Almost all skateboard, longboard and many skate wheels use 608 bearings: 8 mm bore, 22 mm outer diameter and 7 mm wide, eight per board. ABEC ratings describe manufacturing tolerances, not speed or durability under skating loads, and several well-regarded skate bearings carry no ABEC rating. Choose quality steel bearings, removable shields for cleaning, and spacers to keep them aligned.
Bearings let the wheels spin. Quality and maintenance matter more than the number on the box.
The standard size
| Spec | 608 bearing |
|---|---|
| Bore | 8 mm |
| Outer diameter | 22 mm |
| Width | 7 mm |
| Per skateboard | 8 |
ABEC
ABEC is a tolerance scale from the bearing industry (1, 3, 5, 7, 9). It does not test side loads, impacts or dirt, which are what skate bearings face. Skate-specific bearings are often rated by the maker’s own grade or not at all.
What matters
| Feature | Why |
|---|---|
| Steel quality | Durability |
| Removable shields | Easy cleaning |
| Built-in spacers or spacers between bearings | Alignment, less wear |
| Speed washers | Reduce friction against truck and nut |
Cleaning
Remove shields, soak in a solvent suitable for bearings, dry fully, and lubricate sparingly with skate bearing lube. Never leave wet bearings to dry on their own.
Pair them with the right wheels. Browse skateboards.
Common questions
Does a higher ABEC rating mean faster?
Not really. ABEC describes precision tolerances. Skate speed depends more on cleanliness, lubrication and quality.
What size are skateboard bearings?
608: 8 mm bore, 22 mm outer diameter, 7 mm wide. A board uses eight.
Are ceramic bearings worth it?
They can last longer in wet and dirty conditions, but cost much more. Good steel bearings suit most skaters.
How often should I clean bearings?
When they get gritty, noisy or slow, and after riding through water.