Rolling with Style: The Story of SML. Wheels

In the ever-evolving world of skateboarding, few brands manage to carve out a niche that feels both authentic and refreshingly simple. Enter SML. Wheels—also known as Small Wheels—a company that’s been quietly redefining what it means to make skateboard gear with soul.

Born from Friendship and Skate Culture

SML. Wheels was founded in the United States by two lifelong skateboarders: James Craig, a former Blind Skateboards pro, and Austyn Gillette, known for his smooth style and creative approach to street skating. Their friendship long preceded their business partnership, and that camaraderie is woven into the DNA of the brand. SML. wasn’t born out of corporate ambition—it was sparked by a shared love for skateboarding and a desire to create something that felt real.

What Makes SML. Stand Out?

SML. Wheels is all about keeping it fun, simple, and top-notch. They’re not chasing global domination or flashy marketing gimmicks. Instead, they focus on producing high-quality urethane wheels that skateboarders can rely on. Their wheels are known for being flatspot-resistant, durable, and available in a variety of shapes and formulas—including the OG and AG formulas, the latter named after co-founder Austyn Gillette.

Whether you're into slim-profile V-Cuts or prefer the wider OG shapes, SML. offers something for every style of skating. And for those who like a softer ride, their 78A Coffee Cruiser wheels are a fan favorite.

A Team That Speaks Volumes

SML. Wheels has built an impressive roster of sponsored skaters over the years. The team includes heavy hitters like:

  • Austyn Gillette

  • Tom Knox

  • Youness Amrani

  • Mike Arnold

  • Danny Garcia

  • Sammy Montano

  • Josh Pall

  • Justin Drysen

  • Akwasi Owusu

  • Chris Jones

  • Dean Palmer

  • Raymond Molinar

  • Ben Fisher

  • Anton Myhrvold

  • Devine Calloway

  • Morgan Smith

This diverse lineup reflects the brand’s commitment to supporting skaters who bring creativity, style, and authenticity to the streets.

What’s SML. Up To Now?

Today, SML. Wheels continues to thrive as a skater-owned and operated brand. They’re still rolling out fresh wheel designs and collaborating with artists and other skate companies. Their recent video projects—like “48 Hours in the Glitter Gulch”—showcase their team’s talent and keep the brand connected to the pulse of modern skateboarding.

They’re also active in the global skate scene, with riders appearing in international edits filmed across cities like New York, Tokyo, Berlin, and Porto. Whether it’s a gritty street part or a laid-back cruiser session, SML. is always in motion, always evolving, and always staying true to its roots.

Sammy Montano's "sml. wheels" Part

sml. Wheels X Skateboard Cafe colab featuring Mike Arnold

Austyn Gillette sml. Wheels Pro Part

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