Imagine this: You’re cruising down a sunny street, the wind in your hair, your longboard gliding smoothly beneath your feet. Sounds perfect, right? But then, your wheels hit a tiny pebble, and suddenly your ride jolts, or maybe they just feel sluggish and slow. Choosing the right longboard wheels for cruising can be tricky. There are so many sizes, shapes, and colors, it’s easy to feel lost!
Many people want that effortless, enjoyable cruising experience, but they don’t know which wheels will give them the best ride. You might wonder, “Will these wheels be too hard?” or “Will they be too soft and sticky?” These questions can make finding the perfect wheels feel like a chore instead of fun. You want wheels that roll fast, grip well, and make your cruising smooth and comfortable, not bumpy and frustrating.
But don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down exactly what makes a great cruising wheel. You’ll learn about the important features to look for, and we’ll even give you some tips on how to pick the best ones for your style. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing wheels that will make every cruise a joy. Let’s get rolling and find your perfect set!
Our Top 5 Longboard Wheels For Cruising Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Longboard Wheels For Cruising Detailed Reviews
1. Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers Translucent Blue
Rating: 8.7/10
Get ready to fly down hills with the Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76mm 80A SHR Mountain Cruisers in a cool translucent blue. These wheels are built for speed and control. They measure 76mm by 53mm and have a hardness of 80A. This makes them great for riders who love to go fast.
What We Like:
- The 80A Super High Rebound (SHR) hardness gives you awesome grip and keeps you steady when you’re going really fast.
- The offset core helps the wheels stick to the road when you turn. This means you can take corners smoothly and slide in a way that feels safe and in control.
- These wheels are made for riders who want to hit top speeds, like in slalom or downhill skateboarding.
- Being 76mm, they are some of the bigger wheels out there. This size makes it easier for you to keep your speed up without slowing down.
- The translucent blue color looks really neat on your longboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- Because they are larger wheels, they might feel a bit heavier than smaller ones.
- For beginners who are just learning to balance, these wheels might feel a little too fast initially.
If you’re a seasoned rider looking to push your limits and enjoy high-speed cruising, these Bigfoot Mountain Cruiser wheels are an excellent choice. They offer a fantastic blend of speed, grip, and controlled sliding.
2. GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels with ABEC-7 Bearings for Smooth Cruising – Skateboard Wheels Provide Grip & Speed – Ghost Wheels Built for Tricks & Control (Black)
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to glide with the GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78A Long Board Wheels. These black wheels come with ABEC-7 bearings, making your longboard ride super smooth. They offer great grip and speed, perfect for cruising around or even trying out some tricks. Ghost Wheels are built for control on all kinds of surfaces.
What We Like:
- The wheels arrive ready to go, already installed on your skateboard. This means you can start riding right away.
- They have a wide surface area. This helps your longboard stay balanced and roll over bumps easily.
- Made from good quality PU, these wheels give you smooth and controlled rides no matter how you like to skate.
- They feel soft, which cuts down on vibrations and gives you better grip on different roads.
- These wheels grip asphalt and concrete really well. They are strong and perform steadily, even on bumpy ground.
- They offer a cool, semi-transparent look that makes your board stand out. Some versions even light up, adding visibility and style, especially when it’s getting dark.
- The wheels are made to last through daily skating. They resist wear and tear, keeping your board looking good and gripping well.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they offer great grip and control, the “built for tricks” aspect might be more suited for casual trick riding rather than advanced maneuvers.
- The glow-in-the-dark feature is a nice touch for visibility, but the intensity and duration of the glow might vary.
These GHOST BOARDS Jelly Phantoms wheels are a fantastic upgrade for anyone seeking a smoother, more controlled, and stylish ride. They combine performance and looks for an enjoyable skating experience.
3. Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to roll with the Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels! These cool red and black swirl wheels are designed to make your longboard rides smoother and more fun. Whether you’re cruising down the street or hitting up the skate park, these wheels are built to perform. They help you keep your speed up, even on bumpy paths, and their special wave shape helps push away small rocks and sticks so you don’t get stopped.
What We Like:
- These wheels help you go fast and keep rolling, even on rough surfaces.
- The unique wavy design kicks out debris so you can keep skating without interruption.
- They are made to last a long time, so you can ride with confidence.
- These wheels improve your skating experience by making it smoother and more comfortable.
- They are made right here in the USA with good materials.
- The 78a durometer makes them soft and grippy for a comfortable ride.
What Could Be Improved:
- The unique wave pattern might take a little getting used to for some skaters.
- While great for cruising, they might not be the first choice for advanced tricks that require a perfectly flat surface.
Overall, these Shark Wheels are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to cruise and wants a durable, high-performing wheel. They offer a smooth ride and are built to handle various terrains with ease.
4. Cloud Ride! Wheels Iceeez 59mm 78A Longboard Wheels
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to shred with the Cloud Ride! Wheels Iceeez 59mm 78A. These urethane longboard wheels are built for fun and designed to make your rides smoother and more exciting. Whether you’re carving, cruising, or learning to slide, the Iceeez are your go-to wheel.
What We Like:
- These wheels are super slick thanks to their special “Ice” formula. They let you slide easily without losing too much speed.
- The grippy lips and softer urethane help you keep control when you’re sliding.
- They keep their shape well and last a long time.
- You get consistent slides right away because they come pre-ground.
- They are perfect for learning to slide and freeride.
- Cloud Ride puts a lot of care into making these wheels durable and detailed.
- They offer quality that stands up against other popular brands.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are great for learning, more experienced riders might want a larger wheel for higher speeds.
- Their ultra-slick nature might be a little too much for beginners who are just getting used to their board.
The Cloud Ride! Wheels Iceeez are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to have a blast on their longboard, especially if they want to get into freeriding. Grab a set and feel the difference.
5. Orangatang Caguama 85 mm Longboard Wheels for Cruising
Rating: 8.8/10
Upgrade your ride with the Orangatang Caguama 85mm Longboard Wheels. These big, blue wheels are made for a super smooth and fast experience. Whether you’re cruising around town, building your own electric skateboard, or just love longboarding, the Caguamas will make your ride better.
What We Like:
- BIG, SMOOTH RIDE: These large 85mm wheels help you go fast and roll over bumps easily.
- COMFORTABLE FOR ANY ROAD: They handle cracks, rocks, and rough streets like a champ, making your ride super comfortable.
- GREAT GRIP: The 56mm wide contact patch gives you good grip, and the rounded edges help you slide smoothly.
- HAPPY THANE FORMULA: Orangatang’s special urethane makes the wheels fast, smooth, and grippy.
- FAST ACCELERATION: The large, exposed core helps you speed up quickly and keeps your momentum going.
- WORKS WITH ELECTRIC BOARDS: They fit on electric skateboards that can use Orangatang Kegel wheels, making your eboard even faster and smoother.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price might be a bit high for some budgets.
- Limited color options might not suit everyone’s style.
These wheels are a fantastic upgrade for any longboard or electric skateboard. Get ready for a faster, smoother, and more comfortable ride.
Choosing the Best Longboard Wheels for Cruising
Cruising on a longboard should feel smooth and effortless. The right wheels make a big difference. They help you glide over bumps and enjoy your ride. This guide will help you pick the perfect longboard wheels for cruising.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for cruising wheels, keep a few things in mind.
1. Diameter (Size)
- Larger wheels (70mm-80mm): These roll over cracks and pebbles easily. They keep your speed up on longer rides. They feel very smooth.
- Smaller wheels (60mm-69mm): These are lighter. They make your board feel more nimble. They are good for quick turns.
2. Durometer (Hardness)
Durometer tells you how soft or hard a wheel is. It’s measured on an “A” scale.
- Softer wheels (78A-85A): These are the best for cruising. They grip the road well. They absorb vibrations from rough surfaces. This means a smoother, more comfortable ride.
- Harder wheels (90A+): These are faster. They slide easily. They are not ideal for cruising because they transmit more bumps.
3. Contact Patch (Width)
The contact patch is the part of the wheel that touches the ground.
- Wider wheels: These offer more grip. They are stable. They feel more planted. They are great for cruising and downhill.
- Narrower wheels: These are lighter. They turn more easily. They can be good for tricks but might feel less stable for cruising.
Important Materials
Most longboard wheels are made from polyurethane.
- Polyurethane (Urethane): This is the standard material. It’s durable. It offers a good balance of grip and slide. High-quality urethane feels great. It lasts a long time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your wheels affects your ride.
- High-Quality Urethane: Wheels made with better urethane formulas offer a smoother roll. They have better grip. They wear down more slowly.
- Manufacturing Process: How the wheels are made matters. Well-made wheels are round. They have no air bubbles. This leads to a consistent and predictable ride.
- Chipped Edges or Flat Spots: If you hit a big crack or slide hard, your wheels can get damaged. Chipped edges or flat spots make your ride bumpy and less enjoyable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who are these wheels for? What do they do best?
- For Beginners: Softer, larger wheels are excellent for new riders. They provide stability and comfort. They make learning to cruise much easier.
- For Commuters: If you use your longboard to get around town, you want wheels that handle varied pavement. Larger, softer wheels are perfect for this. They roll over small obstacles like twigs and pebbles.
- For Relaxed Riding: If you just want to cruise around your neighborhood or the park, comfort is key. Soft wheels absorb vibrations. They make every ride feel smooth and enjoyable.
- For Carving: Softer wheels with a good contact patch help you lean into turns. This allows for smooth, flowing carves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: What are the best wheels for cruising on rough roads?
A: Softer wheels (78A-85A) and larger wheels (70mm+) are best for rough roads. They absorb bumps and vibrations. They make your ride much smoother.
Q: Should I get soft or hard wheels for cruising?
A: You should get soft wheels for cruising. They offer better grip and a smoother ride. Hard wheels are better for sliding and tricks.
Q: How big should my cruising wheels be?
A: For cruising, wheels between 70mm and 80mm are a good choice. Larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily.
Q: What does the number on the wheel mean (like 78A)?
A: That number is the durometer. It tells you how hard the wheel is. A lower number (like 78A) means a softer wheel. A higher number means a harder wheel.
Q: Can I use downhill wheels for cruising?
A: You can, but they might be too hard. Downhill wheels are often harder for speed and sliding. Softer wheels are generally better for the comfort of cruising.
Q: How do I avoid getting flat spots on my wheels?
A: Avoid sliding too much. Try to steer around obstacles instead of hitting them directly. If you do get a flat spot, it will make your ride bumpy.
Q: Will wider wheels make my board slower?
A: Wider wheels can sometimes feel a little slower because they have more friction. However, for cruising, the extra grip and stability are often worth it.
Q: How often should I replace my cruising wheels?
A: You should replace them when they become very worn down. This means they have flat spots or are significantly smaller than they used to be. Good quality wheels can last a long time.
Q: What is the best brand for cruising longboard wheels?
A: Many brands make great cruising wheels. Some popular ones include Orangatang, Loaded, and Sector 9. It’s good to read reviews for specific models.
Q: Can I put different sized wheels on my longboard?
A: It’s generally best to use wheels of the same size on all four trucks. Mismatched wheel sizes can affect how your board rides and carves.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Mette Morgan—a lifelong pet enthusiast and the heart behind PetNobs.com.. My journey with animals began at an early age, and over the years, I’ve gathered invaluable experiences and insights on everything from everyday pet care to the unique quirks each animal brings to our lives. Here at PetNobs, I share my genuine passion, practical tips, and personal stories to help you create a loving, well-informed environment for your furry, feathered, or scaled friends. Welcome to my little corner of the pet world—it’s a joy to have you here!