This topic explains the concept of wheel durometer, which refers to the hardness of the wheel and how it affects the grip and durability of rollerblades.
What is Wheel Durometer: Wheel durometer refers to the hardness of the rubber used in making the wheels of rollerblades.
Measuring Wheel Durometer: The durometer rating is measured using a durometer gauge, which measures the hardness of the wheel material by pressing a metal tip into the rubber and measuring the depth of the resulting indentation.
Durometer Scale: There are various durometer scales used to measure the hardness of different materials, but the most commonly used scale for rollerblade wheels is the Shore A scale, which ranges from 0-100.
Wheel Performance: The durometer rating of a wheel affects its performance, particularly its grip and speed. Soft wheels provide better grip but slower speed, while hard wheels offer less grip but faster speed.
Wheel Size: The size of the wheels also plays a role in their performance. Larger wheels generally offer more speed while smaller wheels offer more maneuverability.
Wheel Profiles: Wheel profiles refer to the shape and design of the wheels, which can affect their performance and maneuverability.
Wheel Maintenance: Proper maintenance of rollerblade wheels is important for maximizing their lifespan and maintaining their performance. This includes regular cleaning and lubrication.
Personal Preferences: Ultimately, the best wheel durometer for a rollerblader depends on their personal preferences and intended use. Some prefer softer wheels for outdoor skating while others prefer harder wheels for indoor skating or aggressive inline skating.
Soft (70A-80A): These wheels are ideal for outdoor skating as they provide more grip and shock absorption. They're also suitable for beginners who need more stability.
Medium (82A-86A): These wheels are versatile and can be used for both indoor and outdoor skating. They offer a good balance of speed and grip.
Hard (88A-100A): These wheels are firmer and faster, making them ideal for indoor skating. They're not recommended for outdoor use as they provide less grip and are more prone to wear and tear.
Extra Hard (above 100A): These wheels are extremely hard and fast, often used by professionals for speed skating. Unless you're an experienced skater, these wheels are not recommended as they can be challenging to control.