Ultimate Guide to Skate Bearings: All You Need to Know

Discover everything you need to know about skate bearings, from how they impact your ride to choosing the best ones for your style. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this guide covers it all—ensuring your board rolls smoother, faster, and with precision.

What are skateboard bearings?

These tiny metallic discs, known as skateboard bearings, work tirelessly behind the scenes to provide you an efficient ride that skateboarders crave,typically made of steel, ceramic, or a combination of both.

There are two bearings on each axle, totaling eight bearings for all four wheels. Each wheel has a bearing on the inside and another on the outside of the wheel.

The bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly and efficiently on the axle, providing optimal performance.

“From cruising the streets to hitting the skatepark or tackling steep hills and vert ramps. No matter where you skate, having the right bearings can make all the difference in your experience”

At our team ,we analysed and worked on every aspect of bearing to ensure it performs at its best for you with a focus on their perspective.

Unlocking the Secrets of Skateboard Bearing Sizing:

The most common standardised sizing system for skateboard bearings is known as the “608” bearing system. The 608 designation represents the bearing’s dimensions, where each digit carries specific information:

First Digit (6): The first digit indicates the bearing’s series. In this case, “6” refers to the 600 series bearings, which are commonly used for skateboards, longboards, and other similar applications.

Second Digit (0): The second digit denotes the bearing’s inner diameter. A “0” signifies an 8mm inner diameter, which is the most prevalent size for skateboard bearings.

Third Digit (8): The third digit represents the bearing’s width or thickness. An “8” indicates an 8mm width, which matches the standard inner diameter of 8mm. This dimension allows the bearings to fit snugly onto a standard skateboard axle.

The Skateboard Bearings Facts:

Skateboard bearings are available in different materials, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages that can impact performance and durability. In this article, we will examine the most common bearing materials and discuss their pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision when selecting the right bearings for your skateboarding needs.

1.Steel Bearings:

Advantages:

Affordability: Steel bearings are generally more budget-friendly compared to other materials.

Durability: They are known for their strength and resilience, making them suitable for various skateboarding styles and terrains.

Availability: Steel bearings are widely accessible, with a wide range of options to choose from.

Disadvantages:

Friction and Heat: Steel bearings can generate more friction and heat compared to other materials, potentially impacting speed and smoothness.

Maintenance: They require regular cleaning and lubrication to prevent rust and ensure optimal performance.

2.Ceramic Bearings:

Advantages:

Speed and Smoothness: Ceramic balls are lighter and smoother than steel balls, reducing friction and enhancing speed.

Corrosion Resistance: Ceramic bearings are more resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for wet or humid environments.

Low Maintenance: They require less frequent cleaning and lubrication compared to steel bearings.

Disadvantages:

Cost: Ceramic bearings tend to be more expensive than steel bearings, making them a pricier investment.

Fragility: Ceramic balls are more brittle than steel balls and may be more susceptible to impact damage.

3.Titanium Bearings:

Advantages:

Lightweight: Titanium bearings offer a weight reduction compared to steel bearings, potentially contributing to increased speed and responsiveness.

Corrosion Resistance: They exhibit excellent resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for damp or coastal environments.

Disadvantages:

Cost: Titanium bearings tend to be more expensive than steel bearings, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious skateboarders.

Performance Benefits: The performance advantages of titanium bearings over steel bearings may not be significant enough to justify the higher cost for the average skateboarder.

4.Hybrid Bearings:

Advantages:

Performance and Affordability: Hybrid bearings aim to combine the benefits of different materials, such as ceramic balls and steel races, offering improved speed and smoothness at a more affordable price point compared to full ceramic bearings.

Disadvantages:

Trade-offs: Hybrid bearings may not provide the same level of performance as full ceramic bearings or the durability of steel bearings, as they strike a balance between the two.

ABEC Ratings Myths For Skateboard Bearings:

During my early attempts at skateboarding, I believed that the highest ABEC-rated bearings were the key to superior performance. However, I soon discovered that ABEC ratings were not the ultimate measure of excellence. Brands like Bones have revolutionised the industry with their Skate Rated terminology, making ABEC ratings irrelevant. Join me as we explore the secrets behind ABEC ratings and uncover the real factors that define exceptional skateboard bearing performance. Get ready to elevate your skateboarding experience to new heights.

ABEC Ratings and RPM:

ABEC ratings are commonly associated with the precision of skateboard bearings, but they also provide insights into their RPM capabilities. While higher ABEC ratings generally indicate greater precision, it is important to note that RPM limits can vary based on factors like bearing construction, lubrication, and overall maintenance.

Let’s examine the typical RPM ranges associated with each ABEC rating:

ABEC 1: Bearings with an ABEC 1 rating have a lower precision level and typically offer RPM capabilities in the range of 15,000 to 20,000. They are suitable for casual cruising and less demanding skateboarding activities.

ABEC 3: ABEC 3 bearings, providing a moderate level of precision, typically offer RPM capabilities ranging from 20,000 to 25,000. These bearings are commonly used by recreational skateboarders and beginners.

ABEC 5: Bearings with an ABEC 5 rating offer improved precision, allowing for RPM capabilities in the range of 25,000 to 30,000. They provide a balance between affordability and performance for general skateboarding.

ABEC 7: ABEC 7 bearings, offering a high level of precision, provide RPM capabilities ranging from 30,000 to 35,000. Skaters seeking enhanced speed and smoothness often opt for these bearings.

ABEC 9: The highest ABEC rating available, ABEC 9 bearings offer exceptional precision and RPM capabilities ranging from 35,000 to 40,000. They are favoured by professional skaters or individuals seeking top-tier performance for competitive skateboarding.

Crucial Role of Water Resistance in Skateboard Bearings:

Skateboard bearings are not waterproof; they are not designed or built to be fully resistant to water or moisture. Skateboard bearings typically have small openings or gaps where water can enter, leading to potential damage or rusting of the internal components.Water can be damaging to skateboard bearings and can lead to issues like rust, corrosion, and decreased performance.While some skateboard bearings may have some level of water resistance, it is still recommended to avoid exposing them to excessive moisture whenever possible.

Detailing of Skateboard Bearings:

To clean your skateboard bearings, you will need a few tools:

Here are the steps to follow for cleaning your skateboard bearings:

1.Remove the Wheels: Use your skate tool or wrench to remove the nuts and washers that hold the wheels in place.

2.Remove the Bearings: Once the wheels are off, gently pry the bearings out of the wheels using a skate tool or the end of the axle.

3.Clean the Bearings: Use a bearing cleaner or rubbing alcohol to clean the bearings. Place the bearings in the cleaner and shake them gently for a few minutes. Use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe away any dirt or debris.

4.Dry the Bearings: Once the bearings are clean, use a clean, dry rag or paper towel to dry them thoroughly.

5.Lubricate the Bearings: Apply a few drops of lubricant to each bearing, then spin them gently to distribute the lubricant evenly.

6.Reassemble the Skateboard: Once the bearings are clean and lubricated, reinsert them into the wheels and tighten the nuts and washers.

Tips for Maintaining Your Skateboard Bearings:

Avoid Water: Water can cause damage to your bearings and make them rust.

Avoid Dirt and Sand: Dirt and sand can get inside your bearings and cause them to slow down or stop altogether.

Store Your Skateboard Properly: Store your skateboard in a cool, dry place to prevent damage to the bearings.

Click here to explore our detail guide for cleaning and maintaining skate bearings and elevate your skateboarding experience.

Bearings Vs Speed:

Skateboard bearings play a significant role in determining the speed and performance of a skateboard. While bearings alone won’t make a skateboard dramatically faster, they can contribute to reducing friction and improving overall speed.

Here are a few factors to consider regarding skateboard bearings and speed:

Longboarding Vs Skateboard Bearings:

Being done with the testing phase of different bearings for longboarding and skateboarding, my team and I concluded that ranking bearings is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences and needs. However, here is a ranking based on general reputation, performance, and popularity among longboarders community:

Please note that the rankings and preferences discussed here are subjective and based on my personal experiences.

Closing Remarks:

Upon Upgrading my team and I concluded that high-quality skateboard bearings can truly revolutionise our skateboarding experience. The smoothness and speed they provide took my riding to the next level.

I always Invested in durable skateboard bearings i-e Bones Swiss Ceramic that pays off in the long run. They can withstand the rigours of skateboarding, including rough terrains and hard impacts, ensuring they stand the test of time.

Ultimately, riding with quality skateboard bearings brings pure joy. The smoothness, speed, and reliability they provide amplify the sheer pleasure of skateboarding and make every session a memorable experience.Happy Skating!