Best Longboard Bearings Buyer’s Guide

Skating professionally, like in movies, requires a lot of training and a well-maintained board.

This applies to all its elements. A lot of skaters, especially newbies, underestimate the importance of high-quality longboard bearings.

Their understanding of a smooth, stable ride changes dramatically once they buy a new, tight pair. The wheels won’t move without the bearings, so it makes sense to find out more about these elements and choose them wisely.

There are a lot of things to consider while choosing bearings. You have to make sure the manufacturer is reliable, and their products are rated. The type and size of your longboard wheels also matter.

To make sure your search is fast and efficient, we have created this TOP-5 of the best longboard bearings in the market. And don’t forget about a buyer’s guide you can find after the reviews!

Top Pick

Bones BSACBR88 REDS

• Non-Contact Rubber Shield
• Minimizing Friction
• Pre-Lubricated

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Longboard Bearings Comparison Chart

5 Best Longboard Bearings (as of April, 2024):

1. Bones BSACBR88 REDS Longboard Bearings Review

Bones REDS Bearings lead most TOP lists as the best choice for cruising that combines premium quality and adequate price.

Stainless steel races provide elasticity, and super-finished balls give smooth riding.

This is a nice option both for beginners and more advanced skaters who choose street-riding wheels.

Construction and Features

With these bearings, you get:

• High-speed ball retainer that will support smooth sliding no matter how fast you ride. The retainers are made from removable nylon;
• Skate-rated bearings, which is as important as the ABEC rating. Such elements are deemed suitable for professional skaters since the rating indicates that the materials and construction of the bearings are high-quality;
• Durability guaranteed due to the materials and structure;
• Minimal friction due to the non-contact rubber shield (of bright red color – hence the name);
• A pre-lubricated set, which is great maintenance-wise and reduces friction even more.

These bearings are easy to clean, remove, install, and use. They can handle hard landings and loads of pressure without friction and premature wearing.

This is a great choice for beginners since you don’t have to lubricate them immediately, and they will keep you and your longboard safe.

Besides, detailed instructions for use are included in the package, so a beginner can install and use the bearings without a problem.

And it’s also a suitable option for pros, protecting you and providing smooth moves, which is important for tricks and uneven-terrain riding.

Main Features

• Set of Eight Bearings
• Single, Non-Contact, Removable Rubber Shield
• Minimizing Friction
• High Speed Nylon Ball Retainer
• Pre-Lubricated With Speed Cream Racing Lubricant
• Skate Rated Clearances, Tolerances, Materials & Lubricant
• Greater Strength & Speed
• Easy Cleaning
• Instructions & Logo Sticker

2. Yellow Jacket Premium 608 Longboard Bearings Review

Yellow Jacket Premium 608 Bearings are another favorite choice for most skaters.

They work great for street riding, providing faster spin of your wheels.

Due to minimal friction and effortless, fast spin, these can prolong the life of your street-riding wheels.

This is a great choice for skaters who seek high speed and smooth moves and don’t mind a bit of noise.

Construction and Features

With these Yellow Jacket bearings for longboards and skateboards, you get:

• Protective seal that resists moisture, dust clogging, etc. It’s fully weatherproof and provides the same qualities even in harsh weather;
• Bearings from Yellow Jacket has an ABEC-9 rating, which means it’s the most precise and has a tighter tolerance than bearings with 1, 3, 5, and ratings;
• High speed with all the stability you need. These bearings are quite flexible and work well on different terrains, so it’s fine to experiment on your longboard if you have them;
• Versatile use since these are suitable for skateboards, longboards, rollerblades and so on;
• Pre-lubrication that makes the bearings ready for use right out of the box. You also postpone the first maintenance work by buying pre-lubricated elements. It’s important for minimizing friction and improving your riding experience.

The seals are bright, which contributed to the overall look of your longboard. Style is as important as functionality, especially if you’re a professional and take part in events and competitions.

One noticeable flaw of these bearings is the noise they make when you’re skating. It’s not deafening but might draw attention to you, which isn’t bad at times.

Main Features

• ABEC-9 Rating
• High Precision & Speed
• Minimal Friction
• Effortless, Fast Spin
• Pre-Lubrication
• Wheel Durability Promotion
• Engraved Color Seals For Protection
• For Skateboards, Longboards, Inline Skates
• Hassle-Free Money-Back Guarantee

3. Heady Shake Pro 608 RS Longboard Bearings Review

When looking for a versatile and fast set of longboard bearings, these standard items from Heady Shake should be on the list.

You can use Heady Shake Pro 608 RS for kick scooters, inline and roller skates, skateboards, and, of course, longboards.

They have standard dimensions and are universal, so if you’re not sure what size or type to choose, Heady Shake is the thing.

Construction and Features

With this set, you’re getting:

• Pre-lubricated bearings that are ready to use right out of the box. So, you skit one maintenance sessions that not everyone likes and has time for;
• Durability due to high-quality materials the manufacturer is sure about. They provide a money-back guarantee if something goes wrong or you get a damaged set;
• Quiet rotation along with the strength and versatility of the bearings. No annoying sounds when you aim for the smoothest ride;
• Sturdy spacers that will provide a safe distance between the elements of the bearing, minimizing contact and premature wearing;
• Reasonable price, even though this is a high-end option.

In addition to all the benefits, these bearings look stylish and add class to your board. So, if you’re after looks as much as after flexibility of use and strong support, this set might just become your best pick.

The precision, sturdy construction, and the fact that these bearings come pre-lubricated make them a nice choice for beginners that require maximum support.

At first, you might think the set is too tight and difficult to ride on, but it’s fine. Heady Shake bearings need some time to open their full potential. So, it’s better to ride them for some time before an important event.

Main Features

• Super-Fast Design
• ABEC-9 Rating
• High-Quality Titanium Coating
• Superior Corrosion Resistance
• Proven Wear Performance
• Useful Temperature Range -320°F To +750°F
• Double Strengthened Nylon Retainer
• Single Side Sealed Rubber Shield
• Pre-Lubricated with Premium Speed Oil
• Includes Waterproof Sticker

4. Lucky ABEC-7 Review

As the name suggests, these Lucky ABEC-7 bearings have the ABEC 7 rating, which means their tolerance is high and construction sturdy and safe.

These provide premium performance for a reasonable price, which is just the ratio every skater should look for.

Construction and Features

With this set, here’s what you get:

• ABEC-7 rating which offers great tolerance and is optimal these days;
• Removable protection shields that prevent dirt, sand, dust, and other debris from getting into the bearing and clogging it, destroying your smooth riding experience;
• Pre-lubricated set of 8 items that are ready to use right after you get the package;
• Steel balls that provide fast spinning and smooth moves;
• Affordability in combination with high-quality performance if well-maintained.

You get protection from dirt and dust that will get your longboards through different kinds of terrains.

However, you will only get benefits if maintaining the bearings frequently. A lot of skaters aren’t huge fans of cleaning separate elements of their longboards, but in this case, it’s a requirement.

In return, these items will provide you with a faster spin than you could have expected. So, the effort is worth it.

These work best with 47”+ longboards. You may also need to ride them for some time to start seeing the benefits.

The more you practice, the less time it will take for these bearings to show themselves. Also, in time, you may need more breaking space, so keep that in mind.

Main Features

• ABEC-7 Rating
• Chromium 52100 Steel Balls
• Stainless Steel Shields
• Triple-Honed Polished Raceways
• Removable Dupont Delrin Crowns
• Pre-Lubricated Set
• Sturdy & Safe Construction
• Easy To Install & Remove

5. Fireball Dragon Race 608 Review

When in need of urgent boosting of your longboard, check out Fireball Dragon Race 608 Precision Bearings.

These will impress you with their capabilities of tolerance, spinning, and flawless fitting to a lot of longboards, skateboards, even spinners.

This option offers a nice balance of price and quality, which is something to look for.

Construction and Features

With this set, you’re getting:

• Steel balls in nylon cage for extra protection. The case is removable, which makes it easy to clean;
• Pre-lubricated bearings with heavier grease that increases longevity and minimizes friction;
• Labyrinth protection shield to avoid deterioration due to weather conditions and dirt. It’s also easily removable for maintenance;
• Lifetime guarantee from the manufacturer if the damage is done due to faulty units;
• Premium precision that will contribute to the speed, successful turns, and tricks;
• Standard 608 size that is widely used in longboards, skateboards, spinners, scooters roller skates, penny boards, etc.

These bearings will suit well for downhill riding and enduring pressure when sliding.

They can upgrade your longboard by much, which is great if you have a competition soon. However, it’s important to get used to them way before the event.

They are easy to clean and maintain, and their longevity can be increased by using ENDURE or RACE greases. One works primarily for durability, and the other improves spinning capabilities of the bearings.

You’ll also be impressed by convenient packaging that prevents any unwanted contact while the unit is shipped. 

Main Features

• Ideal For Downhill Riding
• Durable & Versatile
• Dual Labyrinth Shields
• Superior Grade Steel Balls
• Nylon Ball Cage
• Precision Fitment
• Pre-Lubricated Set
• Lifetime Warranty

Best Longboard Bearings Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Pair of Bearings

Before choosing bearings for your longboard, there’s a lot of research to be done. Here are some guidelines for your search.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Longboard Bearings

Starting from official ratings and finishing with prices, here are some things to find out and consider:

• ABEC rating.
  Knowing what ABEC rating of bearings you need will help you achieve goals and pick the best options for your wheel type. A lot of skaters don’t know much about this scale, but a proper tolerance rating can change the game greatly. APEC 7s are the most popular at the moment, with 3s and 5s after them. They use better lubes and are overall more effective.
• Skate-rating.
  Aside from ABEC-rated bearings, there are skate-rated ones that are deemed more professional by some skaters. They are more capable when it comes to harsh conditions and terrain where you skate. So, if additional stability is a priority, look for this rating.
• Ball material.
  Ceramic and steel are the most common materials used for bearing balls. These elements are responsible for rolling capabilities, so choosing the right material is imperative:
  • Ceramic will give you a smooth ride, but it’s more expensive. There are also different types of ceramic balls that may suit your budget and goals more. The toughest material is silicon nitride; the others are a bit softer yet very effective.
  • Steel isn’t much worse, it just has different qualities. It’s valued for flexibility and ductility. Its elasticity contributed to longevity as steel bearing balls retain their shape even after being under loads of pressure.

• Type of board.
  The size and purpose of your board mean a lot since you may need bearings with a certain rating. Make sure you know the difference between a longboard and a skateboard, a penny board and a skateboard, etc.
• Size of the bearing.
  Find out the exact size (standard 608 or any non-standard) of bearings you’ll need. Without this information, it’s very difficult t get a good fit. If it’s impossible at the moment, opt for the standard model with an 8-mm bore, the diameter of 22 mm, and 7-mm thickness. It’s suitable for the majority of skateboards and longboards, no matter if it’s one for downhill riding, cruising, pintail, or the first teaching one for an 8-year-old.
• Price.
  When buying a board, price is one of the most important points, and so it should be for bearings and other elements. But don’t only look at the number and don’t try to buy the cheapest option. The best decision is to choose a good ratio of price and quality. If you pick bearings that fit your board perfectly and are of great quality yet cost more than a regular pair that won’t be as long-lasting and effective, it’s better to pay more.
• Spacers.
  Such small yet important elements of a bearing, spacers make sure there’s no unwanted contact between the balls within the item. Sturdy spacers prevent the unit from getting loose and providing fast spinning with less friction.
• Style.
  While this might not seem vital, in a lot of cases, the style of your longboard means a lot. Bearings contribute to it with their color and overall looks. So, while functionality should be your priority, make sure your bearings fit by color and design. The construction is similar in all models, so there’s not much space for creativity, but keep in mind that there is more than just plain black-and-silver bearings.

Longboard Bearing Components

A point that needs a separate section is longboard bearing components. You have to gain some knowledge about them and their functions prior to choosing your first set.

A lot of technical information might confuse you into buying the wrong bearings that won’t provide the features you require.

While a lot of people only care for the rating and ball material, there are some other important parts to pay attention to:

• C-Ring.
  A thin ring that is located on the outer part of the bearing and locks the protective shield. It has to be sturdy enough to provide integrity;
• The inner and outer rings.
  These complete the frame of the bearing that holds all of the other elements inside. Their perfect round shape is responsible for proper spinning;
• Shields.
  Single or dual, protective shields play an essential role in the longevity and functionality of your bearings. They can protect the unit from dirt, dust, debris, heat, cold, humidity, etc. The best shields provide fully weatherproof features. They might require frequent cleaning, but the effort is worth it since the bearings that are protected and well-maintained last for a much longer time.

Things to Remember to Keep Your Bearings in Good Condition

Here are some tips on making your longboard bearings as long-lasting as possible:

• Choose a good lube.
  Lubrication helps minimize friction and provide you with the smoothest ride possible and great stabilization. Choose a lube that doesn’t contain ingredients that may damage the bearing. There are special nano-ceramic greases and speed creams that suit different materials. Do your research before making the final choice. A good lube can make the bearings more long-lasting or make it inoperable in a year.
• Choose pre-lubricated.
  A great decision is to buy bearings that are already lubricated for better performance. However, it doesn’t mean you won’t have to lubricate them yourself every once in a while. Pre-lubricated bearings are ready to be used right out of the box, which is also quite convenient.
• Clean your bearings.
  There are a lot of guides on how to clean longboard and skateboard bearings. Make use of the one you find the most convenient and clean your bearings when you start seeing slight performance issues. You can also make skating wax at home to have some on hand all the time.
• Make sure everything fits.
  When it comes to your success in a competition or simple training, everything should work as one mechanism. Your clothes have to be comfortable and not tightening so that you don’t limit your moves. The shoes must be comfortable as well, preferably made specifically for skating. Your belongings have to be in a bag that doesn’t need carrying and can be used while riding. And of course, you need a good longboard with some high-quality bearings.

Doing all these will not only improve your overall performance but also prolong the life of your bearings, wheels, and the board itself.

More on ABEC Ratings

Every skater has to be knowledgeable about the ABEC rating or the tolerance rating system. Tolerance in this system refers to the overall fit of components of the bearing.

How well the construction fits together? How smooth and fast the bearing will make your longboard? How many balls there are and how they work together? All these questions are answered by the rating.

ABEC number doesn’t necessarily mean the best quality of bearings. While it must be a major factor influencing your final choice, there are a lot of other features you should consider depending on your needs.

So, if you’re looking for the items to make your longboard the fastest, the ABEC rating shouldn’t be the sole foundation of your final decision.

That being said, it’s always better to aim for the 7 rating and higher. A higher number means better lubes, after all, which means your bearing will be companions for a very long time. A nice lube can prolong the life of such units for years.

Here are some interesting facts about the ABEC rating:

• The 1 rating was applied first in 1974 when the first 608 precision bearings were released in Road Rider;
• Initially, similar bearings were used in vacuum cleaners;
• ABEC 7s are the most demanded at the moment, although there is also the 9 rating. The 3 and 5 aren’t that popular anymore;
• The ratings only use odd numbers;
• Most beginner skateboarders have no clue what an ABEC rating means.

Gaining knowledge about the history and technical intricacies of longboards and riding techniques, you will have no difficulties with the choice of bomb bearings for your board.

When you know what rating, ball material, lube, etc. you need for a certain goal (practicing tricks, breaking fast, speed, downhill/horizontal riding, etc.), the list of potential candidates will narrow down itself.

The Precision of Your Longboard Depends on High-Quality Bearings

Surely, your talent and skills are crucial for a good ride, but a nice and stable longboard is also one of the keys. Everything has to be of high quality and intact: decks, wheels, bearings, trucks, etc.

Make sure you check your board once a month or two, don’t go cheap on essential details that have to be changed, and you’ll be rewarded with a smooth, stable ride every time you step on the board.