🏒 How to Choose the Best Inline Hockey Wheels
Choosing the right wheels for your inline hockey skates can make the difference in your performance. This guide will help you pick the ideal wheel size, hardness, and type based on your playing style and the surface you skate on.
Wheel size
The size of inline hockey wheels directly affects speed, stability, and maneuverability. Wheels usually range from 59 mm for goalies up to 80 mm, with 80 mm being the most common size for senior players.
In Hi-Lo configurations (used in Bauer or Mission skates), the front wheels are smaller for better control and the rear wheels are larger for added speed. This setup is standard across most roller hockey skates.
2 × 80 mm + 2 × 76 mm
2 × 72 mm + 2 × 68 mm
Surface defines hardness
Indoor · 72A – 80A
Designed for surfaces like SportCourt, plastic tiles, or hardwood, these wheels deliver excellent grip and control. They should not be used outdoors, as they wear down quickly and lose performance on rough surfaces.
Outdoor · 82A – 85A
Harder and more durable, ideal for asphalt, concrete, or outdoor rinks. They offer less traction on smooth indoor surfaces and may leave marks on indoor flooring.
Multi-purpose · ~78A
A balance between grip and durability. Perfect for skaters who alternate between indoor and outdoor rinks, although outdoor use will reduce grip when returning indoors.
Hardness by surface and preference
Wheel hardness depends mostly on the playing surface and, to a lesser extent, on player preference. Weight affects durability, not a mandatory hardness: many players over 85 kg (190 lbs) still pick 74A because they prioritize grip over wheel lifespan.
Indoor
Professionals almost always play between 74A and 76A. Players who want maximum premium grip choose 74A. Players who want strong grip with more durability, especially heavier skaters, go for 76A. The 72A exists but is rarely used, reserved for lighter players seeking extreme grip.
Outdoor
For asphalt or outdoor rinks, hardness ranges between 78A and 84A, regardless of player weight. Here the priority is wear resistance on abrasive surfaces.
| Hardness | Player weight | Surface |
|---|---|---|
| 72A – 76A | < 85 kg / 190 lbs | Indoor |
| 72A – 78A | > 85 kg / 190 lbs | Indoor |
| 78A – 84A | All | Outdoor |
How to choose your wheels step by step
- Identify the surface Decide where you skate most often: indoor, outdoor, or both.
- Set your priority Maximum grip (74A) or extra durability (76A) if you play indoors.
- Check your skate Confirm the size and whether it uses Hi-Lo or uniform wheel configuration.
- Pick the right size Use the Sr or Jr setup chart based on your skate size.
- Compare materials Look for high-quality PU and a reinforced core.
- Choose a trusted brand Doussoux wheels stand out for performance, grip, and durability in professional competition.
Wheel maintenance tips
- Rotate your wheels every 3 – 5 training sessions to prevent uneven wear.
- Clean your bearings regularly with isopropyl alcohol and lubricate them.
- Store your skates in a dry place and avoid direct sunlight exposure.
- Replace your wheels when you notice grip loss or an irregular shape.
Frequently asked questions
Professionals play between 74A and 76A. 74A delivers maximum grip, 76A offers great grip with extra durability. The 72A is rarely used and reserved for lighter players.
It affects durability, not the required hardness. A player over 85 kg (190 lbs) can still use 74A for grip, or pick 76A for longer wheel life. It comes down to player preference.
Yes, but you'll lose traction and may damage the indoor surface. Best practice is to use dedicated wheels for each surface.
It depends on how often you skate. If you train several times a week, replacing them every 2 – 3 months is recommended.
74A is softer and delivers maximum grip but wears out faster. 76A keeps great grip with longer durability. It's the most common pick among professionals.
Yes. "Inline hockey wheels" is the term most used in North America, while "roller hockey wheels" is more common in Europe and the UK. Both refer to the same product.
Choosing the right inline hockey wheels is essential to perform at your best on every game. Consider size, hardness, surface, and your own playing style. At Doussoux Hockey we combine experience and innovation to deliver wheels designed by players, for players.
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