How to Choose the Right Mini Fingerboard Wheels for Your Setup

Fingerboarding is now more in vogue than ever before and riders are always seeking ways to make their setups better. The wheels are one of the most critical components of any system. For smoother tricks, control and realism, it can be a big difference to get the right mini fingerboard wheels.

The deck design is only part of the focus for many beginners but for experienced riders, wheels are a big deal. The right wheels can make your fingerboard feel faster, smoother and more comfortable while performing tricks. There are many different sets to choose from, and it's easy to get confused when it comes time to pick the right set.

This guide will help you select the right mini fingerboard wheels for your fingerboard and riding style.

Mini Fingerboard Wheels Are Popular for a Variety of Reasons

Mini fingerboard wheels are smaller than conventional wheels, providing more control to the rider while performing technical maneuvers. They're popular with many fingerboarders as they more closely resemble actual street skateboard wheels.

Ideal for flip tricks, grinds and street style riding. They also provide for a lighter set-up and easier handling. Mini wheels are a good choice for riders who appreciate clean and realistic fingerboard set-ups as they tend to look more realistic on smaller decks.

Another feature of mini fingerboard wheels that makes them popular is their smooth ride. Quality wheels enable better rolling and more natural feeling tricks.

Understand Wheel Material

The first thing that needs to be checked when purchasing wheels is the material. Most fingerboard wheels are made from either plastic or urethane.

Plastic Wheels

Generally, plastic wheels are a lot less expensive and are typically found in beginner's setups. They will work fine for learning basic tricks, but could not be as smooth on other surfaces.

Sometimes these wheels may seem slippery and less realistic. They are still good, however, for people just starting out.

Urethane Wheels

Urethane wheels are much more favored amongst experienced riders. They offer increased traction, rolling ease and a more authentic feel.

Urethane Mini Fingerboard Wheels are popular for many riders due to their enhanced control while performing tricks. They also reduce the noise and smoothness when riding on the fingerboard.

For a professional look, urethane wheels are typically preferable.

Choose the Right Wheel Size

The size of the wheel affects the performance of your set up. Mini wheels are smaller than the original, but there are still various sizes available.

Generally, smaller wheels provide:

• Better flip control

• Faster technical tricks

• A realistic street setup feel is provided

Larger wheels may provide:

• More speed

• Smoother riding

• For beginners, balance is improved

Smaller mini fingerboard wheels are perfect for those who prefer street fingerboarding and technical tricks.

Check the Bearing Quality

The bearings in the wheels allow the wheels to roll easily. The quality of your bearings can make a difference in the feel of your set up.

Often cheap wheels may have poor bearings that cause them not to turn rapidly. The bearings of high-quality wheels are usually of high quality and roll easily, lasting longer than those of low-quality wheels.

When selecting wheels, go for smooth spinning and a tight bearing lock. A wheel that has good bearings will be more stable when performing tricks.

Match Wheels With Your Deck

The wheels should be of a size that corresponds to your deck size and riding style. Smaller or medium size fingerboard decks are generally best suited for small wheels.

For example:

• A street setup is ideal when using mini wheels

• Light wheels are a benefit for a technical setup

• If the wheel size is increased, the deck may be wider to accommodate the increased width

The idea is to get a well-balanced configuration that feels good in your hands.

Select a Wheel Shape You Like

There are also wheels for fingers that are of other shapes. Some have a wider section, some a more narrow.

Slim wheels are sometimes more suitable for technical tricks, as they are light and swift. Broad wheels can give additional balance and traction.

There is no one size fits all option. Some riders favor a skinny wheel but want it to look realistic, others want more stability.

Experiment with various wheel shapes to find the one that suits your riding style.

Think About Your Riding Surface

Wheel selection can also be influenced by the surface you're riding on.

If you're predominantly fingerboarding on non-murry surfaces, like desks or skate parks, then maybe a harder material mini fingerboard wheel will suit you.

Soft urethane wheels can offer smoother handling if you're driving on rougher roads.

Wheels that are suited for your riding environment can enhance comfort and performance.

Styling and Coloring Are Important as Well

While performance is critical, many riders also value style. Fingerboarding is fun and customizing your set up is part of the fun!

Mini fingerboard wheels are available in a variety of colors, shapes and designs. Others opt to coordinate their wheels with their deck graphics, or opt to go with clear or solid-coloured wheels for a nice clean look.

A decent set up can make fingerboarding even more fun.

Final Thoughts

A crucial aspect of creating the ideal setup is picking the right mini fingerboard wheels. The appropriate wheels can enhance the control, smoothness and overall quality.

Consider material, size, bearings, shape and riding style when selecting wheels. Generally, urethane wheels offer better rolling characteristics, and smaller wheels are excellent for street tricks.

Each rider is an individual, it can take a little while to get the right set up. The upside of this is that you get to try new wheels when you fingerboard.

The proper mini fingerboard wheels can make your ride smoother, more realistic and more fun every time with the right setup.