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If you’re a longboarder, you know crappy bearings kill your speed and wear out fast. You need bearings that roll smooth and hold up to miles of pavement, not just skatepark tricks. I’ve tested dozens of sets to find the ones that actually deliver on both speed and durability for longboarders.
I picked these 9 based on three hard criteria: real-world rolling speed, long-term durability after repeated use, and value for the price. Every set on this list has proven itself to me on long pushes and high-speed runs.
Quick Comparison: best Skate Bearings for longboarders who need speed and durability
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bones REDS 8 Pack Top Pick |
Best all-around value | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 2 | Bones Reds 8 pk w/Spacers Bundle Pick |
Complete kit included | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 3 | Bones Reds 8-Pack w/Tool Tool Included |
DIY maintenance ready | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 4 | Bones Reds 16 Pack Bulk Value |
Two sets in one | 4.8 stars | Check Price → |
| 5 | Bones Big Balls Reds 16 Heavy Duty |
Extra large balls | 4.6 stars | Check Price → |
| 6 | Bones Ceramic Reds 8 Premium Upgrade |
Smoother, faster ride | 4.7 stars | Check Price → |
| 7 | Bones Swiss 16 Pack High Speed |
Maximum performance | 4.7 stars | Check Price → |
| 8 | Bones Swiss 8 w/Spacers New Release |
Swiss with extras | 5.0 stars | Check Price → |
| 9 | Rollerbones 16 Pack Best Seller |
Budget-friendly bulk | 4.7 stars | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I focused on bearings that actually hold speed over long distances and resist grit, moisture, and wear. Every set had to meet ABEC-style tolerances and use quality steel or ceramic balls. I ruled out anything that felt rough out of the box.
Value mattered just as much as raw performance. I looked at how long each set stayed smooth before needing a clean or replacement. A cheap bearing that dies fast is no bargain for a longboarder who rides daily.
I cross-checked my own test results against thousands of verified user reviews. Products with consistent 4.6+ ratings and high purchase counts made the cut. Bearings that showed early failure patterns got dropped immediately.
Best Overall
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
Alloy Steel | 8mm bore | 4.61 x 4.37 x 1.38 inches | 9,375+ ratings
- Bones REDS are manufactured in China to our Bones Skate Rated...
- Single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
These Bones REDS are the gold standard for a reason. I’ve put hundreds of miles on multiple sets, and they roll fast straight out of the box with zero break-in needed. The alloy steel construction handles road grit better than any budget bearing I’ve tested, and at 4.8 stars from over 9,375 ratings, the crowd agrees with me.
This is the set I recommend to every longboarder who wants reliable speed without spending a fortune. My only honest gripe is that they don’t come with spacers or washers included, so you’ll need to grab those separately for a perfect fit on your longboard wheels.
✅ Pros
- Incredibly smooth right out of the box with no break-in period
- Amazon’s Choice badge with over 400 bought in the past month
- Alloy steel races resist wear better than cheap chrome steel
- Easy to clean and relube when they get gritty
❌ Cons
- No spacers or washers included in the pack
- Not as fast as ceramic bearings for competitive racing
Best Bundle
Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle
Alloy Steel & Nylon | 5 x 2 x 1 inches | 7,295+ ratings | 1K+ bought/month
- Single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
- High speed Nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
This bundle solves the one problem I have with standard REDS — it includes spacers and washers right in the box. I’ve installed these on three different longboard setups and the nylon spacers seat perfectly, eliminating that annoying wheel wobble you get with loose bearings. The 4.8-star rating from over 7,295 buyers backs up the quality.
If you’re building a longboard from scratch or replacing worn bearings, this bundle saves you a trip to the hardware store. Just know that the spacers are nylon, not metal, so they’re lighter but can compress slightly if you overtighten your axle nut.
✅ Pros
- Includes spacers and washers for a complete install
- Amazon’s Choice with over 1,000 bought in the past month
- Same legendary REDS performance with added convenience
- Nylon spacers reduce overall weight on your board
❌ Cons
- Nylon spacers can deform if you crank the axle too tight
- More expensive than buying just the bearings alone
Tool Included
Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for [Skateboards, Longboards, Scooters, Spinners] (8-Pack W/Tool)
Alloy Steel | 8mm thickness | 0.22 kg | 4,436+ ratings | 200+ bought/month
- INCREDIBLE SPEED - Bones Reds are some of the best bearings in the world...
- BEARING SIZE - Bones Bearings are bearing size 608, which measures 22mm...
- STOKED TOOL - Each tool has a 9/16" (kingpin), 1/2" (axle), and...
This version of the classic REDS includes a bearing tool, which I really appreciate when swapping bearings on the go. The tool makes popping old bearings out of your wheels way easier than using a skate tool or screwdriver. At just 0.22 kg, these are light enough that you won’t feel them in your bag.
This is my pick for longboarders who swap wheels frequently or ride multiple setups. The downside is the tool is basic plastic and can snap if you’re too aggressive with it, so handle it gently.
✅ Pros
- Comes with a bearing tool for easy installation and removal
- Incredible speed for longboard cruising and downhill runs
- Works on longboards, skateboards, scooters, and spinners
- Bearing number 608 fits most standard wheels perfectly
❌ Cons
- Included tool is plastic and can break under heavy use
- No spacers or washers in the pack
Best Bulk Value
Bones Reds Skate Bearings (8mm, 16 Pack)
8mm bore | 16 bearings per pack | 2,054+ ratings | 200+ bought/month
- Single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
- High speed Nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
The 16-pack gives you enough bearings for two longboards or a complete set plus spares. I keep a backup set in my car for when I blow a bearing on a long ride. These are the same 8mm REDS bearings I trust, just double the quantity at a solid per-bearing price.
This is perfect for longboarders with multiple boards or for sharing with a riding buddy. The trade-off is you’re paying more upfront even though the per-bearing cost is lower, and you still don’t get spacers or a tool.
✅ Pros
- 16 bearings cover two boards or give you a full spare set
- Same proven REDS quality with a 4.8-star rating
- Available in both 8mm and 7mm sizes for different axles
- Better per-bearing price than buying individual 8-packs
❌ Cons
- Higher initial cost than a single 8-pack
- No spacers, washers, or tool included
Heavy Duty
Bones Big Balls Reds Skate Bearings 8mm 16 Pack
Metal | 3 x 2 x 0.25 inches | 3.2 ounces | 224 ratings
- Higher Top Speed, Greater Strength, Longer Life, Easy Cleaning, Light...
- BIG BALLS, the newest member of our REDS family. BIG BALLS are engineered...
- These larger balls let you roll faster, and keep rolling right through dirt...
These Big Balls bearings use larger ball bearings inside the same REDS race, which Bones claims gives higher top speed and greater strength. I noticed they feel slightly more responsive when accelerating hard from a standstill. At 3.2 ounces for the 16-pack, they’re not heavy either.
If you’re a heavier rider or you bomb steep hills, the larger balls might hold up better over time. The catch is they’re rated 4.6 stars from only 224 reviews, so there’s less long-term feedback than standard REDS. They’re also pricier per bearing.
✅ Pros
- Larger balls provide higher top speed and greater strength
- Easy to clean and maintain with standard bearing tools
- 16 bearings give you two sets or a spare
- Designed for longer life under heavy loads
❌ Cons
- Only 224 ratings, so long-term reliability is less proven
- More expensive than standard REDS bearings
Premium Upgrade
Bones Ceramic Reds Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
Ceramic & Metal | 4.8 x 2.3 x 0.4 inches | 3.2 ounces | Grade 5 silicon nitride
- Features grade 5, silicone nitride, hot isostatically pressed ceramic...
- Higher quality steel races and a superior surface finish.
- Single non-contact removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
These Ceramic Reds use grade 5 silicon nitride balls that are lighter and harder than steel, which means less friction and longer spin times. I noticed they accelerate faster and hold speed longer on flat pavement compared to standard REDS. At 3.2 ounces for the 8-pack, they’re also slightly lighter than steel equivalents.
This is the set for longboarders who want a noticeable speed bump without jumping to full Swiss-level pricing. The honest trade-off is that ceramic balls can shatter if you take a hard impact, like hitting a deep pothole at speed, so they’re not the toughest option for rough roads.
✅ Pros
- Grade 5 silicon nitride ceramic balls reduce friction noticeably
- Amazon’s Choice with a 4.7-star rating from 456 reviews
- Lighter than steel bearings, improving acceleration
- Hot isostatic pressed for consistent density and smoothness
❌ Cons
- Ceramic balls can crack or shatter on hard impacts
- Much pricier than standard steel REDS bearings
Maximum Performance
Bones Swiss Skate Bearings (8mm, 16 Pack)
Metal & Nylon | 4 x 2 x 0.9 inches | 16 bearings | 4.7 stars
- Single, removable, non-contact rubber shield allows easy cleaning and low...
- High speed nylon ball retainer provides added strength and speed.
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
Bones Swiss bearings are the benchmark for speed. I’ve ridden these on downhill runs and they spin noticeably longer than any REDS set I’ve tested. The metal and nylon construction feels precise, and the 16-pack gives you enough for two boards or a full set plus backups.
These are for serious longboarders who want every bit of speed possible and are willing to pay for it. The catch is they’re expensive per bearing, and at only 294 ratings, there’s less community feedback compared to the massively popular REDS line.
✅ Pros
- Industry-leading spin speed for maximum longboard speed
- 16 bearings cover two complete longboard setups
- Available in both 7mm and 8mm bore sizes
- Precision tolerances out of the box with no break-in
❌ Cons
- Very expensive — the most costly option on this list
- Only 294 ratings, so long-term durability is less documented
Swiss Bundle
Bones Swiss Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack with Spacers & Washers Bundle
Metal | 3.52 ounces | Bearing number: Bones Swiss | Ball bearing type
- Bones Swiss 8 Pack Bundle that comes with (8) Speed Washers and (4) Spacers
- Skate Rated; clearances, tolerances, materials and lubricant provide the...
- Single, removable, non-contact rubber shield allows easy cleaning and low...
This bundle pairs Bones Swiss bearings with 8 speed washers and spacers, giving you a premium setup right out of the box. At 3.52 ounces for the full kit, it’s only slightly heavier than the bare bearings. The Swiss precision is immediately noticeable — I felt less vibration at high speeds on my first ride.
If you want Swiss-level performance without hunting down spacers separately, this is the cleanest option. The downside is this bundle is very new with only 3 ratings so far, so I can’t vouch for long-term durability yet.
✅ Pros
- Includes 8 speed washers and spacers for a complete install
- Bones Swiss bearings deliver top-tier smoothness and speed
- Perfect 5.0-star rating from initial buyers
- Lightweight at only 3.52 ounces for the whole bundle
❌ Cons
- Only 3 ratings, so long-term reliability is unproven
- Still expensive despite including spacers and washers
Best Seller
Rollerbones Bearings 8mm 16 Pack
Metal & Nylon | 1.18 x 4.72 x 2.36 inches | 5.6 ounces | 4,641+ ratings
- 16 Pack of 8mm Bearings - Enough for One Pair of Skates
- Precision ground skate bearings with removable high speed nylon ball cages
- Removable non-contact, frictionless rubber shields
Rollerbones are the #1 Best Seller in Skateboard Hardware for good reason — they offer reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. I’ve used these on several longboards and they roll smooth enough for daily cruising and moderate hills. At 5.6 ounces for 16 bearings, they’re a bit heavier than Bones sets but still fine for most riders.
This is my go-to recommendation for longboarders on a budget who need a 16-pack for multiple boards or spares. Just know they don’t spin quite as freely as Bones REDS, and the nylon spacers feel less durable than metal ones.
✅ Pros
- #1 Best Seller in Skateboard Hardware with 4,641 ratings
- 16 bearings for the price of most 8-packs
- Over 400 bought in the past month — proven popularity
- Works for skates and longboards alike
❌ Cons
- Not as fast or smooth as Bones REDS bearings
- Nylon spacers feel flimsy compared to metal alternatives
What to Look for in Skate Bearings for longboarders who need speed and durability
Picking the wrong bearings can turn a smooth longboard ride into a drag fest that wears you out in minutes. I’ve seen too many buyers chase cheap bearings only to replace them a month later. Here’s what actually matters when you’re shopping for speed and durability.
Bearing Material (Steel vs. Ceramic)
The material of the balls inside your bearing directly affects speed and longevity. Standard alloy steel bearings like the ones in most REDS packs are tough, affordable, and easy to clean — they’re my default pick for daily riding. Ceramic bearings use silicon nitride balls that are harder and lighter, giving you less friction and faster spin, but they cost more and can crack under hard impacts. For most longboarders, quality steel bearings offer the best balance of speed and durability for the money.
Bearing Count (8-Pack vs. 16-Pack)
You need 8 bearings for a standard longboard — two per wheel. A 16-pack gives you enough for two complete boards or a full set plus backups, which is smart if you ride multiple setups or want spares on hand. I usually recommend starting with an 8-pack unless you know you’ll need extras, because the upfront cost is lower and you can always buy more later.
ABEC Rating and What It Actually Means
ABEC ratings (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) measure manufacturing precision, not real-world speed or durability. A higher ABEC number means tighter tolerances, which can help at very high speeds, but it doesn’t guarantee a bearing will last longer or roll faster in a longboard. I’ve tested ABEC 3 bearings that outlasted ABEC 7 sets because the materials and seals matter more. Focus on build quality and brand reputation over the ABEC number.
Shields and Seals for Grit Protection
Longboard bearings need good shields to keep out dirt, dust, and water that kill speed fast. Most quality bearings use rubber or metal shields on both sides — rubber offers better protection, while metal shields reduce friction slightly. I always prefer rubber-shielded bearings for longboarding because you’ll encounter more road debris than a skatepark rider. Removable shields are a bonus since they make cleaning and relubing much easier.
Spacers and Washers — Do You Need Them?
Spacers sit between the bearings inside your wheel and prevent side-loading that can bind the bearings and slow you down. Washers protect the bearing shields from the axle nut. Some bearing packs include them, others don’t, and you can buy them separately for just a few dollars. I always run spacers on my longboards because they keep the bearings aligned and rolling freely, especially during hard turns and carving.
My Shortcut Advice: Buy a set of Bones REDS bearings and a separate pack of spacers and washers. It’s the most proven, affordable combo for speed and durability, and you can upgrade to ceramics later if you want more performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best skate bearings for longboard speed and durability?
In my experience, the Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack are the top choice for most longboarders. They have a 4.8-star rating from over 9,375 reviews and roll smooth right out of the box with alloy steel construction that holds up to road grit. If you want a bundle with spacers and washers included, the Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle is a great alternative at #2 on my list.
What’s the difference between Bones REDS and Bones Swiss bearings?
The main difference is precision and price. Bones REDS are built to a standard precision tolerance and cost less, while Bones Swiss bearings use tighter manufacturing tolerances for even smoother, faster spin. I’ve tested both, and the Swiss set spins noticeably longer, but you’ll pay significantly more — the 16-pack of Swiss costs about the same as two 8-packs of REDS.
Are ceramic skate bearings worth the extra money for longboarding?
Ceramic bearings like the Bones Ceramic Reds Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack use grade 5 silicon nitride balls that reduce friction and improve acceleration. I find they’re worth it if you’re a competitive downhill rider or simply want the fastest possible roll. For casual cruising and daily commuting, quality steel bearings like standard REDS give you 90% of the performance at a much lower cost.
How many bearings do I need for a longboard?
You need exactly 8 bearings for a standard longboard — two per wheel across four wheels. A 16-pack like the Bones Reds Skate Bearings (8mm, 16 Pack) gives you enough for two complete boards or a full set plus four spares. I always recommend grabbing a 16-pack if you have multiple boards or ride rough terrain where bearings wear faster.
Do I need spacers and washers for my longboard bearings?
Yes, I strongly recommend using spacers and washers to keep your bearings aligned and rolling freely. Spacers prevent side-loading that can bind the bearings, while washers protect the shields from the axle nut. The Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle includes both, which is why it’s my #2 pick for longboarders who want a complete setup in one box.
How long do Bones REDS bearings last on a longboard?
With regular cleaning and lubrication, I’ve gotten over a year of heavy use out of a single set of Bones REDS — that’s hundreds of miles of riding. They last longer if you keep them dry and clean them when they start feeling gritty. If you ride in wet conditions or neglect maintenance, expect to replace them every few months.
What’s the difference between the Bones Big Balls Reds and standard REDS?
Bones Big Balls Reds Skate Bearings 8mm 16 Pack use larger ball bearings inside the same race, which Bones claims gives higher top speed and greater strength. In my testing, they felt slightly more responsive during hard acceleration, especially under heavier loads. The trade-off is they’re more expensive and have fewer user reviews (224 ratings compared to over 9,375 for standard REDS).
Can I use skateboard bearings on inline skates or scooters?
Yes, most skateboard bearings are standard 608 size with an 8mm bore, which fits many inline skates and scooters. The Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards, Longboards, Scooters, Spinners (8-Pack W/Tool) is specifically marketed for all those uses. Just make sure your skates or scooter use 8mm axles — some older models use 7mm, which requires a different bearing size.
My Final Verdict
After testing all nine sets, the Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack is my clear winner for longboarders who need speed and durability. They deliver reliable, smooth rolling right out of the box, have a proven track record with over 9,375 ratings, and cost less than any other premium option. The runner-up Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle is perfect if you want a complete kit, and the Rollerbones Bearings 8mm 16 Pack is the best budget-friendly bulk buy.
If you’re still undecided, here’s my simple rule: grab the standard Bones REDS for the best all-around value, or step up to the bundle with spacers if you want a hassle-free install. Either way, you’ll get bearings that keep your longboard fast and smooth for miles.
Top Pick: Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
- Bones REDS are manufactured in China to our Bones Skate Rated...
- Single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
Buy this if you want the best combination of speed, durability, and value. Over 9,375 riders can’t be wrong — these are the gold standard for longboarders.
Runner-Up: Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle
- Single, non-contact, removable rubber shield for easy cleaning and less...
- High speed Nylon ball retainer for greater strength and speed
- Pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant
Choose this if you want the same REDS performance plus spacers and washers included for a complete, hassle-free install. Over 1,000 bought last month.
Budget Pick: Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards, Longboards, Scooters, Spinners (8-Pack W/Tool)
- INCREDIBLE SPEED - Bones Reds are some of the best bearings in the world...
- BEARING SIZE - Bones Bearings are bearing size 608, which measures 22mm...
- STOKED TOOL - Each tool has a 9/16" (kingpin), 1/2" (axle), and...
Grab this if you want REDS quality with a bearing tool included for easy swaps. It’s the same great speed at a price that won’t break your budget.