Everything about wheel compounds
Short answer
The wheel compound is a key factor in determining inline skate wheel performance. Learn how it affects grip, durability, and rebound.
Long answer
The wheel compound is the material mix that defines the quality, durability, and performance of inline skate wheels. From grip to rebound, the compound impacts every aspect of your skating experience. Let’s dive into the history, manufacturing process, and what makes a high-quality compound.
What is a wheel compound?
It is a mixture of polyurethane and other chemicals that determine a wheel's properties, such as durability, grip, and rebound. High-quality wheels use up to seven different materials in their compound, while cheaper options may use just two or three. The specific formula for a compound is a closely guarded industry secret.
A brief history
- 1970s: Polyurethane wheels revolutionized skating, offering the durability and performance needed for inline and roller skates.
- Before polyurethane: Wheels were made from materials like metal, clay, and even ivory, which lacked grip and efficiency.
- 1980s: With polyurethane and advanced plastics, companies like Rollerblade developed the first successful inline skates.
How are wheels made?
The molding process and wheel compounding
The manufacturing process for wheels involves several steps:
- Technicians place a metal or plastic core inside a donut-shaped mold.
- They inject the wheel compound into the mold under pressure.
- The mold bakes for about 40 minutes to solidify the compound.
- After the mold cools, technicians polish the wheel to remove imperfections.
Common myths about wheels
An urban legend claims Cosmo wheels were superior because of an “open mold” process. However, experts confirm that all wheels use closed molds, making this myth unfounded.
How does the wheel compound affect performance?
Durability wheel compounds
A high-quality wheel resists wear and tear, making it ideal for long-term use. Premium compounds last longer than those found in cheaper wheels.
Grip
The compound determines how much grip a wheel provides. A good compound offers grip without sacrificing speed, making it versatile for various skating styles.
Wheel rebound
Rebound measures how well a wheel bounces back after compression. High-rebound compounds improve speed and energy transfer, ensuring a smoother ride.
Comfort
A well-designed compound absorbs shocks, making skating on uneven surfaces more comfortable.
Identifying high-quality wheels
Wheel rebound
Drop a wheel from a fixed height. If it bounces back high, the compound is likely high-quality.
Trusted brands
Premium brands like Undercover, Dead, Matter, and Rollerblade Hydrogen consistently deliver excellent compounds and durable wheels.
Core design
Inspect the core to identify the wheel’s factory. Manufacturers often produce wheels with similar cores, such as those from Undercover and Dead, in the same high-quality facilities.
Final thoughts on wheel compound.
The wheel compound is one of the most critical factors in choosing inline skate wheels. Look for trusted brands, high rebound, and durable cores to ensure the best performance. If you’re unsure, test the rebound and stick with reputable manufacturers.
For more in-depth videos about wheel profiles, cores, and other factors, visit our YouTube channel.