Cruising on a longboard is one of the best ways to explore a city or just enjoy the outdoors. But the wheels you choose can make or break that smooth, enjoyable ride. Selecting the right longboard wheels dramatically improves your cruising experience, offering better grip, smoother rides, and enhanced control. I remember when I first started longboarding, the difference new wheels made was unbelievable. These are some of the best options out there, so you can find the perfect set for your needs.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Orangatang Caguama 85mm: High roll speed, comfortable over cracks.
- Orangatang Kegel 80mm: Great balance of speed and grip.
- Sector 9 Nineballs 78a 65mm: Ideal for smaller boards, smooth ride.
- Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm: Unique design, excellent in rain.
- Hawgs Wheels – Fatty Hawgs 63mm: Versatile, good for slides and cruising.
Top 5 Best Longboard Wheels For Cruising
1. Orangatang Caguama 85mm
The Orangatang Caguama 85mm wheels are designed for speed and rolling efficiency. These wheels are large, meaning they maintain momentum well and can handle rougher surfaces with ease. They’re a popular choice for long-distance riders and those who love speed.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent roll speed: These wheels are fast!
- ✅ Comfortable ride: Great at absorbing bumps and cracks.
- ✅ Durable: Orangatang wheels are known for lasting a long time.
Cons:
- ❌ Size can be overwhelming: May be too big for some boards or riders.
- ❌ Price: Higher price point compared to some other options.
- ❌ Not ideal for sliding: Designed more for straight-line speed.
Verdict: If you prioritize speed and a smooth ride over rough terrain, the Orangatang Caguama 85mm wheels are a top choice. Best for experienced riders and longer commutes.
2. Orangatang Kegel 80mm
The Orangatang Kegel 80mm wheels are a sweet spot between speed and maneuverability. These wheels provide excellent grip for carving while still maintaining a good top speed. They are a versatile option for a variety of longboard setups.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile: Good for cruising, carving, and some freeride.
- ✅ Excellent grip: Allows for confident turns and carving.
- ✅ Comfortable: Dampens vibrations well.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the fastest: Won’t reach the top speeds of larger wheels.
- ❌ Can be slippery when worn: Grip decreases as the wheels wear down.
- ❌ Price: A bit pricey.
Verdict: The Orangatang Kegel 80mm wheels are perfect if you want a balance between speed, grip, and versatility. Great for riders who enjoy carving and want a reliable wheel for various riding styles.
3. Sector 9 Nineballs 78a 65mm
Sector 9 Nineballs 78a 65mm wheels are designed for smooth cruising and carving, especially on smaller boards. These wheels offer a comfortable ride and are a great option for beginners due to their forgiving nature. They’re also a good fit for pintails and shorter decks where larger wheels would be overkill.
Pros:
- ✅ Smooth ride: The 78a durometer absorbs road imperfections effectively.
- ✅ Good for smaller boards: Size is well-suited for pintails and cruisers.
- ✅ Affordable: More budget-friendly than some other options.
Cons:
- ❌ Not very fast: Smaller size and softer durometer limit top speed.
- ❌ Wear down quicker: Softer wheels tend to wear faster.
- ❌ Not ideal for sliding: Designed primarily for grip and cruising.
Verdict: The Sector 9 Nineballs 78a 65mm wheels are a solid choice for beginner longboarders and those with smaller boards. Ideal for smooth cruising and carving.
4. Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm
The Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm wheels stand out due to their unique cube shape, offering advantages in various conditions. These wheels perform well in wet conditions and provide a different feel compared to traditional round wheels. They are a conversation starter, too!
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent grip in wet conditions: The unique shape channels water away.
- ✅ Good for rough surfaces: Handles cracks and debris well.
- ✅ Unique look: The cube shape is definitely eye-catching.
Cons:
- ❌ Different feel: May take some getting used to compared to traditional wheels.
- ❌ Can be noisy: The cube shape can create more road noise.
- ❌ Not the fastest: More focused on grip and rough terrain performance.
Verdict: If you often ride in wet conditions or on rough roads, the Shark Wheel California Roll 60mm wheels are a great option. They offer a unique riding experience and stand out from the crowd.
5. Hawgs Wheels – Fatty Hawgs 63mm
The Hawgs Wheels – Fatty Hawgs 63mm are a versatile option, suitable for both cruising and sliding. These wheels offer a good balance between grip and slide, making them a fun choice for riders who like to mix things up. They’re also relatively affordable.
Pros:
- ✅ Versatile: Good for cruising and some sliding.
- ✅ Affordable: A budget-friendly option.
- ✅ Durable: Hawgs wheels are known for their durability.
Cons:
- ❌ Not the fastest: Smaller size limits top speed.
- ❌ Not the smoothest ride: May not absorb bumps as well as larger, softer wheels.
- ❌ Can chunk if slid too aggressively: Can develop flat spots with hard use.
Verdict: The Hawgs Wheels – Fatty Hawgs 63mm are a good choice if you want a versatile wheel that can handle both cruising and sliding. Best for riders who like to experiment with different riding styles.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right longboard wheels for cruising can seem tricky, but here’s what to consider:
- Wheel Size: Larger wheels (70mm+) roll faster and handle rough surfaces better. Smaller wheels (60-70mm) are easier to control and accelerate.
- Durometer: This measures the wheel’s hardness. Softer wheels (75a-85a) provide a smoother ride and more grip. Harder wheels (86a+) are faster but less comfortable on rough surfaces. For cruising, aim for 78a-82a for a good balance.
- Wheel Shape: Round-edged wheels are good for cruising and carving. Square-edged wheels offer more grip for sliding.
- Core Placement: Wheels with a centered core offer more consistent wear. Offset or side-set cores offer different grip and slide characteristics.
- Your Riding Style: Consider where and how you’ll be riding. Smooth pavement? Rough roads? Mostly flat ground or hills? Choose wheels that match your typical riding conditions.
- Your Board Size: Smaller boards usually pair well with smaller wheels, while larger boards can accommodate bigger wheels.
FAQs
What size wheels are best for cruising?
Wheels in the 65mm to 75mm range are a good starting point for cruising. They offer a balance of speed and maneuverability.
What durometer should I choose for cruising wheels?
A durometer of 78a to 82a is ideal for cruising. This range provides a smooth, comfortable ride and good grip.
Can I use sliding wheels for cruising?
Yes, but they might not be the most comfortable. Sliding wheels are typically harder and may not absorb bumps as well as softer cruising wheels.
How long do longboard wheels last?
It depends on how often you ride and the quality of the wheels. With regular use, quality wheels can last for several months to a year or more.
Do I need special bearings for my longboard wheels?
Most standard longboard bearings will work with most wheels. However, higher-quality bearings can improve your roll speed and overall riding experience.
Conclusion
Finding the right longboard wheels for cruising can significantly enhance your riding experience. Whether you prioritize speed, comfort, or versatility, there’s a perfect set of wheels out there for you. Consider your riding style, typical terrain, and board setup to make the best choice. A good set of wheels really can transform your ride.
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