At Igloo, we offer two durometers: 65D and 72D. Both are precision-engineered, pressure-cast urethane wheels, but they ride very differently. Here's what to know before you choose.
What Is Durometer?
Durometer measures the hardness of a material. In fingerboarding, we use the Shore D scale — the higher the number, the harder the urethane. But it’s not just about softness vs hardness. Durometer affects grip, slide, trick forgiveness, and even the sound your wheels make.
65D Urethane – Realism and Control
More grip = less forgiveness. 65D wheels stick more to the surface, which means you’ve got to land clean. They won’t slide out and mask sketchy landings — and that’s the point. The grip forces you to dial in your tricks. Like a real skateboard.
Louder squeak. These wheels squeal in the best way. That signature squeak has become part of the appeal — and for a lot of riders, it's non-negotiable.
Closer to real skateboarding. If you’re chasing realism, this is the wheel. The way 65D grips and reacts on surfaces mimics the feel of actual skateboard wheels better than anything else.
Best for riders who want:
Realistic, clean-looking tricks
Maximum grip and control
That iconic fingerboard squeak
72D Urethane – Speed and Forgiveness
Less grip = more slide. These wheels are more forgiving, letting you land a bit sketchy without it ruining the line. Slides and reverts feel smoother and more effortless.
Snappier, faster response. You’ll feel a bit more speed, especially on rougher or outdoor surfaces. Much easier to roll your setup around.
Closer to a plastic feel (but better). 72D doesn’t lose that urethane rebound, but it does feel closer to a plastic wheel for riders who like a looser, flowy setup.
Best for riders who want:
Speed and responsiveness
Easier powerslides and reverts
A more playful ride feel
Durability & Bearing Lock: Why Not All Soft Wheels Are Equal
There’s a common misconception that soft wheels lead to bearing slip. The truth? It’s not the softness — it’s the materials and machining.
Recycled skateboard urethane (old skate wheels repurposed for fingerboarding) are often lathe-machined, not cast. That process leaves tons of room for error — inconsistent shapes, loose bearing seats, and poor fitment.
At Igloo, we do things differently:
Fresh urethane only
Pressure-cast for consistency
Precision-machined bearing seats
The result? A clean, locked-in bearing fit with zero slip — no matter which durometer you choose.
So, Which One Should You Ride?
Most riders end up choosing 65D — the grip, realism, and squeak just hit different. But if you like to ride faster, looser, or want a setup that feels closer to plastic wheels, 72D might be your go-to.
Either way, you’re riding wheels built for performance. No shortcuts, no recycled junk — just top-tier urethane and engineered precision.
Still not sure? Hit us up. We’ll help you dial in the perfect setup.