Understanding Skateboard Bearings

Skateboard bearings play a crucial role in the overall performance of a skateboard. Despite the vast amount of information and marketing hype, there are still many misconceptions and myths about these small yet essential components. This article will take a scientific and technological approach to demystify skateboard bearings, focusing on their key aspects such as materials, performance, and maintenance. By understanding these elements, you can make an informed decision about the best bearings for your skateboard, whether you are a casual rider or a competitive skater.

What Makes a Good Skateboard Bearing?

Dispelling Common Myths: ABEC Ratings and the Spin Test

One of the most common questions asked by skateboarders is, “What are the best skateboard bearings?” While it may seem like a simple query, the answer requires us to first address several misconceptions that can mislead new and seasoned riders alike.

ABEC Ratings: A Marketing Tool, Not a Performance Indicator

The ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) rating is often touted as an important factor when selecting skateboard bearings. However, for skateboarding, longboarding, and cruising, the ABEC rating has little relevance. Bearings with higher ABEC ratings, such as ABEC 7 or 9, are designed for high-speed applications like industrial machinery or high-precision instruments, not skateboards. As such, the performance of a bearing is not determined by its ABEC rating, but by the quality of the materials, lubrication, and design.

The Spin Test: Why It Doesn’t Tell You What You Need to Know

Another popular “test” is spinning a skateboard wheel by hand to see how long it keeps turning. This test does not provide any meaningful insight into the performance of the bearing under actual conditions. Bearings spin differently under load, and the friction involved in skating is far more complex than the simple friction of an unloaded bearing. So, while spinning your wheels may be fun, it doesn’t give a true reflection of how the bearings will perform when you’re actually riding.

Key Factors That Affect Bearing Performance

Bearing Materials: Chrome Steel vs. Stainless Steel

Skateboard bearings are typically made from either chrome steel or stainless steel, and each material has its pros and cons.

• Chrome Steel (Carbon Steel): This is the most common material used in skate bearings. It provides a balance between performance, durability, and cost. Chrome steel bearings are highly resistant to wear and offer reliable performance for most skaters. However, they can rust when exposed to moisture if not properly maintained.

• Stainless Steel: These bearings are made with stainless steel balls and sometimes races, which are more resistant to rust and corrosion than chrome steel. However, stainless steel is softer than chrome steel, meaning these bearings are generally not as durable over time. If you’re someone who rides in wet conditions or neglects regular maintenance, stainless steel bearings may offer better longevity.

Material Type	Durability	Resistance to Rust	Cost	Recommended Use
Chrome Steel	High	Moderate	Low to Medium	All-around use, performance-focused
Stainless Steel	Moderate	High	Medium to High	Wet conditions, low maintenance

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Speed and Lubrication: Optimizing Performance

Speed is often a major consideration when selecting bearings, but it’s essential to understand that the right lubrication is just as important as the bearing material.

• Lubrication: Bearings need lubrication to reduce friction and wear. Many skateboard bearings come pre-lubricated with grease or oil. High-quality bearings feature specialized lubricants that resist breaking down over time. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help ensure that the lubricant is effective, keeping the bearing rolling smoothly and prolonging its life.

• Low Friction Shields: The type of shield used in a bearing also impacts its performance. Rubber labyrinth shields (RU) are considered the best option for skateboard bearings, as they offer excellent protection against dirt and debris while allowing the bearing to spin freely. These shields help to maintain bearing performance over time.

Skateboard Bearing Variants: Titanium and Ceramic Bearings

Titanium Bearings: The Truth Behind the Hype

Titanium skateboard bearings have gained popularity in recent years, but there’s a misconception about their performance advantages. While Titanium Nitride (TiN) coatings are often applied to steel bearings to enhance durability, they do not offer any significant improvements in terms of speed or strength. The coating wears off after a few sessions, leaving the underlying steel bearings unchanged.

True titanium bearings would be incredibly lightweight and long-lasting, but they are prohibitively expensive and impractical for everyday use. Therefore, unless you are seeking a novelty item, titanium bearings do not provide a significant advantage over other materials.

Ceramic Bearings: Are They Worth the Investment?

Ceramic bearings, which use ceramic balls and sometimes races, are marketed as high-performance alternatives to traditional steel bearings. Ceramic is known for its hardness, which reduces wear and tear over time. Theoretically, ceramic bearings should stay cleaner for longer, but in practice, the benefits are marginal.

• Hybrid Ceramic Bearings: These bearings feature ceramic balls with steel races, offering a balance between durability and cost. While they are better than steel bearings in terms of longevity, they still require maintenance and care.

• Full Ceramic Bearings: Made entirely from ceramic materials, these bearings provide smooth performance and excellent wear resistance. However, their high cost and relatively low toughness make them unsuitable for heavy or high-impact use. For most skaters, the benefits of full ceramic bearings are not worth the price.

Bearing Type	Performance	Durability	Maintenance	Cost
Hybrid Ceramic Bearings	Moderate	High	Medium	High
Full Ceramic Bearings	Very High	Very High	Low	Very High

Bearings and Their Impact on Speed

Do Bearings Affect Speed? Yes, But Not as Much as You Think

It’s a common misconception that upgrading to high-end bearings will drastically increase your speed. While bearings do affect performance, the difference is often less significant than other factors, such as wheel material or skating technique. That said, if your bearings are worn out, rusty, or poorly maintained, upgrading to a new set will certainly improve your ride.

• Wheel Urethane: The material of the wheel itself plays a far more significant role in speed and grip. Softer wheels provide better traction and control, while harder wheels roll faster but offer less grip.

• Bearing Maintenance: Bearings that are clean, lubricated, and aligned properly in the wheel core will naturally roll faster. Bearings that are dirty, rusty, or misaligned will slow you down. So, while a set of new bearings will improve your ride, maintaining them regularly will yield the best results.

Do Skate Bearings Require Speed Rings?

Speed rings, also known as “speed washers,” are crucial for standard skateboard bearings. They prevent the bearing from coming into contact with the axle nut or the hanger face. This ensures smoother rotation and minimizes the wear and tear on the bearing. Without speed rings, the bearing is more susceptible to damage due to friction with the axle.

In addition to preventing direct contact, speed rings also allow the axle nut to be tightened adequately. Some trucks feature limited thread length, making it difficult to secure the nut without speed rings. If you’re using standard skateboard bearings, speed rings are highly recommended. However, if you use “Built In” bearings (which feature an extended inner race), you do not need speed rings. This can be an appealing feature, as speed rings are tiny and easily misplaced.

Key Benefits of Speed Rings:

• Prevents Friction: Reduces wear and tear by preventing contact with the axle nut or hanger face.
• Ensures Tightening: Allows axle nuts to be tightened properly, preventing instability.
• Ease of Maintenance: Helps maintain the bearing’s longevity by reducing friction-related damage.

The Importance of Bearing Spacers

Bearing spacers are small tubes that help align and separate the inner races of skateboard bearings on the axle. While the outer races are maintained by the wheel core, the inner races require proper alignment to avoid over-tightening of the axles. Without spacers, the bearings experience undue stress, leading to premature wear and slower performance.

Skaters who do not use bearing spacers may find it tempting to loosen the axle nuts to avoid the friction caused by tight wheels. However, this results in a “loose” ride, leading to noise and inefficient performance. Over time, this can cause the bearings to “explode” – when the inner and outer races separate, causing the wheel to fall off. This is a costly outcome and avoidable by using proper spacers.

Bearing spacers are relatively inexpensive but provide substantial value. They ensure that your bearings operate smoothly and last longer. Moreover, they can be reused in future bearings, making them a one-time investment with long-term benefits.

Key Benefits of Bearing Spacers:

• Prevents Over-tightening: Helps avoid unnecessary stress on bearings by ensuring proper alignment.
• Increases Bearing Lifespan: Minimizes wear and tear, keeping the bearings in good condition longer.
• Improves Performance: Contributes to smoother wheel rotation, enhancing overall performance.

What is a “Built In” Longboard Bearing?

“Built In” bearings are a unique type of skateboard bearing that incorporates an extended inner race on both the inside and outside. This design eliminates the need for speed rings and bearing spacers, offering a streamlined and efficient alternative to traditional bearings.

The advantage of “Built In” bearings is the elimination of additional parts, such as speed rings and spacers, which can be lost or misaligned during installation. This design ensures that the bearing maintains better alignment throughout its usage, reducing wear and extending its lifespan. The extended inner race also helps prevent contamination from dirt and moisture, keeping the bearings cleaner for longer.

For skateboarders who frequently remove their wheels, “Built In” bearings provide a hassle-free experience. You no longer need to worry about alignment issues or tiny parts getting lost. If you’re seeking a more durable and user-friendly bearing solution, “Built In” bearings are an excellent choice.

Advantages of Built In Bearings:

• No Need for Speed Rings or Spacers: Simplifies installation and maintenance.
• Better Alignment: Extended inner race keeps bearings aligned and minimizes wear.
• Enhanced Durability: Improved sealing against dirt and moisture.

Exploring Swiss Skate Bearings: What Makes Them Special?

Swiss bearings are renowned for their superior performance, primarily due to the deeper bearing race design. While the term “Swiss” does not necessarily indicate the country of manufacture, the Bones Swiss bearings are made in Switzerland and are recognized for their high-quality materials and precise tolerances.

The deep groove design of Swiss bearings allows them to better handle side loads, making them more durable and longer-lasting than standard bearings. This feature is particularly valuable for skateboarders who put heavy strain on their bearings. The deeper race provides greater resistance to wear, ensuring that the bearings maintain their smoothness and speed for a longer period.

Swiss bearings are particularly favored by professional skaters or those who engage in high-intensity riding. If you’re looking for bearings that can withstand demanding conditions and offer consistent performance, Swiss bearings are an excellent investment.

Benefits of Swiss Bearings:

• Deeper Race Design: Provides better resistance to side loads and prolongs bearing life.
• Higher Durability: Can withstand intense pressure and continue to perform at a high level.
• Precise Tolerances: Ensures consistent, smooth performance throughout its lifespan.

Shieldless Bearings: Are They Faster?

Shieldless bearings, as the name suggests, come without protective shields, which some skaters believe increases speed by reducing drag. While shieldless bearings may initially appear faster, this comes at a cost – they require constant maintenance and are more susceptible to dirt and moisture.

While there is a theoretical speed advantage in shieldless bearings, the lack of protection exposes the bearing to contaminants, which can lead to premature wear and reduced performance over time. In contrast, bearings with shields offer better protection, ensuring that your bearings remain clean and functional for longer. For most skateboarders, shieldless bearings are not a practical choice, as they require frequent lubrication and are not as durable.

Pros and Cons of Shieldless Bearings:

Pros	Cons
Slight Speed Boost: Less drag due to the absence of shields.	Requires Frequent Lubrication: Without shields, bearings need constant maintenance.
Easier to Clean: No shields mean no need to remove them for cleaning.	Prone to Contamination: Dirt and moisture can easily damage the bearings.
Faster Initial Performance: Provides quick, short-term speed.	Shorter Lifespan: Higher likelihood of bearing failure due to exposure to debris.

The Best Shields for Skateboard Bearings

The type of shield used in skateboard bearings plays a significant role in their longevity and performance. Shields prevent contaminants such as dirt, dust, and moisture from entering the bearing, which can cause damage over time. There are several types of shields commonly found in skateboard bearings:

Types of Bearing Shields:

1. ZZ Metal Shields: Found in budget bearings, metal shields are excellent at keeping dirt out but are less effective against moisture. These are ideal for dry conditions but are not recommended for wet environments.
2. RS Rubber Shields: Rubber shields are commonly used in skateboard bearings, offering better protection against dirt and moisture. They are easier to remove for cleaning and provide a balance between speed and protection.
3. Labyrinth Shields: These shields provide superior protection against dirt and moisture, making them ideal for long-term use in harsh conditions. However, they may create a slight speed penalty due to increased friction.

Shield Comparison:

Shield Type	Protection Against Dirt	Protection Against Moisture	Speed Impact	Ease of Maintenance
ZZ Metal Shields	High	Low	Minimal	Low
RS Rubber Shields	Medium	Medium	Moderate	Moderate
Labyrinth Shields	High	High	Moderate	Difficult

Lifespan of Skateboard Bearings

The longevity of skateboard bearings can vary significantly based on usage patterns and environmental conditions. Under normal circumstances, where the bearings are not exposed to harsh conditions, they can last anywhere between one to two years, or even longer. However, several factors can accelerate wear and tear.

Factors Affecting Bearing Lifespan:

Factor	Impact on Bearings
Exposure to Water	Causes rust and corrosion, reducing bearing life
Heavy Impacts	Jumping off ramps or performing tricks causes shock damage
Sliding on Rough Surfaces	Produces significant side load, leading to wear

1. Water Exposure

Skating in wet conditions can severely shorten the lifespan of bearings. Water exposure leads to rust and corrosion, which can cause bearings to become sluggish and eventually seize up. To prevent this, it’s essential to dry the bearings as soon as possible and regularly clean and re-grease them with thicker grease that provides better protection against moisture.

2. Heavy Impacts

Performing tricks that involve jumping or landing harshly can put significant stress on your bearings. While skateboards are designed to withstand impacts, bearings, too, bear the brunt of these shocks. If you’re a heavy hitter, such as someone who regularly performs ollies or big jumps, expect to replace your bearings more frequently. Bearings such as Bones Big Balls and Bones Swiss Six are designed for durability under heavy impacts and are recommended for aggressive skaters.

3. Sliding

When it comes to longboarding, especially during slides or carves on grippy race wheels, a lot of side load is placed on the bearings. This constant pressure and friction can cause the ball races to wear down, leading to a noticeable decrease in performance. For sliding enthusiasts, Built-In skate bearings are a reliable choice, offering durability and longevity under such conditions.

Identifying When to Replace Skateboard Bearings

Skateboard bearings do not have a fixed expiration date but will eventually show signs of wear that suggest replacement is necessary. The most obvious indicators include a rough, crunchy feeling or a noticeable decrease in speed despite cleaning and re-greasing.

When to Replace Bearings:

• Rough or Crunchy Feel: If your bearings feel rough during rotation or produce an audible crunching sound, it’s time for a replacement.
• Sluggish Performance: If you notice that your skateboard feels slower despite regular maintenance, this could indicate that the bearings are no longer performing optimally.
• Rust: If your bearings have rusted due to water exposure and cannot be salvaged by cleaning, they need to be replaced.

It is also crucial to check for other factors that can affect your bearings’ performance, such as over-tightening axle nuts or improper bearing spacers. These can cause additional friction that slows down your board.

Proper Maintenance for Skateboard Bearings

To extend the life of your bearings and keep them performing at their best, regular maintenance is crucial. Cleaning and re-greasing your bearings are the most effective ways to prevent buildup and rust.

How to Clean and Maintain Skateboard Bearings:

1. Disassemble the Bearings: Remove the bearings from the wheels using your skateboard axles as leverage. A twisting motion similar to opening a bottle cap can help extract the bearings easily.

2. Clean the Bearings: Strip off the old grease and dirt. You can use a bearing cleaner or a solvent like isopropyl alcohol to clean the inner and outer races.

3. Dry and Re-Grease: After cleaning, ensure the bearings are completely dry. Apply a thicker grease to protect against future moisture exposure, especially if you skate in wet conditions regularly.

The Myth of ABEC Ratings

One common misconception in the skateboard community is the importance of ABEC ratings. While the ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) scale is widely used in industrial applications to measure bearing precision, it is largely irrelevant to skateboarding. Skateboard bearings operate under much different conditions than industrial bearings, including slower speeds, higher vibrations, and exposure to dirt and grime.

ABEC Ratings and Skateboarding:

• ABEC Ratings Explained: The ABEC scale measures the precision and tolerance of bearings in high-speed, clean environments. It ranges from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9, with higher numbers indicating tighter tolerances.

• Why ABEC Doesn’t Matter for Skateboarding: Skateboard bearings undergo far more abuse than those in industrial settings. Factors such as dirt, vibration, and the constant load from tricks and slides are not considered in the ABEC rating. The key feature for skateboard bearings is the quality of the shielding, which protects the bearing from dirt and moisture.

Recommended Bearing Features:

Feature	Importance for Skateboarding
Rubber Shields	Protect against dirt and moisture, easier to clean
Low Friction Design	Enhances speed and performance
Durability Under Load	Necessary for heavy impacts and sliding

Bones Bearings is one example of a brand that focuses on these attributes, often labeling their products as “skate-rated” to emphasize quality over ABEC ratings.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Bearings

When selecting skateboard bearings, the most important factors are durability, ease of maintenance, and suitability for the type of skating you do. While some skaters might be tempted to focus on the ABEC rating, the truth is that high-quality, well-maintained bearings from trusted brands are far more important than a high ABEC number.

Key Takeaways:

• For optimal performance, clean and re-grease your bearings regularly.
• Consider the type of skating you do when selecting bearings—heavy tricks or sliding may require specialized options.
• ABEC ratings are not a reliable indicator of bearing performance for skateboarding.
• Choose bearings with good seals and durability to handle the harsh conditions skaters often face.

By focusing on these factors, you’ll ensure that your skateboard bearings perform optimally, no matter the conditions.