Skateboard Bearings

A set of 8 bearings is a crucial component for any skateboard. At NOTE shop we have a selection to choose from a variety of brands and prices that all perform the same function of allowing wheels to spin on the trucks axle. Skate bearings come in sets of 8 (unless otherwise stated) and are a standard size that will fit all the wheels and trucks we sell. They are easy to install, simply put a bearing on to the truck axle push the wheel down on to it, then remove the wheel, turn it round and repeat so there is a bearing in each side, pop a speed washer either side of the wheel and tighten the axle nut just enough to allow the bearings to spin freely. Here are a few factors to bear in mind while choosing skateboard bearings.

About Skateboard Bearings

Materials

Bearings are mostly made up of steel races and balls with more premium bearings using better grades of steel manufactured with higher precision. Very high end bearings use extremely smooth and hard wearing ceramic balls. The bearing shield is a ring that protects the moving parts inside the bearing unit. Budget bearings tend to use steel shields but most of the bearings we sell these days feature removable rubber shields which makes maintenance much easier. Some skaters consider bearing shields a waste of time and prefer the raw sound of shieldless bearing so we offer those too.

Price

The price range of skate bearings is vast and reflects the workmanship and country of manufacture. While the more expensive bearings are faster and smoother, the majority of skateboarders would struggle to notice much difference and every set of bearings we sell is durable and will do a perfectly good job. If you are the type of person that would take the time to clean and lubricate bearings it could be worth investing in an expensive set but if you can't be bothered and would rather replace with a fresh set every now and again it probably makes more sense to stick to the cheaper options.

Brands

There are a few brands to choose from but our best seller by far is Bones and their Reds bearings are generally considered the best value on the market. Bronson, Cortina, Modus, SKF and Sunday are other brands worth checking out as they all produce good quality ranges of bearings endorsed by amazing pro skaters.

In our Tools section we stock lubricants and cleaning units specially designed to help you look after skateboard bearings.