How to Buy Inline Skate Wheels
Why should you be so particular when in comes to buying replacement inline skate wheels? There are so many factors that go into the purchase of an inline skate wheel or rollerblade wheels. From your style of skating to your body weight to the speed you normally skate, it becomes crucial to take all of these elements into consideration when trying to find good wheels for your skates.
There are four dimensions to an inline wheel that you will have to be familiar with before you shop for your replacement wheels. The dimensions are: size, core, profile, and durometer. Durometer has to deal with how hard the wheel's material elements are. More hardness on the durometer is going to equate to a slower deterioration of the wheel. Unfortunately, harder skate wheels are going to be less forgiving on rides, as every bump will likely be felt. You will find that most wheels are going to be marked with a number, usually 70-90, with a letter proceeding the number. This letter is the rating based on the durometer scale - a 76A wheel is going to be softer than an 86A wheel.
How do you know what number is the correct number for your skate wheel? If you are looking to speed skate, going with a higher number (above 80) will provide enough speed and durability to get you moving quickly along your trail. Lower numbered wheels (below 80) grip the surface easier and provide for more shock absorption. These low numbered wheels are usually best used for hockey or lighter weight people.
The spokes and hub of the wheel are known as the core. When searching for new wheels, you definitely want to look at how the bearings and the spacers fit on the skates, as this is an important element in how your skates will perform. The core of the wheel is also concerned with how your wheel rotates on its axle. The outer spokes and hub serve as a way for the wheel to bond to the core. The core is extremely important to the makeup of the tires because the strength of the core determines what type of ride you will experience.
Another important element in inline wheels is the profile, which is concerned with how much of the wheel and the trail are in contact. More grip and control is going to come from a wheel with a higher profile while faster speeds will result from lower profile wheels.
Equally as important as the previous three characteristics is the size of the wheel. Size is the one element that you want to make sure is compatible with your skates. A quick check of your skates' manual should provide insight as to the sizing range that the skates can handle. Wheels below 80mm are going to be good starting points for people who are recreational riders that are more concerned with stability and control than the are with going fast. Faster inline skate wheels are going to be those with sizes above 80mm, as there is less wheel in contact with the cement. With this reduction in the amount of friction between wheel and trail, the wheel is allowed to turn faster.
It is critical that core, profile, size, and hardness are all taken into consideration before a purchase of inline skate wheels takes place. By making a good sound decision based on these factors before you buy, you are circumventing a lot of potential headaches by selecting wheels that are not compatible with either your inline skates or your skating style.
