How to Choose Spitfire Wheels: formulas, shapes & tips

Spitfire Wheels isn’t just a skateboard wheel brand – it’s a true institution in skate culture. Born in San Francisco in 1987, the brand won over skaters worldwide with its iconic Bighead logo and a clear philosophy: maximum performance, no compromises. When you see the red flames and angry eyes, you already know you’re looking at real skate quality and style.

Spitfire wheels are legendary for their durability, speed and control, thanks to proprietary urethane formulas that have reshaped the market – most notably the iconic Formula Four. Whether you’re skating technical street, fast bowl lines or just cruising the city, there’s always a Spitfire set built for your style.

But with so many different formulas, shapes, duros and sizes available, choosing the right model can feel like a maze. Don’t worry: this guide will break down the differences and help you find the Spitfire wheels that fit your skating best.

Key factors: what to consider before buying

Before choosing a set of Spitfire wheels, it’s important to understand the elements that define their performance, feel and durability. There’s no such thing as the “perfect” wheel for everyone – it all depends on how and where you skate. Every detail – from diameter to duro, urethane formula to shape – affects speed, stability and the board feel under your feet. Knowing these differences will help you pick the wheels that truly fit your style.

  • Diameter (in millimeters): The diameter of the wheel is one of the first aspects to look at. Smaller wheels (48–52 mm) make your board lower and more responsive, ideal for technical tricks and fast flips in street skating. Mid-size wheels (53–56 mm) strike a balance between stability and agility, perfect for mixing street and park. Larger wheels (57–60 mm) provide more speed and smoother rides, making them great for bowls, transitions or city cruising.
  • Urethane formula: This is the heart of the wheel – it determines the quality and overall ride. Different Spitfire formulas (like Formula Four or 80HD) influence grip, durability, slide and flatspot resistance. In other words: two wheels of the same size but different formulas can feel completely different on your board.
  • Duro (hardness): This indicates how “hard” a wheel is. Softer wheels (80A–90A) absorb vibrations and rough terrain better, making them ideal for cruising or street skating on rough asphalt. Medium duros (93A–97A) offer a compromise between grip and controlled slide. Harder wheels (99A–101A) are the standard for street and park on smooth surfaces: fast, responsive and with a crisp slide.
  • Shape (wheel profile): The shape defines the wheel’s cross-section and edge. A medium, round profile like the Classic is versatile and works on almost any terrain. Wider shapes like Conical Full or Radial Full provide extra stability and control in bowls or transitions. Slim shapes like Tablets make the wheel lighter and more reactive, perfect for fast technical tricks. The choice of shape changes the board feel in a very noticeable way.

Formula Four: the heart of Spitfire wheels

If there’s one thing that made Spitfire famous worldwide, it’s the legendary Formula Four. This patented urethane blend is the result of years of research and testing with some of the best skaters on the planet. F4 wheels have become the gold standard because they combine three key features: speed, durability and control. They don’t flatspot, they don’t lose shape after a few sessions, and they keep a consistent board feel on any terrain – from smooth concrete to the roughest pavement.

Available in different duros (93A, 97A, 99A and 101A), Formula Four wheels let you choose between softer options for extra comfort and grip, or harder ones for maximum pop, speed and slide. And it’s not just the formula that matters: the shape also defines the profile of the wheel. Let’s break down all the Formula Four shapes and see which style of skating each one is best suited for.

Formula Four Classic

The most famous shape in skateboarding. Round edges, medium riding surface, versatile in every situation. It’s the ideal balance between control, speed and stability. Perfect for skaters who want a wheel that works everywhere – from street to park – without overthinking.

  • Duro: 93A, 97A, 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 50–60 mm
  • Best for: all-around skaters looking for a reliable wheel on any terrain.

Formula Four O.G. Classic

The very first version of the Classic shape, lightened with cutaway sidewalls. They offer a mix of stability and reduced weight, while keeping that old school feel loved by skaters who want durability and tradition.

  • Duro: 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 51–60 mm
  • Best for: skaters who love a classic ride and want extra resistance.

Formula Four Conical

A lightweight shape with cut-in sidewalls, designed for speed and slide control. Offers more riding surface than the Classic without adding weight. Ideal for technical tricks and fast grinds.

  • Duro: 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 51–58 mm
  • Best for: technical street, rail and ledge skating.

Formula Four Conical Full

A wider version of the Conical. More contact patch means more stability and more grip. Perfect for bowls, transitions and for skaters who want solid landings without sacrificing slide.

  • Duro: 97A, 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 50–60 mm
  • Best for: skaters who want solidity and control in every trick.

Formula Four Radial

Round edge with a medium riding surface. They combine the versatility of the Classic with a bit of extra width, making them more stable yet still quick and snappy. Great for skaters who switch between technical tricks and flowing lines.

  • Duro: 93A, 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 48–58 mm
  • Best for: street skaters who want stability without losing responsiveness.

Formula Four Radial Slim

The slimmer version of the Radials. Lighter, faster, and ideal for those who want a reactive, snappy setup. With less contact patch, they roll easier and give a sharper board feel.

  • Duro: 97A, 99A
  • Sizes: 54–60 mm
  • Best for: technical street skaters looking for a lightweight setup.

Formula Four Radial Full

Extra-wide riding surface with round edges. Maximum stability and versatility, especially on open terrains like bowls and parks. Perfect if you want a wheel that provides confidence and smooth cruising.

  • Duro: 97A, 99A
  • Sizes: 54–60 mm
  • Best for: bowls, transitions and fast cruising.

Formula Four Tablets

Straight-cut profile, reduced riding surface and minimal weight. The most reactive and fastest wheels in the Formula Four lineup. Perfect for skaters who love quick flips and instant changes of direction.

  • Duro: 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 51–55 mm
  • Best for: technical skaters and pure street skating.

Formula Four Lock-ins

Asymmetrical shape with a conical cut on one side for reduced weight and smoother slides, and a straight “lock-in” edge on the other to lock grinds with precision. Built for skaters who want control and security on rails and ledges without giving up speed.

  • Duro: 99A, 101A
  • Sizes: 52, 53, 54, 55, 57 mm
  • Best for: technical street, stable grinds, reactive setups with solid lock-in.

Formula Four Lock-in Classic

A custom version designed with Ishod Wair. Keeps the asymmetrical Lock-In concept but with refined geometry for a more direct inside edge and faster response during transitions.

  • Duro: 99A
  • Sizes: 52, 53 mm
  • Best for: technical skaters who want maximum precision on ledges/rails and a snappy pop.

Formula Four Lock-in Full

The wider variant of the Lock-In: conical cut on the outside for reduced weight, straight edge inside for a stronger lock. The larger contact patch offers stability and extra control on any terrain, from plazas to bowls.

  • Duro: 99A
  • Sizes: 54, 55, 57 mm
  • Best for: skaters looking for grip and solid landings without losing lock-in functionality.

Classics: the formula that made history

Before Formula Four, there were the Spitfire Classics. This 99A urethane formula is what made the brand famous back in the ’90s – and it’s still loved today by skaters looking for an authentic feel, speed and controllable slide. Classics are no-frills wheels: solid, smooth and built to handle session after session. If you want to experience old school skateboarding, this is the formula for you.

Classic

The most common and recognized shape, considered the “number one” in skateboarding worldwide. Round edge, medium riding surface, clean and direct board feel. These wheels roll fast and provide total control for slides and landings. The ideal choice if you want a universal shape that works on any terrain.

  • Duro: 99A
  • Sizes: 50–60 mm
  • Best for: skaters of all levels who want a simple, effective and versatile wheel.

Bighead

A variation of the Classics with a slightly wider profile. More contact patch means extra stability and control, especially in parks and bowls. They keep the same 99A formula and speed, but with added grip to support more powerful tricks.

  • Duro: 99A
  • Sizes: 50–54, 56, 57, 58, 60 mm
  • Best for: skaters who want more stability than standard Classics without giving up speed.

80HD: softness and consistent speed

The Spitfire 80HD are designed for skaters looking for comfort and smooth rides without sacrificing precision. Thanks to a special 80A urethane formula – soft yet durable – these wheels absorb vibrations and rough terrain with ease. The real innovation is the lightweight injection-molded core, which keeps the bearings perfectly aligned for consistent roll and longer lifespan. Perfect for cruising, filming, or skating rough city spots.

80HD Classic Full

Wide, round profile for maximum contact patch and grip. With the soft 80HD urethane, these become versatile wheels that combine comfort and stability. An ideal choice for filming and laid-back city sessions.

  • Duro: 80A
  • Sizes: 54, 56, 58 mm
  • Best for: filmers, cruisers and skaters looking for a smooth, comfortable setup.

80HD Conical Full

Wide and stable shape, with cut-in sidewalls to reduce weight. Paired with the 80HD formula, these are perfect for skaters who want both comfort and control, even on rough surfaces. Great for relaxed bowl sessions and fluid rides.

  • Duro: 80A
  • Sizes: 54, 56, 58 mm
  • Best for: cruising and transitions where grip and flow matter most.

Sapphires: softness and reactivity in one wheel

The Spitfire Sapphires are a unique formula that combines the best of both worlds: a clear 90A urethane outer layer – soft and comfortable – bonded to a Formula Four 101A core. This mix delivers smooth rolling on rough terrain, without giving up the speed and stability typical of F4. The result is a wheel that’s both responsive and comfortable, ideal for city skating, filming, or simply enjoying a fluid, fast ride.

Sapphires Radials

The Sapphires are available in the Radial shape, with a round edge and medium riding surface. The combination of a soft outer layer and a solid inner core makes them versatile and easy to control. Each size comes with a different inner color, so the look stays fresh and distinctive.

  • Duro: 90A (with 101A core)
  • Sizes: 53 mm (green), 54 mm (orange), 56 mm (blue), 58 mm (purple)
  • Best for: fast city cruising, filming, and skaters who want comfort without losing reactivity.

Burners: Spitfire quality for beginners

The Spitfire Burners are entry-level wheels designed for those starting out in skateboarding but who don’t want to compromise on quality. Made with a 99A formula, they deliver speed, durability and control similar to higher-end models, but at a more accessible price. The perfect choice for a first setup: reliable, tough, and featuring the unmistakable Bighead logo.

Burners Bighead

Available in the Bighead shape, these wheels have a slightly wider profile than the Classics, offering more stability and grip. Ideal for learning the fundamentals and getting comfortable with your board and transitions.

  • Duro: 99A
  • Sizes: 51–56 mm
  • Best for: beginner skaters or anyone looking for a solid, high-performing set without spending too much.

Summary: comparing formulas and shapes

After going through all the different Spitfire wheel variations in detail, here are two quick reference tables to help you get oriented at a glance. The first compares the main urethane formulas, highlighting duro options, available sizes and recommended use. The second sums up the key shapes, so you can immediately see which profile best matches your skate style.

Spitfire wheel formulas comparison

FormulaDuroSizesFeelingBest for
Formula Four93A • 97A • 99A • 101A48–60 mmExceptional durability, speed, controllable slideStreet, park, bowl – the top choice at any level
Classics99A50–60 mmOld school feel, fast and smoothSkaters who want the classic Spitfire look and control
80HD80A54, 56, 58 mmComfort and grip with stable inner coreCruising, filming, rough city pavement
Sapphires90A (101A core)53, 54, 56, 58 mmSmooth ride + reactivity from hard coreFast city cruising and filming
Burners99A51–56 mmSpitfire quality at entry-level priceBeginners wanting a solid setup

Spitfire wheel shapes comparison

Each shape changes how the wheel reacts: narrower shapes for more reactivity, wider ones for stability, round edges for smooth slides, straight edges for locked-in grinds. This table highlights the main differences.

ShapeProfileFeelingBest for
ClassicRound edge, medium widthBalance of speed, control and slideAll-around street and park
O.G. ClassicsSimilar to Classic, with cutaway sidewallsOld school feel, lighterSkaters who love Spitfire tradition
ConicalCut-in walls, full surfaceFast slide and extra controlTechnical street and rail skating
Conical FullWider version of ConicalStability and grip in bowls and landingsPark and transitions
RadialRound edge, medium surfaceVersatile and smoothStreet and all-around skating
Radial FullExtra wide, rounded edgesMaximum stability and securityBowl and fast cruising
Radial SlimNarrower than RadialLight, snappy, fastTechnical street and quick flips
TabletsStraight profile, thin surfaceResponsive, light, precisePure street and fast maneuvers
Lock-In / Lock-In FullAsymmetrical, straight inside edgeSolid grip and locked-in grindsLedge and rail skating
Lock-In ClassicCustom design by Ishod WairUnique feel and maximum controlTechnical skaters who want precision
BigheadWider profile than ClassicsExtra stability and gripPark and transitions
Classic FullRound, wide profileComfort and bigger contact patchCruising and filming

FAQ: frequently asked questions about Spitfire wheels

What’s the difference between Formula Four and Classics?

Formula Four wheels are the more advanced version: they last longer, resist flatspots, and offer a more controllable slide. Classics keep the old school feel, with the historic 99A formula that made Spitfire famous in the ’90s.

Which duro should I choose: 93A, 97A, 99A or 101A?

It depends on your terrain and style. 93A absorbs vibrations and works great on rough surfaces. 97A balances grip and speed. 99A is the standard for street and park, while 101A is super hard and fast, ideal on smooth concrete.

What wheel size is best for street?

The most common choice for street is between 50 and 54 mm. Smaller sizes make the board lower and more responsive, while mid-sizes (53–54 mm) add stability without sacrificing too much speed.

Are Formula Four wheels good for beginners?

Absolutely. They’re not “advanced” in the sense of being harder to use – they just last longer and stay consistent. For beginners on a budget, Burners are also a great first set.

Better soft or hard wheels for cruising?

For cruising, filming, and rough city pavement, softer wheels are the way to go: 80HD (80A) or Sapphires (90A). They provide grip, comfort, and a smooth, quiet ride.

How do I find the right model on the site?

In the skateboard wheels category of our shop, you’ll find filters by Brand, Formula, Shape, Duro and Size. This way you can quickly narrow down the options and pick the perfect set in just a few clicks.

Get your Spitfires and take your skating to the next level

Choosing the right wheels might seem tricky, but now you’ve got all the info you need to get it right. With Spitfire you can’t go wrong: durability, control, speed and true skate style. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first solid set or a seasoned skater chasing top performance, there’s always a Spitfire set that fits your ride.

The next step? Mount your new wheels and feel them burn on the pavement. Head over to our dedicated Spitfire wheels category and use the filters Brand • Formula • Shape • Duro • Size to quickly find the perfect match.

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