Best Skate Bearings: Complete Guide

August 5, 2023
Guides
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In this article, we will take a detailed look at how to choose the best skateboard bearings, providing a broad overview of the different models available in the market. We'll introduce you to the top models produced by renowned companies such as Bones, Bronson, Independent, and Mini Logo, carefully examining the features and performance of each. This comprehensive guide has been specifically created to assist you in identifying the perfect bearings to enhance your skateboarding experience.

If you're passionate about skateboarding and want an upgrade that makes a difference, look no further. This guide will give you an in-depth view of the available options, putting you on the path to a smoother, faster, and more enjoyable practice of your favorite sport.

The Importance of ABEC in Skateboard Bearings: Fact or Mythical Factor?

Among skateboard enthusiasts, the topic of ABEC often sparks debates. Frequently, our customers, even when they visit our store in Rome, ask for bearings with a specific ABEC rating, but is it really that important?

First and foremost, let's understand what ABEC actually means in skateboard bearings.
ABEC stands for Annular Bearing Engineers Committee and is a rating system that ranges from 1 to 9. A higher ABEC rating indicates tighter tolerances, making the bearing more precise. However, it's essential to emphasize that ABEC focuses on precision and doesn't take into account other crucial factors for skateboard bearings, such as speed, quality, or bearing resistance and durability.

The ABEC rating is primarily used in the industrial bearing sector, where machines operate at extremely high speeds, with rotational speeds that can reach up to 30,000 revolutions per minute. On the other hand, skateboard wheels rarely exceed 4,700 revolutions per minute and in most cases are below 2,000 revolutions per minute. This significant difference in speed implies that an ABEC rating is not always appropriate for skateboard bearings.

It should be noted that many bearing manufacturers are abandoning the ABEC rating in favor of their own evaluation, known as "Skate-Rated," which certifies the specific use of bearings for skateboarding.

In conclusion, we can say that the ABEC classification can provide a general indication of bearing quality, but it is not the only relevant factor. Going forward, we will explore other aspects that determine the quality of skateboard bearings.

Skateboard Bearings Quality: Beyond ABEC

Now, let's focus on skateboard bearing quality. While some companies continue to use the ABEC classification to determine bearing quality, we believe that most of these companies produce medium-quality bearings, defined as "commercial" bearings. In other words, these bearings may be good, but they may not guarantee long-term durability. When it comes to skateboard bearings, it's essential to consider other factors that determine their quality. One of these aspects is the construction technology.

We can classify skateboard bearings into ABEC bearings, Skate-Rated bearings, Ceramic bearings, and Swiss bearings. Let's examine each one to have a clearer view:

ABEC Skateboard Bearings

As mentioned earlier, ABEC bearings are classified based on their precision level, but this evaluation may not fully represent the specific needs of skateboarding. ABEC-3, ABEC-5, ABEC-7 and ABEC-9 ratings are common in the skateboarding world. However, beyond ABEC, there are other important factors to consider.

Skate-Rated Skateboard Bearings

Some companies, like Bones, have developed the Skate-Rated or Skate-Tested classification, creating bearings specifically designed for skateboarding use. This rating takes into account other factors such as impact resistance, ball cage type, ball grade, material selection and grade, proper lubrication, and ball and track clearance. Skate-Rated bearings offer performance more suited to skateboarding needs.

Ceramic Skateboard Bearings

Ceramic skateboard bearings are made with ceramic balls instead of steel ones. Ceramic balls are harder and more wear-resistant than steel balls, offering increased durability and strength. Additionally, ceramic balls generate less friction, allowing for higher speed and acceleration.

Swiss Skateboard Bearings

Swiss skateboard bearings, introduced by Bones, are manufactured in Switzerland and offer a higher level of precision. They are known for their exceptional speed and durability, far surpassing traditional ABEC bearings. Swiss bearings are highly sought after by professional skaters and are synonymous with high-performance.

Besides the ABEC classification, there are other options that can provide better adaptability to specific skateboard needs. In the following paragraphs, we will explore the top skateboard bearing models from leading companies, offering you a comprehensive guide to making the best choice for your skateboarding experience.

Exploring the Best Skateboard Bearings: Bones, Bronson, Independent and Minilogo

After analyzing the different types of bearings and levels of precision and quality, let's now focus on the top skateboard bearing models produced by leading companies in the industry. We have rigorously tested some of the best bearings available in the market and are here to share our findings with you. Naturally, we mainly focused on Bones models, as it is the world's leading company in this sector, but we will also take a look at some Bronson, Independent and Mini Logo models.

Bones REDS

Bones REDS skateboard bearings have become the benchmark for those seeking quality and affordability.

Despite being manufactured in China, they are designed to meet Bones' rigorous quality standards, offering a perfect combination of performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

With their removable rubber shield, cleaning is a breeze. The Nylon ball cage ensures greater strength and speed. The bearings come pre-lubricated with the renowned Bones Speed Cream, the high-quality competition lubricant also produced by Bones.

With Bones REDS, you can achieve similar performance to the famous Bones Swiss at a lower cost. We tested them on various surfaces and conditions, and we were extremely satisfied with their performance. The smoothness and fluidity of movement were evident from the first use.

These bearings represent the perfect combination of performance, durability, and affordability, which is why they have become the best-selling bearings on the market.

Moreover, they offer an unbeatable value for money and, if properly maintained with regular cleaning and lubrication, can last for years.

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 30 euros
High durability
High speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 30 euros
High durability
Very high speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard / exceptional for cruiser and longboard

Bones Super REDS

Bones Super REDS skateboard bearings are designed to be the top-of-the-line in their price range. With high-quality components such as superior steel ball and raceway, and impeccable surface finish, Super REDS are fast, quiet, and long-lasting. We immediately noticed the difference in their smoother and quieter operation compared to traditional REDS. Super REDS are the perfect choice if you want high performance without compromise.

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 40 euros
High durability
High speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bones Swiss

The legendary Bones Swiss skateboard bearings have been the favorites of professional skateboarders for over three decades. These bearings combine Bones' Skate Rated design with Swiss precision, setting the standard for other bearings in the market. Their speed and durability far surpass ordinary ABEC bearings. The high-speed ball quality and removable rubber shield for easy cleaning make them a must-have for every serious skater. If you want the best from your skateboarding sessions, you can't go wrong with Bones Swiss!

Recommended for experienced skaters
Price under 100 euros
Very high durability
Very high speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bones Super Swiss 6

Bones Super Swiss 6 Balls skateboard bearings stand out with their unique construction featuring six larger diameter balls compared to the usual seven in most bearings. This technology offers higher speed, strength, and durability. Bones' Super Swiss 6 Balls have an outstanding reputation in the skateboard industry and never disappoint. We appreciated their exceptional speed and durability. If you want the best from your skateboarding sessions, Super Swiss 6 Balls are the way to go!

Recommended for experienced skaters
Price under 110 euros
High durability
Very high speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bones Ceramic Super REDS

If you're looking for lightweight bearings that accelerate quickly, Bones Ceramic Super REDS are the perfect choice. With ceramic balls, these skateboard bearings are faster than traditional Super REDS, both with and without lubricant. Their ability to self-heal thanks to the harder ceramic balls compared to steel ones makes them wear and rust-resistant. We immediately noticed the difference in acceleration and durability of the Ceramic Super REDS compared to traditional bearings. If you're seeking top-notch performance, these bearings will amaze you!

Recommended for highly experienced skaters
Price under 120 euros
Very high durability
Very high speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bronson G2

Bronson, a brand under the NHS group, which also includes Independent, Santa Cruz Skateboards and Creature Skateboards, surprised us with the Bronson G2 skateboard bearings! During our testing sessions, we were impressed by the smoothness and resistance of these bearings. Equipped with raceways with deep grooves, they allow the balls to glide effortlessly, minimizing lateral damage and breakage. The structure of these bearings includes removable contactless shields, resistant to lateral excursions and able to retain oil inside while keeping dirt and moisture out. The lubricant they come with is specially formulated to provide lasting protection against water, oxidation, and corrosion. And with the package including 8 bearings, 4 spacers, and 8 washers for the axle, we can't help but recommend the Bronson G2 for a top-notch skateboarding experience!

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 30 euros
High durability
High speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bronson G3

The Bronson G3 skateboard bearings exceeded our expectations! The raceways with deep grooves allow the balls to slide with impressive fluidity, while the removable contactless shields help keep the oil inside, keeping dirt and moisture out. What impressed us most were the surfaces of the raceways with linear micro-grooves, which improved lubrication, speed, and bearing rotation. The ultra-impact-resistant structure also keeps the balls perfectly positioned, while the Balls Out technology prevents contact between shields and the internal structure during impacts, ensuring consistent and fast performance. The G3 bearings also come with Bronson lubricant that protects them from wear, water, and corrosion. We can say with certainty that the Bronson G3 is an outstanding choice for every skater!

Recommended for experienced skaters
Price under 40 euros
High durability
Very high speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Bronson Raw

Bronson RAW Shieldless skateboard bearings are truly a unique experience! The absence of protective shields gave us an amazing sound and speed. During our testing sessions, we noticed how the lubricant-coated raceways are incredibly fast and smooth, minimizing dirt and debris buildup.

The Audible Speed technology added a touch of originality, making these bearings completely open, high-spin, and shieldless, offering a unique and engaging sound. The features of the raceways are the same as the G3, with deep grooves and linear micro-grooves for optimal lubrication, speed, and rotation.

The Bronson lubricant protected the bearings during our most intense sessions. If you love unparalleled sound and smoothness, you must try the Bronson RAW!

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 50 euros
High durability
Very high speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard and cruiser

Bronson Ceramics

The Bronson Ceramics skateboard bearings were the highlight of our experience with Bronson! With high-density ceramic balls, we immediately noticed superior smoothness, smooth rolling, and exceptional durability during our testing sessions. The raceways with deep grooves allowed the balls extraordinary freedom of movement, minimizing lateral damage. The removable contactless shields kept the oil inside, protecting them from dirt and moisture, and allowed for easy and fast cleaning. The Bronson Ceramics can provide optimal lubrication, incredible speed, and unmatched rotation accuracy. The Bronson lubricant also ensured that the bearings were always protected and ready for the next skate session. They are also sold with a convenient Bearing Cleaner for maintenance. If you want the best performance, Bronson Ceramics are the perfect choice to raise the level of your skateboarding performance!

Recommended for highly experienced skaters
Price under 100 euros
Very high durability
Very high speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Independent GP-S

The Independent GP-S skateboard bearings are a true guarantee of quality. Characterized by a crimped outer metal shield and a contactless rear shield, these bearings boast micro-polished steel raceways and a sturdy custom internal structure. The light lubricant ensures impeccable smoothness. We appreciated the solidity and smoothness of these bearings, which provide high performance in every skate session. If you're looking for reliable bearings that keep up with your moves, Independent GP-S is the right choice!

Recommended for beginner or intermediate skaters
Price under 15 euros
Average durability
Medium speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard and cruiser

Independent GP-R

The Independent GP-R skateboard bearings have a removable outer shield, contactless with the raceway, and a sturdy custom internal structure with micro-polished steel raceways. The light lubricant ensures optimal smoothness. The package includes 8 bearings, 4 spacers, and 8 washers, so you have everything you need for a complete setup. In our opinion, the smoothness and resistance of these bearings make them a more than reliable choice!

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 20 euros
Average durability
Medium speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Independent GP-B

The Independent GP-B skateboard bearings feature removable, contactless shields with the raceway, micro-polished steel raceways, and a sturdy custom internal structure. With light lubricant, these bearings are designed to ensure optimal smoothness. The package includes 8 bearings, 4 spacers, and 8 washers, offering everything you need for a high-quality setup. We appreciated the ease of maintenance and durability of these bearings. If you're looking for a complete set of high-quality bearings, the Independent GP-B is the ideal choice!

Recommended for intermediate or experienced skaters
Price under 25 euros
High durability
High speed
Spacers included
Use: skateboard, cruiser and longboard

Recommended for beginner or intermediate skaters
Price under 15 euros
Average durability
Medium speed
Spacers not included
Use: skateboard and cruiser

Skateboard bearings are a crucial component to achieve outstanding performance during your skate sessions. The models we've discussed in this article have been put to the test by our team of skaters, and we can guarantee that each one offers unique features and high-level performance. We hope this guide helps you make the best choice to improve your skateboarding experience.

The Best Skateboard Bearings: Performance and Features