🏒 Choosing Between Soft and Hard Inline Hockey Wheels

Choosing the right wheels is one of the most important decisions for any inline hockey player.
It’s not just about size or brand, the hardness of the wheel compound directly affects grip, speed, and durability.

In this DOUSSOUX Hockey guide, we break down the real differences between soft and hard roller hockey wheels, when to use each type, and how they influence your performance on the rink.

🔍 What Wheel Hardness Really Means

Wheel hardness is measured on the Shore A scale (for example: 74A, 76A, 82A). It indicates how much the wheel compresses when skating, turning, or stopping.

• The lower the number, the softer the wheel → more surface contact and better traction.

• The higher the number, the harder the wheel → less grip but more durability and speed.

The key is finding the perfect balance between grip and longevity based on your weight, surface, and playing intensity.
So why choose hard wheels if they offer less grip? Let’s explain.

🟢 Soft Wheels (like DOUSSOUX B21 and ST)

Soft wheels (typically between 74A and 78A) are the top choice for most indoor roller hockey players.

The DOUSSOUX B21 and ST models, both rated at 76A, sit in the optimal range for indoor rinks and wooden floors, delivering excellent grip, control, and responsiveness.

✅ Advantages

• Maximum traction and stopping power on plastic (SportCourt) and parquet floors.

• Better control during turns and smooth skating feel.

• Perfect for players competing on plastic indoor surfaces.

⚠️ Disadvantages

• Generally faster wear compared to harder wheels.

Recommended for:
Players competing primarily on indoor or SportCourt surfaces.

🔵 Hard Wheels (80A–85A)

Hard wheels are mainly used for outdoor roller hockey or training on polished concrete or abrasive surfaces.
Their firmness allows them to resist wear and maintain higher speed, but they sacrifice grip.

✅ Advantages

• Greater durability, especially on concrete or asphalt.

• Better roll speed for long, straight sprints.

⚠️ Disadvantages

• Reduced traction on smooth indoor surfaces.

• More sliding during tight turns or quick stops.

Recommended for:
Players training or competing on outdoor rinks.

⚖️ How to Choose the Right Wheel Hardness

💡 Tip: if you play both indoors and outdoors, always prioritize the surface you play on most. There’s no single “perfect” wheel for every rink.

🔧 Wheel Care Tips

• Rotate your wheels every 3–5 sessions to ensure even wear.

• Clean them occasionally to prevent unnecessary damage.

• Avoid heat and humidity when storing your skates.

• Replace wheels when you notice vibrations, cracks, or loss of grip.

🏁 Conclusion

The choice between soft and hard inline hockey wheels depends on your weight, playing surface, and skating style.
If you value traction and precision, soft wheels like the DOUSSOUX B21 and ST (76A) are your best option.
If you need speed and durability for outdoor play, choose a harder compound (80A–85A).

At DOUSSOUX Hockey, we work with professional players to design wheels that deliver real grip, control, and long-term performance in every game.

👉 Explore the full DOUSSOUX inline hockey wheel collection at dsxhockey.shop and find the perfect match for your playing style.