Do you sometimes feel you cannot skateboard smoothly when riding down the hills or vert ramps? Well, this is generally because you need to make the right choice of the best skateboard bearings. No doubt, one significant aspect of skateboarding is selecting the suitable bearings.
While driving down the hill or on vert wraps, these bearings will support you in generating speed. Different components are included for composing these skateboard bearings, including balls, inner, shields, outer races, retainers, and bearing spacers. The best bearings on your skateboard will contribute to a smooth and pleasurable right.
Table of Contents
This article explores the premier skateboard bearings on the market, designed to enhance your skating experience and get you back on the streets with ease. Dive into our comprehensive reviews of the top 10 skateboard bearings: Our selection for the smoothest ride.
1. Bones Reds Bearings – Best Overall Skateboard Bearings for Reliability and Performance
Bones Reds Bearings
Key Features:
- Material: Nylon, Alloy Steel
- Item Dimensions : LxWxH 5 x 2 x 1 inches
- Item Weight: 3.2 Ounces
- Bearing Type: Ball Bearing
- Package Weight: 0.11 Kilograms
- Color: Red
- Manufacturer: Bones Bearings
- Spacers and Washers included
- High-speed Nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
Probably it might be hard for you to find skateboard bearings that are reliable and affordable too. But why look around when Bones Reds Bearings are here for you? This product has become the first choice of professional skaters due to its 8 bearings. Comes with a logo sticker on which instructions are printed to let the reader know how to use it at its best.
Another reason why we highly appreciate these bearings is their easy-to-clean quality and less friction. It even accompanies a non-contract rubber protector, which is removable, and integrated into it. A high-speed ball retainer is responsible for promoting greater strength and speed. Durable nylon material is used for manufacturing this ball retainer. We want to mention that this product is pre-lubricated through a speed lotion racing lubricant.
Overall, the bearings are of great quality and are affordable to buy. They are extremely durable, outstanding in performance, as well as easy to use. You should invest in it right now.
Pros
- Durable and reliable bearings
- Easy in cleaning
- There is less friction due to the rubber shield
- Already comes with the pre-lubricated.
- Nylon ball container offers great strength and speed.
Cons
- The inner race lacks a groove.
2. BESIY Bearings for Skateboards – Top Value Choice for Best Skateboard Bearings on a Budget
Besiy Bearings
Key Features:
- Manufacturer: BESIY 608 2RS Skateboard Bearing
- Carbon Steel Material
- Double Rubber Sealed for lubrication
- Single-Row Bearing
- Package Included: 8 Pack
- Inner Diameter: 7mm
- Outer Diameter: 22mm
- Height: 8mm
Second, on our list, we have BESIY Bearings which is a favorite choice among roller skaters, longboard riders, spinners, and inline skaters. These bearings contribute to a thrilling and smooth riding experience. Designed with great precision, these ball bearings offer durability and superior performance. You will find them offering great precision and speed on any sort of terrain.
Each pack is included with 8 bearings to make a complete set. Get ready to give your skating journey a marvelous experience with these smooth bearings. As far as the installation is concerned, it is easy to do in a hassle-free manner.
According to some of the customers, this product works amazingly well and they wish they had brought it more. They are quite a lot easier in terms of cleaning and if you have still not invested in them, you should go ahead. The package does not include washers and center tubes. You need to buy it separately. Go and buy it now.
Pros
- Smooth riding experience
- Easy to install
- Great speed and precision
- Suitable for roller skaters, longboard riders, spinners, and inline skaters.
Cons
- Expensive
- Not suitable for indoor purposes
3. Bones Swiss Skateboard Bearings – Premium Selection for High-Speed Skateboarding
Bones Swiss Bearings
Key Features:
- Manufacturer: Bones Bearings
- Material: Nylon, Metal
- Item Dimensions : LxWxH 6 x 0.5 x 4 inches
- Item Weight: 3.2 Ounces
- Specification: Met Skate Rated
- Bearing Type: Ball Bearing
- Item Package Dimensions: L x W x H 4.02 x 1.93 x 0.55 inches
- Color: Multicoloured
- Suggested Users: unisex
- Style: Bones Swiss 8mm Bearings
Bones Super Swiss 6 Skateboard Bearings turns out to be a superb choice for all those skaters who are in search of superior bearings with great performance. Their unique design offers a smooth ride with a durable nature in comparison to any other product available in today’s market. Furthermore, its pre-lubricated Speed Cream racing lubricant makes sure that the bearings are all set to use once they come out from the box.
Available in six-diameter larger balls is their most stand-out feature which provides greater strength and high speed. Its removable rubber shield helps you to easily clean the bearings without any hassle. This often brings less friction between the skate bearings resulting in a smooth ride.
Another major component that admires the entire speed and strength of these bearings is their retainers. These retainers come with high-speed nylon material for improving the overall quality and performance of bearings. And the best thing about these nylon retailers is that you will find them lightweight and cost-efficient. The only downside of this product is its high cost in comparison to other bearing products. But its extraordinary performance completely justifies the cost.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to clean
- Offers a smoother riding experience
- Available in six diameters larger balls
Cons
- Expensive
- Louder than other bearings
4. Bones Super Reds Skateboard Bearings – Superior Quality Pick for Smooth and Fast Rides
Bones Super Red Bearings
Key Features:
- Manufacturer : Bones Bearings
- Department : unisex
- Material: Steel
- Product Dimensions : 3.9 x 1.9 x 0.3 inches; 1.6 Ounces
- Better quality and grade balls
- Superior surface finish
- High-speed nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
- Rated clearances, tolerances, materials, and lubricants provide the best performance and durability possible
- 608 8mm Bearings
Once you start using Bones Super Reds Skateboard you will be impressed with the way it works. Its removable rubber shield helps you to clean the bearings without any hassle. A high-speed nylon ball retainer adds speed and strength to your ride. For a smoother riding experience, this product comes with the Speed Cream, pre-lubricated.
If you are a little budget-conscious person, you need to think for a second before purchasing it because it is costly. Furthermore, its noisy nature can be a troublesome for few riders. Because of the high-performance design, these bearings will need extra maintenance. For skateboarders who are fond of skating daily, for them, these bearings are highly durable. Make sure if you’re skating every day, you have to clean your bearings once a week.
Almost all skate bearings come lubricated, but this bearing product uses the most exclusive lubricant. Each of the wheel cores is included with sufficient Bones Speed Cream racing lubricant on the inner side. This will help the wheels to roll smoothly and faster. No doubt this kind of lubing addition will bring a certain level of stability to the bearings.
Pros
- The removable rubber shield makes cleaning easier
- Smooth riding experience for beginners
- High-speed nylon ball retainer adds speed and strength
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires more maintenance
5. DEEPDREAM Premium Skateboard Bearings – Best Skateboard Bearings for Durability and Precision
Key Features:
- Brand: DEEPDREAM
- Material: Rubber, Stainless, Steel
- Item Dimensions : LxWxH 0.79 x 0.39 x 0.79 inches
- Specification: Met ABEC 1
- Bearing Type: Ball Bearing
- Compatible: Lubricant Grease
- Package Weight: 0.1 Kilograms
- Color: Multi-Color
- Manufacturer: FaGoBearing
DEEP DREAM Premium Skateboard Bearings is a high-quality bearing, which is the top favorite choice among many skateboard enthusiasts. Stainless steel and Chrome steel materials are used for the manufacturing of products to ensure a smooth and comfortable riding experience.
These amazing pre-lubricated bearings have been designed to reduce friction and let the riders have a pleasurable skating experience. Their impressive quality is their ability to fit within most wheels. And this is possible due to the precision fitment of 608s size.
Every product has a downside, and so does DEEPDREAM Premium Skateboard Bearings. Few customers have found this bearing a little bit stiff which makes it uneasy for them to handle it in the starting stages. Apart from that, in comparison to other products available in the market, it is a bit costly to invest.
Pros
- Fast and smooth pre-lubricated bearings
- Ensure a comfortable and smooth riding experience
- Made from Chrome steel and stainless steel material
- Easy to fit into most wheels available in the market
Cons
- Little stiff
- Costly
6. Oldboy Ceramic Skateboard Bearings – Ultimate Performance with Best Ceramic Skateboard Bearings
Oldboy Ceramic Bearings
Key Features:
- Product Dimensions : 2.76 x 2.76 x 2.46 inches; 3.53 Ounces
- Item model number : OBCZrO2UK
- Manufacturer : Oldboy Labs
- Smoother Rides
- Perfect for Tricks
- Long-Lasting WHeels
- Suitable for many Rides
- Set of 4 skateboard wheels, 55 x 33 mm
Oldboy Ceramic skateboard bearings are considered to be worthwhile options for both beginner and professional skaters. It comes in a packaging pyramid-shaped box of 8 sets made up of polished glass balls. All the balls are pre-lubricated to prevent any sort of wear and tear during everyday use.
By pairing premium wheels with these high-quality bearings you can perform some amazing street stunts. Due to its lightweight nature, it’s a top priority for freestyle skaters. It is equally appreciated by scooters, hockey skate wheels, inline, rollerblades, and quads.
Furthermore, one shield design also helps you with easy cleaning without any hassle. There is no need to open the shield during cleaning or while adding lube.
Pros
- Offer smoother rides
- Easy to maintain
- Durable wheels
- Suitable for different rides
Cons
- No rear shields
- Costly
7. BRONSON SPEED CO. G3 Skateboard Bearings – Elite Choice for Best Skateboard Bearings in Speed and Longevity
Bronson Speed CO. G3 Bearings
Key Features:
- Color: Silver
- Brand: BRONSON SPEED CO.
- Material: Ceramic
- Item Dimensions : LxWxH 2 x 2 x 2 inches
- Item Weight: 3.2 Ounces
- Specification: Met ABEC 7
- Deep Groove raceway balls
- Straight-edge frictionless shields
- Max impact cage design
- Micro Groove raceway surfaces
Just like the rest of the skateboard parts, the BRONSON Speed G3 Skateboard Bearings pay special attention to small detailing. Each of the bearings is available in a design of non-distort Max impact for offering different advantages for wheel cores.
Bronson Speed bearings are a perfect example of high speeds and good looks. The majority of the bearings come with a rubber shield for added protection. But this product comes with shield-free bearings for longer rolling purposes. Therefore, we recommend this product to be the first choice for beginner skaters.
One major thing that will fascinate you is the use of tungsten coating. On your very first ride, you will notice how smoothly they spin without giving you any trouble. The addition of audible speed technology improves the sound of speed. Their deep groove raceway design reduces any breakage or axial and angular side damage. Thus, all in all, Bronson Speed bearings are the premium ones, infused with great technology.
Pros
- Superlative shield-less design
- Tungsten coating for an enjoyable ride
- Deep groove design for reducing any damage
- Eye-catching design
Cons
- Prone to dust and dirt
- Lacks rubber covers
8. SPITFIRE Skateboard Wheels CHEAPSHOTS Bearings – Best Budget-Friendly Bearings with Optimal Performance
Spitfire wheels Cheapshots Bearings
Key Features:
- Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: 2.05 x 2.05 x 0.67 inches
- Package Weight: 0.09 Kilograms
- Item Dimensions LxWxH : 7.87 x 7.87 x 4.72 inches
- Brand: Name Spitfire
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Manufacturer: Spitfire
If we talk about perfect bearings for beginners, then we can never go wrong with the recommendation of Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings. You can even nickname it newbie skating ball bearings because of its ABEC 3 rating. Although they are not fast enough, these bearings do allow newbie skateboarders to perform different tricks at manageable speeds.
Above all, another interesting thing about this product is its lightweight nature of 100 grams. You can easily take it along with you to any place and ride it with full freedom. They don’t make any sort of noise just like the rest of the bearing products available in the market.
Each of the bearings comes in a black finish covering the entire body and the shield to give a neat and attractive appearance. Users have to soak the bearings in acetone before they start using it. This can be an unfortunate thing for a few customers. If you don’t soak them, they won’t spin smoothly.
Pros
- Included with a set of 8 bearings
- Designed for different types of skating
- Offers removable shields
- Affordable
Cons
- Requires soaking before usage
9. Bones Big Balls Reds Skateboard Bearings – Best Skateboard Bearings for Enhanced Speed and Strength
Bones Big Balls Reds Bearings
Key Features:
- Brand: Bones
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Item Dimensions LxWxH : 1.97 x 1.97 x 3.94 inches
- Item Weight: 5 Grams
- Specification Met: ABEC 9
- Includes: Set of 8 bearings, instructions, and sticker
- Higher top speed
- Greater strength
- Longer life
- Easy cleaning
- Lightweight
- 608 8mm Bearings
Next on our list we have, Bones Big Balls Reds Skateboard Bearings! Bones Bearings has become a tough competitor by combining strength and speed at a low cost. That’s why we call them BIG BALLS. Manufacturers have created this bearing product by keeping in view the beginner skaters. BIG BALLS allow the newbie skaters to skate on any terrain of their choice with full freedom.
Furthermore, they have low friction made up of high-quality materials. They have a design that is quite similar to the popular Bones Super Swiss 6. BIG BALLS have six 17% larger diameter balls and high-speed ball retainers. For an easy cleaning process, it also includes a removable dust shield. It often comes with the Bones Speed Cream to have a fast and smooth skating experience. Well, you can use it on any surface i.e. downhill, park, street, ramp, pool or street.
Pros
- Larger balls help you with faster rolling
- Package includes set of 8, stickers and instructions
- The Skate Rated Design supports top speed
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for electronic skateboards
- A little noisy
10. RONSON SPEED CO. G2 Skateboard Bearings – Reliable and Affordable Best Skateboard Bearings for Everyday Use
Bronson Speed CO. G2 Bearings
Key Features:
- Deep groove raceways
- Straight-edge frictionless shields
- High-speed ceramic oil
- Product Dimensions : 2 x 2 x 2 inches; 0.71 Ounces
- Department : unisex-adult
- Manufacturer : NHS, Inc.
Another classic example with an extraordinary set of wheel cores is undoubtedly BRONSON Speed G2 Skateboard Bearings. Each one of the bearings in this set works like magic without creating any sort of roughness while skating. And this is all because of ceramic oil lubrication on them.
Another fascinating feature is its quiet nature for a calming and seamless ride. You will appreciate these bearings due to their straight-edged double-shielded bodies. It accompanies shield layers which are frictionless and won’t hamper any dirt penetration. The availability of deep groove races also minimizes damage and reduces vibrations.
One major thing that has grabbed the attention of many people is its value. Many manufacturers miss out on adding spacers in their bearings, but not Bronson. There is no need to buy them separately. Even though it comes with the combination of spacer and bearing, still it costs too much less.
Pros
- Affordable
- Deep groove raceways minimize any damage
- Bronson’s high-speed ceramic oil increases the speed
- Friction-less design for a smooth ride
Cons
- Not the fastest one
Conclusion
To end with this discussion, bearings made from a well-known do know how to handle everyday cruising and skate riding experiences. No matter if you are investing in ceramic bearing or steel one, make sure you take home something superior. Maintain them properly by oiling them for long-term performance.
We hope that with our above-mentioned list of top best skateboard bearings reviews, you have finally made your final choice. Don’t compromise on your safety just to save a few bucks. Go for it now!
Happy skating!
How to choose the best skateboard bearings? Buying guide to follow
If you are stepping out to shop for the skateboard bearings for the first time, then definitely finding the right one can be a tiresome task for you. A lot of factors need to be considered to be a perfect choice. But don’t worry; we are here to help you on every bit.
Here are a few important points that you need to keep in mind when choosing the finest skateboard bearing. Have a look below:
Composition of material
The material of a bearing is something that holds the primary importance. A bearing can never perform wonderfully if it is not made from high-quality materials. The majority of the bearings are available in steel material which adds quality cost-effectiveness and durability. This material makes them robust and capable enough to handle heavy loads. Apart from that, titanium and ceramic are two other common options. Ceramic bearings are popular for staying smoother and faster. But at the same time, they are costly. On the other side, titanium bearings are durable, lightweight, and costly.
Importance of balls in a bearing
No bearing can function properly without balls. These balls in small spheres are the main reason why bearings are working smoothly. They are available in two popular options i.e. ceramic and steel. Steel balls are durable and ceramic balls are on the waterproof side. It might be hard to decide on one of these, but no matter whatsoever you choose, both of them will bring decent results.
Raceways for a smooth skating
Raceways make up the entire bearing frame based on the outer and inner rings. You can have it in different designs but deep grooves stay out to be the most common one for skateboarding. Raceways help to fully stabilize the rider by letting the ball roll deep and get fitted against the axles. It even reduces the vibrations on the skateboard for a smooth riding journey.
Retainers for holding the ball together
The term retainer is all about holding the ball in one place during operation. They are smooth enough just like the rest of the bearing components. If we talk about the material, then nylon ball retainers should be your first choice. This type of retainer will help the wheel to roll efficiently.
Value of ABEC rating
Many of you are unaware of the term “ABEC rating”. This rating is responsible for measuring the precision value of bearings. If the ABEC rating is higher, it is obvious that the bearing has more precision. But always remember that a higher ABEC rating does not make that product suitable for skateboarding. Majority of the skateboarders often prefer bearings with lower ratings to handle any skating tricks.
Shielding for better protection
Bearings are available in two options i.e. shielded or unshielded. Generally, a shielded bearing has a protective covering to keep it away from dust and debris. But unshielded bearings are quite open to permit maximum airflow. In short, shielded bearings can survive longer and unshielded are faster.
Lubrication of bearings
Another factor that holds the major importance is the lubrication of bearings. Most of the bearings are pre-lubricated but many of them require lubrication before using it. Try to use lubrication which is designed especially for the skateboard bearings for an excellent skating experience.
FAQs: Questions people frequently ask
Which one is the fastest skateboard bearing in 2023?
No doubt, the fastest bearing in the market is Bones Swiss Ceramics. These bearings are manufactured from ceramic calls which are smoother, harder, and lighter in comparison to steel balls. This adds the quality of less friction and faster speed.
How you should buy the best skateboard bearings?
When purchasing skateboard bearings, always look for the material quality. Never compromise on quality and safety to save a few of your dollars. Bearings should have an ABEC rating and must have micro groove raceway surfaces. This feature will reduce friction and perform smoothly during rough terrains. Other than that durable nature and improved performance are equally important.
What is the main difference between Bones Reds and Bones Swiss bearings?
Bones Swiss and Bones Red bearings are known to be superior bearings, manufactured by the same company. But they do have some differences. Bones Swiss bearings have a higher ABEC rating and they are made from top-quality materials. In comparison, Bones Reds are cheap and offer a great performance.
Why you should invest in ceramic skateboard bearings?
These bearings are a worthy investment to experience a smooth and fastest skating ride. They are expensive in comparison to steel bearings but they need less maintenance and are durable.