What Characterizes Roller Skate Wheels?

Roller skate wheels, also known as quad wheels, are wider and offer more contact surface than inline skate wheels, providing skaters with better balance. Each roller skate wheel is unique, varying in size, hardness, and shape. The diameter or height of the wheels is measured in millimeters (mm), typically ranging from 55mm to 65mm. The hardness of a skate wheel, also referred to as its durometer, is measured on the A-scale, with values ranging from 74A (very soft) to 105A (very hard).

What Size Roller Skate Wheels Should I Get?

Selecting the right quad skate wheels depends on your skating style, which can be categorized into Indoor Skating and Outdoor Skating.

Indoor roller skate wheels are generally small or medium-sized, offering better control and maneuverability in the rink. Rhythm skaters usually prefer wheels with a diameter of 62mm and a width of 35 to 44mm. Figure skaters' wheels typically measure 55-65mm in diameter and 30-31mm in width. Outdoor roller skate wheels are larger with a rounded surface for enhanced stability. Typical outdoor wheels measure 55-65mm in diameter and around 40mm in width.

Roller Skate Wheels Hardness: Indoor & Outdoor

Indoor rhythm and figure skaters often prefer very hard wheels for improved speed on smooth surfaces, with a standard hardness range between 97A to 103A. Fitness quad skaters who skate outdoors usually prefer softer wheels that act as shock absorbers on various terrains, with a hardness range from 78A to 85A. Speed skating wheels are harder than fitness wheels, providing a faster roll on smoother urban surfaces, with hardness values ranging from 95A to 98A.