In the world of skateboarding, where every component can impact your ride, wheels hold a pivotal role. Among the various brands and formulas on the market, Spitfire’s Formula Four wheels have risen as a favorite for skaters of all styles. Known for their versatility and durability, these wheels promise high performance across a wide range of conditions. But what makes them the go-to choice for so many skateboarders? Let’s dive into a detailed review and see how these wheels stack up in real-world conditions.

What is Formula Four?

Spitfire’s Formula Four wheels are engineered with a proprietary urethane blend designed for resilience, grip, and control. Unlike many wheels that can quickly wear down, Formula Fours claim a high resistance to flat spots, a frequent issue that many skaters encounter with standard wheels. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, Formula Fours are crafted to meet the needs of street skaters, park enthusiasts, and everyone in between.

Key Features of Formula Four Wheels

1. Hardness

Formula Four wheels come in different durometers—99A and 101A being the most common. The 99A hardness offers a balance between grip and slide, ideal for mixed terrains and skaters who need flexibility. The 101A wheels, on the other hand, cater to more technical skating, with extra hardness for smoother slides.

2. Shapes

The Formula Four line includes various shapes, like the Classic, Conical Full, Radial, and OG Classic. These shapes influence how the wheels grip the ground, with each profile serving a unique function. The Classic shape, for example, offers a balanced feel that’s well-suited for both street and park environments. Meanwhile, the Conical Full provides a wider surface, giving more grip and stability for those intense park sessions or big drops.

3. Anti-Flatspot Technology

Flatspotting happens when wheels wear down unevenly, creating a “flat” section that leads to rough, choppy rides. Formula Fours boast Spitfire’s anti-flatspot technology, meaning they can handle power slides, grinds, and rough asphalt without developing these unwanted flat sections.

Real-World Testing: A Breakdown

To put Formula Four wheels to the test, I focused on three main areas where skaters need performance: durability, slide-ability, and grip. Here’s a detailed rundown of how they performed:

1. Durability

One of the biggest selling points of Formula Four wheels is their resilience over time. Many skaters know the frustration of having wheels that wear out too quickly, but Formula Fours stand out with their impressive endurance. Over several weeks of regular skate sessions, including both street and park environments, the Formula Fours showed minimal wear.

Pros:
– High resistance to flat spots even after prolonged sliding.
– Minimal visible wear over multiple sessions.
– Maintains shape and feel, even after rough landings and high-impact skating.

Cons:
– The harder 101A durometer may wear slightly faster on rougher asphalt, though still above average for skate wheels in this range.

2. Slide-Ability

The Formula Four wheels are renowned for their smooth sliding abilities, a major factor for skaters who love technical tricks and powerslides. Both the 99A and 101A formulas offer excellent slide control, making them versatile across different surfaces.

99A (Softer):
– Allows for a controlled slide with enough grip to stop quickly when needed.
– Ideal for skaters who need flexibility between park and street settings.

101A (Harder):
– The harder option slides more freely, which works well for advanced tricks but may take more control for beginners.
– Perfect for smoother, controlled slides in parks or on clean concrete.

For skaters who rely heavily on slides and grinds, the Formula Four wheels remain consistent and responsive, making complex maneuvers feel smooth and controllable.

3. Grip

Formula Four wheels excel in offering a reliable grip, especially at the 99A hardness. For skaters who are in and out of parks, hitting ledges, or riding rough city streets, this grip is essential. The Conical Full shape in particular delivers a wider contact area, improving grip for faster lines and bolder tricks. The wheels feel locked in when you need them, providing security on steep ramps or sudden landings, and can still release when you need that quick powerslide.

Performance in Parks:
– The 99A wheels are forgiving on slick concrete, maintaining grip even on tight turns.
– The Conical Full or Radial shapes perform well for bowl riders, giving a sense of control that doesn’t compromise speed.

Street Performance:
– The Classic shape is ideal for street skaters, giving a balance between grip and release.
– On rougher asphalt, the 99A wheels keep grip on tighter turns, allowing you to keep momentum without losing control.

Testing Different Shapes: Which Shape is Right for You?

– Classic: Best for all-around skating. It’s a balanced choice for those who want flexibility without committing to any one style.
– Conical Full: For park skaters or those who prefer a broader wheel base for extra stability.
– Radial: Adds a bit more control and stability, ideal for high-speed riding and transitions.
– OG Classic: Offers the vintage feel of original Spitfire wheels, blending modern technology with a nostalgic touch.

Each shape affects how you interact with the board, and while it might take a bit of testing to find the perfect fit, Spitfire’s wide range means most skaters can find a shape that matches their style.

Formula Four vs. Other Wheels

It’s impossible to review Formula Four wheels without comparing them to some of the other top names in the market like Bones STF (Street Tech Formula) and Ricta Clouds.

Formula Four vs. Bones STF:
Bones STF is another popular choice, particularly for street skaters. While STF wheels also offer great slide capabilities and durability, Formula Four wheels tend to last longer in terms of flatspot resistance and give a more consistent ride, especially in variable conditions.

Formula Four vs. Ricta Clouds:
Ricta Clouds are generally softer, aimed at those who skate rougher terrains or need smoother rides. While Clouds excel in comfort and grip on asphalt, they don’t offer the same durability or technical slide performance as Formula Fours, making Spitfire’s wheels the better choice for skaters who prioritize tricks and slides.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros
– Excellent resistance to flatspots, even with heavy slide use.
– Variety of shapes and hardness levels to suit different skating styles.
– Consistent performance across parks, streets, and varying terrain.

Cons:
– 101A durometer may wear faster on rough street terrain.
– Slightly more expensive than some other options but arguably worth the investment for long-term durability.

YFinal Thoughts: Are Formula Four Wheels Worth It?

After weeks of testing, it’s clear why Spitfire’s Formula Four wheels are among the most popular choices in the skateboarding world. The combination of durability, versatility, and slide control make them a worthy investment for skaters of all levels. Whether you’re grinding at the park, navigating rough urban streets, or practicing technical tricks, Formula Four wheels provide a reliable, high-quality experience that doesn’t compromise on performance.

For skaters serious about progression, having a wheel that can keep up is crucial, and Formula Four wheels exceed expectations. If you’re looking for wheels that can withstand hard slides, maintain control on tight turns, and last through hours of skate sessions, Spitfire’s Formula Four wheels are a solid choice that lives up to the hype. So, if you’re in the market for new wheels, these might just be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.

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