10 Best Longboard Wheels For Cruising in 2026
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Our best overall pick for cruising is the Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels for its innovative wave pattern that handles debris. For riders prioritizing smoothness on rough roads, the Orangatang Caguama 85mm excels, while the Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78a is our top choice for carving and cruising.
Choosing the right wheels transforms a longboard from a chore to a joy. The wrong ones can make a casual push feel exhausting on rough pavement. This guide is based on comparing specifications, manufacturer data, and patterns in owner feedback to help you find wheels that match your riding style and local terrain.
Top 10 Longboard Wheels For Cruising in the Market
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The Best Longboard Wheels For Cruising, Reviewed
Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels
What We Like
- Unique wave pattern deflects debris and obstacles
- All-terrain performance for rough roads and parks
- Made in the USA from local materials
- 78a softness provides a smooth, grippy ride
Trade-offs
- The specialized wave design may not suit every rider's preference
- Weighs 1.4 pounds per set
With a 72mm diameter and 78a durometer, these wheels provide a versatile balance for cruising, offering a blend of roll speed and shock absorption suited to most paved surfaces. Their defining trait is a unique wave-pattern tread, which the maker says helps deflect debris and handle rough terrain, positioning them for riders who often encounter cracked pavement or urban obstacles.
The trade-off for that all-terrain capability is that the 72mm size, while solid, doesn’t roll over cracks and pebbles as effortlessly as the massive 85mm Orangatang Caguamas or 90mm Maxfinds. You’re choosing a more nimble, versatile wheel that excels at handling debris over a pure speed-and-comfort monster. For the rider whose cruising route includes everything from smooth bike paths to questionable back alleys, these wheels’ design promises a confident, uninterrupted roll where a standard rounded-lipped wheel might chatter or hang up.
Orangatang Caguama 85mm Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- 85mm diameter rolls over rough roads smoothly
- Happy Thane formula offers plush, grippy ride
- Large core reduces weight for quick acceleration
- Subtly rounded edges pass over pavement cracks
Trade-offs
- 85mm diameter often requires riser pads
- Set weight 0.4 lbs, lighter than many wheels
An 85mm diameter is the headline here, turning cracked sidewalks and gravel-speckled paths into a non-issue. These wheels are built for the rider whose commute involves less-than-ideal pavement, where that extra roll-over radius means maintaining speed and comfort where smaller wheels would chatter and stall. The Happy Thane formula and the wide 56mm contact patch add a layer of confident grip to the smoothness, making them a premium choice for carving and distance pushing over inconsistent surfaces.
That massive size does come with a trade-off in board setup and feel. You’ll likely need riser pads to avoid wheel bite, and the lighter 0.4-pound set weight, while great for acceleration, feels distinctly different underfoot compared to the 1.3 to 1.8-pound sets common elsewhere. For someone prioritizing a lower, more nimble board for tight turns, a smaller wheel like the Orangatang 4 President 70mm might be the better trade, sacrificing some rough-road prowess for a more traditional carving feel.
Product photos

Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78a Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- 78a softness grips well for cornering
- 69mm size rolls over cracks and rough surfaces
- Square lip offers grip and controllable slides
- High-rebound urethane is durable and resilient
Trade-offs
- 69mm diameter is smaller than many dedicated cruiser wheels
- Wears quickly during sliding, per manufacturer description
A 78a durometer gives these Cloud Ride wheels a supremely soft and grippy feel, perfect for absorbing vibrations and sticking to the pavement during deep carves. This makes them an excellent match for riders who prioritize a smooth, controlled cruise over rough pavement but still want the option to kick out the tail for a slide. The 69mm diameter provides a good balance, offering enough roll speed for distance while keeping the board’s center of gravity manageable for responsive turns.
These wheels wear quickly when you’re leaving thane lines on the hill, according to the manufacturer. Compared to a dedicated carving cruiser like the Hawgs Plow Kings, the Cloud Ride Cruisers are a touch smaller and heavier. This means slightly less momentum over very long distances, but potentially more stability when you initiate a slide. They are a versatile pick that leans into performance cruising with a side of freeride fun.
Product photos

Hawgs Plow Kings 72mm 78a Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- Classic Flat Banana shape for predictable grip and slide.
- 72mm diameter rolls smoothly over common pavement cracks.
- 78a softness absorbs vibrations for a comfortable ride.
Trade-offs
- Flat profile creates a wide contact patch, reducing slide initiation.
- 72mm size may be less stable on very rough roads than larger wheels.
- The classic shape lacks the modern rocker or offset of newer designs.
The Hawgs Plow Kings are listed as a 72mm 78a longboard wheel. A 78a durometer is a soft rating common in cruising wheels, while 72mm places it in a mid-size diameter range for this category. Its Amazon title includes the phrase ‘Flat Banana,’ which suggests a specific wheel shape designation from the brand.
That same flat profile and grippy nature mean these wheels prefer carving over sliding. If you like to kick out your tail or power slide to scrub speed, you’ll find them more resistant than a dedicated freeride wheel. Compared to a modern option like the Shark Wheels with their grooved design, the Plow Kings represent a more traditional, no-frills approach to smooth rolling. They’re about reliable performance, not reinventing the wheel.
Product photos

Maxfind 75mm 78a Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- 75mm size rolls over cracks and bumps smoothly
- 78A softness absorbs vibration for comfort
- Wide contact surface provides stable grip for carving
- Built for daily durability on common urban surfaces
Trade-offs
- Requires riser pads on lower trucks to prevent wheel bite
- Bearings are not included in the set
- Heavier than the 0.4 lb Orangatang Caguama 85mm wheels
Rolling over sidewalk cracks and uneven pavement is easier with 75mm wheels, a practical size for smoother everyday cruising and commuting. The soft 78A polyurethane helps absorb vibration from asphalt and concrete, which translates directly to a more comfortable ride. This setup is built for regular street riding on common urban surfaces.
Achieving that smoother rollover requires some setup consideration. These wheels don’t include bearings, and their size means you’ll likely need riser pads to avoid wheel bite on a standard cruiser setup. If you’re looking for an even larger wheel for maximum rollover on truly rough roads, you’d compare these directly to something like the Maxfind 90mm wheels. Those are heavier but built for more aggressive comfort.
Product photos

Maxfind 90mm 78a Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- 90mm diameter rolls over cracks and bumps easily
- Soft 78A PU absorbs harsh road vibrations
- 60mm wide contact patch provides stable, planted feel
- Durable construction suits daily commuting and cruising
Trade-offs
- 90mm size requires checking board clearance for wheel bite
The 90mm diameter is the single biggest factor here, turning pavement cracks and rough surfaces into minor ripples instead of ride-stopping jolts. That massive rollover, paired with the shock-absorbing 78A softness, makes these wheels a comfort-first choice for riders who prioritize a smooth, uninterrupted cruise over technical performance. They’re built for the commuter or weekend carver who wants to glide across mixed urban surfaces without feeling every pebble.
With a 90mm diameter, these wheels roll over pavement cracks and uneven roads more easily than many smaller wheels. This means fewer interruptions and a smoother feel on everyday routes. You get a plush ride, but the trade-off is a heavier, more momentum-focused feel. You give up some quick acceleration and flickability for that stability.
Product photos

Ghost Boards Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78a Wheels
What We Like
- Includes ABEC-7 bearings for quick assembly
- Soft 78a PU provides smooth, low-vibration glide
- Broad contact patch aids balance on varied surfaces
- Semi-transparent glow-in-the-dark style options
Trade-offs
- Heavier than the Cloud Ride Cruiser and Maxfind 75mm wheels
- 70mm diameter is smaller than options like the Orangatang Caguama 85mm
These wheels arrive with bearings already installed, so you can get rolling straight out of the box without any extra parts to buy. That 78a softness is the sweet spot for cruising, soaking up sidewalk cracks and rough pavement to keep your ride smooth and quiet. It’s a complete package aimed at the skater who wants a dependable, comfortable setup without the fuss of piecing it together. The included bearings and straightforward design make it a practical starting point.
You do trade off some speed and roll-over ability for that convenience, as the 70mm size won’t conquer large obstacles as easily as the larger Orangatang Caguamas. They’re also on the heavier side for their diameter, which can make your board feel a bit less nimble compared to lighter sets like the Cloud Ride Cruisers. For a cruiser prioritizing a simple, ready-to-ride experience with a forgiving feel, these wheels deliver solid value.
Product photos

Fireball Tinder 65mm 81a Longboard Wheels
What We Like
- Softer 81a durometer smooths over debris
- SlidePrepped surface for consistent slides
- Centerset core for predictable slide behavior
- High-rebound urethane for a fast ride
Trade-offs
- 65mm diameter is smaller than many cruising wheels
- 38mm contact patch is narrower than some dedicated cruisers
The Fireball Tinder’s 81a durometer gives it a buttery, forgiving feel that eats up pavement cracks and pebbles, making it a comfortable choice for getting around town. Its real party trick, though, is being SlidePrepped straight out of the box. This centerset wheel is designed for the rider who wants to cruise comfortably but also expects to kick out a smooth, predictable slide to scrub speed or just for fun. You get a fast-rolling, soft wheel that doesn’t shy away from leaving urethane on the pavement.
That focus on slide performance does involve a trade-off. The 65mm diameter is on the smaller side for a pure cruiser. You might feel more of the road’s texture and need to push slightly more often than you would with a larger wheel like the Orangatang Caguama. It’s a wheel built for a blended style, enjoying a mellow cruise with the option to slide, rather than purely maximizing roll-over speed and vibration damping for distance.
Product photos

Orangatang 4 President 70mm 80a Wheels
What We Like
- Sharp square lips for maximum traction
- Fast, grippy Happy Thane urethane
- Supportive core for crisp slides
- 70mm size carries speed efficiently
Trade-offs
- 70mm diameter is smaller than many cruiser wheels, like the 85mm Caguama
- Square-lipped design prioritizes grip over effortless roll-over of rough terrain
- At 1.6 pounds per set, it's heavier than some 70mm competitors like the Fireball Tinder
A 70mm diameter paired with an 80a durometer makes these wheels a speed-focused choice for active riders. They accelerate quickly between carves, which is perfect for generating momentum through pumping. The sharp, square lips and Orangatang’s Happy Thane formula deliver the high traction needed for hard carving and slalom. This gives you confident grip mid-turn that can still be released into a smooth slide when you want. This setup suits a cruiser who treats the board like a surfboard, actively generating speed through turns rather than just rolling.
This lively, grippy performance comes at a cost in pure cruising comfort. The 70mm wheels won’t roll over cracks and pebbles as easily as a larger wheel like the Hawgs Plow Kings. You’ll feel the road texture more, and maintaining speed on rougher pavement requires more pumping effort. Compared to a dedicated soft cruiser wheel, the 4 Presidents ask for more engagement from the rider. They excel when you’re putting energy into the ride, but they’re less about a laid-back, effortless roll from point A to point B.
Product photos

Frcctre 70mm 80a Cruiser Wheels
What We Like
- Complete kit includes risers and mounting hardware
- Pre-installed ABEC-9 bearings for smooth rolling
- 80A softness provides good grip for cruising
- 70mm diameter rolls over cracks and debris
Trade-offs
- No width or weight listed for sizing
- Hardness may limit high-speed sliding
The Frcctre wheels come as a complete setup kit, which is the biggest win for a skater who just wants to bolt on and go. You get the 70mm 80A wheels, the bearings already pressed in, spacers, and even a set of riser pads and hardware. That 80A softness and the 70mm diameter are a classic combo for comfortable cruising on smooth pavement, absorbing vibrations nicely. This package is perfect for someone building a first cruiser or refreshing an old deck without hunting down separate components.
These wheels come with ABEC-9 bearings and spacers pre-installed, so you can mount them and start rolling right away. Their 80A hardness provides great grip for smooth rolling on concrete or asphalt, making them suitable for cruising and early street tricks. The included set also contains riser pads and hardware, offering a complete package for setup.
Product photos

How We Evaluated Longboard Wheels For Cruising
Our evaluation started with a detailed review of manufacturer specifications and product documentation. We focused on the criteria that matter most for a comfortable, stable cruise: wheel diameter for rolling over obstacles, urethane durometer (hardness) for grip and vibration absorption, and overall wheel shape and design.
We prioritized wheels designed for comfort and stability over rough surfaces, not high-speed racing or technical sliding. This means we looked for larger diameters and softer durometers. We also considered practical setup factors like the potential need for riser pads to prevent wheel bite with larger wheels. Our research-based approach has limits; we cannot account for every personal preference or specific road condition, but it provides a strong foundation for your decision.
What To Look For In Longboard Wheels For Cruising
Cruising wheels are about comfort and stability. You want a setup that absorbs road chatter and rolls smoothly over cracks so you can enjoy the ride, not fight the pavement.
Key factors are wheel size for roll-over ability, softness for grip and comfort, and shape for predictable handling. A larger, softer wheel generally provides a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
Wheel Diameter
Diameter, measured in millimeters (mm), is the single biggest factor for a smooth cruise. Larger wheels roll over cracks, pebbles, and rough pavement more easily than smaller ones. Our picks range from 65mm to 90mm. Wheels like the 85mm Orangatang Caguama and 90mm Maxfind excel at this, but they often require riser pads to prevent them from biting into the deck during sharp turns. A good starting point for most urban cruising is between 70mm and 75mm.
Urethane Durometer (Hardness)
Durometer, indicated by a number followed by an “a” (like 78a), measures wheel hardness. Softer wheels (lower numbers) grip the road better and absorb more vibration, making for a more comfortable and stable ride. Most of our selections are in the 78a to 81a range, ideal for cruising. Harder wheels are faster on smooth surfaces but transmit every bump. For a deeper dive into this topic, our guide on soft skateboard wheels explains the trade-offs in detail.
Wheel Shape & Contact Patch
The wheel’s profile affects how it grips and slides. A rounded edge or a unique tread like the Shark Wheel’s wave pattern can help navigate obstacles. A wider, square-lipped wheel offers more grip for carving but may feel less nimble. The contact patch is the width of urethane that touches the road; a wider patch generally means more stability. For riders building a complete setup, pairing your wheels with the right longboard trucks for cruising is crucial for a balanced ride.
- Check your board’s clearance to ensure larger wheels won’t cause wheel bite.
- Consider if you want a wheel that can also handle casual slides, like the Fireball Tinder.
- Look for sets that include bearings or riser pads if you want a simple upgrade.
For most riders, a wheel between 70-80mm with a durometer around 78a offers the best balance of smooth roll and manageable size.
Longboard Wheels For Cruising Compared
The table below compares key specifications like diameter, durometer, and weight to help you see the differences at a glance.
| Product | Diameter | Hardness | Set Weight | Contact Patch/Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels | 72mm | 78a | 1.4 pounds | All-terrain |
| Orangatang Caguama 85mm Longboard Wheels | 85mm | N/A | 0.4 pounds | 56mm |
| Cloud Ride Cruiser 69mm 78a Longboard Wheels | 69mm | 78a | 1.5 Pounds | Square-lipped |
| Hawgs Plow Kings 72mm 78a Longboard Wheels | 72mm | 78a | N/A | Flat Banana |
| Maxfind 75mm 78a Longboard Wheels | 75mm | 78A | 1.3 pounds | Wide |
| Maxfind 90mm 78a Longboard Wheels | 90mm | 78A | 3.0 pounds | 60mm |
| Ghost Boards Jelly Phantoms 70mm 78a Wheels | 70mm | 78a | 1.8 pounds | N/A |
| Fireball Tinder 65mm 81a Longboard Wheels | 65mm | 81a | 1.2 Pounds | 38mm |
| Orangatang 4 President 70mm 80a Wheels | 70mm | 80a | 1.6 Pounds | Square lips |
| Frcctre 70mm 80a Cruiser Wheels | 70mm | 80A | N/A | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What longboard wheels are best for cruising?
For general cruising, look for larger, softer wheels. Our top pick, the Shark Wheel 72mm 78a, handles debris well, while the Orangatang Caguama 85mm is superb for rough roads. The best choice depends on your local pavement quality and whether you prioritize smoothness or a lower deck.
What type of longboard is best for cruising?
A dedicated cruising longboard typically has a longer, flexible deck for stability and a relaxed riding stance. The right longboard decks for cruising provide a comfortable platform. It’s often paired with softer, larger wheels like those featured here to absorb vibration.
Do hard or soft longboard wheels go faster?
Harder wheels (higher durometer) generally have less rolling resistance and can achieve higher top speeds on perfectly smooth surfaces like skatepark concrete. However, for real-world cruising on imperfect pavement, softer wheels maintain speed better by not getting slowed down by small bumps and cracks.
What size skateboard wheels are best for cruising?
For cruising, larger wheels are better. Sizes between 65mm and 75mm are common for standard setups, but wheels up to 85mm or 90mm, like the Maxfind 90mm, offer an exceptionally smooth ride over rough terrain. You can explore more about the ideal wheels for longboard skateboards in our dedicated guide on best longboard wheels.
What is the difference between cruiser and street skateboard wheels?
Cruiser wheels are larger and softer, designed for comfort and rolling over obstacles. Street skateboard wheels are smaller and harder, optimized for pop, flick, and sliding on smooth skatepark surfaces.
The Bottom Line
The Shark Wheel 72mm 78a Longboard Cruising Wheels are our best overall pick for their unique ability to handle debris-laden urban terrain while providing a soft, grippy ride. If you’re on a budget or want a complete kit, consider the Ghost Boards Jelly Phantoms or the Frcctre 70mm kit. For riders facing exceptionally rough roads, the larger-diameter Orangatang Caguama or Maxfind wheels are worth the extra setup consideration. Ultimately, matching your wheel’s size and softness to the pavement you ride most is the key to a great cruising experience.

