Roller Skate Wheels / Quad Skate Wheels

What Distinguishes Roller Skate Wheels?

Roller skate wheels, or quad wheels, are broader and provide a greater contact area than inline skate wheels, delivering enhanced balance for skaters. Each roller skate wheel possesses unique characteristics, spanning various sizes, hardness levels and shapes. The wheel's diameter or height is gauged in millimetres (mm), typically ranging from 55mm to 65mm. The hardness, otherwise referred to as the durometer, is assessed on the A-scale, with values spanning from 74A (extremely soft) to 105A (extremely hard).

Which Size Roller Skate Wheels Should I Choose?

When selecting the size of your new quad skate wheels, much depends on your specific skating preference. Skating styles are generally classified into two broad types: Indoor Skating and Outdoor Skating.

For Indoor Skating, roller skate wheels are often small or medium, granting greater command and manoeuvrability within the rink. Rhythm skating typically sees wheels with a 62mm diameter and width of 35 to 44mm. For figure skaters, wheels measuring 55-65mm in diameter with a width of 30-31mm are preferred. Conversely, outdoor wheels are typically larger with a rounded surface, fostering stability. Standard outdoor wheel dimensions range from 55-65mm in diameter and about 40mm in width.

Hardness of Roller Skate Wheels: Indoor & Outdoor

Many indoor rhythm and figure skaters favour quite hard wheels that permit higher speeds on smooth surfaces, usually opting for a hardness between 97A and 103A. On the other hand, fitness quad skaters who venture outdoors often lean towards softer wheels to cushion impacts across varied terrains, typically ranging from 78A to 85A. Wheels for speed skating are harder than those intended for fitness, offering swifter rolling experiences on smooth urban paths. Speed roller skaters prefer wheel hardness between 95A and 98A.