If you’re cruising on a Powell Peralta deck, carving up the streets, the feel of your ride hinges on those four little cylinders connecting you to the asphalt. The hardness of your wheels significantly impacts this feel, and some skaters swear by the unique slide and grip offered by clay skateboard wheels. Clay skateboard wheels, often favored for their predictable slide, differ significantly from modern urethane wheels in their composition and performance. The debate about the quality of clay skateboard wheels centers around their durability versus the controlled slide they offer, a trade-off familiar to anyone who’s spent time at a skatepark.
Clay Skateboard Wheels: Are They the Right Ride for You?
Clay skateboard wheels. You’ve heard the name, maybe seen them in older skate videos, or perhaps even stumbled across them while browsing online. But are they a relic of the past, or do they still have a place in modern skateboarding? Understanding their unique properties is key to deciding if they’re the right choice for you.
What Exactly Are Clay Skateboard Wheels?
Unlike the modern polyurethane wheels you’re probably used to, clay wheels are made from, well, clay! Specifically, a ceramic-based compound. This gives them a very different feel and performance characteristic. They’re much harder and less grippy than urethane wheels. Think of it like the difference between a rubber tire and a ceramic tile – one grips, the other slides.
Why Would Anyone Want Clay Wheels? The Slide Factor
The primary reason skaters choose clay wheels is for their predictable and consistent slide. They offer a very different experience than urethane, which tends to grip until it reaches its breaking point, then abruptly release. Clay wheels, on the other hand, are designed to slide from the get-go.
Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:
- Controlled Slides: Easy to initiate and maintain slides, ideal for practicing powerslides and controlled drifts.
- Retro Feel: They capture the essence of skateboarding’s early days, providing a unique, vintage experience.
- Unique Sound: They produce a distinctive, higher-pitched sound when sliding that some skaters find appealing.
- Durable: Clay wheels are surprisingly durable and resistant to flat spotting, even with frequent sliding.
Where Do Clay Wheels Excel (and Where They Fall Short)?
The performance of clay wheels is highly dependent on the terrain and intended riding style.
| Feature | Clay Wheels | Urethane Wheels |
|---|---|---|
| Grip | Low | High |
| Slide | Predictable, consistent | Can be unpredictable, "grippy" then sudden release |
| Terrain | Smooth, relatively flat surfaces | Varied, from smooth parks to rough streets |
| Riding Style | Cruising, sliding, old-school tricks, vintage style | All-around skateboarding, street, park, vert |
| Comfort | Less comfortable on rough surfaces | More comfortable due to vibration absorption |
| Speed on smooth surface | Can be faster than soft urethane wheels | Dependent on durometer and contact patch |
Best Uses for Clay Skateboard Wheels:
- Slalom: Their predictable slide makes them popular for slalom courses, where controlled drifting is essential.
- Cruising (Smooth Surfaces): On very smooth asphalt or concrete, they can provide a fast and enjoyable cruising experience, especially if you enjoy sliding around corners.
- Vintage Setups: For completing the look of a classic skateboard or recreating old-school tricks.
- Learning to Slide: Their forgiving nature makes them a good option for practicing sliding techniques.
Things to Consider Before Switching to Clay:
- Surface Conditions: Clay wheels perform best on smooth, clean surfaces. Rough or uneven terrain will make for a bumpy and uncomfortable ride.
- Grip Requirements: If you need maximum grip for carving, vert, or street skating, urethane wheels are the better choice.
- Sound Preference: The distinctive sound of clay wheels can be polarizing. Some love it, others find it annoying.
- Availability: Clay wheels are not as widely available as urethane wheels, so you may need to search online specialty skate shops.
Choosing the Right Clay Wheels:
Like urethane wheels, clay wheels come in different sizes and shapes. Here’s a quick guide:
- Size: Larger diameter wheels (e.g., 60mm or larger) will roll faster and smoother, while smaller wheels (e.g., 55mm or smaller) will be more responsive for tricks.
- Shape: Round-edged wheels are generally better for sliding, while square-edged wheels offer more grip.
- Durometer (Hardness): Clay wheels don’t use the same durometer scale as urethane. They are generally very hard, regardless of what the "durometer" might say, because the material itself is rigid.
Remember that experimenting is a crucial part of skateboarding. Understanding these core aspects helps you make a more informed choice and determine if clay skateboard wheels truly align with your skating style and preferred riding environment.
Clay Skateboard Wheels: Good Choice For You?
Are clay skateboard wheels good for beginners?
Clay skateboard wheels are generally not recommended for beginners. Their hardness makes them difficult to control, especially when learning to balance and perform basic maneuvers. Softer wheels are usually a better choice for new riders.
What surfaces are best for clay skateboard wheels?
Clay skateboard wheels perform best on smooth, indoor surfaces like skatepark ramps. Their hardness provides minimal grip on asphalt or concrete, making them unsuitable for street skating or rougher terrain.
Why are clay skateboard wheels so hard?
Clay skateboard wheels have a high durometer (hardness) rating. This makes them durable and long-lasting, but also results in less grip. The hard composition of clay skateboard wheels reduces rolling resistance on smooth surfaces.
Are clay skateboard wheels loud?
Yes, clay skateboard wheels are known for being louder than softer wheels. The hard material vibrates more when rolling, which amplifies the noise. This can be a consideration in noise-sensitive environments.
So, are clay skateboard wheels right for you? Hopefully, this gave you some food for thought. Weigh the pros and cons against your usual skating spots and style, and see if that classic slide is calling your name. Happy shredding!