Skateboard Bearings: The Ultimate Buyers Guide + Top Brands & More

Curious about skateboard bearings? Dive into our fun ultimate guide to choosing, maintaining, and upgrading your bearings for the smoothest ride ever!

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Bearings might seem like small, insignificant parts of your setup, but they are critical to your riding experience as they are largely responsible for your top speed. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right ones? 🤔 In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bearings.

If you’re a visual learner, check out this Tactics video about bearings.

How to Choose Skateboard Bearings | Skateboard Buying Guide from the Tactics YouTube channel.

Key takeaways

  • Bearings are essential for smooth and efficient skateboard performance, directly influencing your top speed.
  • ABEC ratings provide a general idea of bearing precision, but its intended use is for industrial applications not for skateboarding so you can ignore this rating.
  • Different materials (standard steel, stainless steel, ceramic) offer varying levels of performance, durability, and price points to suit different skating styles.
  • Regular maintenance—including cleaning and lubrication—is crucial to extend the lifespan and performance of your bearings.

What are skateboard bearings?

Skateboard bearings are the round metal pieces that fit inside your wheels, allowing them to rotate around the axle. They are small, lightweight and relatively inexpensive (more on that later).

Skateboard bearings: the ultimate buyers guide + top brands & morecurious about skateboard bearings? Dive into our fun ultimate guide to choosing, maintaining, and upgrading your bearings for the smoothest ride ever!
When illustration of an assortment of skateboard bearings in different colors.

Regardless of wheel size, all skateboard bearings share universal measurements:

  • 8mm (core)
  • 22mm (outer diameter)
  • 7mm (width)

This standardization means you can mix and match bearings and wheels from different brands without worrying about compatibility.

🤙 My favorite bearings (at the moment)

Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings

5/5

My rating is based on my five-point ranking criteria checklist.

🤙 My favorite bearings (at the moment)

Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings

Not gonna lie—these are the best bearings I've bought because they are fast and cheap! I've never had any issues with them, and they're super inexpensive and smooth as hell.
  • High-speed
  • Pre-lubricated
  • Inexpensive
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I may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

1. Construction of Bearings

Understanding the construction of bearings is crucial for maintaining and selecting the right ones for your skateboarding needs. Despite their small size, skateboard bearings are incredibly complex and consist of several key components:

  • Inner Ring: The smaller metal ring that fits within the outer ring. This is what the axle passes through.
  • Outer Ring: The larger metal ring that encases the inner ring and holds everything together.
  • Steel Balls: Typically 6 or 7 balls that facilitate smooth rotation by minimizing friction.
  • Cage (Retainer): Prevents the balls from clashing into each other, ensuring even distribution.
  • Shields: Plastic parts that protect the internal components from dirt and debris. They are easy to remove for maintenance.
  • C-Ring: A thin ring that locks the shields in place, adding stability to the bearing.

Optional bearing components

Bearing spacers

Bearing spacers are small metal cylinders that fit into a skateboard wheel between the bearings. Their purpose is to reduce the weight distributed to each bearing, making your turns smoother and more stable while also extending the life of your bearings.

Speed Washers

Speed washers, also known as speed rings or bearing washers, are thin metal washers slipped over the axle between the nut and the bearing, and the hanger and the bearing.

2. The meaning of ABEC ratings

Most skateboard bearings are rated using the ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineers’ Committee) system, which measures precision and tolerance levels. However, ABEC ratings aren’t always the best indicator of bearing performance for skateboarding.

ABEC Ratings Breakdown:

  • ABEC 1: Least expensive and least precise.
  • ABEC 3: Inexpensive but doesn’t roll smoothly.
  • ABEC 5: Standard for most skateboarding—offers a good balance of speed and cost.
  • ABEC 7: Very fast and smooth, slightly pricier.
  • ABEC 9+: Extremely fast, ideal for downhill skating and high-speed enthusiasts.
Tool tip icon
Skateboard bearings: the ultimate buyers guide + top brands & more | idea icon | skateboard session

Pro tip: Don’t rely solely on ABEC ratings

Don’t rely solely on ABEC ratings when choosing bearings. Consider factors like material quality, sealing, and brand reputation for a better performance fit.

Why ABEC ratings does not matter

  • Original Purpose: ABEC ratings were designed for industrial bearings operating at much higher speeds than skateboard wheels.
  • Performance Factors: Skateboarding involves different forces and conditions that ABEC ratings don’t account for, such as load handling and durability.
  • Specialist Brands: Many high-performance brands, like Bones Bearings, have moved away from ABEC ratings, focusing instead on performance-specific metrics.

3. The Different Materials

There are several types of skateboard bearings available, ranging from affordable to premium options. Understanding these differences can help you make the right choice for your setup and budget. Let’s break them down from most common to most premium:

Think of standard steel bearings as the trusty workhorses of the skating world. They’re like your favorite pair of jeans – reliable, affordable, and they get the job done well. These are what most skaters start with and many stick with throughout their skating journey.

Steel bearings might need a bit more TLC to keep them rolling smooth, especially if you skate in wet conditions. But they’re tough as nails and can take a beating without shattering. For most skaters, they offer the perfect balance of performance and value.

  • Construction: Made from chrome steel with matching races and balls
  • Price Range: $10-20 per set
  • Pros: Very affordable, durable against impacts, easily replaceable, good all-around performance, forgiving of rough treatment
  • Cons: Most susceptible to rust, require frequent maintenance, highest friction, slightly heavier
  • Popular among: Beginners, casual skaters, budget-conscious riders

Stainless steel bearings represent the sweet spot between durability and performance. They’re like upgrading from a regular car to a sports sedan – better performance and reliability, but still reasonably priced.

These bearings offer significantly better rust resistance than standard steel, making them perfect for skaters who ride in varied weather conditions or live in humid climates. They maintain their smooth roll longer and require less frequent maintenance.

  • Construction: Made from higher-grade stainless steel with precision-matched races and balls
  • Price Range: $20-40 per set
  • Pros: Better rust resistance, smoother roll, longer-lasting, less maintenance needed, good balance of durability and performance
  • Cons: More expensive than standard steel, still heavier than ceramics, can still corrode under extreme conditions
  • Popular among: Intermediate skaters, all-weather riders, street and park skaters

Imagine rolling on tiny balls made from the same material as high-tech kitchen knives. That’s what ceramic bearings offer. These are the luxury sports cars of the skating world – smooth, precise, and built for maximum performance.

Ceramic bearings glide with almost zero friction, like skating on glass. They don’t expand when they heat up during long sessions, and you’ll never find them rusting. But just like a sports car, they come with a premium price tag and need proper care to maintain their performance.

  • Construction: Made from silicon nitride ceramic balls with steel races (the outer rings)
  • Price Range: $60-120+ per set
  • Pros: Lightest weight, superior resistance to heat and friction, completely rust-proof, require less frequent cleaning, longest lifespan under proper care
  • Cons: Most expensive option, more brittle (can crack if dropped or impacted hard), less forgiving of poor maintenance, harder to find replacements
  • Popular among: Professional skaters, speed enthusiasts, competitive riders, those seeking maximum performance

To help you choose the right bearings for your skateboarding needs, here’s a concise comparison of the most common types:

Bearing TypePrice RangeProsCons
Standard Steel$10-20/setAffordable, durable, easy to replaceSusceptible to rust, requires frequent maintenance
Stainless Steel$20-40/setBetter rust resistance, smoother rollMore expensive, still heavier than ceramic
Ceramic$60-120+/setLightest weight, lower friction, rust-proofMost expensive, brittle if damaged

Choose the bearing type that best aligns with your skating style, frequency, and budget to enhance your overall performance and riding experience.

Tool tip icon
Skateboard bearings: the ultimate buyers guide + top brands & more | idea icon | skateboard session

Pro tip: Keep it clean

Regular cleaning is especially important if you skate on rough terrain or in wet conditions. Clean your bearings at least twice a year to maintain optimal performance.

4. Care & cleaning

Proper maintenance of your bearings is essential for longevity and performance.

Cleaning your bearings

  1. Remove Shields: Take off the shields to access the internal components.
  2. Clean Bearings: Use a bearing path tool or similar device to clean out dirt and debris.
  3. Lubricate: Apply fresh bearing lubricant to ensure smooth rotations.
  4. Dry & Reassemble: Let the bearings dry completely before replacing the shields.

Maintenance tips

  • Regular Cleaning: Keeps bearings free from dirt and debris.
  • Proper Lubrication: Ensures smooth rotations and extends bearing life.
  • Avoid Rough Terrain: Minimizes unnecessary wear and tear on bearings.
  • Check Seals and Shields: Prevents contaminants from entering the bearing housing.
  • Store Bearings Properly: Keep them in a cool, dry place to avoid rust and degradation.

Top bearings

Bones Reds are my personal go to. They’re always like 20 bucks and they work perfectly. Here are the three most renowned skateboard bearings based on popularity and market presence:

  • Bones Swiss – The industry benchmark for over 40 years, these are considered the “Rolls Royce” of skateboard bearings. Made in Switzerland, they’re known for exceptional speed, durability, and professional-grade performance.
  • Bones Reds – The best-selling skateboard bearings in the U.S., offering near-Swiss performance at a more affordable price point. They’re based on Swiss technical specifications but manufactured in China, making them an excellent value option.
  • Bronson Speed Co. G3 – A newer but highly respected option featuring deep groove raceways and frictionless shields. They’ve gained significant popularity among professional skaters and are known for their durability and impact resistance.

Are expensive bearings woth it?

Personally, I don’t think so. Those roads are like I mentioned already just about perfect. They’re only about 20 bucks and you can find them anywhere. A lot of the more expensive bearings put a lot of weight on the fact that they maybe have a better rating. But we already covered that that’s not really something relevant to skateboarding. Still, if you really want to know, if a more expensive one is right for you, here are some thoughts.

  • Beginners and Casual Skaters: If you’re just learning tricks and not putting miles on your board, expensive bearings may not be necessary. Standard bearings offer reliable performance at a more affordable price.
  • Frequent and Serious Skaters: For those who skate regularly, use their board as an alternative to other forms of transport, or compete, investing in premium bearings like Bones Super Reds or Swiss bearings is worth the price. These high-end bearings provide smoother rotations, higher durability, and better overall performance, enhancing your skating experience.
  • Experienced Skaters Seeking Speed: After gaining experience and seeking more speed, bearings like Bones Swiss are highly recommended. Maintaining and cleaning these bearings can significantly improve performance, especially in dropping, carving, and achieving higher air.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

If your wheels feel rough, make unusual noises, or your skateboard doesn’t roll smoothly, it might be time to inspect your bearings. Visually inspect them for signs of wear, rust, or damage.

While some skaters prefer bearings without shields for a louder sound, it’s generally not recommended. Shields protect your bearings from dirt and debris, extending their lifespan and maintaining performance.

The frequency of replacement depends on your skating style and conditions. Aggressive skaters or those who skate on rough terrain may need to replace bearings every few months, while casual skaters can extend this period.

No, bearings vary in terms of material, quality, and performance characteristics. Steel vs. ceramic, ABEC ratings, and brand reputation all play a role in determining the best bearings for your needs.

Ceramic bearings offer smoother rotations, lower friction, and are lighter than steel bearings. They also resist rust and require less maintenance. However, they are more expensive and can be brittle if damaged.

Final thought

Choosing the right skateboard bearings is a game-changer for your ride. From understanding the construction and materials to mastering maintenance practices, this guide equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Investing in quality bearings not only enhances your performance but also ensures a smoother, more enjoyable skateboarding experience.

Image of jedain.
Written by Jedain Arron, Founder and writer

I'm Jedain, a 30-something-year-old dad rekindling my love for skateboarding. I've been skating since I was 13 back in New York City, took a long break for adulting, and now I'm back on the board.

This blog documents my journey back to the skatepark (creaky joints and all). Follow along as I relearn tricks, reconnect with the skate scene, and share the ups and downs of returning to the sport.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail. When not working on the site, you can find him sipping Bourbon at the karaoke bar.

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