The Story Behind Beagle Bearings: From Skater to Innovator

If you've ever been on a skateboard or a pair of roller skates, you know the rush. The wind in your face, the concrete whizzing beneath you, and the undeniable joy of rolling smoothly from point A to point B (and maybe even to point C if your balance holds up). But have you ever stopped to think about what makes that ride so smooth? Enter bearings-the small but mighty heroes of the skate world.

But not just any bearings. We're talking about Beagle Bearings, the brand that's not only here to keep you rolling but also to bring a smile to your face with every turn. And behind this brand is a story filled with grit, a bit of humor, and a passion for the skating community that only a true skater could bring. So, buckle up (or lace up) as we dive into the story of how Beagle Bearings went from a skater’s dream to a skater’s must-have.

Humble Beginnings: Skater First, Founder Second

It all started in 2020 when Josh Shor, an avid skater and all-around creative guy, decided he’d had enough of bearings that just wouldn’t move. You know the ones-the bearings that feel like they’re filled with peanut butter instead of steel balls. Frustrated by his own experiences and the dismissive comment from a skate shop owner who said his bearings "won't move," Josh decided to prove them wrong. And boy, did he.

Beagle Bearings was born with a simple yet powerful motto: “Bearings that move!” This isn’t just a promise; it’s a declaration of rebellion against subpar bearings everywhere. Josh knew that the skate community deserved better, and he was ready to deliver.

A Brand with Personality (and Glow)

One thing you’ll notice about Beagle Bearings is that they’re not just another product on the shelf. Josh’s creativity shines through in every aspect of the brand. Take, for instance, the glow-in-the-dark Full Moon wheels. These wheels are perfect for skaters who like to roll at night and make a statement while doing it. And let’s not forget the glow shields made out of rubber, designed to give your skates that extra flair. You could say Beagle Bearings literally lights up the night.

Josh's creativity doesn't stop at the products. He's all about adding a personal touch, from glow stickers with the Beagle Bearings logo included in every package to personalized thank you notes for buyers of Full Moon wheels. It’s the little things that make a big difference, and Josh knows it.

Overcoming Rejection and Pushing Forward

But it hasn’t all been smooth skating. Building a brand from the ground up isn’t easy, especially when the competition includes industry giants. Josh found himself facing challenges, from slow sales to the struggle of standing out on social media. He even considered giving up on his glow bearings idea when a manufacturer quoted him $1 per shield. Instead of backing down, he turned to Alibaba to explore other options, showing his determination to find a way forward.

One of the brand’s most iconic moments came when Josh decided to film a TikTok at the skate park behind the very same skate shop that had dismissed Beagle Bearings. The video was a motivational piece encouraging skaters not to let rejection hold them back. It was a powerful message, showing that Beagle Bearings isn’t just about great products but also about supporting the skate community's spirit.

From Skateboards to Roller Skates

Originally focused on skateboarders, Beagle Bearings recently shifted its focus to roller skaters. Why? Because Josh saw an opportunity to serve a community that often felt overlooked. By offering both 8mm and 7mm bearings at competitive prices ($40 for 16 bearings and $45 for 7mm bearings), Beagle Bearings aims to give roller skaters the quality and value they deserve.

This pivot to the roller skate community was more than just a business move-it was a way to connect with a new audience and show them that Beagle Bearings understands their needs. Josh even started sponsoring a roller derby team, the Arch Rival Derby team from Missouri, offering them a 25% discount to help keep their skates rolling without breaking the bank.

Giving Back and Growing Forward

Beyond business, Beagle Bearings also gives back to the community. Josh has partnered with Garden State Animal Rescue in Manalapan, NJ, donating $4 of each set to help animals in need. It’s a win-win: you get amazing bearings, and animals get a better chance at finding a forever home. And as a self-proclaimed animal lover with a beagle named Tiko, this cause is close to Josh’s heart.

Looking ahead, Josh has big plans. He’ll be attending the roller skate association convention in Las Vegas in May, where he hopes to solidify Beagle Bearings as a major bearing brand. 

Why Choose Beagle Bearings?

With so many options on the market, why should skaters choose Beagle Bearings? It’s simple: Beagle Bearings are designed by a skater for skaters. They’re not just tested in a lab; they’re tested in real life, on real streets, by real skaters. The brand is built on authenticity, creativity, and a genuine love for the skating community.

And let’s not forget the fun side of the brand. Josh’s marketing isn’t just about pushing products-it’s about creating content that makes people laugh and want to be part of the Beagle Bearings family. Whether it’s comparing no-name bearings to his own on TikTok or brainstorming hilarious video ideas for roller skaters, Josh is constantly looking for ways to engage and entertain his audience.

The Future is Bright (and Maybe a Little Glowy)

As Beagle Bearings continues to grow, Josh is exploring new ideas, from tech-enhanced bearings to fun merch like a Beagle Bearings t-shirts. He’s also refining his social media strategy, focusing on creating unique and engaging content for platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

Ultimately, the story of Beagle Bearings is a story of passion, perseverance, and a bit of humor. It’s proof that with the right mindset, you can turn rejection into motivation and transform a simple idea into a thriving brand. So, the next time you’re out skating, remember: if your bearings aren’t moving, you’re not using Beagle Bearings.

Check out Beagle Bearings today and join the movement (literally). After all, life is better when you’re rolling smoothly-and maybe even glowing a little along the way.