With so many different types of wheels on the market, it’s hard to know which wheels are the best for hockey. Some brands I’ve used in the past are: Labeda, Hyper, and Kryptonics and I’ve had good experiences with all of them. I’ve also never paid more than $5/wheel.Width is standard for pretty much all wheels, so don’t worry about that. Changing your wheels will probably feel a little different and might take some getting used to, so don’t give up on them right away. Over time you will get a sense for how much traction you like, but you may need to experiment a little. To help narrow down the search, refer to the chart below.
| Example | Best for Hockey | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter (Size) | ||
 |
Larger (76mm-80mm) | Although larger wheels are slightly less stable, they are more efficient for speed. Compare the wheels of a BMX bike to those of a road bike. Be sure to check your chassis to make sure it will accommodate a larger wheel size. |
| Profile (Shape) | ||
 |
Narrower | A wheel with a more rounded shape is a better choice for hockey because it provides an edge similar to an ice hockey skate. A rounded wheel improves maneuverability and makes it easier to execute the sharp turns hockey demands. |
| Hub/Core | ||
 |
Solid | Playing hockey requires quick movements, jerks, and pivots that put a lot of stress on the wheels. If the core is weak the wheels can crack when a move is executed. Be careful when purchasing recreational wheels. They have a similar profile to hockey wheels but literally aren’t “hardcore” enough for hockey. |
| Durometer (Hardness) | ||
 |
Depends | Durometer is measure as an A rating and there is no right answer for what you should choose. It really depends on the surface your playing on. A harder wheel will last longer but sacrifices grip. Follow these guidelines to start. Asphalt: 82A-84A; Smooth Concrete: 78A-82A; Indoor: 74A-78A. |
After purchasing your new wheels be sure to keep them rotated to get the most life out of them.
Tags: skates
