Big Wheels vs Small Wheels on Inline Skates: Which One to Choose and When to Use Them?

Inline skating is a fun and exciting activity that allows you to glide smoothly on wheels attached to your feet. One important aspect of inline skating is the size of the wheels. In this article, we will compare big wheels and small wheels on inline skates and discuss where to use them. So, let's dive in!

Big Wheels on Inline Skates

Big wheels on inline skates generally refer to wheels that are larger in diameter, typically ranging from 84mm to 125mm. These larger wheels offer several advantages:

• Speed: Big wheels provide a higher top speed due to their larger circumference. This makes them ideal for long-distance skating or for those who enjoy the thrill of speed.

• Smoothness: With their larger size, big wheels can easily roll over cracks, bumps, and uneven surfaces. This ensures a smoother ride, making them perfect for outdoor skating on rough terrains.

• Stability: The larger contact patch of big wheels offers better stability, especially at higher speeds. This makes them suitable for skaters who are still building their confidence or for those who prefer a more stable ride.

Examples of where to use big wheels on inline skates:

1. Outdoor Skating: When you want to explore parks, trails, or any outdoor areas with uneven surfaces, big wheels are your best bet. They will help you glide smoothly over various terrains, providing a comfortable and enjoyable skating experience.

2. Long-Distance Skating: If you're planning to go on a skating adventure or participate in a marathon, big wheels will give you the speed and endurance you need. Their larger size allows for faster and more efficient strides, making long-distance skating a breeze.

Small Wheels on Inline Skates

Small wheels on inline skates typically range from 72mm to 80mm in diameter. While they may be smaller in size, they offer their own set of advantages:

• Maneuverability: Small wheels provide better maneuverability and agility, allowing skaters to make quick turns and navigate tight spaces with ease. This makes them great for freestyle skating or performing tricks.

• Acceleration: Due to their smaller size, small wheels offer quicker acceleration. They are perfect for skaters who enjoy bursts of speed and quick bursts of energy.

• Portability: Smaller wheels are generally lighter, making them easier to carry when you're not skating. This is particularly useful if you need to transport your skates or if you want to bring them along on your travels.

Examples of where to use small wheels on inline skates:

1. Indoor Skating: When skating indoors, such as in roller rinks or indoor skate parks, small wheels are the preferred choice. Their maneuverability and acceleration allow for precise movements and quick direction changes needed for indoor skating activities.

2. Freestyle Skating: If you enjoy performing tricks, jumps, or slides, small wheels will give you the agility and control necessary for executing those moves. Their smaller size allows for more precise footwork and landing.

Choosing the Right Size

Now that you know the advantages and use cases of both big and small wheels, how do you choose the right size for your inline skates? Here are a few things to consider:

• Skating Style: Determine your primary skating style. Are you more into speed and long-distance skating, or do you prefer freestyle tricks and maneuvers? This will help you decide whether to go for big or small wheels.

• Experience Level: If you're a beginner or still building your skating skills, starting with bigger wheels can provide better stability and confidence. As you progress and gain more experience, you can experiment with smaller wheels for enhanced maneuverability.

• Terrain: Consider the surfaces you'll be skating on. If you plan to skate mostly outdoors on rough terrains, big wheels are the way to go. For indoor skating or smoother surfaces, small wheels will suffice.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to wheel size. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and skating goals.

So, whether you choose big wheels or small wheels on your inline skates, make sure to have fun and stay safe while enjoying the thrill of gliding on wheels!