Best Longboard Wheels For Sliding
Sliding is a fantastic technique to slow down on your longboard when going over 30mph. That said, learning to slide isn’t simple, so it’s important you choose wheels that make the process less difficult.
Hard longboard wheels, with a durometer over 90A, slide well but are best suited for technical or hard wheel sliding. They also tend to ice out unexpectedly. Longboard wheels with a durometer between 78A and 84A are in the best range for sliding. However, what are the best longboard wheels for sliding? Let’s find out.
Sector 9 Butterballs (70mm, 80A Durometer) – BEST VALUE
The buttery, gooey, buttery goodness of the Butterballs 70mm Sector 9 wheels is unrivaled. You can break into slides without any resistance because to their pre-ground surface and circular edges. The sector 9 butterballs have an 80A hardness, giving them just enough slip versus grip.
They grip up when you need them to, otherwise they are nicely smooth and consistent when sliding. You’ve found your wheel if you’re searching for a wheel that will leave huge gouge lines behind; get these bad boys out and hit the streets!
The Sector 9 Butterballs are an epic wheel for an amazing price.
Cloud Ride! Ozone (70mm, 83A Durometer) – TOP PICK
The Cloud Ride Ozone wheels are designed to be the finest center-set freeride wheel. These infants were created to slide with our famous urethane formulation. The large 37mm contact patch and 6mm rounded lip implies that they have plenty of slip, making them ideal for freeriding.
Every wheel that Cloud Ride builds is designed to last, and they’re committed to providing the best possible quality with an exceptional attention to detail. The Ozone’s circular lip will keep its form under pressure, allowing the wheel to break into a slide with ease. The Cloud-Thane makes nice lines as proof that you came, saw, and conquered whatever location you decided to shred.
Take a look at our top pick, the Cloud Ride! Ozone longboard wheels.
Orangatang Kegel (80mm, 80A Durometer) – LARGE DIAMETER
The original Orangatang urethane formula is smooth, plush, and grippy with a buttery-smooth slide. With a large 80mm diameter, the Kegels roll with breakneck speed and plow over cracks, rocks, sticks, and the roughest roads.
Designed for maximum speed and grip for downhill skateboard racing, sliding, hard carving, pumping, and long-distance pushing. The fully exposed 46mm core reduces weight while providing quick acceleration and crisp slides.
Get the Orangatang Kegel longboard wheels for a better sliding experience right now.
What Is The Best Wheel Size For Sliding?
The height or diameter of a longboard wheel is measured in inches. The width of a skateboard wheel is also important to consider. These wheels come in many different forms and sizes, from tiny 60mm alternatives to ones as big as 100mm. Skateboard wheels are smaller, with diameters ranging from 48mm to 60mm.
Wheels with a larger diameter roll faster than smaller ones. Larger longboard wheels are also better at absorbing shocks when traveling over cracks, rocks, and other obstructions. In contrast, smaller wheels are superior at generating speed.
The ideal wheel size for sliding purposes is between 70mm and 75mm. In the end, however, the appropriate diameter for a rider is a matter of personal taste.
Best Longboard Sliding Gloves
If you actually plan on sliding on your longboard then you definitely need some longboard sliding gloves. Without them you could really injure your hands.
Longboard gloves improve sports safety and are required for breaking, turning, and racing. Longboarding is about sliding, dancing, drifting, and getting speed. The function of longboard gloves in these sports is critical!
The LOSENKA Longboard Gloves are the best bang for your buck when it comes to longboard gloves.
Features of LOSENKA Longboard Gloves:
- Made from microfiber leather
- Adjustable
- The back of the gloves are made of silicone, which provides good shock absorption
- When sliding, the circular slider does not get stuck, and the sliding direction may be controlled at the user’s will
If you are dissatisfied for any reason, you may get a full refund within 30 days of making the purchase. For any manufacturing defect, there is a 1-year full replacement warranty. Check these longboard gloves out.
Can You Slide On Any Longboard Wheels?
Technically, any longboard wheels may be slid on, however certain types of wheels will make sliding easier and need less force. Downhill and freeriding wheels are excellent choices, as are any other wheels with a radiused lip and less ground contact.
As a general rule, the best longboard wheels for sliding are those that have a soft urethane and plenty of grip. Wheels with a smaller diameter will also be better at initiating slides. Soft wheels like the Orangatang Stimulus can be great for freeriding, while harder downhill wheels like the Sector Nine Race Formula can provide more speed and durability when traveling over rough terrain.
So what’s the best longboard wheel for sliding? It really depends on your personal preference and riding style! Experiment with different types of wheels to see what works best for you. And don’t forget to protect your hands with some good longboard gloves!
Longboard Sliding Technique
The following are the first steps in learning how to powerslide on your longboard:
- Begin by putting some speed on flat ground or a minor slope.
- Make a little toeside pre-turn by pushing on your front rail.
- Begin a sharp heelside turn by lowering your body weight.
- As you rotate, use your back foot to push your board 90 degrees across.
- In this position, straighten your legs, swing your shoulders, lean back, and slide.
- To stop the slide, release the pressure on your back foot and sink your weight into the front.
Powersliding appears to be complicated at first. It’s a highly technical movement that you may practice and learn in a safe and gradual manner.
Conclusion
Sliding is an essential part of longboarding, and choosing the right wheels can make all the difference. Larger diameter wheels are better at absorbing shocks, while smaller wheels are faster and more maneuverable.
- The best wheel size for sliding is between 70mm and 75mm.
- Longboard gloves are a must-have for anyone who plans on doing any serious sliding.
- Any type of longboard wheel can be slid on, but some will perform better than others.
Experiment to find what works best for you! And remember – be safe and have fun!
