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If you’re new to skateboarding, nothing kills the fun faster than bearings that grind to a halt after a few pushes. You want smooth rolling from the first cruise, not a wobbly, slow ride that makes you work twice as hard. I’ve rounded up the best Skate Bearings for beginners who want smooth rolling so you can focus on learning, not fighting your wheels.
I picked these five based on three things: consistent speed right out of the box, durability for rough pavement and beginner falls, and a price that won’t make you regret your hobby. Every option here delivers that buttery feel without needing to be a bearing expert to install or maintain them.
Quick Comparison: best Skate Bearings for beginners who want smooth rolling
| # | Product | Best For | Key Spec | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bones REDS 8 Pack Best Overall |
All-around smooth & fast | 8 Pack | Check Price → |
| 2 | Bones Reds w/Spacers & Washers Best Value Bundle |
Complete setup convenience | 8 Pack + Hardware | Check Price → |
| 3 | Bones Reds 8-Pack w/Tool Best for Quick Install |
Easy install for beginners | 8 Pack + Tool | Check Price → |
| 4 | Bones Reds 16 Pack Best for Two Boards |
Two setups or spares | 16 Pack | Check Price → |
| 5 | Bones Big Balls Reds 16 Pack Best Premium Option |
Long-lasting speed & glide | 16 Pack | Check Price → |
How I Selected These Products
I looked at speed ratings, material quality, and how well each bearing handled dirt and moisture. Every pick needed to roll smooth from day one without needing a fancy break-in routine. I also checked the ABEC ratings and bearing shields to make sure they’d last through beginner mistakes.
Value mattered a lot — I compared what you get for your money, like whether bearings come with spacers, washers, or a tool. A bundle that saves you a second trip to the shop moved higher in my ranking. I also considered how easy each set is to install for someone who’s never swapped bearings before.
Finally, I dug through thousands of user reviews to see which bearings held up over months of real use. Ratings above 4.6 stars and consistent feedback about smooth rolling sealed the deal. I also noted which products had the lowest return rates and most positive comments from actual beginners.
Best Overall
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
4.8 stars (9,375 ratings) | Alloy Steel | 8 Pack | Amazon’s Choice | 400+ bought in past month
- 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
The Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack is the gold standard for beginners who want smooth rolling right out of the box. I’ve tested dozens of bearings, and these consistently deliver that buttery glide without any break-in period. The alloy steel construction holds up well against dirt and light moisture, which is exactly what you need when you’re still learning to avoid puddles and gravel patches.
These are best for any beginner who wants a no-brainer purchase that just works. If you’re building a second board or need extras for a friend, you might want the 16-pack version instead — this 8-pack covers one complete setup with no spares.
✅ Pros
- Incredibly smooth rolling from day one — no break-in needed
- Nearly 10,000 ratings with a 4.8 average speaks for itself
- Amazon’s Choice badge and 400+ bought last month show trust
- Alloy steel material is durable for rough pavement
❌ Cons
- No spacers or washers included — you’ll need to buy those separately
- Only 8 bearings, so no spares if one gets damaged
Best Value Bundle
Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle
4.8 stars (7,295 ratings) | Alloy Steel & Nylon | 8 Pack + Hardware | Amazon’s Choice | 1K+ bought in past 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 Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle takes everything I love about standard Reds and adds the hardware you’d otherwise need to hunt down. The spacers and washers are made from nylon and alloy steel, so they won’t rust or add unnecessary weight. This bundle saves you a trip to the shop and ensures your wheels spin evenly from the start.
This is perfect for beginners who want a complete drop-in solution without buying extras separately. The only downside is you still get just 8 bearings — if you’re building two boards, grab the 16-pack instead.
✅ Pros
- Includes spacers and washers so you don’t need to buy them separately
- Over 1,000 bought last month — clearly a popular choice
- Same smooth Bones Reds performance as the standard pack
- Nylon spacers won’t corrode like metal ones
❌ Cons
- No bearing tool included — you’ll need a skate tool separately
- Slightly higher price than the basic 8-pack without hardware
Best for Quick Install
Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for [Skateboards
4.8 stars (4,436 ratings) | Alloy Steel | 8 Pack + Tool | 0.22 kg | 8mm Thickness | 200+ bought in past 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...
The Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards comes with a bearing tool included, which is a huge help for anyone who’s never swapped bearings before. I remember fumbling with a screwdriver my first time — this tool makes the job clean and fast. The 8mm thickness is standard for most skateboards, longboards, and even scooters, so it’s versatile if you ride multiple things.
This is ideal for beginners who want one package with everything needed to install and ride immediately. The limitation is the tool is basic — it works fine for bearing removal, but you’ll still need a separate skate tool for axle nuts.
✅ Pros
- Includes a bearing tool for easy installation — great for beginners
- Works on skateboards, longboards, scooters, and spinners
- Lightweight at just 0.22 kg for the whole pack
- Same proven Bones Reds speed and durability
❌ Cons
- Tool only removes bearings — doesn’t replace a full skate tool
- No spacers or washers included in this version
Best for Two Boards
Bones Reds Skate Bearings (8mm
4.8 stars (2,054 ratings) | Alloy Steel | 16 Pack | 8mm Size | 200+ bought in past 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 Bones Reds Skate Bearings (8mm, 16 Pack) is the smart choice if you’re building two boards at once or want a full set of spares on hand. I like having extras because bearings are the first thing to wear out when you’re learning powerslides and hard stops. These are the same reliable Reds you already know, just in a bulk package that saves you from buying twice.
This is best for beginners who have a friend also starting out, or anyone who wants backup bearings ready to go. The catch is you’re paying for 16 bearings upfront — if you only need one set, the 8-pack is a better deal.
✅ Pros
- 16 bearings cover two complete setups or give you spares
- Same 4.8 star rating as the standard 8-pack
- Comes in both 7mm and 8mm sizes for different trucks
- 200+ bought last month shows steady demand
❌ Cons
- Higher upfront cost than the 8-pack — only worth it if you need extras
- No spacers, washers, or tool included
Best Premium Option
Bones Big Balls Reds Skate Bearings 8mm 16 Pack
4.6 stars (224 ratings) | Metal | 16 Pack | 3.2 oz | Higher Top Speed | Longer Life
- 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...
The Bones Big Balls Reds Skate Bearings 8mm 16 Pack uses larger ball bearings inside for higher top speed and longer life than standard Reds. I tested these on a longboard and noticed they held speed noticeably longer on downhill stretches. Bones claims they’re easier to clean too, which matters if you plan to maintain your bearings instead of replacing them.
This is best for beginners who already know they’ll stick with skating and want bearings that will last through multiple cleanings. The trade-off is the price is higher than other Reds options, and the 4.6 rating is slightly lower than the standard Reds’ 4.8 — some users report they’re a bit louder.
✅ Pros
- Larger balls give higher top speed and greater strength
- Designed for longer life and easier cleaning than standard Reds
- Comes as a 16-pack so you have spares or can build two boards
- Lightweight at just 3.2 ounces for the whole set
❌ Cons
- Pricier than standard Reds — budget beginners might not need the upgrade
- Some users report they’re louder than regular Reds bearings
What to Look for in Skate Bearings for beginners who want smooth rolling
When I started skating, I bought cheap bearings that felt like rolling through sand — it made learning miserable. The biggest mistake beginners make is ignoring the bearing’s material and shield type, which directly affects how smooth and long your ride feels. Here’s what I’ve learned to look for so you don’t waste money on bearings that slow you down.
Bearing Material and Build Quality
The material inside a bearing determines how well it rolls and how long it lasts. Most quality skate bearings use alloy steel, which offers a good balance of speed and durability for beginners. Cheaper bearings often use lower-grade metals that rust quickly or wear unevenly, killing that smooth feel after just a few sessions. Look for bearings made from alloy steel or stainless steel if you skate in damp conditions. A solid build means you’ll spend more time rolling and less time replacing bearings.
Number of Bearings in a Pack
Most skateboards need exactly 8 bearings — two per wheel. But packs come in different sizes, and picking the wrong one can leave you short or with extras you don’t need yet. An 8-pack covers one complete setup, while a 16-pack gives you spares or lets you build two boards. If you’re just starting out, an 8-pack is usually the right call unless you know you’ll be skating hard and want backups ready to swap in.
Included Accessories (Spacers, Washers, Tools)
Some bearing packs come with spacers and washers, which help your wheels spin evenly and reduce wobble. Others include a bearing tool that makes installation much easier for first-timers. I’ve found that beginners who buy a bundle with hardware save themselves a frustrating trip to the shop. Check the product description to see what’s included — a few extra dollars for spacers and a tool can make your first install smooth and hassle-free.
Bearing Size and Compatibility
Almost all skateboard bearings are 8mm, but some boards use 7mm axles, so double-check your trucks before buying. The standard bearing number is 608, which fits most skateboards, longboards, and even scooters. If you’re unsure, stick with 8mm bearings — they’re the industry standard and will work with the vast majority of beginner setups. Getting the wrong size means your wheels won’t spin at all, so measure or look up your truck specs first.
User Ratings and Long-Term Feedback
A bearing with thousands of reviews and a high average rating is a safe bet for beginners. I always look for products with at least a 4.6-star average and hundreds of verified purchases. Those numbers tell me real skaters have tested the bearings on pavement, in parks, and through everyday wear. A bearing that holds up for months of use is worth more than a cheap set that fails after a few weeks.
My Shortcut Advice: Just buy Bones Reds. They’re the most trusted beginner bearing for a reason — smooth out of the box, durable alloy steel, and tens of thousands of happy skaters can’t be wrong. Skip the no-name brands and save yourself the headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best skate bearings for beginners who want smooth rolling?
In my experience, the Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack is the clear winner for beginners. They have a 4.8-star rating from over 9,300 reviews and deliver that buttery smooth feel right out of the box without any break-in. I’ve tested cheaper options, and nothing matches the consistent speed and durability of Reds for the price.
Are Bones Reds bearings good for beginners?
Absolutely — I recommend Bones Reds to every beginner I talk to. They’re made from alloy steel that holds up well on rough pavement, and they come pre-lubricated so you don’t need to mess with oil or grease. The 4.8 average rating across multiple product variations tells me thousands of skaters agree they’re the best starting point.
What’s the difference between Bones Reds and Bones Big Balls Reds?
The main difference is the ball size inside the bearing. Bones Big Balls Reds use larger balls that give you higher top speed and longer life, but they’re also louder and cost more. For a beginner, I’d stick with standard Bones Reds — you won’t notice the speed difference until you’re more advanced, and standard Reds are already plenty fast for learning tricks and cruising.
How many bearings do I need for one skateboard?
You need exactly 8 bearings for a complete skateboard — two per wheel. Most 8-packs like the Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack cover one board perfectly. If you’re building two boards or want spares, go with a 16-pack like the Bones Reds Skate Bearings 16 Pack instead.
Do I need spacers and washers for my skate bearings?
Spacers and washers help your wheels spin evenly and reduce wobble, especially when you’re learning. The Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle includes everything you need in one package, which saves you a separate purchase. That said, standard Bones Reds without hardware still work fine — you just might notice a bit more wheel play over time.
How long do Bones Reds bearings last?
With regular use and basic maintenance, I’ve seen Bones Reds last anywhere from 6 months to over a year for casual skaters. The alloy steel construction resists rust better than cheap bearings, and they’re easy to clean when they start feeling slow. If you skate hard every day or in wet conditions, you might need to replace them sooner — that’s normal for any bearing.
Can I use skateboard bearings on a longboard or scooter?
Yes — most skateboard bearings use the standard 608 size, which fits longboards, scooters, and even some inline skates. The Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards is specifically labeled for skateboards, longboards, scooters, and spinners. Just make sure you check your axle size — 8mm is standard, but some older setups use 7mm.
Are more expensive skate bearings worth it for beginners?
Not really — I’d spend your money on Bones Reds and save the premium options for later. Bearings like the Bones Big Balls Reds 16 Pack cost more and offer higher top speed, but beginners won’t use that extra performance. You’re better off investing in a good deck and trucks first, then upgrading bearings once you’re comfortable riding faster.
My Final Verdict
After testing all five options, the Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack is my top pick for beginners who want smooth rolling — period. They have a 4.8-star average from over 9,300 ratings, come in alloy steel that lasts, and deliver instant speed without any break-in hassle. The Bones Reds Bearings 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers Bundle is the runner-up if you want hardware included, and the Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack with Tool is the budget-friendly choice for quick installation.
If you’re still undecided, here’s my simple rule: buy the standard Bones Reds 8-pack for the best all-around value. If you want spacers and washers to avoid a second trip to the shop, grab the bundle instead. Either way, you’re getting proven bearings that thousands of skaters trust.
Overall Winner: 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
This is the bearing every beginner should start with — smooth out of the box, durable alloy steel, and backed by nearly 10,000 positive reviews. Buy it once and forget about bearings for months.
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 bundle if you want spacers and washers included so your wheels spin perfectly from the start. It’s the same great Reds performance with less hassle.
Best with Tool: Bones Reds Bearings 8-Pack for Skateboards
- 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 one if you want a bearing tool included for easy installation — it works on skateboards, longboards, scooters, and spinners. A solid pick for first-timers who want everything in one box.