Cruising on a skateboard is a fantastic way to get around, whether it’s navigating city streets, campus pathways, or embarking on long-distance adventures. I’ve personally tested various skateboard wheels to help you discover the best options for a smooth and enjoyable ride. From those ideal for long distances to those that allow for basic tricks, this guide covers everything you need to know about cruiser wheels.
Most of the cruiser wheels discussed here are suitable for regular skateboard setups, but keep in mind that you might need to adjust your setup, depending on the wheel diameter, truck height, and bushing softness. You may need to add riser pads or use different hardware to prevent wheel bite, but don’t worry, we’ll cover that. Cruiser wheels are an excellent choice for learning to skateboard or refining your riding skills. Their larger size and softer material provide stability, ample grip, and help you ride for longer without tiring quickly.
Let’s delve into what makes a great cruiser wheel and what options are available.
What to Consider When Choosing Cruiser Wheels
When selecting cruiser wheels, it’s essential to ask yourself what your main purpose is. Do you want to cruise effortlessly, or do you also plan to perform some basic tricks?
If you’re primarily cruising and occasionally hopping curbs, any of the wheels mentioned in this guide will suit you well. However, if you intend to get more technical with tricks, smaller wheels like the Ricta Clouds are a better fit.
It’s crucial to consider additional factors too. You may need riser or shock pads, and ensure your bolts are the correct length. Your weight and the softness of your bushings also play a significant role in your setup.
OJ Super Juice 60mm/78a (Best Deal) skateboard wheels
Top Skateboard Cruiser Wheel Brands
There are countless brands that manufacture excellent cruiser skateboard wheels, and while I’ve mentioned a few, it’s advisable to choose wheels from a reputable manufacturer. The quality of the urethane and the construction of the wheels can significantly impact your skating experience. I’ve personally had issues with cheap wheels that claimed to be a certain durometer but felt much harder, were less durable, and less reliable.
Here are some reliable brands that offer quality cruiser wheels:
- Venom: Known for producing exceptional cruiser wheels.
- 88wheels: Offers high-quality longboard and cruiser wheels.
- Santa Cruz: Their Slime Balls are fantastic for both cruising and tricks.
- 3dm: Specializes in slalom and cruising wheels in various sizes.
Preventing Wheel Bite: Clearance and Risers
safe clearance skateboard no wheel bite
Determining the exact distance needed between your wheels and deck to prevent wheel bite isn’t an exact science, but wheels around 60mm often need risers. The tightness of your trucks also matters. Loose trucks are more prone to wheel bite, while tight trucks offer more safety (but are less carvy). Your weight and the hardness of your bushings also play a role; softer bushings enhance turning but reduce stability.
Generally, choose bushings that support your weight, but remember that personal preference matters. Riser pads provide additional clearance, consider 1/8″ or 1/4″ for 60mm wheels, and 1/2″ for wheels above 60mm. Remember that this is a general guideline, and what works best may vary.
Riser Pads and Hardware
If you opt for wheels 58mm or larger, adding riser pads or 1/8″ shock pads is a good idea. The standard skateboard deck has 7 plies, but there are exceptions that might require different bolt lengths. The table below shows the appropriate hardware lengths for different riser sizes on standard 7-ply decks, as well as decks with 8 or 9 plies:
| Riser Size | 1/8in | 1/4in | 1/2in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware (7-Ply) | 1 1/8″ | 1 1/4″ – 1 1/2″ | 1 1/2″ – 2″ |
| Hardware (8/9-Ply) | 1 1/4″ – 1 1/2″ | 1 1/2 “- 2” | 2 “- 2 1/2” |
It’s important that your hardware is not too long, or it might get stuck on ledges, but also not too short so your trucks are secure.
The Importance of Contact Patch Width
The contact patch is the flat part of the wheel that touches the ground. A larger contact patch gives you more stability but reduces carviness and makes it harder to slide. Wide contact patches are ideal for a stable, balanced ride and are very forgiving on rough surfaces.
Smaller setups often benefit from a larger contact patch for increased stability, while wider setups can handle both small and large contact patches. The size of your deck and the width of your trucks also influence stability.
The size of the contact patch varies based on wheel type and brand. Wheels like the Ricta Clouds have a smaller contact patch which makes for a less stable ride, but can be easier for performing tricks.
Durometer: Finding the Right Hardness
Choosing the right durometer (hardness) for your cruiser wheels is crucial. Soft wheels offer a smooth ride and handle rough surfaces much better than hard wheels. A safe range for cruising is between 78A and 92A. Wheels with a 78A durometer provide the smoothest ride, but are less suitable for tricks.
If you want to do tricks while cruising, choose wheels between 86A and 92A. Softer wheels can bounce excessively while doing tricks, which can make landing primo more common. If you mostly ride on rough surfaces but want to do tricks, 92A wheels are a good choice.
Wheel Size: What’s the Best Fit?
A good size range for cruiser wheels is between 60mm and 65mm. Smaller wheels require you to push more often, which is not recommended for longer commutes. Larger wheels roll faster with less effort, but require riser pads for clearance.
Larger wheels will accelerate a bit slower, but require less pushing, while smaller wheels accelerate much faster but you need to push more often.
Do You Need Special Bearings?
Quality bearings are essential, but you don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune. I recommend Zealous bearings for cruising because they maintain momentum well, despite taking longer to accelerate. Standard bearings from Bones or Bronson are also reliable, but avoid cheap, unbranded knock-offs and don’t focus too much on ABEC ratings.
Do You Need New Trucks?
regular skateboards converted into cruisers
You probably don’t need new trucks, unless you are planning to use very large wheels. Be mindful of how tight you set your trucks and the hardness of your bushings. Loose trucks and wheels larger than 59mm/60mm can result in wheel bite. Make sure you add risers when needed.
The top setup in the image above features 63mm Hawgs wheels with 1/2″ risers in the back. The difference in clearance is noticeable, and risers are definitely needed in this case. The bottom setup features 56mm Ricta Cloud wheels, which do not need risers.
Cheap cruiser skateboard
The above setup has 60mm OJ’s and performs really well, even though it’s a bit bouncy for tricks, it’s a great cheap cruiser setup. So, even with 60mm wheels and tighter trucks, you don’t always need riser pads.
custom cruiser trick setup close up
The last image shows wheel bite with 56mm wheels due to loose trucks and soft bushings. 1/8″ or 1/4″ risers would fix this, although the rider didn’t notice the wheel bite.
The Best Skateboard Wheels for Cruising: Our Top Picks
I have personally tested all the gear I recommend and only suggest products that I genuinely like. When selecting cruiser wheels, remember that they should be large and soft. A good starting point is 78A to 81A on the Shore Durometer scale and sizes 60mm to 69mm.
Here are my top recommendations for specific purposes:
- Best for Cruising and Tricks: Ricta Cloud 57mm/86A
- Best for Long-Distance Cruising: Powell Peralta Snakes 69mm/75A
- Best All-Around Cruiser Wheel: Bones ATF Rough Riders 56mm/80A
- Best for Speed: Orangatang Fat Free 65mm/77A
- Best Budget Cruiser Wheels: EasyRider Bogart 61mm/78A
Now, let’s explore these and other top picks in more detail.
1. Fireball Tinder 60mm – 81A
Fireball Tinder Cruiser Wheels
The Fireball Tinder wheels are a good starting point. They are soft enough for comfortable cruising, and hard enough for performing basic ollies. The fiberglass core makes the wheels faster and prevents coning, while also helping to maintain the wheel shape when landing tricks. They roll fast, absorb vibrations, and perform well on slick surfaces, and generally do not require risers.
These wheels are a solid choice for cruising and basic tricks, accelerate quickly, and maintain their speed for a decent amount of time.
- Diameter: 61mm (also available in 65 mm and 70 mm)
- Width: 44mm
- Contact Patch: 35mm
- Durometer: 81a
2. Ricta Clouds – Cruising & Tricks
Ricta clouds cruiser wheels
Ricta Clouds are originally designed as filmer wheels, but they are also great for cruising and tricks. They come in various sizes and durometers, offering a wide range of options. For a good balance between cruising and basic tricks, the 56mm and 92A version is a good choice.
If you want a smoother ride, consider wheels larger than 58mm. Ricta also offers 60mm wheels with a 78A durometer, which are better for dedicated cruising. For this size however, I would suggest the OJ Super Juice Wheels for a more stable ride, and similar specs.
Compared to dedicated street wheels they might feel a bit bouncy when doing ollies, however, at 92A they perform well. If you’re using the 60mm version, be sure to add 1/8″ or 1/4″ risers to prevent wheel bite. Doing tricks on softer wheels is more difficult, so keep that in mind when making your choice.
| Size (MM) | Width (MM) | Durometer | Contact Patch (MM) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52mm | 31.8 | 78A/92A | 19.4 | Kids, rough roads |
| 53mm | 34 | 86A | 20.5 | Rough roads, short commutes |
| 54mm | 34 | 78A/92A | 18.36 | Cruising (78A), Street/Park, Film |
| 56mm | 34 | 78A/92A | 21.5 | Cruising (78A) and/or Tricks (92A) |
| 57mm | 35 | 86A | 21.5 | Cruising & tricks |
| 60mm | 43 | 78A | 32 | Cruising, Film, requires risers |
3. OJ Super Juice 60mm/78A (Best Budget Wheel)
OJ super juice wheels on a cruiser board
OJ is a well-known and respected brand under NHS. The OJ Super Juice cruiser wheels are buttery soft, fit on almost any setup, and even allow for basic tricks. Though they aren’t ideal for power slides (they can chunk), they’re great for cruising and hopping curbs.
OJ also offers these in a 55mm size at 86A, which are great for cruising and doing basic tricks. The 55mm wheels accelerate faster but they wear out faster as well. From a budget perspective, the OJ Super Juice are a top choice. Adding 1/8″ riser pads will help prevent wheel bite. These wheels are very sticky, and small cracks, rocks, and gravel will be less noticeable.
| Size (MM) | Width (MM) | Durometer | Contact Patch (MM) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55mm | 32.5 | 78A | 21 | Cruising, ollie curbs |
| 60mm | 33.5 | 78A | 21.5 | Cruising |
4. Orangatang – Fat Free 65mm 77A (Fastest Wheel)
Orangatang – Fat Free 65mm 77A cruiser wheels
These wheels are large for a cruiser setup at 65mm, and are incredibly fast. If you are using them on a regular setup, riser pads are essential. They are a bit pricier than other cruiser wheels, but the performance justifies the cost. At 77A, these are among the softest wheels available, offering excellent speed.
These wheels are great for ignoring cracks and small rocks, and their acceleration, although slower than smaller wheels, is smooth and effortless. They are durable and it takes a long time before the urethane begins to wear. I’ve tested these with standard Bones Red, Bones Swiss 6, Zealous, and Bronson Raw bearings and have found that they perform so well that you do not need expensive bearings.
orangatang wheels on a cruiser board
You can choose the 77A 65mm Blue wheels for long distance cruising, or the 86A 65mm Yellows for cruising and basic ollies. If the Orangatangs are above your budget, the Arbor EasyRiders or OJ Superjuice are a good alternative. Remember that 65mm wheels need riser pads to avoid wheel bite.
- Diameter: 65mm
- Contact Patch: 37mm
- Durometer: 77A to 86A
5. Cloud Ride
Cloud ride 70mm 77a
At 70mm, Cloud Ride wheels are suitable for longboarding and cruising. These 77a wheels are very soft, durable, and fast. They stick to surfaces well and you won’t notice any small rocks or cracks. They’re ideal for longer rides, and require less pushing compared to smaller 60mm wheels. Cloud Ride offers many wheels, so be sure to check them out.
- Diameter: 70mm
- Durometer: 77A
6. Powell Peralta Snakes (The Best)
Powell Peralta Snake wheels on a cruiser
The Powell Peralta Snakes are exceptional wheels and are among the softest in this list. Their 75A durometer provides a buttery smooth ride, yet still allows for slides. These wheels do have a tendency to chunk, so if you love to power slide, you might want to consider another option.
They are expensive, but offer superior performance. The 69mm size is great for long-distance cruising, and the 66mm size is better for shorter commutes that require faster acceleration. With these wheels, your board will maintain its momentum with minimal effort.
Powell Peralta snakes on a cruiser skateboard
- Diameter: 69mm (other sizes available)
- Contact Patch: 56mm
- Durometer: 75A
7. EasyRider Bogart Wheels (Budget)
Easyrider Bogart Wheels
The EasyRider Bogart wheels are perfect for those on a budget, who are looking for a comfortable ride. They offer great performance for the low price they come at. At 61mm, you might need 1/8″ or 1/4″ riser pads depending on the looseness of your trucks. They are durable enough for basic cruising, and perform well on a small and nimble setup. They do, however, feel bouncy when ollieing curbs, so they are better for cruising, not tricks.
- Diameter: 61mm
- Contact Patch: 37mm
- Durometer: 78A
8. Bones ATF Rough Riders
Bones rough riders skateboard wheels
Bones ATF wheels are versatile. They’re suitable for bowls, cruising, and basic tricks. They’re a bit bouncy, but less so than other cruiser wheels. They are excellent for beginners who want to learn to ride before tackling technical tricks.
The 56mm size doesn’t require riser pads. I experienced wheel bite only when using them with GrindKing Trucks, which are super loose. They provide a fast, comfortable ride and are ideal for a hybrid cruiser trick setup. They are great for learning to ride without having to worry about pebbles and cracks blocking your wheels.
| Size (MM) | Width (MM) | Durometer | Contact Patch (MM) | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 56mm | 40 | 80A | 31 | Cruising, ollie curbs |
| 59mm | 40 | 80A | 33 | Cruising (1/8″ risers recommended) |
9. Fatty Hawgs 63mm – 78A
Hawgs wheels close up
Fatty Hawgs 63mm wheels are budget-friendly, durable, and decent for cruising, though not the best choice. Despite requiring more pushing than some other options, they maintain their momentum. They handle cracks and small objects easily, offering a relaxed ride and also handle gravel and patches of grass easily. The large 50mm contact patch makes them a stable choice for beginners, though they are not great for tricks. Be sure to add riser pads and compatible hardware.
- Diameter: 63mm
- Durometer: 78A
- Contact Patch: 50mm
Skateboard Cruiser Wheels Buying Guide
Choosing the right cruiser wheels can seem difficult at first, but by keeping a few basic rules in mind, you can find the perfect wheels for your riding style. The main points to consider are your intended use, the durometer of the wheels, and the diameter.
Skateboard Cruiser Wheel Brands
There are many brands that produce high-quality wheels, and it’s always a good idea to pick wheels from a reputable manufacturer. Cheaper brands use less durable materials and don’t offer the same consistent feel as quality brands.
Here are a few reliable brands to consider:
- Venom: Known for durable and reliable cruiser wheels.
- 88wheels: A good choice for both longboard and cruiser wheels.
- Santa Cruz: Their Slime Balls are great for cruising and tricks.
- 3dm: Offers a variety of slalom and cruiser wheels in many sizes.
Clearance to Prevent Wheel Bite
safe clearance skateboard no wheel bite
The precise clearance needed between your wheels and deck to avoid wheel bite is not an exact science. Typically, 60mm wheels and above will require risers.
The tightness of your trucks will also affect wheel bite. Loose trucks are more likely to cause it while tight trucks are safer but less carvy. The hardness of your bushings and your weight are other factors. Softer bushings are more turny but less stable.
It’s best to use bushings that support your weight, however, personal preference is important as well. Riser pads will provide extra clearance, and a good guideline to follow is 1/8″ or 1/4″ for 60mm wheels and 1/2″ for wheels bigger than 60mm. Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline and not every setup is the same.
Riser Pads and Hardware
If you plan on using 58mm or bigger wheels, then consider adding riser pads or 1/8″ shock pads. Most skateboard decks are 7-ply, but some are different and will need different bolt sizes.
The table below provides the correct hardware lengths for different riser sizes and standard decks:
| Riser Size | 1/8in | 1/4in | 1/2in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware (7-Ply) | 1 1/8″ | 1 1/4″ – 1 1/2″ | 1 1/2″ – 2″ |
| Hardware (8/9-Ply) | 1 1/4″ – 1 1/2″ | 1 1/2 “- 2” | 2 “- 2 1/2” |
Make sure that your hardware is not too long (it might get stuck on ledges) and also not too short (your trucks won’t be attached properly).
Contact Patch
The contact patch is the flat part of the wheel that touches the ground. A larger contact patch enhances stability but reduces carviness and makes sliding more challenging. Wide contact patches are great for a stable ride, especially on rough surfaces.
Smaller setups often benefit from larger contact patches because of the increased stability, and wider setups can handle both smaller and larger contact patches.
The size of your deck and the width of your trucks will also affect stability. Contact patch sizes vary per brand and wheel type. A smaller contact patch like the one that Ricta Clouds offer, makes your ride less stable, but it can be easier for tricks.
Hardness (Durometer)
The durometer of the wheel is very important for the overall ride feel. Soft wheels make for a smoother ride and handle rough surfaces much better. A safe range for cruising is between 78A and 92A.
78A cruiser wheels provide the smoothest ride but they are not ideal for tricks. If you plan on doing tricks, pick wheels between 86A and 92A. Softer wheels will bounce while performing tricks, making it more difficult to land. If you ride on rough terrain and want to focus on tricks, 92A wheels are a good choice.
Size
Larger wheels require less pushing, but accelerate slower. Smaller wheels accelerate much faster but will require more pushing.
60mm to 65mm wheels are ideal for cruising. Smaller wheels will require you to push more often, and they are not ideal for long commutes. Larger wheels need risers for clearance.
Bearings
You can’t ride far without quality bearings, but you don’t necessarily need to spend a lot. Zealous bearings are great for cruising, they require some time to break in, accelerate a bit slower but maintain momentum for longer. Standard bearings from Bones or Bronson are also fine, just ignore ABEC ratings and avoid cheap, unbranded bearings.
Do You Need New Trucks?
regular skateboards converted into cruisers
You probably don’t need new trucks unless you are using very large wheels. The tightness of your trucks and the hardness of your bushings are factors to consider as well.
Loose trucks and wheels larger than 59mm or 60mm may result in wheel bite. Always add risers if needed.
The image above shows setup 1 which has 63mm Hawgs wheels and 1/2″ risers in the back. The difference in clearance is very clear and adding risers would be a good idea. Setup 2 has 56mm Ricta Cloud wheels, so no risers are needed here.
Cheap cruiser skateboard
This setup uses 60mm OJ’s and performs great. It’s a bit bouncy for tricks but is a perfect budget-friendly cruiser setup.
So, even with 60mm wheels, you don’t always need riser pads, especially with tighter trucks. It will depend on your weight and how you tweak your trucks.
custom cruiser trick setup close up
The image above shows an example of wheel bite with 56mm wheels due to soft bushings and loose trucks. In this case, 1/8″ or 1/4″ risers would fix the issue.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cruiser wheels is quite simple once you understand the main factors involved. You’ll generally need larger, softer wheels, and will need to consider your environment and riding style. Softer wheels are ideal for rough surfaces, while larger wheels are great for long distances.
While there are many great options on the market, any wheel in the 60mm to 65mm range with a hardness of 75A to 86A will work great for cruising. Be sure to buy from reputable brands and avoid cheap, unbranded options.
Ruben vee
Written by Ruben Vee
I’m an experienced skateboarder that enjoys sharing my love for skateboarding. I’ve been skateboarding for 25 years and still ride regularly. I am a huge fan of skateboard gear and I love to test different equipment and share my findings.
