7 Best Skateboard Wheels of 2025

The Spitfire Burner wheels deliver a masterclass in controlled aggression—engineered for skaters who demand both grip and slide without compromise. With a 99a durometer and a unique SFM Bighead profile, these wheels offer a wider contact patch for maximum traction, while the treaded surface ensures predictable release during slides and grinds. Their medium profile strikes a near-perfect balance, making them responsive on transition and stable on flat ground—ideal for park rippers and street dominators alike.

In real-world testing, the Burners shine on smooth concrete, pool coping, and skatepark transitions, where their hardness bites into surfaces without chattering. The 99a urethane is stiff enough to maintain speed and rebound quickly after impacts, yet supple enough to avoid being overly grabby. They handle high-speed runs and technical ledge work with confidence, though they can feel a bit harsh on rough pavement—a trade-off for their precision-focused design. For transition skaters, these wheels are a revelation, offering predictable drifts and solid lock-ins on coping.

Compared to the Powell Peralta Nano Cubic Dragons, the Burners prioritize consistency and durability over novelty, making them a go-to for purists and pros. Where the Dragons flirt with experimental grip, the Burners deliver reliable, no-nonsense performance that’s trusted in competitions. They’re less forgiving than softer wheels like the NONMON 60mm 78A, but that’s by design—they’re built for technical mastery, not casual cruising. If you’re chasing precision and speed in parks or pools, the Burners outclass most mid-range wheels in control and longevity.

The Powell Peralta Nano Cubic Dragons are a game-changer for technical tricksters, blending sci-fi design with street-smart functionality. Their 97A Dragon Formula urethane is engineered for maximum versatility, offering slick performance on ledges, explosive pop off curbs, and buttery grinds in bowls. The dual-lip design—outer lip for stability, inner lip for grab—is a stroke of genius, letting you lock into grinds with confidence while protecting axle nuts from impact damage.

On the pavement, these 52mm wheels feel snappy and responsive, perfect for street skaters who need quick acceleration and pop. The inner lip digs into obstacles like coping and ledges, making tricks like Coconut Wheelies and up-curbs feel almost intuitive. They roll fast in bowls and parks thanks to the forgiving yet firm 97A compound, but they can struggle slightly on very rough asphalt, where their precision edges may chatter. Still, their multi-terrain adaptability—from slick transitions to gritty streets—makes them a standout.

When stacked against the Spitfire Burners, the Dragons trade a bit of raw grip for enhanced technical grip and grind control. They’re not quite as fast in long transitions, but they excel in street tech, where grabbing and releasing matters more than pure speed. These wheels are tailor-made for park-to-street skaters and competition riders who need a wheel that does more than just roll. Compared to budget options, they justify their premium build with longevity, innovation, and pro-level feedback—a true investment in performance.

The Spitfire Bighead 52mm 99a + Bones Reds bundle is the ultimate all-in-one upgrade for serious skaters who want pro-level performance without the hassle of sourcing parts. Combining Spitfire’s legendary 99a Bighead wheels with Bones Reds bearings, this set delivers explosive speed, durability, and precision right out of the box. The medium profile and wide contact zone offer stellar grip on ramps and smooth transitions, while the 99a hardness ensures minimal deformation under hard landings.

In real-world use, this combo dominates in park and street environments, where speed retention and pop are critical. The Bones Reds bearings spin fast and stay protected from grime, reducing friction and maintaining momentum through repeated grinds and slides. The wheels handle high-impact drops and fast transitions with confidence, though they can feel less forgiving on cracked sidewalks—a common trait of high-durometer wheels. For skaters who ride bowl, vert, or technical street lines, this bundle is a no-brainer for reliability and performance.

Next to the NONMON 52mm 95A, this setup is in a completely different league—precision-engineered versus entry-level functional. While the NONMONs are decent for beginners, the Spitfire-Bones combo offers pro-grade consistency and speed that serious skaters depend on. It’s not the cheapest option, but the integration of two industry-standard components makes it a smarter long-term investment. If you’re building a high-performance setup, this bundle delivers maximum synergy between wheel and bearing for a seamless ride.

The NONMON 52mm 95A wheels punch far above their price tag, offering lightweight agility and surprising performance for beginner to intermediate skaters focused on street tricks and park sessions. With a 95A durometer and 30mm width, these wheels strike a smart balance—soft enough to absorb minor bumps, firm enough to pop off ledges with authority. The pre-installed ABEC-9 bearings spin smoothly right out of the box, making this one of the most accessible complete setups for new riders.

On smooth surfaces like skatepark concrete or clean sidewalks, these wheels deliver snappy acceleration and reliable grip, ideal for ollies, kickflips, and small grinds. The grippy edge helps during downhill runs or sharp turns, though they can drag slightly on deep carves due to their narrower profile. They’re not built for high-speed bowls or rough terrain, but for urban skating and beginner tricks, they perform admirably. The lightweight design enhances maneuverability, letting skaters feel more connected to their board.

Compared to the Spitfire Burners or Powell Peralta Dragons, the NONMONs are clearly budget-focused, but they hold their own as a starter wheel for learners. They lack the refined urethane and durability of premium options, but for the price, they offer solid value and hassle-free setup. Perfect for teens, new skaters, or anyone building a second board without breaking the bank. While they won’t match the longevity or precision of $50+ wheels, they’re a smart entry point that doesn’t sacrifice core functionality.

The 60mm 92a cruiser wheels redefine effortless mobility for skaters who prioritize smooth rolling and all-around usability over trick performance. With a larger diameter and moderate 92a hardness, these wheels glide over cracks, pebbles, and sidewalk joints with a comfortable, stable ride—perfect for commuting, casual carving, or long-distance pushing. The pre-installed precision bearings ensure immediate roll-out, eliminating setup friction for new riders.

In real-world use, these wheels excel at absorbing vibrations and maintaining momentum, making them ideal for urban cruising and light park laps. Their size offers a natural speed boost without requiring constant pushing, and the 92a urethane provides enough grip for mild downhill runs while resisting flatspotting. They’re not designed for technical tricks—too bulky for grinds, too slow for pop—but they’re versatile enough to handle skatepark transitions, bike paths, and sidewalk routes. The only real limitation is reduced maneuverability on tight streets or crowded areas.

Compared to the NONMON 60mm 78A LEDs, these wheels trade light-up flair for reliability and grip, making them a more serious choice for daytime riders who want performance over aesthetics. They’re less bouncy than 78A wheels but don’t match their shock absorption—a middle ground between speed and comfort. For skaters upgrading from small street wheels, this set offers a dramatic improvement in ride quality without overcomplicating the experience. It’s the practical, no-frills upgrade that makes every push more enjoyable.

The NONMON 60mm 78A LED wheels are a visual and functional standout for night riders and casual cruisers who want safety, style, and smooth rolling in one package. With a soft 78A durometer, these wheels glide over rough terrain like a longboard, absorbing cracks and bumps with ease—making them perfect for evening commutes or neighborhood rides. The real magic? Three LED lights embedded in each core, which activate automatically with motion and cast a bright blue glow, drastically improving visibility after dark.

On real pavement, these wheels deliver a plush, forgiving ride ideal for beginners and relaxed skaters. The 78A PU material offers excellent rebound and shock absorption, while the ABEC-9 bearings ensure quiet, smooth rolling—no grinding or drag. They’re not built for tricks or high-speed runs, but they handle cruising, carving, and light park use with confidence. The LEDs last for hours and require no charging, though they don’t add structural strength. For parents or teens, these wheels offer fun and function in one flashy package.

Against the 92a 60mm non-LED set, these prioritize comfort and visibility over grip and speed, making them a niche but valuable option. They’re softer and slower to accelerate, but that’s part of their charm—they’re meant for chill rides, not competitions. Compared to trick-focused wheels like the Powell Peralta Dragons, they’re in a different universe—leisure versus performance. Yet for nighttime safety and beginner-friendly roll, they outshine most budget cruisers. If you skate after sunset or want a fun, low-pressure ride, these are a brilliant blend of utility and flair.