There are two basic types of luggage wheels. How to know which ones are the best is confusing. For this very reason, we will compare the two different types of wheels and determine whether one is better than another.
What Kind Of Luggage Wheels Are There?
When it comes to rolling luggage, there are 2 basic types of wheels:
- Inline skate wheels
- Spinner wheels
Inline Skate Wheels
Inline skate wheels originally came from the idea of rollerblade skates. On luggage, the inline wheels are on one side and in a row. They may have 2, 3, or 4 wheels. The size may vary, and the material can be different. To move the luggage, you need to tilt it forward and pull or push it.
Spinner Wheels
Luggage with spinner wheels has 4 wheels that move in all directions for a smooth glide. Today many have 8 wheels; in other words, they have double spinner wheels.
You move the suitcase while all 4 wheels are on the same surface. Not to mention, you can roll a spinner beside or in front of you, tilt it forward, and pull it just as you can with inline skate wheels.
Spinner wheels also come with ball bearings to help make the glide smother.
Inline Skate Wheels Compared To Spinner Wheels
The two types of luggage wheels have some differences, with benefits and drawbacks. Let’s make a bit of a comparison to know which ones are best.
| Comparison | Inline | Spinner |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Usually made from polyurethane which is a very durable plastic material. | Usually made from rubber or plastic but the material is not always disclosed. |
| Luggage space | Recessed wheels that take up packing space | Wheels are on the outside for more packing space |
| Ease of movement | Moves up and down stairs easier | Easier to maneuver in tight spaces |
| Cost | Usually cost less than spinner wheels | Most spinner luggage is more expensive within the same line of luggage |
| Movement space | It takes more space to pull it behind you | takes less space beside you and is good in small areas |
| Durability | Last longer because they are recessed and protected | Attached to the bottom of the luggage, so they are easy to damage |
Which Luggage Wheels Are Better – Inline Or Spinner?
Now that is a loaded question, and after our comparison, I would have to say they are both wonderful, but the inline skate wheels are more durable. However, the spinner wheels move more easily. Remember to make your decision based on your need for room, space, and durability.
Do you need a lot of internal packing space, and does the suitcase meet TSA suggested size limits for a carry on? These are just 2 questions to ask when you look for luggage.
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Luggage wheels – Conclusion
I prefer spinner wheels for their ease of movement, yet they may break more readily.
The bottom line is to look at all the specifications of the suitcase you like best and what type of warranty the company offers. Will they replace spinner wheels if they fall off?
Luggage wheels are a personal preference, and your choice will ultimately depend on your needs.
