38mm vs 50mm vs 60mm: Which 10PLUS Road Wheel Depth Should You Buy?
Three depths, three riding styles. A simple way to choose between 38mm, 50mm and 60mm without overthinking it.
The quick answer
38mm is the climbing and mixed-terrain choice. 50mm is the safest single-wheelset pick for most riders. 60mm suits riders who spend more time at speed and don't mind a deeper rim in crosswinds.
10PLUS makes this easier than most, because the Road T Series comes in all three depths. You can choose the rim profile without changing brand or hub tier.
38mm: choose it when the road goes up
A shallower rim keeps weight and side profile down. That makes 38mm attractive for climbing-heavy routes, hilly sportives and riders who regularly deal with gusty, exposed roads.
The trade-off is simple: at higher speeds you give up some of the aero benefit of a deeper rim. If your rides are mostly climbs, corners and changing terrain, that's often a very good trade.
50mm: the default recommendation
50mm is the middle ground. You get more aero depth without taking on the compromises of a very deep wheel. For a rider with one road bike who wants one carbon wheelset, it's the profile we'd choose first.
That makes the Road T Series 50mm the value sweet spot. If you want the lighter premium version, the Road E Series comes in 50mm too.
60mm: buy it for a reason
A 60mm rim makes more sense if you spend a lot of time holding speed on flatter, faster roads and you're comfortable with a deeper side profile. It isn't automatically faster for every rider or every route.
Crosswind handling is the obvious concern. Your position on the bike, the wheel design and your local weather all play a part, so don't pick 60mm just because the number looks faster on a product page.
Our pick
For most riders: 50mm. For climbing and mixed routes: 38mm. For fast, open roads: 60mm.
If you're unsure, buy the 50mm T Series. It's the easiest one to live with, and the price leaves room in the budget for good tyres and a professional setup.