What is the Best bearings for outdoor roller hockey?

Answer 1

I would say probably any ABEC 3 rated STEEL (not ceramic) bearing with a removable shield for routine servicing (cleaning and lubricating). From what I've read, steel bearings made in America have tested better as a group than German, Swiss, or especially Chinese bearings, but of course there will always be exceptions to this.

Abec 3's can take more dirt before you slow them down. A higher ABEC-rated bearing with lower tolerances will get gunked up because there is less space in the bearing. An ABEC 3 that gets a little dirty can stay near optimum and will outroll a gunked ABEC 5, 7, or 9.

From what I understand, the quality of polish on the steel, the depth of the raceway, and the ability for the bearings to move to lateral weight transfer are far more important than ABEC rating anyway. It is really hard to find these types of specifications, however, so unfortunately, finding a bearing you love is just trial and error. It is also important to note that it is not true that if you pay more, the bearing will perform better. My advice is to look for a serviceable ABEC 3 steel bearing that is manufactured in America and doesn't cost more that $25 for a set of 16. If you don't like it, buy a different ABEC 3 manufactured in America. You would be terribly unlucky if one of them wasn't a very nice set of bearings.