Light up skateboard wheels bring a mix of style, safety, and pure fun to any setup, making them a favorite for night rides, casual cruising, and anyone wanting to stand out. These wheels use motion-activated LED technology powered by a small magnetic generator inside the hub, which creates electricity as the wheel spins. The LEDs glow without the need for batteries, and the faster you ride, the brighter they shine. Originally introduced in the late 1990s as a novelty for younger skaters, early versions were heavier, less durable, and rolled poorly compared to standard wheels. Modern designs, however, use high-quality polyurethane with improved generator systems, resulting in lighter, brighter, and longer-lasting wheels that ride just as smoothly as regular cruiser wheels.
Most light up wheels are made from polyurethane with a durometer between 78A and 85A, offering a balance of softness for grip and shock absorption while maintaining decent speed. They’re typically best for cruising boards, longboards, and casual park sessions rather than high-impact tricks or downhill racing, though the added generator weight is minimal and hardly noticeable for most riders. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, light up wheels also improve visibility in low-light conditions, making them a smart choice for commuters or night riders who want to be seen without wearing extra lights.
We also carry a seriously eye-catching lineup of light-up wheels at CalStreets BoarderLabs. First off, Sunset Skateboards’ Flare LED Cruiser Wheels (59 mm, 78a) pack four ultra-bright LEDs into high-quality clear PU, glow for up to an astonishing 100,000 hours, and self-power from wheel motion—no batteries needed. The Sunset LED Blacklight Wheels bring that same intensity with a flair of 70s nostalgia, using friction-powered LEDs to light your ride day or night. If you’re looking for raw Slime Ball energy, we’ve got Santa Cruz Slime Balls Light Ups OG Slime (60 mm, 78a)—self-powered LEDs, soft urethane, symmetrical center-set design, and no batteries required. For a glow-in-the-dark twist, check out the Slime Balls × Creature Atomic Light Ups (60 mm, 78a), which combine glow-in-the-dark urethane with motion-activated LEDs and are nestled around removable Bronson G2 bearings. The Slime Balls lineup also includes the Pink Eyes Light Ups (66 mm, 78a)—transparent pink urethane wrapped around a black core, red LEDs and custom light-up spacers.
When choosing light up wheels, size matters—larger diameters between 60 and 70mm are smoother for cruising, while smaller wheels between 54 and 59mm suit standard skate setups. Softer wheels absorb more vibration and grip better, which is ideal for city riding. You can pick between single-color LEDs for a clean look or multi-color options for maximum visual impact, but always consider brand reputation since quality varies widely. Caring for them is straightforward: keep them clean, avoid prolonged water exposure, rotate them to prevent uneven wear, and maintain your bearings. The LED systems are sealed, so with basic care, they’ll keep glowing for years. Light up skateboard wheels have evolved from a gimmick into a legitimate, functional upgrade, offering a perfect blend of performance, safety, and eye-catching style for skaters of all ages.
