Skateboard wheels are made from polyurethane (PU) and their hardness is measured in durometer. Most range between 75a to 104a. Any wheel in the 78a to 90a range is considered a soft wheel, 90a to 98a is in the middle, 99a+ is referred to as a hard wheel.

What is the difference in rollerblade wheel sizes?

Wheel diameters will vary in size from very small (57mm or below), to very large (up to 100mm). The variances exist due to the different types of skates that are available. Very large wheels are most commonly found on racing skates because larger wheels allow for higher speeds.

How do I know my rollerblade wheel size?

Use a tape measure or ruler to measure the outside of the wheel's diameter. Dimensions are in millimeters rather than inches. Next, measure the space between the wheels at the closest point. The larger the wheel size, the faster the skate will be.

25 related questions found

Are 82a wheels good for indoors?

These wheels are suitable for various fields, both outdoor and indoor. The durable and strong PU allows these wheels to absorb the impact on the surface and roll over most small debris.

How do you read wheel sizes?

The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio. For example, in a size P215/65 R15 tire, the 65 means that the height is equal to 65% of the tire's width. The bigger the aspect ratio, the bigger the tire's sidewall will be.

Can you put different size wheels on roller skates?

They can vary in size, hardness, shape, and even hub material. It is important to choose a wheel that is suited to type of skating that you will be doing whether it is indoor, outdoor, artistic, or speed.

Are smaller wheels better for rollerblades?

Wheels with a smaller diameter allow fast acceleration and require less effort to move. Wheels with larger diameter accelerate slowly and require more effort to move. Larger wheels have better roll time, low rolling resistance and can reach top speed in no time.

Are 54mm wheels too big?

Medium 52 – 54mm wheels

This really is the Goldilocks zone of wheel size choice. Perfect for most skaters starting out and also the most popular choice for seasoned skateboards. Not too big, not too small, not too heavy, not too light.

Is 99a good for street?

96a to 99a are good wheels for all-around use. They offer a balance between grip and speed, making them a beginner's choice for both street skateboarding and for smooth surfaces like skate parks and ramps.

What is the hardest rollerblade wheel?

The scale actually goes from 1 – 100 but that's the range within skate wheels (the scale measures hardness of anything). You'll want a soft wheel generally indoors, and harder wheels outdoors.

Is 80a a soft wheel?

Wheels rated between 80a to 83a are balanced between soft and hard, giving the rider the freedom of control, speed, and grip.

What are 85A wheels?

A hardness grade of a wheel is stated in "A" (shore hardness). As a rule aggressive wheels are between 85A and 105A. The higher the number, the harder the wheel. Wheels for skating are between 85A und 95A hard.

What are 85A wheels good for?

Most recreational indoor skate wheels have a durometer rating of between 88A and 102A because the hardness allows for a fast, smooth ride on most indoor surfaces. Hardness – generally a soft wheel (85A-88A) will grip but won't roll as fast as a harder wheel (94A-98A). Harder wheels won't grip as well as softer ones.

What size roller skate should I get?

General sizing information

Most roller skates are going to fit the same as your standard shoe size. So, if you wear a size 8 in your everyday shoes a size 8 in roller skates will fit.

What do wheel numbers mean?

The wheel diameter (in inches or millimeters) is the fifth set of numbers and letters. What do rim size numbers mean? This number represents the distance between the two bead seat areas where the tire is sealed onto the wheel. The wheel size also includes its width and offset.

What do the 3 numbers mean on tire size?

B: TIRE WIDTH The three-digit number following the letter is the tire's width (from side to side, looking at the tire head on) in millimeters. This may also be referred to as the section width. C: ASPECT RATIO The forward slash separates the tire width number from the two-digit aspect ratio.

What does the 265 70R17 mean?

An arrow points to the numbers 265/70R17 115T on the inner part of the tire sidewall. 265 is the width, 70 is the aspect ratio, R stands for radial, 17 is the wheel diameter and 115T is the load index and speed symbol. ©2021 Nitto Tire U.S.A. Inc.

Why do aggressive skates have small wheels?

These are called Anti Rocker wheels. They are usually made of either a much harder urethane or a plastic similar to the material of your frames. They are used to grind on, and slightly roll as you hit bumps, or cracks so you don't stick while rolling across the object.

When should you change your rollerblade wheels?

How Often Should I Rotate My Rollerblade Wheels?

  1. You should rotate your wheels when they show signs of wheel taper, which can occur in as little as 6 hours of skating. ...
  2. So, in short when your wheels start to taper, it's time to rotate the skate.

What are Hi Lo skates?

Hi-Lo Inline Skates Explained

  • Smaller Inline Skate Wheels – 80mm Wheels or Smaller. ...
  • Larger Wheels – 84mm and Larger. ...
  • The Combination of Smaller and Larger Wheels, Hi-Lo. ...
  • Mixing Acceleration, Maneuverability and Speed.

Are 78A wheels good for outdoors?

78A (really soft): Super grippy, used almost exclusively outdoors. 84A (soft): Hybrid (indoor/outdoor) wheels are usually 84A. They are great for really slippery floors and can be used outdoors. Often a good choice for your first wheels since they are grippy, affordable and versatile.