Soft skateboard wheels are best for cruising because they absorb vibration, roll smoothly over rough surfaces, and provide better grip and control. Most cruisers prefer 78A wheels because their lower durometer rating allows them to handle cracks, pebbles, and uneven pavement with less resistance.
Many skaters start cruising with standard hard wheels and quickly face a problem. Sidewalk cracks feel harsh. Rough asphalt slows them down. Small stones stop the board suddenly. The ride becomes uncomfortable and unpredictable.
This is not just about comfort. It affects safety and control.
According to product testing data from major wheel manufacturers, wheels rated around 78A–85A absorb up to 30% more surface vibration compared to 99A street wheels. That translates to less foot fatigue and more consistent roll speed on uneven terrain.
If your goal is smooth transportation, campus riding, neighborhood cruising, or commuting, soft wheels solve a real problem. They are designed for movement across imperfect ground, not skateparks.
In this guide, you’ll learn how 78A wheels work, why smooth riding wheels matter, and how vibration reduction improves real-world performance.
What are 78A wheels and what does the durometer rating mean?
78A wheels are soft skateboard wheels measured on the durometer scale, where lower numbers mean softer urethane.
The durometer scale measures hardness. Most skateboard wheels range from 78A to 101A.
- 78A–87A: Soft wheels (ideal for cruising)
- 88A–95A: Hybrid or filmer wheels
- 96A–101A: Hard wheels (street and park skating)
Soft urethane compresses when it hits rough ground. That compression reduces shock transfer into your deck and legs. Hard wheels, on the other hand, bounce and skip across imperfections.
Case comparison:
| Wheel Type | Durometer | Best Surface | Ride Feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Wheel | 99A | Smooth concrete | Fast but harsh |
| Hybrid Wheel | 90A | Mixed terrain | Balanced |
| Cruiser Wheel | 78A | Rough pavement | Smooth and controlled |
The softer the wheel, the better the vibration reduction. That is why 78A wheels dominate the cruiser category.
How do soft wheels improve smooth riding on rough pavement?
Soft wheels improve smooth riding by deforming around small obstacles instead of bouncing off them.
Here’s what happens in real conditions:
1. Crack absorption
Sidewalk cracks cause hard wheels to stall. Soft wheels compress slightly and roll through.
2. Pebble resistance
Small debris is less likely to stop your board because the urethane flexes over it.
3. Reduced chatter
Chatter is the vibration you feel at higher speeds. Smooth riding wheels minimize this effect.
Independent testing by longboard communities has shown that soft cruiser wheels maintain momentum 12–18% better on rough asphalt compared to 99A wheels of the same size.
If you commute daily, that difference matters.
Why is vibration reduction important for cruising?
Vibration reduction improves comfort, stability, and long-distance endurance.
Every bump sends micro-shocks into your deck. Over time, those shocks cause:
- Foot fatigue
- Ankle strain
- Reduced control
- Lower riding confidence
Soft wheels act as the first suspension system of your skateboard.
Long-distance riders often report being able to cruise 2–3 miles farther with 78A wheels compared to harder setups. The reason is simple: less vibration equals less muscle fatigue.
For campus commuters and city riders, this is a practical upgrade, not a cosmetic one.
Are soft skateboard wheels slower than hard wheels?
Soft wheels are slightly slower on perfectly smooth surfaces but faster and more efficient on rough ground.
This is where many beginners misunderstand wheel performance.
On skatepark concrete, 99A wheels roll faster because there is minimal surface friction. But cruising rarely happens on perfect ground.
On rough asphalt, hard wheels lose momentum due to micro-bounces. Soft wheels maintain consistent ground contact, which improves roll efficiency.
In real commuting environments, soft wheels often feel faster because they maintain speed instead of constantly slowing down.
If your focus is transportation, not technical tricks, soft wheels win in real-world conditions.What wheel size works best with 78A wheels for cruising?
For cruising, 54mm–60mm soft wheels offer the best balance between speed and control.
- 54–56mm: Good for smaller boards and hybrid setups
- 57–60mm: Better roll speed and obstacle clearance
- 60mm+: More longboard-oriented cruising
Larger wheels increase roll speed and handle cracks more effectively. However, they may require riser pads to prevent wheel bite.
Most urban cruisers prefer 58mm 78A wheels as a balanced setup.
Are soft wheels good for beginners?
Yes. Soft skateboard wheels are ideal for beginners who want confidence and stability.
New skaters often ride on unpredictable surfaces. Hard wheels make every crack feel dangerous. Soft wheels reduce sudden stops and make learning balance easier.
Benefits for beginners:
- More forgiving ride
- Better grip when turning
- Less fear of rough pavement
- Smoother learning curve
When beginners feel stable, they practice more. Practice builds skill.
When should you avoid soft skateboard wheels?
Avoid soft wheels if your main focus is technical street tricks or skatepark performance.
Soft wheels have high grip. That grip makes powerslides harder and technical tricks less predictable.
For flip tricks and ledge skating, harder wheels (99A+) provide better slide control and pop response.
Many skaters use two setups:
- Hard wheels for skatepark
- 78A wheels for commuting
Choose based on your primary use.
Which smooth riding wheels are best for daily commuting?
The best smooth riding wheels for daily commuting are 78A cruiser wheels in the 56–60mm range.
If you want a detailed comparison of top-performing models, check this guide on 78A wheels.
When choosing wheels, consider:
- Durometer (78A–85A for cruising)
- Wheel diameter
- Contact patch width
- Core placement
Wider contact patches improve grip and stability. Offset cores provide better balance during turns.
For city streets, grip and comfort should be your priority.
How do soft wheels compare to longboard wheels?
Soft skateboard wheels and longboard wheels share similar durometer ratings, but longboard wheels are usually larger.
Longboard wheels typically range from 65mm to 75mm and also use 78A–80A urethane.
The difference is size and riding style.
- Cruiser skateboard wheels: compact and agile
- Longboard wheels: built for distance and downhill
If you want portability and city maneuverability, cruiser-sized soft wheels are better.
What real-world data supports using soft wheels for cruising?
Field testing consistently shows that softer wheels reduce vibration and improve ride efficiency on rough surfaces.
Community-based riding tests across mixed urban terrain found:
- Up to 25–30% reduction in perceived vibration
- Lower foot fatigue during 30-minute rides
- Improved stability at moderate cruising speeds
- Fewer sudden stops from debris
These findings align with urethane material science. Softer compounds absorb energy rather than reflect it.
That absorption is the core advantage of smooth riding wheels.
Conclusion: Should you switch to soft skateboard wheels for cruising?
If you cruise on sidewalks, rough asphalt, or city streets, soft skateboard wheels are a practical upgrade.
reduce vibration. maintain speed over imperfect terrain. increase comfort and control.
Hard wheels belong in skateparks. 78A wheels belong on real streets.
If you want a smoother commute, longer rides, and fewer interruptions from cracks and debris, switching to soft wheels makes sense.
Ready to upgrade your setup? Explore top-rated options and choose the right smooth riding wheels for your board today.
FAQ: Soft Skateboard Wheels for Cruising
Are 78A wheels too soft?
No. 78A wheels are ideal for cruising. They are soft enough for vibration reduction but firm enough for stability at moderate speeds.
Do soft wheels wear out faster?
Soft wheels can wear slightly faster than hard wheels on abrasive surfaces. However, for cruising use, they typically last several months to over a year depending on frequency.
Can I do tricks with soft wheels?
Basic tricks are possible, but technical street tricks are harder due to increased grip and reduced slide.
Do soft wheels need special bearings?
No. Standard skateboard bearings work with soft wheels as long as sizing matches.
Are bigger soft wheels better?
Bigger wheels roll over cracks more easily and maintain speed better. However, they may require risers to prevent wheel bite.
Are smooth riding wheels worth it for short commutes?
Yes. Even short rides feel more stable and comfortable with vibration reduction.
What’s the best wheel hardness for mixed terrain?
If you ride mixed surfaces, 80A–85A wheels offer a balance between cruising comfort and light trick capability.
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