The Mysterious World of Durometer: Decoding Wheel Hardness

Ever heard the term "durometer" thrown around when discussing wheels? It might sound like technical jargon, but it's essentially a measure of how hard the wheel is. In simpler terms, a higher durometer number means a harder wheel. Now, why should you care about wheel hardness? It directly impacts your skating experience! Generally, a harder wheel will roll faster, provide less grip, and last longer than a softer wheel made of the same material. On the flip side, a softer wheel will offer more grip but might wear out quicker.

The +/- Factor: Understanding Durometer Tolerance

Recently, a customer's request for a very specific durometer (96.5A) got me thinking about the nuances of wheel hardness that many skaters might not be aware of. Here's the thing: urethane suppliers, the folks who provide the raw material for wheels, often sell urethane with a tolerance of +/- 3A. In practical terms, this means a wheel labeled as 93A could actually be anywhere between 90A and 96A, and that's considered perfectly acceptable by many suppliers.

In the skate industry, most manufacturers try to maintain a tighter tolerance of +/- 2A. So, when you purchase a set of 96A wheels, some or even all of them could be 98A or 94A. This might not seem like a big deal, but it can significantly impact your ride, especially if you're particular about your setup.

The Rise of Descriptive Terms: Avoiding the Durometer Dilemma

You might have noticed that some manufacturers have started using descriptive terms like "firm" or "extra firm" instead of specific durometer numbers. This isn't just a marketing gimmick; it's a clever way to avoid complaints from customers who might meticulously test their wheels and find they're slightly off the advertised durometer.

Key Takeaways: What Every Skater Should Know

There are two crucial takeaways here. First, be aware that many manufacturers have relatively loose tolerances when it comes to wheel hardness. Personally, I wouldn't be thrilled to receive a set of 94A wheels when I ordered 96A. Second, some skaters invest in durometer testers but might not use them correctly, leading to inaccurate readings and unwarranted complaints to manufacturers.

A Blast from the Past: The Bite Test

Back in the day, before fancy durometer testers were readily available, skaters used a more primitive but surprisingly effective method to gauge wheel hardness: the bite test! With enough practice, you could get within 1A of the actual durometer just by biting into the wheel. It might sound odd, but it's a testament to the resourcefulness of skaters in the past.

Conclusion: Embrace the Nuances of Wheel Hardness

So, the next time you're shopping for wheels, remember that durometer isn't always an exact science. There's a degree of variability involved, and that's perfectly normal. If you're incredibly particular about wheel hardness, consider brands known for tighter tolerances or explore the world of descriptive terms. And who knows, you might even try the good old bite test for a bit of nostalgic fun!

Happy skating!