Skateboard bearings may be one of the smallest parts of your setup, but they play a major role in how your board feels and performs. Whether you're building your first complete skateboard, replacing worn-out bearings, or trying to understand the difference between brands, choosing the right bearings can make a noticeable difference in speed, smoothness, and durability.
With so many options available, it's easy to get confused by technical terms, marketing claims, and price differences. In reality, the best skateboard bearings aren't always the most expensive or the highest-rated. Factors such as bearing materials, lubrication, shields, maintenance, and intended riding style often matter more than the numbers printed on the package.
In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Bones skateboard bearings
Bones Bearings is one of the most recognized names in skateboarding. Unlike many bearing companies that focus on ABEC ratings, Bones developed its bearings specifically for skateboarding, prioritizing speed, durability, and performance in real riding conditions.
Bones bearings are designed to handle the impacts, dirt, and side loads that come with street skating, skateparks, and everyday riding. Each line offers different materials, construction, and performance features depending on what you're looking for.
Bones Reds are the most popular skateboard bearings worldwide. They offer a great balance of speed, durability, and affordability, making them a go-to choice for beginners and experienced skaters. They are engineered just like our Bones Swiss but are manufactured in China to Bones Skate Rated™ specifications.
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Bones Super Reds are an upgraded version of Reds, featuring higher-quality materials and improved finishes for a smoother ride. Designed from the ground up to be the best bearing on the market at this price point .
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Bones Super Reds Ceramics combine the Super Reds design with ceramic balls for improved performance. Designed for increased speed, acceleration, and durability. Their ceramic balls create less friction, weigh less than steel balls, and help deliver a smoother, faster ride. Ceramic construction also provides excellent resistance to rust and wear, extending bearing life. Identified by their bone-coloured shields and laser-engraved races, Ceramic Reds are a high-performance upgrade for skateboard setups.
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Bones Big Balls use larger bearing balls than standard bearings, designed for increased speed, durability, and longer-lasting performance. Featuring six 17% larger balls, Big Balls reduce friction, maintain speed, and roll through dirt more easily than standard bearings. Part of the popular Bones Reds family, they deliver reliable performance, quality, and value for skateboarders.
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Bones Race Reds are designed for maximum speed and racing-style performance. Built with high-quality bearing steel, polished races, and Bones Speed Cream lubrication, they provide a smooth, fast ride. Their built-in spacer and extended race improve bearing alignment, making them ideal for racing, freestyle, and precision setups.
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Bones Skate Rated™ performance with Swiss precision manufacturing. Known as the most trusted skateboard bearings for over 40 years, they deliver exceptional speed, smoothness, and durability. Made in Switzerland, Bones Swiss bearings are a top choice for skaters looking for premium performance.
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Bones Swiss Ceramics are the premium skateboard bearings built for maximum speed, durability, and performance. Made in Switzerland, their ceramic balls are lighter, harder, and more resistant than traditional steel balls, creating a smoother and longer-lasting ride. A top choice for skaters looking for the highest level of bearing performance.
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Bones Super Swiss 6 are an upgraded Swiss bearing featuring six larger balls and larger diameter balls than standard 608 bearings, creating increased speed, strength, and durability. Made in Switzerland, they combine premium precision manufacturing with Bones Skate Rated™ performance for skaters looking for long-lasting, high-performance bearings.
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Whether you're buying your first set of bearings or upgrading to a premium setup, Bones offers an option for every type of skateboarder. Bones Reds are the go-to choice for reliable everyday performance and value, while Super Reds provide a smoother, faster ride with upgraded materials. Big Balls are ideal for riders who want added durability and speed retention, Race Reds are built for fast acceleration and long-distance rolling, and Super Reds Ceramics offer a premium performance boost without the cost of Swiss bearings. If you're looking for the best Bones has to offer, Bones Swiss, Super Swiss 6, and Swiss Ceramics deliver exceptional speed, durability, and long-lasting performance. No matter your skating style or budget, there's a Bones bearing designed to help you roll faster, smoother, and with confidence every session.
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