How to Select a Roller Hockey Wheel

The wheel size, playing surface, and the player's weight should all be considered when buying roller hockey wheels. Check out our quick video that will help guide you to the wheels that will best fit your needs!

The first important step is to know the size of roller hockey wheels that properly fit your skates. Take a look at what you have on and make sure to buy the exact same size. Roller hockey wheels range from 47mm – 80mm. 47mm wheels are generally for small children and 80mm are for adults.

Most skates have a wheel setup that uses all the same size but there are exceptions. For example, Bauer and Mission skates have a Hi-Lo wheel setup. This means the front two wheels are smaller than the back two. Be sure to know your wheel setup before making a purchase.

The second step is to know what type of surface you’re going to be playing on. This plays a major factor in deciding the hardness of your wheels. Wheel hardness or 'durometer' ranges from 72A – 85A with 72A being the softest and 85A being the hardest.

Indoor Wheels (72A - 80A) are used on surfaces such as indoor sports court, wood floors, and smooth concrete. A softer wheel is needed in order to provide grip and traction. If outdoor wheels are used on an indoor surface, the wheels will slip and won't provide enough grip.

Outdoor Wheels (82A - 85A) are used on surfaces such as asphalt or rough concrete. A harder wheel is needed to maintain its durability and grip on the rough surface. If an indoor wheel is used on an outdoor surface, the wheel will quickly break down and deteriorate.

Multi-Surface Wheels (generally 78A) are used on any surface and provide the perfect balance between speed, grip, and durability. These are great for the player who is constantly switching between indoor and outdoor surfaces.

Larger players need to choose a harder wheel on indoor surfaces because their weight compresses the wheel into the surface, adding to the wheel's grip. Smaller players need a softer wheel on indoor surfaces in order for the wheel to compress and provide better grip.