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The 9 picks at a glance
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9When a child shows interest in skateboarding, parents often start with an inexpensive department store board. However, these entry-level boards frequently feature hard plastic wheels and greased bearings that barely spin, making learning frustrating and increasing the risk of falls. Upgrading key components—specifically swapping to soft urethane wheels and quality bearings—can transform a stiff, unpredictable toy into a smooth, stable ride. Having the right maintenance tools on hand also ensures that trucks stay properly tightened and wheels remain secure as your child builds confidence.
Before heading out to the local park, a quick check of the skateboard is a familiar routine. A parent grabs a dedicated skate tool to tighten a loose kingpin, ensuring the board won't wobble unpredictably under their child's feet. If the afternoon plan involves cruising around the neighborhood rather than practicing tricks on smooth concrete, they might quickly swap out hard skatepark wheels for larger, softer cruiser wheels. After a dusty session, a few drops of bearing lubricant keep everything spinning freely for the next ride.
- For smooth cruising: Soft, large urethane wheels absorb bumps and cracks, making them ideal for beginners and neighborhood riding.
- For reliable speed: Upgrading factory bearings to a trusted standard set drastically improves how long the board rolls with each push.
- For essential maintenance: A multi-functional skate tool is a non-negotiable accessory for adjusting trucks, changing wheels, and securing hardware.
- Trade-offs to watch: Premium imported wheels and bearings offer incredible performance but come with a steep price tag; standard upgrades are often plenty for early learners.
Selecting the right parts depends heavily on where your child skates. If they are rolling on rough asphalt or sidewalks, prioritize wheels with a lower durometer (like 80A) and a larger diameter (70mm or more) to prevent sudden stops on small pebbles. For bearings, a standard steel set from a reputable brand is the best starting point; save the high-end ceramic or 6-ball bearings for when they develop advanced speed control. Always keep a dedicated skate tool in your bag—standard household wrenches rarely fit the tight clearances around skateboard trucks.
Compare the picks
| Product | Price | Rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1Bones Bearings Reds (8 Pack) | — | 4.8 | Most popular |
| 2Zeato All-in-One Skate Y-Tool | — | 4.8 | Best on a budget |
| 3Orangatang Stimulus 70 mm Freeride Wheels | — | 4.9 | Premium pick |
| 4Skateboard Wall Hanger Mount | — | 4.8 | Best for organization |
| 5Bones Swiss 6 Ball Bearings | — | 4.8 | Premium upgrade |
| 6INDEPENDENT Genuine Parts Phillips Hardware 1" | — | 4.8 | Essential hardware |
| 7Bones Speed Cream Skate Bearing Lubricant | — | 4.7 | Best for maintenance |
| 8Independent Skateboard Tool Bearing Saver T-Tool | — | 5.0 | Top-rated |
| 9Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76MM 80A | — | 4.9 | Best for beginners |
Bones Bearings Reds (8 Pack)
The industry standard for smooth, reliable rolling
Highlights
These bearings are widely considered the baseline upgrade for any beginner skateboard. They come pre-lubricated with specialized racing cream and feature a removable rubber shield, allowing parents to easily clean out dirt and re-lubricate them. The nylon ball retainer is designed for sustained strength and speed.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Massive performance jump over cheap factory bearings
- Removable shields make cleaning straightforward
- Pre-lubricated for immediate use
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
- Some packages may arrive missing the advertised extra spacers
Bottom line
The go-to bearing upgrade for any beginner board, offering exceptional value and a noticeably smoother ride than stock components.
Zeato All-in-One Skate Y-Tool
A versatile, pocket-sized tool for quick adjustments
Highlights
This lightweight Y-shaped tool includes three different socket sizes to handle axle nuts, mounting hardware, and kingpins. It also features a slide-out Phillips and Allen wrench screwdriver that tucks neatly into the handle. The Y-shape is designed to offer a bit more grip and leverage when tightening stubborn bolts.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Includes all necessary socket sizes
- Y-shape provides good leverage
- Lightweight and highly portable
Cons
- Plastic body is less durable than solid metal options
- Screwdriver piece can be easy to lose if not seated firmly
Bottom line
A highly affordable, essential multi-tool that every skating family should keep in their backpack for on-the-go adjustments.
Orangatang Stimulus 70 mm Freeride Wheels
Premium soft urethane wheels for smooth, stable cruising
Highlights
These 70mm wheels use a specialized urethane formula designed to absorb vibrations from rough roads and debris. The 80a durometer rating means they are soft enough to grip the pavement securely, providing a stable platform for beginners or kids transitioning to neighborhood cruising. The encapsulated core helps maintain even wear over time.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Soft 80a urethane absorbs bumps and cracks
- Large 70mm size maintains rolling speed
- Highly durable construction
Cons
- Carries a steep premium price as an imported item
- May require riser pads on standard skateboards to prevent wheel bite
Bottom line
A top-tier investment for kids who need a smooth, stable ride over rough neighborhood streets, though the import price makes it a serious commitment.
Skateboard Wall Hanger Mount
A simple, secure way to store boards off the floor
Highlights
This wall mount uses the existing truck holes on a skateboard deck to suspend it securely on the wall. It requires only a single screw and drywall anchor for installation, and it holds the board far enough away from the wall to prevent the grip tape or wheels from scratching the paint.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Keeps boards organized and off the floor
- Easy single-screw installation
- Suspends the deck to protect wall paint
Cons
- Does not work with boards lacking standard pre-drilled holes
- Requires removing trucks if you want to display the deck flat
Bottom line
A practical storage solution for parents tired of tripping over skateboards in the hallway or garage.
Bones Swiss 6 Ball Bearings
High-speed, low-friction bearings for advanced riders
Highlights
Unlike standard 7-ball bearings, this design uses six larger balls to reduce overall friction and increase acceleration. They are engineered to roll further and faster with less effort, making them a favorite for downhill or competitive skating. With proper maintenance, they are known to outlast standard bearings significantly.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- 6-ball design noticeably reduces friction
- Accelerates faster than standard bearings
- Incredibly long-lasting with proper care
Cons
- Priced well above the category norm
- Overkill for absolute beginners
Bottom line
Worth the premium only for dedicated, advanced young skaters who need maximum speed and glide; most beginners will be well served by the standard Reds.
INDEPENDENT Genuine Parts Phillips Hardware 1"
Reliable steel bolts for securing trucks to the deck
Highlights
When building a board or replacing worn-out parts, high-quality hardware is crucial for safety. These 1-inch Phillips bolts are made to industry standards, resisting the stripping and snapping that often plagues cheaper metals. The sleek black finish blends seamlessly with standard grip tape.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Industry-standard durability
- Resists stripping during assembly
- Blends cleanly with black grip tape
Cons
- 1-inch length may be too short if using thick riser pads
Bottom line
Dependable, high-quality hardware necessary for assembling or repairing any standard skateboard safely.
Bones Speed Cream Skate Bearing Lubricant
Specially formulated oil to extend bearing life
Highlights
This specialized lubricant is designed to reduce friction and protect bearings from moisture and wear. Applying just one or two drops per bearing after a thorough cleaning can restore a sluggish board to its original speed. The small bottle lasts a long time, making it a staple in any skate maintenance kit.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Significantly improves roll speed
- Only requires a few drops per application
- Long-lasting bottle
Cons
- Requires bearings to be fully cleaned of dirt first for best results
- Bottle is quite small
Bottom line
An essential maintenance item to keep your child's wheels spinning smoothly and prevent premature bearing replacement.
Independent Skateboard Tool Bearing Saver T-Tool
A premium, shield-protecting tool for safe bearing installation
Highlights
This solid metal T-tool is engineered specifically to prevent damage to delicate bearing shields during wheel installation. It features a low-profile design that easily accesses tight spaces around the trucks, and the included screwdriver sits firmly in place so it won't fall out during transport. It provides all the necessary socket sizes to completely tune or assemble a board.
From the product listing
Pulled from the live product listing — not an editorial score or a hands-on test.
Pros
- Prevents bearing shield damage during assembly
- Solid metal construction for longevity
- Screwdriver stays securely locked in the handle
Cons
- Priced higher than generic plastic tools
Bottom line
The highest-rated tool here, ideal for parents who want a durable, precision instrument that won't accidentally crush bearing shields.
Bigfoot Longboard Wheels 76MM 80A
Large, shock-absorbing wheels for neighborhood cruising
Highlights
Designed for maximum clearance over small rocks and cracks, these 76mm wheels offer a highly forgiving ride. The soft 80A material provides excellent traction, making them a strong choice for converting a standard skateboard into a stable cruiser. They are built to handle rougher terrain without chipping easily.
Pros
- Extra-large 76mm diameter rolls easily over debris
- Soft material provides excellent grip
- Highly durable against rough surfaces
Cons
- On the heavier side
- Occasional cosmetic air bubbles in the urethane
- Will definitely require riser pads on a standard deck
Bottom line
An excellent, slightly more accessible alternative to premium wheels for turning a standard board into a smooth, bump-absorbing cruiser.
