What Are Speed Skate Wheels?

Speed or race skate wheels are a specialized type of wheels designed for inline skaters who compete in marathons, races, or those who enjoy rolling as fast as possible on the street.

Compared to recreational skate wheels, inline speed skate wheels are generally bigger and harder. They feature a pointy profile to reduce friction on the street, making them the fastest type of wheel available.

How to Choose the Right Speed Skate Wheels

The first decision you need to make is what you want to achieve with a new set of speed wheels. These wheels come in four diameters - 90mm, 100mm, 110mm, and 125mm. The larger the diameter, the faster you can skate.

90mm inline skate wheels are recommended for beginners and children due to their higher stability and maneuverability. 100mm and 110mm inline skate wheels provide higher speeds and are ideal for both casual speed skaters and competitors. Finally, the 125mm inline skate wheels are used by marathon skaters to reach the highest speeds and cover long distances as quickly as possible.

Speed Wheels vs Roller Blade Wheels

As mentioned, speed skate wheels are larger and harder than roller blade wheels. Roller blade wheels range from 70mm to 90mm in size and are softer to offer better grip on most outdoor surfaces. Conversely, speed wheels are harder than their "road" counterparts and are designed for indoor floors, skating rinks, and smooth urban surfaces.

Would you like to know more about inline skate wheels? Check out our Wheel Terms Explained guide.

If you are looking for smaller, more recreational wheels, explore our Roller Blade Wheels and Freeskate Wheels.