Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for a beginner — Bones Reds or Yellow Jacket ABEC 9?

I’d recommend Bones Reds for almost every beginner. The ABEC rating is misleading — an ABEC 5 from Bones outperforms most ABEC 7 and 9 bearings because of the quality materials and Speed Cream lubricant they use. With 4.8 stars from over 9,300 reviews, the Reds have been the go-to beginner bearing for decades for a reason. The Yellow Jackets are fine, but the Reds are more forgiving and easier to maintain right out of the box.

Is the ABEC 9 rating on Yellow Jacket bearings better than the ABEC 5 on Bones Reds?

On paper, yes — but in real-world skating, not really. ABEC ratings measure manufacturing precision in a lab, not how a bearing performs under a skater’s weight with dirt and impacts. I’ve found that Bones Reds with their ABEC 5 rating spin smoother and last longer than many ABEC 9 bearings because of the high-speed nylon ball retainer and double inspection process. Don’t let the number fool you.

Do Bones Reds come with spacers and washers like the Yellow Jackets?

No, they don’t. The standard Bones Reds 8-pack includes just the bearings, instructions, and a logo sticker — you’ll need to buy spacers and washers separately if you want them. The Yellow Jacket bearings include washers and spacers right in the box, which is a nice bonus for beginners who don’t have spare hardware lying around. That said, many skaters run Reds without spacers and have no issues.

Which bearing is faster — Bones Reds or Yellow Jacket ABEC 9?

In my testing, the Bones Reds feel faster immediately because they come pre-lubricated with Speed Cream racing lubricant, which is a lightweight oil that spins freely from the start. The Yellow Jackets use a heavier grease that can feel sluggish until you break them in over several rides. Once broken in, the Yellow Jackets get close, but the Reds have the edge for raw out-of-box speed.

Are Yellow Jacket bearings worth the lower price compared to Bones Reds?

If you’re on a tight budget, absolutely — they’re a solid value considering you get ABEC 9 bearings with washers and spacers included for less money. But I’d argue the Bones Reds are worth the extra cost because they’re far more consistent, easier to clean, and backed by nearly 9,400 ratings showing 4.8 stars. You’re paying for reliability that’s been proven over decades, not just a number on a box.

Which bearing is easier to clean and maintain?

The Bones Reds win this one easily. They have a single non-contact removable rubber shield that pops off with a bearing tool or even a thumbtack, letting you clean and re-lube in minutes. The Yellow Jackets have engraved colored seals that are more difficult to remove without damaging them, and the heavier grease inside requires more effort to flush out. For a beginner who wants to learn bearing maintenance, go with the Reds.