Choosing the right longboard wheels can dramatically improve cruising comfort, stability, and grip on varied pavement. This guide highlights five top options that emphasize smooth rolling, debris deflection, and reliable performance on streets and boardwalks. Each wheel set below includes a quick overview and key features to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Size | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Wheel 72mm 78a (Emerald) | Shark Wheel | 72mm | DNA Formula Cruising | Wave pattern reduces friction; great for rough terrain |
| Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm | Cloud Ride! | 65mm | Urethane Cruising | Pre-ground, balanced grip and slides |
| Cloud Ride! Iceeez 59mm | Cloud Ride! | 59mm | Urethane Freeride | Ultra slick for learning slides |
| Orangatang Caguama 85mm (Blue) | Orangatang | 85mm | Longboard Wheels | Large diameter for speed and stability |
| BRAVORD 70mm 82A | BRAVORD | 70mm | Cruising Wheels | Frosted surface for grip on varied surfaces |
Shark Wheel 72mm Emerald DNA Formula Cruising
Shark Wheel’s 72mm Emerald wheels use a distinctive wave pattern designed to deflect debris and reduce friction. The 78a durometer provides a balance of grip and glide for cruising on rough pavement or skate-able terrain. The DNA Formula aims to deliver long-lasting performance, helping maintain speed and stability without frequent wheel changes.
Cloud Ride! Street Cruiser 65mm 78A
These 65mm Street Cruisers offer a versatile setup for cruising, carving, and freeride. The well-rounded lip and cruiser urethane deliver easy slides and predictable handling right out of the box. Pre-ground construction means minimal break-in, with grip suitable for cornering and rolling over minor cracks and debris.
Cloud Ride! Iceeez 59mm 78A
Iceeez wheels are designed for ultra-slick slides with a focus on learning freeride. At 59mm with a soft 78A durometer, they emphasize stability during slides while maintaining control on pavement. The wheels come pre-ground for immediate use, and their lubricious surface supports smoother kicks and controlled skids.
BRAVORD 70mm 82A Cruising Wheels
BRAVORD combines durability and grip with a frosted surface that improves slip resistance on a variety of surfaces. The 70mm diameter and 82A durometer strike a balance between speed and stability, making these wheels suitable for cruising through urban environments, parks, and gentle hills. The design focuses on longevity and reliable performance across conditions.
Shark Wheel Amber 72mm DNA Formula
Shark Wheel’s Amber 72mm wheels emphasize a smooth ride across surfaces with reduced friction. The set is designed to push debris away and maintain momentum, which is beneficial for cruising and handling less-than-perfect pavement. The DNA Formula focuses on durability and consistent performance across long sessions.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Wheel diameter: Larger wheels (e.g., 85mm) offer higher speed and better obstacle clearance but may be less maneuverable for tight turns. Smaller wheels (59–65mm) can improve stability at low speeds and provide lively slides.
- Durometer (hardness): Softer wheels (75A–78A) grip well and absorb vibrations, great for rough surfaces. Harder wheels (82A or above) provide faster rolling and longer wear but less cushion on rough pavement.
- Wheel material and construction: Some brands use specialized formulas (DNA, Icee, etc.) and wave patterns designed to deflect debris or reduce friction. Consider the terrain you ride most often—city streets, boardwalks, or parks.
- Pre-ground vs. stock: Pre-ground wheels don’t require a break-in period and offer predictable slides. New or unground wheels may require a short break-in to reach optimal performance.
- Grip and slide balance: For cruising, you want reliable grip for cornering and predictable slides for controlled freeride. Some wheels emphasize grip, others emphasize glide and slide ease.
- Durability and longevity: Look for wheels with abrasion resistance and high-rebound polyurethane to maximize longevity on urban roads and rough patches.
In evaluating these options, consider your typical cruising routes, preferred ride feel, and how often you expect to slide or carve. The selections above cover a range—from debris-deflecting designs to ultra-slick freeride wheels—so you can align a choice with your riding style and environment.