Choosing the right bearings for a penny board, skater, or mini cruiser can impact speed, control, and durability. This guide highlights top bearings designed for penny-sized boards, covering steel and ceramic options, shield types, and maintenance needs. Each product here is a strong choice for everyday riding, and the selections reflect common sizes, especially the 608 standard used across most penny boards.
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Bones Reds 8-Pack for Skateboards | Bones | Great speed, standard 608 size |
| Bones Reds 8 pk w/Spacers & Washers | Bones | Removable shields, easy maintenance |
| Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings | Spitfire | Balanced for all skate types, removable shields |
| Rollerbones Bearings 8mm 16 Pack | Rollerbones | High quantity for multiple wheels |
| SHKI 608 2RS Bearings | SHKI | Double rubber sealed, high hardness steel |
Below are five options frequently chosen for penny boards and similar small boards, with a focus on speed, durability, and ease of maintenance. Each product section provides a concise snapshot to help you compare at a glance and decide what best fits your riding style.
Bones Reds 8-Pack For Skateboards
Brand: Bones. These Reds bearings are recognized for high speed and reliable performance in 608 size, with outer diameter 22mm, width 7mm, and inner diameter 8mm. They are designed for fast rolling on penny boards, longboards, and scooters. The included tool setup adds convenience for basic maintenance, including sockets for kingpins, axles, hardware, plus an Allen and driver. Features emphasize speed, standard sizing, and durable chrome finishes to support frequent sessions and quick wheel changes.
Bones Reds 8 Pack With Spacers & Washers
Brand: Bones. This bundle includes high-speed, steel-constructed bearings with a single, non-contact shield design that is removable for cleaning. The nylon ball retainer enhances strength and speed, while pre-lubrication with Speed Cream supports quick, smooth performance out of the box. It’s well-suited for riders who want straightforward maintenance and solid longevity on penny boards or inline setups.
Spitfire Cheapshots Bearings
Brand: Spitfire. These bearings are described as a base-level standard that’s a step above the rest, with removable shields to minimize crud buildup. The durable cage and steel races help deliver smooth rolling across various skate types, including penny boards. The 608 size is universal for penny wheels, ensuring compatibility with most trucks and wheel combos.
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings 8 Pack
Brand: Bones. These Reds are widely cited for a strong balance of performance and affordability, built to Bones Skate Rated standards. They feature a removable shield for cleaning, a high-speed nylon ball retainer, and pre-lubrication with a racing lubricant. The emphasis is on dependable performance for riders who want reliable spin alongside economical replacement options.
Rollerbones Bearings 8mm 16 Pack
Brand: Rollerbones. A bulk option with 16 bearings, designed for skate setups that need a dependable supply per pair. These are precision-ground bearings with removable nylon ball cages and non-contact, frictionless rubber shields. Suitable for riders who prefer greater quantity and consistent performance across multiple wheels or backup setups.
SHKI 20 Pcs 608 2RS Bearings
Brand: SHKI. This set provides 20 bearings with double rubber sealing (2RS) and a 608 size. Bearing steel is described as high hardness and toughness for high load-bearing capacity and durability. These are positioned for small machinery or wheel applications requiring precise, smooth operation, making them a versatile option for penny boards and related gear.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Penny Board Bearings
- Bearings size and compatibility: Most penny boards use 608 bearings (22mm outer diameter, 7mm width, 8mm inner diameter). Verify the size before purchasing to ensure a proper fit with your wheels and trucks.
- Shield type and maintenance: Bearings with removable shields (non-contact) are easier to clean but may expose the ball bearings to contaminants. Sealed or 2RS bearings protect against dirt but are a bit harder to service. Choose based on your riding environment and maintenance habits.
- Material and performance: Steel bearings are common and reliable; ceramic variants offer lower friction and longer spin times but come at a higher price. For most penny boards, steel with a good lubricant delivers excellent value.
- Lubrication: Pre-lubricated bearings (Speed Cream or similar racing lubricants) often provide ready-to-ride performance. Some riders prefer to replace or refresh lubricants for longer life, particularly in dusty or wet climates.
- Durability vs. cost: Brands like Bones and Spitfire deliver proven performance with reasonable prices. If you ride aggressively or frequently swap wheels, consider a higher-volume or shielded option for easier maintenance.
- Maintenance routine: Regular cleaning and re-lubrication extend bearing life. Remove shields carefully when cleaning and dry thoroughly before re-lubricating, especially in humid or wet conditions.
- Additional accessories: Some bundles include tools or spacers, which can simplify setup and maintenance, particularly for beginners or casual riders.
- Intended use: If you frequently ride on rough surfaces or outdoors, shielded bearings can help protect inner races from debris. For indoor skating, speed-focused bearings with lightweight lubrication can provide smoother spins.