Electric Skateboard Wheels vs. Longboard Wheels: Which Should You Choose?

Electric skateboard wheels and longboard wheels serve different purposes, so choosing between them depends on your terrain, speed, and riding style.

Updated 10 Sep 2026 4 min read 7 sections

Electric Skateboard Wheels vs. Longboard Wheels: The Key Differences

Electric skateboard wheels and longboard wheels serve different purposes, so choosing between them depends on your terrain, speed, and riding style. The main differences come down to size, durometer (hardness), motor integration, and what terrain each excels on. Understanding these distinctions helps you pick the right setup for how you actually ride.

Size and Speed: Why Diameter Matters

Onsra California electric skate board — Electric skate board$1,690.00Image from the merchant

Electric skateboard wheels typically range from 90mm to 120mm in diameter, while longboard wheels often fall between 70mm and 100mm. Larger diameter means higher top speed and better rolling momentum over bumps and cracks. If you’re riding an electric skate board or electric skateboards designed for speed and distance, bigger wheels let you maintain momentum with less effort from the motor.

Longboards favor slightly smaller wheels because they prioritize control and maneuverability over raw speed. That said, some modern longboard setups use wheels in the 95mm to 100mm range to balance both. Your choice hinges on whether you value cruising speed or tight handling.

Durometer and Terrain: Soft vs. Hard Compounds

Durometer measures wheel hardness on a scale of 0 to 100A. Softer wheels (78A to 85A) grip better and absorb vibration, making them ideal for rough pavement, gravel, or all-terrain riding. Harder wheels (90A and above) roll faster and last longer on smooth surfaces but give a rougher ride on uneven ground.

Onsra California rubber skateboard wheels — Rubber skateboard wheels$129.00Image from the merchant

Electric skateboard wheels tend to run softer because they’re built to handle speed and maintain traction. Rubber skateboard wheels on quality setups absorb shock well, reducing strain on the motor and battery during longer rides. Longboard wheels vary widely, but dedicated street longboard wheels lean harder for that smooth, fast glide down smooth hills.

If you’re planning to use your board for all terrain or mixed conditions, softer electric skateboard wheels are typically the safer bet.

Motor Integration: Hub Motors vs. Traditional Wheels

Onsra California electric skateboard wheels — Electric skateboard wheels$59.00Image from the merchant

A critical difference between electric skateboard wheels and standard longboard wheels is motor integration. Many electric skateboard wheels are hub motors, meaning the motor sits inside the wheel itself. This design eliminates belts and pulleys, offering a cleaner setup and lower maintenance.

Traditional longboard wheels are passive, they’re just wheels. To electrify a longboard, you’d need to add a separate motor system (belt-driven or direct-drive), which changes the entire setup and dynamics. This is why most people don’t convert a standard longboard into an electric skateboard; the motor integration on dedicated electric skateboard engine systems is purpose-built and more efficient.

Terrain Performance: Street vs. All-Terrain

Wheel Type	Best Terrain	Durometer Range	Typical Size
Electric skateboard	Street, asphalt, mixed pavement	78A-90A	100mm-120mm
Longboard	Smooth streets, hills, carving	85A-100A	70mm-100mm
All-terrain electric skateboard	Gravel, grass, dirt, bumpy roads	75A-80A	100mm-120mm

Electric skateboard wheels designed for all-terrain riding are softer and chunkier, with deeper tread patterns. They’re built to absorb impacts and roll over obstacles. If you’re sticking to smooth city streets, standard electric skateboard wheels work great. For off-road or rough terrain, seek out models marketed specifically for that use.

Longboards on smooth pavement will outride electric skateboard wheels in terms of glide and feel, but they can’t handle high speeds or rough surfaces as comfortably.

Battery and Motor Load: Why Wheel Choice Affects Range

Wheel size and durometer affect how hard your motor and battery work. Larger wheels with higher rolling resistance require more power to maintain speed. Softer wheels grip better but create slightly more friction than hard wheels. These factors compound over a long ride.

Onsra California electric skateboard battery — Electric skateboard battery$290.00Image from the merchant

If range is your priority, harder, mid-sized wheels reduce the load on your electric skateboard battery and motor. However, this tradeoff means less comfort and grip on rough surfaces. When selecting rubber skateboard wheels, check the durometer rating and compare it to your board’s motor specs and typical terrain.

For longer commutes or daily use, balance wheel size and durometer against your actual riding conditions rather than chasing the biggest or hardest option.

Which Setup Should You Choose?

Choose electric skateboard wheels if you want speed, range, and integrated motor technology in one package. They’re purpose-built for powered riding, easier to maintain, and designed to handle higher speeds safely.

Choose longboard wheels if you’re building or modifying a non-powered setup and prioritize the carving feel and smooth glide that traditional longboards deliver. Longboards excel at hill carving and controlled downhill speed but lack the power and efficiency of an electric system.

Most riders find that dedicated electric skateboards with purpose-designed wheels outperform retrofitted setups. If you’re serious about electric riding, starting with a complete board lets you get the wheel and motor pairing right from the start. You can always upgrade wheels later as you learn what terrain and speed you prefer.

Onsra California longboard gloves — Longboard gloves$45.00Image from the merchant

Ready to find the right setup? Grab the code for 5% off all orders at Onsra California. You can also pair your new wheels with protective gear like longboard gloves and longboard grip tape to keep your board performing and yourself safe. For more insight, check out CLOUDWHEEL – Next Generation Electric Skateboard Wheels and the Best E-Skate Wheels on the market (Currently) – Esk8 Forum for real rider feedback.

Questions

Can I use longboard wheels on an electric skateboard?

Technically you can fit longboard wheels onto an electric skateboard's hub motors, but it's not recommended. Longboard wheels are often harder and smaller, which can reduce traction, comfort, and efficiency. Electric skateboard wheels are optimized for motor performance and speed. Stick with wheels designed for your specific board.

What durometer should I choose for electric skateboard wheels?

For street riding, 80A to 90A offers a good balance of grip and speed. Softer wheels (75A-80A) are better for rough terrain and comfort; harder wheels (90A+) roll faster on smooth pavement. Check your board's recommendations and match the durometer to your typical riding surface.

Do larger electric skateboard wheels give you more speed?

Yes, larger wheels have a higher top speed and maintain momentum better over bumps. However, they also require more motor power, which can reduce range on a single charge. Choose wheel size based on whether you prioritize speed or battery life.

How often should I replace my electric skateboard wheels?

Wheel lifespan depends on terrain, riding style, and durometer. Softer wheels wear faster but provide better grip; harder wheels last longer but offer less comfort. Most riders replace wheels every 500 to 1,500 miles, or when you notice visible flatspotting or chunking.

What are the best electric skateboard wheels for all-terrain riding?

Look for wheels 100mm or larger with soft durometer ratings (75A-80A) and deep tread patterns. These handle gravel, grass, and rough pavement better than street wheels. Check forums like the [Best E-Skate Wheels on the market (Currently) - Esk8 Forum](https://forum.esk8.news/t/best-e-skate-wheels-on-the-market-currently/53228) for real reviews.

Where can I find the right electric skateboard wheels for my setup?

Check Onsra California for quality options. [Check the latest price](/onsra-california-discount-code/) with our 5% discount code to compare what's in stock and get the best deal on wheels that match your board's specs.