80mm or 90mm wheels for inline skates
Short answer
Big feet take 90mm, small feet take 80mm. The ideal wheel size depends on your foot length and skating style.
The importance of wheel size in your setup
When choosing your perfect inline skate setup, two key factors come into play: selecting the right boot and picking the right frame. Wheel size, whether 80mm or 90mm, plays a crucial role in your skating experience, influencing stability, speed, and maneuverability.
The evolution of inline skate frames
Inline skates originally developed as off-season ice hockey gear. While the boots already existed, the challenge was designing suitable frames. The first successful inline frames emerged in the early 80s.
For many years, all frames followed a similar design—non-removable, four wheels, and a wheelbase similar to the skater’s foot length. This remains the golden standard for those unsure about what frame to get.
Frame mounting systems and developments
Skates have traditionally used 165mm or 195mm frame mounting systems, which were standard in speed skating and recreational skates. Aggressive skating saw the rise of the 50/50, Senate, and USD frame mounting systems, eventually leading to the development of UFS (Universal Frame System).
Despite its advantages, UFS faced challenges, particularly in adapting to other skate disciplines. Over time, more specialized frame designs have been introduced to accommodate different skating styles.
Choosing between 80mm or 90mm wheels
Wheel size affects your skating experience in several ways, primarily influencing maneuverability, speed, and stability. The key differences between 80mm and 90mm wheels are:
- 80mm wheels – Offer better maneuverability, faster acceleration, and are ideal for intermediate speeds.
- 90mm wheels – Provide more stability, slower acceleration, but make it easier to maintain high speeds.
Your choice should depend on your foot size and skating needs. A shorter wheelbase enhances agility, making 80mm a great option for smaller feet and technical skating. A longer wheelbase improves stability, making 90mm the better choice for larger feet and high-speed cruising.
Additional frame considerations
When selecting a frame, consider the following factors:
- Number of wheels – More wheels distribute weight evenly and increase stability.
- Frame length – A longer frame provides stability, while a shorter frame enhances maneuverability.
- Rockering – Adjusting wheel alignment affects agility and turning ability.
- Material and grooves – Different frame materials and groove designs impact performance and durability.
Final thoughts on 80mm or 90mm wheels for inline skates
When deciding between 80mm or 90mm wheels, consider your foot size, preferred skating style, and desired balance between agility and stability. For most skaters, 80mm is ideal for quick movements and control, while 90mm suits those seeking long-distance efficiency and top-speed performance.
Find the perfect setup for you, 80mm or 90mm
If you're looking to upgrade your skates, check out our selection of frames and wheels at Thisissoul. Whether you need 80mm or 90mm wheels, we have the perfect setup to match your style.