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), usually ranging from 55mm to 65mm. The hardness of a skate wheel, also known as its durometer, is measured on the A-scale, ranging from 74A (very soft) to 105A (very hard).

What Size Roller Skate Wheels Should I Get?

The choice of 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 to medium-sized, providing greater control and maneuverability in the rink. Rhythm skaters typically prefer wheels with a diameter of 62mm and a width of 35 to 44mm. Figure skaters usually opt for wheels with a diameter of 55-65mm and a width of 30-31mm. Outdoor roller skate wheels are larger with a rounded surface for enhanced stability. Typical outdoor wheels have a diameter of 55-65mm and around 40mm in width.

Roller Skate Wheels Hardness: Indoor & Outdoor

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