Choosing Between Soft and Hard Inline Hockey Wheels
Wheel hardness isn't just a number: it determines your grip, control and how long your wheels last on the rink. We break down the difference between soft and hard wheels, what the Shore A scale means and when to choose each type based on the surface you play on.
What wheel hardness actually means
Hardness is measured on the Shore A scale (74A, 76A, 82A…) and indicates how much the compound compresses when you skate or brake. The lower the number, the softer the wheel: more contact surface with the floor, more grip, more control. The higher the number, the harder: less contact, less grip, but greater wear resistance.
The key variable is the surface you play on, not your body weight. Soft wheels are for indoor, hard wheels are for outdoor. Within each range, your weight and personal preferences guide you toward the right end of the spectrum: a heavier player might prefer a 74A to maximise grip, while another opts for 76A because it delivers the control they need with better longevity. There's no single right answer — it's about testing.
Soft vs Hard: when to use each
- Maximum grip and braking on plastic rinks
- Better feel and control in turns
- Fast response on starts and direction changes
- Compound optimised for smooth indoor floors
- Wear faster on abrasive surfaces
- Not recommended for outdoor use
- Greater durability on concrete or asphalt
- Wear resistance on abrasive surfaces
- Hold their shape for longer
- Less grip on smooth surfaces
- Reduced traction in sharp turns and quick stops
- Not ideal for indoor competition
Pick your hardness by surface and profile
Once you know your surface, weight and personal preferences help you narrow down within the soft range. The values below are a starting point — test to find yours.
| Surface | Player profile | Hardness guide | Doussoux model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smooth indoor (SportCourt) | Looking for maximum grip | 74A | Fussion |
| Indoor (SportCourt / hardwood) | Grip–durability balance | 76A | B21 · ST |
| Indoor mixed or semi-hard | Prefers longer lifespan | 78A | — |
| Outdoor (concrete / asphalt) | Any profile | 80A – 85A | Outdoor |
Built for real competition
Three models calibrated for each grip level. Developed alongside elite players to deliver genuine performance in competition.
Take care of your wheels to make them last
- Rotate them every 3–5 sessions to spread wear evenly across all four positions.
- Clean them regularly to remove dirt and extend their lifespan.
- Avoid heat and moisture when storing: both affect the compound over time.
- Don't mix indoor and outdoor with the same set. Keep two sets if you alternate surfaces.
- Replace your wheels when you notice vibrations, loss of grip or visible deformation.
The choice between soft or hard wheels always starts with the surface: indoor calls for soft (74A–78A), outdoor calls for hard (80A–85A). From there, weight and personal preferences help fine-tune the choice within the soft range. The Fussion (74A) is the maximum-grip option for smooth indoor rinks, the B21 and ST (76A) balance grip and durability for competition, and hard wheels stand up to concrete and asphalt.
Explore our ranges
Leave a comment