Choosing the right skateboard bearings impacts speed, smoothness, and how long your setup lasts between cleanings. This guide highlights five top options that balance performance and value for American skaters. From classic Reds bearings to high-speed variants and a Spitfire pick, these selections cover street, park, and longboard use. Each product section includes key features and notes on maintenance, compatibility, and ride quality. Use this overview to compare feel, durability, and ease of cleaning to match your style and budget.
| Product | Brand | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards | Bones | Incredible speed; 608 size; Stoked Tool included |
| Bones Reds Bearings 8 Pack With Spacers & Washers | Bones | Non-contact shield; Nylon ball retainer; Pre-lubricated |
| Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack | Bones | Skate Rated quality; high-speed nylon retainer; Speed Cream |
| Bones Big Balls Reds 8 Pack | Bones | 6 larger balls; faster rolling; durable design |
| Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings 8 Pack | Spitfire | Removable shields; standard 608 size; smooth rolling |
Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards
Reds are a staple for skaters who want reliable, fast bearings. The 608 size is the standard for most wheels and trucks, measuring 22mm outside, 7mm wide, and 8mm bore. This makes them a universal choice that fits a wide range of setups and wheel cores. The set includes a Stoked Tool with sockets for the kingpin, axle, and hardware, plus an Allen and a Phillips driver, all forged from hardened steel with a chrome finish. This combination supports quick on-board maintenance and straightforward upgrades for riders who value speed and consistency.
In terms of ride quality, Reds offer balanced performance with strong durability for daily skating. The tool kit helps with common maintenance tasks like tightening, cleaning, and re-lubrication, reducing downtime between sessions. While not ceramic, they deliver solid acceleration and smooth rolling for park sessions, street sessions, and casual rides. These bearings are a practical starter or upgrade option for skaters who want dependable performance without compromising on speed.
Bones Reds Bearings 8 Pack With Spacers & Washers
This bundle adds practical accessories designed for easier maintenance and longer life. It features a single, removable rubber shield that makes cleaning easier and reduces friction during use. The high-speed nylon ball retainer supports speed and strength, helping bearings withstand frequent sessions. The bearings come pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant, which minimizes break-in time and sustains smoother spins for longer periods. The combination of shield design and lubrication enhances performance while simplifying upkeep for everyday skaters.
From a performance perspective, this kit emphasizes longevity and consistency. The removable shield protects against dirt and moisture while still allowing quick cleaning. The nylon retainer contributes to steadier spins and better durability under repeated impacts and heavy use. For skaters who want a ready-to-run set that requires minimal initial maintenance, this bundle is a practical, value-focused option.
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
These Reds are positioned as a high-value option, balancing performance and affordability. Manufactured in China to Bones Skate Rated specifications, they are designed to deliver a solid blend of speed and durability while keeping costs down. The design includes a single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and low friction, paired with a high-speed nylon ball retainer for added strength and speed. Pre-lubrication with Speed Cream racing lubricant reduces initial break-in time, helping riders roll faster sooner.
Care and replacement are straightforward with these bearings. The combination of shield design, nylon retainer, and pre-lubrication aims to provide reliable spins over a long period. While not Swiss or ceramic, the Reds maintain a strong reputation for everyday use, from trick-heavy park sessions to long street rides, making them a go-to choice for many skaters shopping for dependable performance at a reasonable price.
Bones Big Balls Reds 8 Pack
Big Balls Reds introduce a performance twist: larger balls, specifically six balls that are roughly 17% bigger than traditional 608 bearings, are designed to roll faster and maintain momentum longer. The larger balls help keep rolling through dirt and imperfections that slow smaller balls. This pack includes eight bearings, plus instructions and a sticker. The enhanced ball geometry can translate to quicker acceleration and less drag on imperfect surfaces, appealing to skaters who want a perceptible speed boost without resorting to full ceramic options.
As a wear-and-tear consideration, larger balls can also experience different wear patterns. While they may deliver higher top speeds and better resistance to minor surface irregularities, durability hinges on build quality and maintenance. Regular cleaning and re-lubrication help preserve smooth spins, especially if you frequently ride on grit-heavy streets or encounter debris on parks and streets.
Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings 8 Pack
Spitfire’s Cheapshots Bearings are positioned as an accessible option for skaters at entry to mid-level performance. They use the standard 608 size, with removable black shields that help protect the bearings from dirt while enabling easier cleaning. The durable cage and steel races are designed to support smooth rotation and longer life at a lower price point. The bearings are described as suitable for all types of skating and compatible with a wide range of trucks and wheel combinations, making them a versatile choice for beginners and casual riders alike.
From a maintenance viewpoint, removable shields aid in cleaning and re-lubrication, which can help maintain speed over time. While not engineered for absolute top-tier speed, they deliver dependable performance that supports daily sessions, park rides, and street cruising. For riders prioritizing value and broad compatibility, this Spitfire option provides a balanced performance profile.
Buying Guide
Key Purchase Considerations
- Bearing material and construction: Steel bearings provide solid performance and durability for most riders. Ceramic or hybrid (ceramic balls with steel races) bearings can offer lower friction and longer spins but at a higher price. Consider your riding style and budget when choosing material.
- Shield design and cleaning: Non-contact shields reduce friction, while removable shields simplify cleaning and maintenance. If you ride in dusty environments or rain-prone areas, shield design can affect longevity and ease of upkeep.
- Lubrication and maintenance: Some bearings arrive pre-lubricated (Speed Cream or similar), which shortens break-in time. Others require your own lubrication. Regular maintenance—cleaning and re-lubing—extends life and keeps spins smooth.
- Ball retainers: Nylon retainers are common and provide good speed with durable performance. Some premium options use different retainers or ball configurations; understand how this affects spin and noise.
- Size and compatibility: The 608 bearing size (outer diameter ~22mm, width ~7mm, inner diameter ~8mm) fits most standard skateboard wheels and trucks. Always verify wheel bore compatibility with your truck and wheel setup.
- Ride type and environment: Street and park skating benefit from balanced speed and durability, while longboard setups may prioritize spin longevity and stability. Ceramic options shine in high-heat or precision-focused builds but may be overkill for casual use.
- Maintenance regime and budget: If you prefer a low-maintenance setup, consider pre-lubricated bearings or bundles that include shields and cleaning tools. For budget-conscious riders, traditional steel reds offer solid performance without the premium price.
Quick Comparisons by Use Case
- Beginner/Value: Spitfire Cheapshots or Bones Reds standard packs offer reliable performance at a lower price point.
- Park/Street performance: Bones Reds and Reds with spacers provide fast spins with practical maintenance tools for frequent cleanings.
- Longer spins and durability: Big Balls Reds offer enhanced rolling through rough surfaces with larger ball geometry.
- Ceramic preference: KVENI Ceramic Bearings represent a premium option for riders seeking very low friction and longer spins, especially on high-performance builds.
Overall, the best choice depends on your riding style, maintenance willingness, and budget. The Bones Reds line remains a strong default for most riders due to its proven performance, availability, and legacy in the skating community. If you want faster spins on rough surfaces, consider the larger-ball design. For ceramic enthusiasts, higher-speed, lower-friction options exist, though they command a premium. Always pair bearings with clean, quality wheels and trucks, and maintain them regularly to maximize performance and lifespan.