Best Longboard Wheels for Cruising: Smooth Rides for Intermediate Riders

Yo! If you've been riding a longboard for a bit now and wanna level up your cruising game, the wheels you choose make a HUGE difference.

Key Takeaways

Introduction: Finding Your Perfect Cruising Wheels

Yo! If you've been riding a longboard for a bit now and wanna level up your cruising game, the wheels you choose make a HUGE difference. I've been bombing hills and cruising streets for over a decade, and lemme tell you - the right wheels can transform a bumpy, annoying ride into buttah-smooth cruising bliss.

The thing is, most beginners don't realize that wheels are prolly the most important component affecting how your board feels when cruising. Your trucks and deck matter too, but wheels? They're literally where the rubber meets the road (or polyurethane, to be exact).

In this guide, I'll break down everything you need to know about picking the perfect cruising wheels, from size and durometer to core placement and brands. No BS marketing speak—just real advice from someone who's rolled through thousands of miles and gone through more wheel sets than I care to admit. Let's roll!

Understanding Wheel Basics: Size, Durometer, and Shape

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let's get you clued up on the basics of longboard wheels. This stuff isn't complicated, but knowing these fundamentals will help you make better choices based on your specific cruising style.

Wheel Size (Diameter)

Wheel diameter is measured in millimeters (mm) and typically ranges from 65mm to 75mm for cruising longboards. Here's the deal with size:

• Smaller wheels (65-70mm): Accelerate faster, weigh less, but don't maintain speed as well
• Larger wheels (70-75mm): Roll over cracks and pebbles easier, hold speed longer, but accelerate slower
• Extra large wheels (75mm+): Maximum momentum for distance pushing and rough terrain, but may require risers to prevent wheel bite

For most cruising situations, I've found that 70mm wheels hit the sweet spot. They're big enough to handle typical sidewalk cracks but not so huge that your board feels sluggish. When I switched from 65mm to 70mm for my daily campus commute, the difference was night and day—especially on those garbage roads around my neighborhood.

Durometer (Hardness)

Durometer measures how hard or soft your wheels are, usually on the "A" scale for longboards. The lower the number, the softer the wheel:

• Soft wheels (78a-82a): Grippy, shock-absorbing, ideal for cruising on rough surfaces
• Medium wheels (83a-87a): Balance between grip and slide, good for varied terrain
• Hard wheels (88a+): Slick, slide easily, less grip but faster on smooth surfaces

For pure cruising, you can't go wrong with wheels in the 78a-82a range. They'll absorb vibrations from rough pavement and provide the grip you need for carving. I used to ride harder wheels (like 86a) and always wondered why my feet were numb after a 20-minute ride. Switched to 80a wheels and problem solved!

Contact Patch and Lip Profile

The contact patch is the part of the wheel that actually touches the ground:

• Wider contact patches (45-55mm): More stability, grip, and control at speed
• Narrower contact patches (35-45mm): More maneuverable, easier to slide

Wheel lips also affect performance:

• Square lips: Maximum grip, ideal for cruising and carving
• Rounded lips: Easier to break into controlled slides

For pure cruising, square-lipped wheels with a medium-to-wide contact patch give you the most comfy, stable ride. I learned this the hard way after buying some round-lipped freeride wheels when I first started—they were squirrely as hell for just cruising around!

Top Wheel Recommendations for Cruising

Alright, now for the good stuff—specific wheel recommendations based on my experience and what's currently killing it in the longboard scene.

Best Overall Cruising Wheels

1. Orangatang Kegel (80mm, 80a)

   • Massive diameter for rolling over anything
   • Supportive core for maintaining speed
   • Downside: You'll def need risers to avoid wheel bite

2. Sector 9 Nine Balls (70mm, 78a)

   • 
   • Classic cruising wheel with proven performance
   • Super smooth and grippy
   • Available in multiple colors to match your setup

3. Blood Orange Morgan Pro (70mm, 80a)

   • 
   • Excellent balance of grip and roll speed
   • Consistent quality and performance
   • Slightly more expensive but worth it

4. Shark Wheel (70mm, 78a)

   • 
   • Unique sine-wave pattern claims to handle debris better
   • Definitely a conversation starter
   • Mixed real-world performance (some love 'em, some don't)

My personal fave? I've been riding the Orangatang Blue Caguamas (85mm, 77a) for the past year, and they're insanely good for cruising over terrible sidewalks. But realistically, the Sector 9 Nine Balls are probably the best balance of performance and price for most cruisers.

Budget-Friendly Options

Not everyone wants to drop $50+ on wheels, I get it. Some solid budget options include:

1. Punked Cruiser (70mm, 78a)

   • Around $30 for a set
   • Decent quality for the price
   • Good starter wheel for intermediate riders

2. Retrospec Wheels (70mm, 78a)

   • Affordable at around $25-30
   • Smooth ride for the price point
   • Won't last as long as premium options

I started on budget wheels years ago, and they're totally fine for getting started. You'll notice the difference when you upgrade, but don't feel like you need to spend big bucks right away.

How Wheel Size Affects Your Cruising Experience

Let's talk more bout wheel size cuz it's prolly the most important factor for cruising. I've tested wheels from tiny 65mm up to massive 85mm monsters, and the difference is dramatic.

The Benefits of Going Bigger

Bigger wheels (70mm+) offer some serious advantages for cruising:

1. Momentum maintenance - Once you get rolling, larger wheels keep their speed way better. This means less pushing and more cruising.

2. Obstacle handling - Bigger wheels roll over sticks, cracks, and pebbles that would stop smaller wheels dead. If you've ever been thrown off your board by a tiny rock, you know how important this is!

3. Rough terrain capability - The bigger your wheels, the more roughness they can absorb. Those nasty sidewalk cracks and uneven pavements become much less problematic.

When I upgraded from 65mm to 80mm wheels for my daily commute, my pushing frequency literally cut in half. Those extra millimeters made me so much more efficient.

The Downsides of Large Wheels

It ain't all sunshine and rainbows with big wheels tho:

1. Wheel bite risk - Larger wheels are more likely to contact your deck during turns, causing dreaded wheel bite. You might need riser pads or a deck with wheel cutouts.

2. Slower acceleration - Physics doesn't lie—bigger wheels take more effort to get moving from a standstill.

3. Higher ride height - Larger wheels raise your center of gravity, which can make your setup feel less stable for beginners.

I once put 83mm wheels on a drop-through deck without risers (rookie mistake) and got some gnarly wheel bite that sent me flying the first time I carved hard. Learn from my mistakes—make sure your setup can handle the wheel size you choose!

Finding Your Size Sweet Spot

For most intermediate cruisers, the sweet spot is around 70-75mm. This size gives you most of the benefits of larger wheels without too many drawbacks. If your routes involve lots of rough pavement or longer distances, lean toward 75mm+. If you're doing more maneuvering through tight spaces or want a more responsive feel, stick closer to 70mm.

Remember that 70mm Longboard Wheels are widely available from most brands, giving you plenty of options in your preferred durometer and color.

Understanding Durometer for Cruising Comfort

Durometer (wheel hardness) is measured on the Shore A scale for longboards, and it's super important for your cruising comfort. Lemme break it down in practical terms.

Soft Wheels (75a-82a): Cruising Champions

For pure cruising, softer wheels are usually better because:

• They absorb road vibration, reducing foot fatigue
• They provide more grip for carving and turning
• They handle rough surfaces better

The tradeoff? Soft wheels are typically slower on smooth surfaces and wear down quicker. But for most cruising situations, these downsides are worth the comfort benefits.

I used to ride 86a wheels and thought the road vibration was just something you had to deal with. When I switched to 80a, it was like riding on a cloud in comparison. My feet didn't go numb on longer rides anymore!

Finding Your Comfort Zone

Here's a quick guide to help you pick the right durometer:

• 75a-78a: Ultra plush ride, maximum shock absorption. Great for really rough roads but wears faster.
• 78a-80a: The sweet spot for most cruising. Good balance of cushion and durability.
• 80a-83a: Slightly firmer but still comfortable. Better durability and a bit more speed on smooth surfaces.
• 83a+: Gets progressively less ideal for pure cruising, better for sliding or park riding.

The difference between durometers might seem subtle on paper, but you'll feel it immediately when riding. Just 2-3 points on the durometer scale can make a noticeable difference in how your board handles road imperfections.

Most of the best cruising wheels come in around 78a-80a, which isn't a coincidence—it's because that range works best for most riders and conditions. Brands like Blood Orange nail this range with their Morgan Pro series.

Core Types and Their Impact on Cruising

The core of your wheel—that plastic center part—affects performance more than most people realize. Let's talk bout the different core types and why they matter for cruising.

Core Placement

There are three main core positions:

1. Centerset: Core is centered in the wheel

   • Even wear when rotated
   • Versatile for all-around riding
   • Balanced grip and slide characteristics

2. Offset: Core is offset from center

   • More grip than centerset
   • Common in cruising wheels
   • Slightly directional feel

3. Sideset: Core is pushed to one side

   • Most grip when mounted normally
   • Least common for cruising wheels
   • Most directional feel

For cruising, offset cores typically work best—they give you good grip when carving while still rolling efficiently. Most premium cruising wheels like Orangatang Kegels and Blood Orange Morgan Pros use offset cores.

Core Size and Support

Cores also vary in size and design:

• Large cores: Maintain shape better, lighter weight, faster acceleration
• Small cores: More urethane for cushioning, slower acceleration, potentially smoother ride

For cruising over distance, wheels with moderately large cores (like Orangatang's Happy Thane series) give you good roll speed while still providing cushioning. Super small cores can feel sluggish for pushing longer distances.

Specialty Cores

Some wheels take core design to another level:

• Vented cores: Help dissipate heat during slides (not as important for pure cruising)
• Reinforced cores: Extra spokes or support structures for durability
• Shark Wheel's sine-wave design: Claims to shed water and debris better (results vary)

For serious cruising, I've found that standard offset cores with good support work great. No need to get too fancy unless you're dealing with special conditions like frequent wet riding.

Best Brands for Cruising Wheels

After years of testing different wheels and talking with other longboarders, I've developed some strong opinions on which brands consistently deliver great cruising wheels. Here's my rundown of the top contenders:

Orangatang

Orangatang is basically the gold standard for cruising wheels. They're not the cheapest, but the quality and performance are consistently excellent. Their "Happy Thane" urethane formula has an almost perfect balance of grip, roll speed, and durability.

Top picks:

• Caguama (85mm) - The ultimate rough-road crusher
• Kegel (80mm) - Slightly more nimble but still great roll speed
• 4President (70mm) - Perfect all-around cruiser

I've personally put thousands of miles on various Orangatang wheels, and they just work. My blue Caguamas (77a) have lasted over a year of regular riding and still look decent.

Sector 9

Sector 9's wheel lineup is more affordable than Orangatang while still delivering great performance. Their Nine Ball wheels are classics in the cruising category.

Top picks:

• Nine Ball (70mm, 78a) - Classic cruiser with proven performance
• Race Formula (70mm, 80a) - Slightly faster and more durable for daily use

I started on Sector 9 wheels years ago, and they remain some of the best value options out there. Not quite as refined as Orangatang, but definitely solid performers.

Blood Orange

Blood Orange has made a strong name for themselves with their Morgan Pro wheels, which come in various sizes perfect for cruising.

Top picks:

• Morgan Pro (70mm, 80a) - Excellent balance of grip and roll
• Liam Morgan (65mm, 80a) - Slightly smaller for more responsive setups

My buddy swears by his Blood Orange wheels for campus cruising. They seem to have slightly better grip in corners than my Orangatangs, but don't roll quite as efficiently over distance.

Shark Wheel

These weird-looking sine-wave wheels definitely stand out from the crowd. The jury's still out on whether their unique design actually delivers real benefits, but many cruisers swear by them.

Top picks:

• DNA (72mm, 78a) - Their standard cruising option
• Sidewinder (70mm, 78a) - Slightly more grip-focused

I've tried Shark Wheels, and they definitely handle small pebbles differently than traditional wheels. Not sure they're worth the premium price, but they do look cool and perform decently well.

Budget Options: Remember Collective and Punked

For those watching their wallet, Remember Collective's Savannah Slammas and Punked's Cruiser wheels offer good performance at lower price points. They won't last as long as premium options, but they'll get the job done.

Maintenance Tips for Longboard Wheels

One of the most underrated aspects of wheel performance is proper maintenance. With some basic care, you can extend the life of your wheels and keep em rolling smooth for much longer.

Rotation for Even Wear

Just like with car tires, rotating your longboard wheels regularly helps them wear evenly:

1. Wheels wear differently based on your stance and pushing style
2. Aim to rotate wheels every 15-20 hours of riding
3. For standard cruising, swap front to back and keep on the same side

My system is simple: I mark one wheel with a tiny dot and rotate my wheels every few weeks. It takes like 5 minutes but can double your wheel life.

Cleaning for Performance

Clean wheels roll faster and perform better:

1. Remove wheels and bearings
2. Wipe wheels with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris
3. Use soap and water for stubborn grime (avoid harsh chemicals)
4. Let wheels dry completely before remounting

I've seen some people never clean their wheels and wonder why they slow down over time. A good cleaning can make old wheels feel new again.

When to Replace

Even the best wheels don't last forever. Signs it's time for new wheels:

1. Coning (wheels becoming cone-shaped) beyond 3-4mm
2. Flat spots that you can feel while riding
3. Chunking or tearing of the urethane
4. Visible core through worn urethane
5. Diameter reduced by more than 8-10mm from original size

My rule of thumb: When the diameter has decreased by about 8mm from the original size, it's usually time to treat yourself to new wheels. You'll immediately notice the difference when you put fresh wheels on.

Storage Tips

Proper storage helps prevent wheel damage:

1. Store wheels away from direct sunlight (UV damages urethane)
2. Avoid extreme temperatures (don't leave your board in a hot car)
3. Store your board with wheels off the ground if possible

I learned this the hard way after leaving a board in my car trunk during summer. The wheels developed flat spots just from sitting there under the weight of the board in the heat!

Conclusion: Roll with Confidence

Choosing the right cruising wheels makes a massive difference in your longboarding experience. To recap the key points:

• Size matters: 70-75mm is the sweet spot for most cruising
• Stay soft: 78a-82a durometer provides the cushioned ride you want
• Consider terrain: Rougher roads = larger, softer wheels
• Quality counts: Premium brands like Orangatang, Sector 9, and Blood Orange are worth the investment
• Core matters: Offset cores with good support strike the right balance for cruising

My personal recommendation for most intermediate cruisers would be either the Orangatang 4President (70mm, 80a) for a versatile all-arounder or the Sector 9 Nine Balls (70mm, 78a) if you're more budget-conscious. Both will dramatically improve your cruising experience compared to stock wheels.

Remember that your perfect wheel depends on your specific riding style, local terrain, and personal preferences. Don't be afraid to experiment—each set of wheels has a slightly different feel, and finding your perfect match is part of the fun of longboarding!

FAQ: Common Questions About Cruising Wheels

Do bigger wheels always mean a better cruising experience?

Not necessarily. While bigger wheels (70mm+) generally roll over obstacles better and maintain speed longer, they also increase your ride height, which can affect stability. They may also cause wheel bite on some setups. For most cruising, 70-75mm wheels offer the best balance of performance without causing setup issues.

How long should longboard wheels last?

With proper rotation and care, quality longboard wheels should last 6-12 months of regular riding. Factors affecting lifespan include your weight, riding style, road surfaces, and wheel quality. Premium wheels from brands like Orangatang typically last longer than budget options.

Can I use slide wheels for cruising?

You can, but it's not ideal. Slide-focused wheels typically have harder durometers (86a+) and rounded lips, which means less grip and more road vibration transferred to your feet. They'll work for cruising, but you'll have a more comfortable ride with dedicated cruising wheels (78a-82a with square lips).

How do I prevent wheel bite with larger cruising wheels?

There are several options:

1. Add riser pads between your trucks and deck
2. Tighten your trucks slightly (though this limits turning ability)
3. Choose a deck with wheel wells or cutouts
4. Use drop-through mounting for lower ride height

Are light-up wheels good for cruising?

Light-up wheels like the Shark Wheel Firefly models are fun and increase visibility at night, but they typically don't perform quite as well as dedicated cruising wheels. The LED mechanism creates some internal resistance. They're fine for casual cruising but not ideal for performance or distance.

What's the difference between cruising wheels and downhill wheels?

Cruising wheels prioritize comfort and obstacle clearance with softer durometers (78a-82a) and moderate sizes (65-75mm). Downhill wheels focus on grip and stability at speed, often with wider contact patches, larger diameters (70-80mm), and supporting cores for high-speed stability. There's some overlap, but they're optimized for different purposes.

Do wheel colors affect performance?

In some urethane formulas, color can slightly affect performance. Generally, lighter colors (white, yellow) tend to be slightly harder than stated, while darker colors (blue, green, black) can be slightly softer. The difference is subtle and varies by manufacturer. Choose based on performance specs first, aesthetics second.