Choose the Right Skate Wheels

A pair of skates is not just a pair of skates. There are many different ways to use them and many purposes they can serve. That’s why it’s important to choose wheels that perfectly match how you plan to use your skates.

If you're looking for new skate wheels because you use your skates for fitness, you should go for inline skate wheels with a relatively large diameter. The larger the diameter, the more speed you can generate.

If you're looking for inline skate wheels for roller hockey, you'll want wheels with a smaller diameter, as they allow for better maneuverability.
Be sure to check that your new wheels don’t rub against the frame, especially if you’re choosing a different size than the original ones. You can usually find size compatibility info on the underside of the frame.

It’s also a good idea to check the wheel material before buying. This affects both durability and grip. PU (polyurethane) wheels are durable and offer excellent road grip. Unlike plastic wheels, they don't crack easily and can withstand more impact and stress.

Who Are Skate Wheels For?

At ReXhockey, we stock skate wheels in various sizes. We offer skates for kids in EU sizes 29–39.5 and for adults up to size 48. Naturally, the wheels need to match the size of the skates, so we carry a range of wheel sizes for both inline and quad skates.

If you play roller hockey, you'll need inline skate wheels, as that’s most likely the type of skate you're using. Just like in ice hockey, roller hockey requires agility and speed. That’s why you need inline wheels with great grip and smaller diameter for quick turns and fast direction changes.

If you use your skates for fitness – long, fast rides without sharp turns – you’ll want relatively large skate wheels. Larger wheels help you maintain speed on straight paths.
If you're mostly skating casually or commuting through the city, your skate wheels should have a diameter somewhere between hockey and fitness wheels.
If you're unsure which skate wheels to choose, don’t hesitate to contact us in the chat – we’re here to help.

Inline vs. Quad Skate Wheels – What’s the Difference?

Quad skates have four wheels – two in the front and two in the back – arranged in pairs, hence the name "side by side." Quad wheels are wider than inline wheels, which makes them easier to balance on. They come in both hard and soft versions, so you can pick exactly what you need for either indoor or outdoor skating.

Inline wheels are narrower than quad wheels, which means less rolling resistance and higher potential speed. When shopping for inline skate wheels, consider features like weight, grip, and durability. It’s important that the wheels match your needs and intended use.

If you're using skates for commuting rather than sports or fitness, stability may be more important than maneuverability. On the other hand, if you're using them for sport or competition, that should influence your choice of wheels.

Let Us Help You Find the Best Skate Wheels

The first roller skates were described as early as the 1700s, and the first patents were filed in the U.S. during the mid-1800s. Interestingly, the very first skates were inline skates, but quad skates quickly became more popular. Inline skates made a comeback in the 1980s due to their superior speed.

Today, both kids and adults enjoy roller skating—whether as a fun hobby or on a professional level. Let us help you find the best skate setup for your needs! Whether you're just getting started or a seasoned skater, you’re sure to find something exciting at ReXhockey.