Quad Wheel Basics - Advice from Adrian Wordsworth

'Adrian Wordsworth of AW Speed Skating - 21 times individual and 5 times team British Champion'

My friends at Oli's Skate Shop often get asked by their customers which wheels are best. So rather than just say a particular brand or model of wheel is best, I'll try to explain all of the variables which you should consider before making your choice.

Wheels come in many sizes, colours, hardnesses, with various core designs and materials. Each of which can make a difference on how the wheel performs and how it feels to skate on.

Quad speed skaters try out many different wheel types on race day to find the best set up for a particular track, often mixing different hardnesses for the optimum amount of grip in the corners and roll in the straights.

Here are the basics-

Size - simply a smaller wheel (anything less than 60mm) will accelerate faster than a big wheel but ultimately won't roll as fast as a bigger wheel. Bigger wheels (62mm plus) will have a higher top speed but will take more effort to get going. If you want to zip around the pack, stopping and starting then a smaller wheel may suit you, whereas if you're all about jamming speed then a bigger wheel may be better for you. If you want the best all rounder then something around 60mm - 62mm would be a sensible choice. Width can also be a factor with a wider wheel having more contact area for better grip.

Similar diameter 62mm (left) and 63mm (right) but dramatic difference in width

Colour - yes, colour can make a difference. 2 wheels, identical in every way except colour can skate differently. A dark colour (especially black) will heat up in use more than a light colour, causing it to grip more and possibly drag more. Generally, I'd go for a lighter colour wheel unless the track is really slippery. You'll notice all the wheels in the picture at the top of the page are relatively light in colour and that's the reason – reduced heat and more roll.

Hardness - generally a soft wheel (85a - 88a) will grip but won't roll as fast as a harder wheel (94a - 98a). Harder wheels won't grip as well as softer ones. This is where you'll need to think about the track surface you'll be using them on. If its slippery, then softer wheels are for you, whereas if it's grippy then go for harder ones for more speed. Also, if you're the kind of skater who likes a bit of slide when moving round the pack, then a harder wheel may suit you better. If you're thinking of skating outdoors then 78a would help absorb the bumps on rougher surface.

Rebound - not often considered but if you take 2 wheels of identical hardness and drop them onto a hard surface, the one which bounces highest has the best rebound. Cheaper wheels tend to have less rebound and can feel dead. A better rebound usually means better roll whilst retaining good grip when comparing 2 similar hardness wheels.

Metal core vs plastic core – lighter weight for better agility and acceleration 

Core design and material - there are 2 materials used for the majority of cores or hubs. Plastic and aluminium. Plastic hubs tend to be more compliant, lighter, and cheaper, which makes it an excellent material for the majority of uses. Aluminium hubs make for a much more rigid wheel, and can be really fast when mated to a good urethane tyre. The downside of a metal core is cost and weight. They can also be a little harsh on anything other than an absolutely smooth track. The shape of the core can also make a difference to how a wheel feels in the corners, and my preference is to have a core which isn't the full width of the wheel, leaving a bit of the urethane sticking out beyond the core for a bit of flex.

Full width core (right) vs overlapped urethane lip for more grip in the corners

So you've done your homework, thought about which size, hardness, colour, and core suit your style of skating and the track surface you want to use them on, what else will help you make that all important choice. I'd recommend you try before you buy, if you have a friend who will let you borrow some. Also, a recommendation from a team mate or coach can help narrow your short list, but trying them is the best way to make sure they're right for you.

You'll notice I've purposely avoided naming a wheel brand as a recommendation, because wheels are constantly under development and there will always be the hot wheel of the moment but the basics will generally apply to any wheel choice.

I hope this helps and good luck with your next set of wheels !