The 5 Best Skateboard Bearings Recommended By Pro Skaters
So, if you plan to customize your skateboard to improve its rolling smoothness and speed, you need to get the best skateboard bearings. Read on!
Do you love skateboarding but don't know which bearings to buy?
We're here to help! In this article, we'll show you the best bearings on the market and how to pick the right ones for your needs.
Skateboarding is all about having fun, and a smooth ride is a key to a great experience.
That's why it's important to have the right bearings - so you can focus on your tricks and not on keeping your board steady.
We want you to be able to ride with ease and speed, so you can focus on having a good time.
Read the review to pick up some new bearings today and take your skateboarding skills to the next level!
How We Choose The Best Bearings For You
When it comes to skateboarding, even the smallest details can make a big difference.
Skateboard bearings are a perfect example of this - they may be small, but they play a crucial role in determining both the performance and the overall enjoyability of your ride. Unfortunately, bad bearings can quickly turn skating from a fun pastime into a frustrating experience.
Fortunately, finding the best skateboard bearings doesn't have to be difficult.
We've done the hard work for you by reviewing hundreds of products and selecting only the best of the best.
Whether you're looking for bearings that offer high performance or superior durability, we've got you covered. And because we know that price is always a consideration, we've also made sure to include options that won't break the bank.
So whatever your needs may be, we're confident that you'll find the perfect bearings right in this guide.
Our #1 Choice
Looking for a high-quality skate-bearing brand that's popular in the USA? Look no further than Bones REDS Bearings!
This set of eight bearings comes with spacers and washers, making it easy to get started skating right away.
The single, non-contact rubber shield protects against friction, while the high-speed nylon ball retainer ensures greater strength and speed.
Plus, the included instructions and logo sticker make this an ideal gift for any skateboarder or roller derby enthusiast. Order your set of Bones REDS Bearings today!
Why We Choose The Bones REDS
When it comes to skateboard bearings, the Bones REDS Bearings are the standard by which all other bearings are measured.
They're high speed and come in a set of 8, making them perfect for anyone looking to improve their skating. Additionally, they come with spacers, washers, and speed cream included, so you can get started right away.
These bearings are also not 'ABEC' rated, meaning they're even better than the best skateboard bearings on the market. If you're looking for a great set of skateboard bearings, the Bones REDS Bearings are the way to go.
Our #2 Choice
Looking for a top-quality bearing to keep your skateboard rolling smoothly? Check out our BESIY Bearings!
Made from carbon steel for durability, these bearings come in the ABEC 9 specification for a high level of precision.
With dimensions of 4.72 x 3.15 x 0.79 inches, they're just the right size for most skateboards, longboards, inline skates, and roller skates.
Plus, at only 80 grams, they won't add too much weight to your setup.
So why wait? Get yourself a set of BESIY Bearings and enjoy the smooth ride!
Specs & Features
When choosing the best skateboard bearings, it is important to consider both the specs and the features.
The BESIY Bearings are made of carbon steel material and are double rubber sealed for lubrication.
They are single-row bearings with an inner diameter of 7mm and an outer diameter of 22mm.
The package includes 8 packs. These bearings are best for moderate load use such as skateboards, inline skates, scooters, rollers,s, etc.
With their precision construction and durability, the BESIY Bearings are some of the best skateboard bearings on the market.
Our #3 Choice
Looking for high-quality ball bearings that can withstand heavy loads? Look no further than our Wellgo 608-2RS Ball Bearings!
Made of carbon steel, these bearings are durable and resistant to deformity, making them perfect for use in a variety of applications such as motors, skateboards, inline skates, and scooters.
Additionally, our bearings feature shields on both sides to keep lubricant in and contaminants out.
Plus, we've added a bit of rust protection oil to the bearings to help prevent them from corroding over time.
So if you're looking for reliable, long-lasting ball bearings, be sure to give our Wellgo 608-2RS Ball Bearings a try!
Specs & Features
The Wellgo 608-2RS Ball Bearings are made of high-quality carbon steel material and are double rubber sealed for optimal lubrication.
These single-row bearings are perfect for skating applications. Each package includes 10 bearings. The specifications for the bearings are an inner diameter of 7mm, an outer diameter of 22mm, and a height of 8mm.
These bearings are some of the best skateboard bearings on the market and are sure to provide a smooth ride. Order your pack today!
Our #4 Choice
Introducing the Heady Shake Pro Skateboard Bearings! This top-of-the-line set of 608 RS skate bearings offers precision, durability, and speed as you've never experienced before. With an ABEC-9 rating, these bearings are designed to withstand the most extreme skating conditions.
The titanium coating provides superior corrosion resistance and the reinforced design ensures a smooth, quiet ride. Whether you're a casual skater or a true speed demon, the Heady Shake Pro Skateboard Bearings will take your skating to the next level!
Specs & Features
With a useful temperature range of -320°F to +750°F, these bearings are designed to stand up to anything you can throw at them.
The double strengthened nylon retainer and single-side sealed rubber shield help to keep the bearings protected from the elements, while the pre-lubricated premium speed oil ensures smooth operation.
The super-fast design includes 8 bearings with skateboard spacers, making it compatible with all kinds of boards.
And to top it all off, the Heady Shake Pro comes with a waterproof sticker and is First Rad Style Skateboard Bearings certified.
So if you're looking for the best skateboard bearings on the market, you can't go wrong with the Heady Shake Pro.
Our #5 Choice
Looking for a high-quality skateboard bearing that will stand up to the rigors of constant use? Look no further than the G3 Skateboard Bearings from Bronson Speed Co.
These bearings feature deep groove raceways that allow the balls to roll deep in the raceway channels, reducing side impact damage and breakage.
The straight edge frictionless shields pop off resistant and hold oil in while keeping dirt and moisture out – making them easy to clean.
Additionally, the microgroove raceway surfaces improve bearing lubrication, speed, and spin.
And finally, the max impact cage design keeps the balls precision spaced and oil circulating – even during heavy use. So whether you're an amateur skater just starting out or a seasoned pro looking for a reliable bearing, the G3 Skateboard Bearings from Bronson Speed Co is a great option.
Specs & Features
The BRONSON SPEED Company has been making the best skateboard bearings for over 25 years.
Their latest model, the G3, is designed for today's skateboarding needs.
The deep groove raceways allow the balls to roll deep in the channels, reducing side impact damage and breakage.
The straight edge frictionless shields help to keep oil in and dirt and moisture out, while the microgroove raceway surfaces improve bearing lubrication, speed, and spin.
The max impact cage design keeps the balls' precision spaced and oil circulating, while the balls' out technology eliminates shield and cage contact on impact for a go fast, stay fast bearing.
The high-speed ceramic oil helps to protect against wear, moisture, rust, and corrosion, while the nitrogen-filled shrink wrap reduces metal and oil oxidation.
factory fresh quality. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, you can't go wrong with BRONSON SPEED bearings.
Best Skateboard Bearings FAQs
Buying skateboard bearings can be confusing if you don't know what to look for.
There are a lot of different factors to consider when buying bearings- from size and type to brand and price. It can be hard to figure out which bearings are the best for you.
This FAQ segment about the best skateboard bearings will answer any questions you have before buying your bearings. We'll help you figure out what size, type, and brand of bearings are best for you, and we'll give you a few tips on how to take care of them so they last longer.
What are the best skateboard bearings?
There are a few things to consider when choosing the best skateboard bearings for you. Below are some factors to help narrow down your search:
-Bearing size (Inner Diameter - ID, Outer Diameter - OD)
- Bearing material
- Skating style
- Speed ratings
- Lubrication
- Cleaning methods
- Price
Assuming you are looking for regular skateboard bearings and not longboard bearings or mini cruiser bearings, here are a few popular choices: Bones Reds, Black Magic, and Super reds.
All of these options offer ABEC ratings (which measure precision and tolerances), and they vary in price between $15-$35.
It is important to remember that there are different types of skateboarding- from street to vert- and bearings are not one size fits all.
Depending on your skating style, you may need a different type of bearing.
For example, if you do a lot of street skating, you'll want to look for bearings that can handle high speeds and rough landings.
Bones Reds are a popular choice for street skaters because they are designed to handle high speeds and impacts.
The Black Magics is also a good choice for street skating, but they are more budget-friendly than the Bones Reds.
If you do mostly vert skating or skateboarding in the park, you'll want to look for bearings that are designed for a smoother ride.
Super reds are a good choice for park and vert skating because they offer a smoother ride and less vibration.
What size skateboard bearings do I need?
The most common size skateboard bearing is the 7-inch diameter. This is the standard size for most skateboards, but there are a few different sizes to choose from depending on your skating style.
If you do a lot of street skating or skateboarding in the park, you'll want to look for bearings that are designed for a smoother ride.
Super reds are a good choice for park and vert skating because they offer a smoother ride and less vibration.
What are the best ABEC bearings for skateboards?
There are a few things to consider when choosing ABEC bearings for skateboards.
The first is the size of the bearing:
Skateboard bearings come in a variety of sizes, but the most common size is 8mm. Your board's wheels will have a specific size that you'll need to match.
The second thing to consider is:
The material the bearing is made from. The most common materials are steel and ceramic. Steel bearings are cheaper and more resistant to rust, but they're also heavier and not as fast as ceramic bearings. Ceramic bearings are lighter and faster, but they're also more expensive and fragile.
The third thing to consider :
The quality of the bearing. There are three main grades of ABEC bearings: 1, 3, and 5. The higher the number, the better the quality of the bearing.
ABEC 1 bearings are of the lowest quality and are not recommended for skateboarding. ABEC 3 bearings are good for recreational skating, but they may not hold up to the rigors of more aggressive skating.
ABEC 5 bearings are the highest quality and are recommended for more aggressive skating, but they're also the most expensive.
How do I clean my skateboard bearings?
The best way to clean your skateboard bearings is to remove them from the wheels and soak them in a cleaning solution overnight.
The next morning, rinse the bearings with clean water and dry them with a clean cloth.
Once they're dry, add a drop of light oil to each bearing and re-assemble the wheels. Another great practice is to use speed washers to protect your bearings.
What to look for when buying skateboard bearings?
Skateboard bearings are one of the most important components of your skateboard, and they can make a big difference in your ride.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing bearings for your skateboard:
-Size:
Bearings come in a variety of sizes, and you'll want to choose the ones that best fit your skateboard. Depending on the size of your deck, you'll need either standard or mini bearings.
-ABEC Rating:
ABEC is a rating system that rates bearings on their precision and tolerance levels. The higher the ABEC rating, the higher quality the bearing.
For skateboarding, you'll want to choose bearings with an ABEC rating of 7 or higher.
-Material:
The most common materials used for skateboard bearings are steel and ceramic. Steel bearings are cheaper and more resistant to rust, but they're also heavier and not as fast as ceramic bearings.
Ceramic bearings are lighter and faster, but they're also more expensive and fragile.
-cleanability:
You'll want to choose bearings that are easy to clean and maintain. The best way to clean your bearings is to remove them from the wheels and soak them in a cleaning solution overnight.
The next morning, rinse the bearings with clean water and dry them with a clean cloth. Once they're dry, add a drop of light oil to each bearing and re-assemble the wheels.
-Durability:
Skateboarding can be hard on bearings, so you'll want to choose ones that are durable and can withstand the rigors of skating. Bearings with higher ABEC ratings are typically more durable.
-Price:
Bearings can range in price from around $20 to $100. The price usually depends on the quality of the bearings. Higher-end bearings are typically more expensive, but they're also higher quality.
What is the best brand of skateboard bearings?
There are a lot of different brands of skateboard bearings out there, and it can be tough to decide which ones are the best. There are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing skateboard bearings, such as quality, durability, price, and performance.
Some of the top brands of skateboard bearings include Bones, Spitfire, and Rush.
Bones bearings are one of the most popular brands on the market. They offer a great combination of quality and price, and their bearings are known for being durable and high-performing.
Spitfire bearings are another excellent option – they're slightly more expensive than Bones, but they offer higher quality and better performance.
Finally, Rush bearings are designed for hardcore skaters who need the absolute best performance. They're the most expensive option, but they're also the highest quality.
No matter what your skating style is, there's a skateboard bearing out there that's perfect for you. Just make sure to do your research and choose a brand that you can trust.
What is the best lubricant for skateboard bearings?
There isn't really a definitive answer to this question since everyone has different preferences. However, we can narrow it down to a few good options.
One popular choice is Bones Speed Cream, which is designed specifically for skateboard bearings.
It's made from synthetic oils and waxes, so it works well in warm or cold weather and won't gum up your bearings as some other lubricants can.
Another good option is WD-40 Multi-Use Product. You might be familiar with WD-40 as a rust preventative/remover, but it actually makes a great bearing lubricant too!
Just make sure to clean your bearings thoroughly before applying them.
Finally, if you want something that's more environmentally friendly, you can try using olive oil.
Just make sure to apply it sparingly, as too much oil can actually attract dirt and grime. Also, know that some bearings are pre-lubricated with speed cream.
No matter which lubricant you choose, just make sure to clean your bearings thoroughly before applying them.
This will help ensure that your bearings last as long as possible.
That said, the best lubricant for skateboard bearings is a light oil, such as WD-40 or 3-in-1 oil. You don't want to use too much lubricant, or it will attract dirt and grime, which will eventually clog the bearings.
You also don't want to use heavy grease, as this can make the bearings feel sluggish.
Light oil will allow the bearings to spin freely without feeling like they're dragging. Rotating and rolling balls is what you're really looking for.
How Do Bearings Work?
The basic idea behind bearings is to reduce friction. Friction creates heat, and bearings are designed to minimize the amount of heat created by friction.
This is important because too much heat can damage the bearing and cause it to fail.
Bearings work by having two metallic surfaces that do not touch each other directly.
Instead, these two surfaces are separated by a small distance, typically filled with a lubricant like oil or grease. When one of the surfaces needs to move relative to the other, the lubricant provides a low-friction surface for this movement to occur.
The key design element of a bearing is its geometry. The shape of the bearings must be precisely engineered so that there is very little contact between the two surfaces.
This is what allows bearings to rotate with very little friction.
Types of Bearings:
There are many different types of bearings, but they can generally be classified into two main categories: rolling-element bearings and plain bearings.
Rolling-element bearings are the most common type of bearing and can be further divided into four sub-categories: ball bearings, roller bearings, needle bearings, and tapered bearings.
Plain bearings, on the other hand, are much less common and include sleeve bearings, flange bearings, and thrust bearings. Rolling-element Bearings, Ball Bearings.
Ball bearings:
They are the most common type of rolling-element bearing.
They consist of a set of balls that rotate between two races, or rings. The balls are typically made from steel, and the inner and outer races are usually made from brass.
Ball bearings can support both radial and thrust loads, but they're not well suited for high-speed applications.
Roller Bearings:
Roller bearings are very similar to ball bearings, but they use cylinders instead of balls.
Roller bearings can support higher loads than ball bearings, but they're not as well suited for high-speed applications.
Needle Bearings:
Needle bearings are a type of roller bearing that uses long, thin cylinders instead of balls.
Needle bearings are well suited for high-speed applications and can support both radial and thrust loads.
Tapered Bearings:
Tapered bearings are a type of rolling-element bearing that uses tapered rollers instead of balls or cylinders.
Ball bearings are the most common type of rolling-element bearing. They consist of a set of balls that rotate between two races, or rings.
The balls are typically made from steel, and the inner and outer races are usually made from brass.
How long do bearings last?
Great question! According to most experts, bearings should last anywhere from 20,000 to 80,000 miles.
However, there are a number of factors that can affect their lifespan, such as the type of bearing, the quality of the bearing, how well you maintain your vehicle, and even the road conditions you typically drive on.
For example, if you live in an area with a lot of potholes or other rugged terrains, your bearings will likely wear out more quickly than someone who drives mainly on smooth surfaces. And if you don't regularly maintain your vehicle (including getting regular oil changes), your bearings could start to degrade faster as well.
Generally speaking, though, as long as you take good care of your vehicle and drive on relatively smooth roads, your bearings should last for many years.
Final Thoughts: Now that you know a little bit more about skateboard bearings, it's time to choose the right ones for your needs.
If you're just starting out, we recommend going with a basic set of ball bearings. Once you've gained some experience and are looking for something a little faster, you can upgrade to a set of roller bearings.
And if you're an experienced skater who wants the fastest bearings possible, needle bearings are the way to go.
No matter which type of bearing you choose, be sure to read the reviews before making your purchase. This will help you find a high-quality product that meets your needs and budget.
What are the fastest skateboard bearings?
The fastest skateboard bearings are the ones that have the fewest layers of material between the balls and the inner and outer races.
This is because each layer of material adds friction, which slows down the bearing. The fewer layers there are, the faster the bearing will be.
Some bearings have as few as two or three layers, while others may have five or more. There are also many different types of materials that can be used for skateboard bearings, including metals, plastics, and composites.
Some materials are better than others at reducing friction, so they will make the bearing faster.
The size of the bearing also affects its speed. A smaller bearing has less surface area in contact with the race (the inner and outer Rings that the balls rotate between), so there is less friction.
This means that a smaller bearing will be faster than a larger one. In general, skateboard bearings come in sizes ranging from 4mm to 10mm.
The speed of a bearing also depends on how well it is lubricated.
A bearing that is properly lubricated with speed cream will have less friction and will be faster than one that is not.
The best way to lubricate your bearings is to use a high-quality bearing oil or grease.
This will help to reduce friction and keep your bearings running smoothly.
Are Swiss or ceramic bearings better?
The question of whether Swiss or ceramic bearings are better is a bit like asking which is better, a hammer or a screwdriver.
It all depends on the job you need to do.
If you're just looking for something to get the job done with no frills, then Swiss bearings will probably do just fine. They're not as expensive as ceramic bearings, and they're widely available.
On the other hand, if you're looking for premium bearings for the very best performance possible, then ceramic balls are the way to go.
They're lighter and harder than steel bearings, so they spin faster and for longer periods of time.
They're also more resistant to heat, so they won't degrade as quickly.
However, ceramic bearings are more expensive than bones Swiss bearings, and they're not as widely available.
So, if you're looking for the best performance, go with ceramic bearings.
If you're just looking for something that will get the job done, of course, all of this comes at a price – literally.
Ceramic bearings are much more expensive than their steel counterparts.
A good set of ceramic skateboard bearings can cost upwards of $100, whereas a good set of Swiss bearings will only set you back about $30.
So, if you're on a budget, Swiss bearings are probably the way to go. But if you're looking for the best performance, ceramic bearings are a clear choice.
Is ABEC 7 or 9 better?
There is no definitive answer as to which is better, ABEC 7 or 9. The important thing is that you ensure that your bearings are of high quality in order to ensure smooth and consistent skating.
One important factor that you may want to consider when choosing between ABEC 7 and 9 bearings is the amount of noise that they produce.
ABEC 7 bearings are typically noisier than ABEC 9 bearings, so if noise levels are a concern for you, then you may want to opt for the latter. Bearing spacers can also be used in those cases as a solution.
Ultimately though, it comes down to personal preference. Some skaters prefer the higher speed and better performance of ABEC 9 bearings, while others find them too fast and noisy.
Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which type of bearing is best for your skating needs.
What are the best skateboard bearings?
The 5 best skateboard bearings are:
1. Bones Reds Bearings
2. Black Panther Swiss Bearings
3. Bronson G3 Bearings
4. Zealous Bearings
5. Ceramic Bearings
Bones Reds Bearings are one of the most popular types of bearings on the market and for good reason.
They're fast, durable, and affordable, making them a great option for both beginner and experienced skaters alike.
Black Panther Swiss Bearings are another excellent choice for those looking for high-quality, premium bearings.
They're made with precision Swiss engineering and are known for their durability and smoothness.
Bronson G3 Bearings are a newer option on the market but have quickly become a favorite among skaters.
They're designed to provide an optimal blend of speed, spin, and durability, making them perfect for both street and park skating.
Zealous Bearings are a great choice for those looking for a high-performance bearing.
They're made with premium materials and are designed to provide a smooth, fast ride.
Ceramic Bearings are the best choice for those looking for the absolute highest level of performance.
They're made with lightweight ceramic materials and are designed to provide the fastest, longest-lasting ride possible.
No matter what your skating needs are, there's a bearing out there that's perfect for you. You may also consider some skateboard bearings waterproof brands, removable rubber shield brands, and chrome steel bearings brands as well.
So, be sure to do your research and choose the bearing that's best suited for your skating style.
What's the highest ABEC rating?
A higher ABEC rating correlates with a higher level of precision and speed in the manufacturing process.
This makes the bearing able to handle more RPMs (rotations per minute), which is important for skateboard bearings that need to rotate quickly.
The highest ABEC rating is ABEC 11, but most bearings typically have an ABEC rating of 5 or 7. Some high-end bearings, like titanium bearings, can reach an ABEC 9 or 10, but they are rare and expensive.
Do skateboard bearings make a difference?
Yes, skateboard bearings make a difference. The quality of the bearings affects how fast you can roll, how smoothly you can roll, and how long your bearings will last.
Higher-quality bearings typically cost more but are worth it if you skate regularly.
Do ceramic bearings need oil?
No, ceramic bearings do not need oil. In fact, the oil will actually damage ceramic bearings.
Ceramic bearings are non-metallic and made of materials such as silicon nitride or silicon carbide. They are therefore very hard and very strong, but also very brittle.
This means that they can withstand high levels of shock and vibration, but they are also susceptible to cracking or shattering if they experience a sudden impact or force.
Since they do not have any metal in them, they also do not have any lubrication qualities.
So while metal bearings need to be lubricated with oil to keep them running smoothly and minimize wear and tear, ceramic bearings do not require any added lubrication.
In fact, adding oil to ceramic bearings or speed cream racing lubricant will actually damage them and shorten their lifespan.
Do skateboard bearings come in different sizes?
Yes, skateboard bearings come in different sizes. The most common size is 7mm, but bearings can also be found in 8mm and 9mm sizes.
The size of your bearing will depend on the size of your axle. Most skateboard axles are 8mm, so most bearings are 7mm.
If you have an aftermarket axle that is 9mm, you will need to get 9mm bearings.
Most skateboard trucks have 8mm axles, so if you're not sure what size you need, it's probably 7mm.
In Conclusion...
We hope the review has helped you in making a decision to buy some new bearings for your skateboard.
If you need help picking any of the above-mentioned bearings from Amazon, here are the links:
Best Value
Bones REDS Bearings
Best Miniature Ball Bearings
BESIY Bearings
Double Rubber Sealed Shielded
Wellgo Ball Bearings
Fastest Premium 608rs Titanium Bearings
Heady Shake Pro
Best For Streets
BRONSON SPEED CO. G3
