Most riders spend hours obsessing over deck shapes or truck angles while ignoring the tiny metal rings that actually allow the wheels to turn. Your speed depends entirely on these eight small components tucked inside your wheels.
Think of them as the heart of your setup. Choosing the Best Longboard Bearings is the quickest way to improve how your board glides. Let me walk you through how to spot a set that will keep you rolling smooth.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize stainless steel or high quality chrome steel if you skate in humid or coastal environments to prevent premature oxidation.
- Confirm your wheels use the standard 608 size, which represents the inner diameter, outer diameter, and width of almost every modern longboard wheel.
- Look for bearings that include removable rubber shields, as these make cleaning out dust and debris much easier after a long ride.
- Remember that higher ABEC ratings indicate tighter manufacturing tolerances, though high speed stability often matters more than the raw rating number.
- Invest in a set that includes spacers and speed rings if your current trucks lack them, because these small parts prevent side to side movement.
| Top Tier Speed |  |
Red Silver ABEC-9 608 RS Bearings | High speed rating | Smooth rotation | Standard 608 size | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| The Industry Standard |  |
Bones Reds Bearings Bundle | Includes essential hardware | Proven track record | Consistent performance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Best Maintenance Kit |  |
Bones Reds Bearings with Tool | Includes handy skate tool | Reliable daily performance | Easy maintenance | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Ultimate Weather Resistance |  |
Zealous Steel Longboard Bearings | Water resistant lube | Built-in spacers | Highly durable | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Pro Grade Performance |  |
ABEC-9 Ceramic Longboard Bearings | Exceptional heat resistance | Low friction glide | High precision rating | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Reliable Daily Driver |  |
Bones Reds 8-Pack Bearings | Consistent ride quality | Simple to clean | Proven longevity | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Complete Hardware Set |  |
Skitch Precision Fast Spin Bearings | Includes washers and spacers | Durable chrome steel | Deep groove design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Smooth Commuter Choice |  |
Oldboy Premium Skateboard Bearings | High-quality lubricant | Quiet operation | Vibration resistant | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| High Speed Cruising |  |
BRAVORD TG11 Precision Bearings | High tolerance levels | Fast spin speed | Precise construction | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Affordable Hybrid Performance |  |
Z-First Hybrid Ceramic Bearings | Cost-effective performance | Improved heat management | Smooth hybrid roll | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Red Silver ABEC-9 608 RS Bearings
If you want to maximize your roll speed, this set is your go-to choice. These ABEC-9 rated bearings provide a smooth, fast rotation that makes maintaining momentum during long commutes significantly easier.
The 608 RS design helps keep dirt and grime away from the internal races. You might find them slightly louder than higher-end boutique options, but the performance per rotation is hard to beat for the casual rider.
- Bearing Material:Chrome steel
- ABEC Rating:9
- Package Quantity:8 pieces
- Shield Type:Rubber
- Additional Feature:Fast spin rate
- Additional Feature:Standard dimensions for most boards
- Additional Feature:Low friction seals
-
Bones Reds Bearings Bundle
You will find these in almost every skate shop for a reason. This bundle includes spacers and washers, which are crucial for reducing vibration and preventing your wheels from rubbing against the truck hangers.
They offer a reliable balance between speed and durability that satisfies everyone from commuters to downhill riders. The only drawback is that you have to keep them clean to prevent them from getting gritty over time.
- Brand Name:Bones
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Included Accessories:Spacers and washers
- Additional Feature:Removable rubber shields
- Additional Feature:High speed nylon ball retainers
- Additional Feature:Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream
-
Bones Reds Bearings with Tool
Everything you need to keep your wheels turning is right here in this package. Including a multi-purpose tool makes swapping out old, worn bearings a breeze, saving you from fumbling with wrenches or screwdrivers.
These bearings are famous for their long-term durability and ability to hold up under daily use. They are not the absolute fastest bearings on the market, but they are certainly among the most dependable.
- Brand Name:Bones
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Included Accessories:Skate tool
- Additional Feature:Pre-lubricated
- Additional Feature:Removable shields
- Additional Feature:Universal fit for boards
-
Zealous Steel Longboard Bearings
If you live in a place where rain is a constant threat, these are your best friends. They utilize a built-in lubricant that creates a water-resistant barrier, effectively slowing down the inevitable process of rust.
The integrated spacers are a brilliant touch, as they eliminate the need for separate parts when mounting your wheels. While they might feel a bit sluggish fresh out of the box, they break in beautifully after a few miles.
- Brand Name:Zealous
- Bearing Material:Steel
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Additional Feature:Built-in speed rings
- Additional Feature:Rust resistant design
- Additional Feature:Self-healing lubricant
-
ABEC-9 Ceramic Longboard Bearings
Ceramic bearings act like a lightweight upgrade for your board, offering less friction and better heat resistance than traditional steel. These are ideal if you are serious about downhill riding or want the most efficient glide possible.
Because ceramic is harder than steel, these components stay smoother for longer even with heavy use. Just remember that they are more brittle than steel, so avoid heavy impacts or jumping off tall stairs.
- Bearing Material:Ceramic
- ABEC Rating:9
- Package Quantity:8 pieces
- Additional Feature:Excellent for cruising
- Additional Feature:High speed rotation
- Additional Feature:Long lasting smoothness
-
Bones Reds 8-Pack Bearings
Sometimes you just need a no-nonsense set of bearings that works every single time. This is the classic choice for riders who want to spend their time skating rather than tinkering with their gear.
The construction is sturdy and consistent, giving you a predictable ride across varied surfaces. They do require a bit of cleaning if you ride through dust, but that is a small price to pay for such high quality.
- Brand Name:Bones
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Shield Type:Rubber
- Additional Feature:Removable shields
- Additional Feature:Pre-lubricated
- Additional Feature:High speed nylon retainers
-
Skitch Precision Fast Spin Bearings
This kit is like a tune-up in a box for your longboard. By including both washers and spacers, it addresses the common issue of wheel wobble that plagues many stock setups.
The chrome steel construction ensures a smooth spin, while the deep groove design adds strength against side loads. They are a solid upgrade for anyone looking to tighten up their board's feel.
- Brand Name:Skitch
- Bearing Material:Chrome steel
- ABEC Rating:9
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Included Accessories:Washers and spacers
- Shield Type:2RS
- Additional Feature:High precision manufacturing
- Additional Feature:Universal 608 size
- Additional Feature:Fast spin capabilities
-
Oldboy Premium Skateboard Bearings
These bearings focus on a quiet and efficient ride, which is exactly what you want when you are cruising through the city. The high-quality lubricant used inside keeps the spin consistent during long rides.
They are designed to handle the constant vibration of asphalt without breaking down. You might find the seals are a bit tight at first, but this helps keep debris out of the internal ball races.
- Bearing Material:Steel
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Additional Feature:Super lube formula
- Additional Feature:Precision balls
- Additional Feature:Standard fitment
-
BRAVORD TG11 Precision Bearings
If you crave speed, the tight tolerances of these bearings will definitely help you reach your goals. They are built with high-precision components that minimize energy loss with every push.
The build quality is evident the moment you mount them, as they offer a very clean, crisp roll. They are best suited for smooth surfaces rather than rough, gravel-filled roads.
- Brand Name:BRAVORD
- Package Quantity:8 bearings
- Additional Feature:Designed for speed
- Additional Feature:Minimal friction
- Additional Feature:High-grade steel
-
Z-First Hybrid Ceramic Bearings
Hybrid bearings provide the best of both worlds by combining ceramic balls with steel races. This gives you the speed benefits of ceramic without the high cost of a full ceramic setup.
These are great for beginners who want a performance boost without spending a fortune. They might not be as light as full ceramic, but the durability is a significant step up from standard steel bearings.
- Brand Name:Z-First
- Bearing Material:Hybrid ceramic
- Package Quantity:4 bearings
- Shield Type:608RS
- Additional Feature:High speed design
- Additional Feature:Ceramic ball construction
- Additional Feature:Versatile usage
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special tools to install my new bearings?
You do not strictly need a dedicated bearing press, but a t-tool or axle nut will make the job much easier. You can use your truck axle as a lever to pop the bearings into the wheel hub. Just be careful to press evenly so you do not damage the bearing races.
How often should I clean my bearings?
If you ride in dusty conditions or through damp patches, you should clean them every two to three months. If you hear a gritty grinding sound when you spin your wheels, that is your signal to stop and perform some basic maintenance. Clean them with isopropyl alcohol and apply a fresh drop of speed cream.
Will ceramic bearings make me go faster?
They are technically more efficient because they produce less friction and do not expand when they get hot from high speeds. However, most riders notice a smoother ride rather than a massive increase in top speed. They are a great upgrade if you want a consistent glide during long sessions.
Can I use WD 40 to clean my bearings?
Please avoid using standard WD 40 as a lubricant because it is actually a solvent that attracts dirt and strips away necessary protection. It might free up a stuck bearing for a few minutes, but it will cause more damage in the long run. Stick to skate specific oil or high quality synthetic lubricants.
Are all longboard bearings the same size?
The vast majority of longboards use 608 bearings, which are the universal standard for the sport. You will occasionally see 627 bearings on smaller wheels, but those are the exception rather than the rule. Always check your wheel core specifications if you are unsure before you buy.
