Are Soft Wheels Good For Street Skating

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Are Soft Wheels Good For Street Skating? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s a complex question that depends on your skating style, the type of street you’re skating on, and what you’re trying to accomplish. While harder wheels are typically associated with street skating, softer wheels can offer unique advantages that might surprise you.

The Lowdown on Soft Wheels for Street Skating

When considering “Are Soft Wheels Good For Street Skating?”, understand that softer wheels (typically 78A-87A durometer) prioritize grip and smoothness over speed and slide. This makes them excellent for rougher street surfaces where harder wheels would chatter and lose traction. Think about crusty asphalt, uneven pavement, or streets with lots of small cracks and pebbles. Soft wheels absorb these imperfections, providing a more comfortable and controlled ride. This can be particularly beneficial for beginners who are still developing their balance and control, or for anyone who wants a less jarring experience.

However, there are trade-offs. Softer wheels lose speed more quickly than harder wheels (95A-101A). They require more effort to maintain momentum, which can be tiring on longer rides. They also aren’t ideal for performing slides and other technical tricks that rely on losing traction. If you’re primarily focused on ollies, kickflips, and grinding rails, harder wheels are generally a better choice. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Soft Wheels (78A-87A):

  • Good grip
  • Smooth ride on rough surfaces
  • Slower speed
  • Difficult to slide

• Hard Wheels (95A-101A):

  • High speed
  • Easy to slide
  • Rough ride on imperfect surfaces
  • Less grip

Ultimately, determining if “Are Soft Wheels Good For Street Skating?” comes down to finding the right balance for your individual needs. Some skaters even opt for a hybrid approach, using wheels in the mid-range (88A-94A) to get a blend of grip and speed. Experimentation is key. Consider the surfaces you typically skate on and the type of skating you enjoy most. You might find that soft wheels open up new possibilities for exploring your city and conquering challenging terrain. Consider the following table for wheel recommendations:

For even more information on this topic, check out online skateboarding forums and videos to get insights from other skaters on what wheels work best for certain situations. Use that information to find the wheels that are right for you.