How to Buy the Perfect Skateboard

Your Guide to buying the best Skateboard

Overview

This Skateboard buying guide provides an overview of the key factors to consider when making a purchase. We will discuss the different types of skateboards, what components make up a skateboard, and how to select the right size and style for your needs. We will also discuss the different features and technologies available in skateboards today, including the different wheels, decks, and trucks. Knowing which components and features are important will help you make an informed decision when selecting the right skateboard for you.

Key features

  1. Size: Skateboards come in a variety of sizes, which generally range from 7.5” to 8.5” wide. The size of your skateboard should be based on your height, weight, and skating style.
  2. Shape: Skateboards come in various shapes, such as popsicle, kicktail, and cruiser. Select a shape that best suits your skating style and the type of tricks you plan to perform.
  3. Trucks: Trucks are the metal pieces that attach the deck to the wheels. The axle width should match the width of the deck, and the height should match the wheel size. Low-height trucks are best for street skating, while higher-height trucks are better for ramps and transitions.
  4. Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in a variety of sizes, hardness, and colors. Select wheels that are best suited for your skating style and surface you will skate on.
  5. Bearings: Bearings are the metal pieces that sit in the center of the wheels and allow them to spin. Higher-quality bearings typically last longer and roll faster than lower-quality bearings.
  6. Grip Tape: Grip tape is a rough-surfaced material that is applied to the top of the deck to provide traction and prevent slipping. It comes in various colors and textures.

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Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatile - Skateboards can be used for transport, recreation, or even sports and tricks.
  • Low Cost - Skateboards are relatively cheap compared to other forms of transport, making them a great option for students and young adults.
  • Easy to Use - Skateboarding is relatively easy to learn, and with a few tips and tricks, anyone can become a pro in no time.
  • Health Benefits - Skateboarding is a great form of exercise and can help improve core strength, balance, and coordination.
  • Environmental Benefits - Skateboarding is a green form of transport that doesn't require any gasoline or electricity.

Cons

  • Price: Skateboards can be relatively expensive when compared to other recreational activities.
  • Safety: Skateboarding can be a dangerous activity and protective gear is recommended.
  • Maintenance: Skateboards need to be regularly maintained and replaced when they become worn or damaged.
  • Storage: Skateboards can be difficult to store due to their size and shape.
  • Skill: Skateboarding requires a certain level of skill that can take time and practice to acquire.

Best alternatives

  1. Longboard - A longer, more stable version of a skateboard with larger wheels and is better suited for cruising and downhill racing.
  2. Scooter - A two-wheeled ride typically used for recreation. It’s usually ridden in an upright position and propelled by pushing off the ground with one foot.
  3. Electric Skateboard - A skateboard powered by a motor and a battery. It can reach speeds of up to 25 mph and can travel up to 20 miles on a single charge.
  4. Hoverboard - A two-wheeled, self-balancing board. It uses gyroscopic sensors to detect the rider’s body movements and can be used for transportation or recreation.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Skateboard - a deck with four wheels attached for riding Grip tape - used to provide traction and grip on the skateboard Pads and Helmets - protective gear that helps to guard against injuries Bearings - used to provide a smoother ride for the skateboard Trucks - the metal pieces that hold the wheels onto the skateboard Wheels - round pieces made from urethane that provide the skateboard with motion Risers - cushion-like pieces that can be used to raise the height of the skateboard Tools - tools such as skateboard wrenches and Allen keys are used to assemble and adjust skateboards Lube - lube can be used to reduce friction between the wheels and the trucks

Common questions

  1. What type of skateboard should I buy? There are many different types of skateboards to choose from depending on what style of riding you prefer. The most common types are longboards, cruisers, old-school boards, downhill boards, penny boards, and mini-cruisers.
  2. What size skateboard should I buy? The size of your skateboard depends mainly on your height and the style of skateboarding you prefer. Generally, shorter riders (under 5’3”) should look for decks that are 7.5”-8” wide, while taller riders can go with decks that are 8”-8.75”.
  3. Should I buy a complete or a blank skateboard? Whether you choose to buy a complete or a blank skateboard depends on your skill level and budget. Complete skateboards are good for beginners and those on a tight budget, as they’re cheaper and come pre-assembled with all the necessary components. Blanks are good for experienced riders who want to customize their board, as they allow you to choose your own deck, trucks, wheels, and other components.
  4. What components should I look for when buying a skateboard? When buying a skateboard, you should look for a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, hardware, and grip tape. Make sure to choose components that are compatible with each other in terms of size and design.
  5. Do I need protective gear when skateboarding? Yes, it’s important to wear protective gear when skateboarding. This includes a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.

Trivia

In 1982, skateboarding gained worldwide attention when a group of skateboarders from Santa Monica, California, called the "Z-Boys" started performing tricks never before seen on the streets and in skate parks. The group was founded by professional skateboarder Tony Alva and included members such as Alan Gelfand, Steve Olson, and Stacy Peralta. The Z-Boys developed their own style of skateboarding and sponsored the first professional skateboard contest, the Del Mar National Skateboard Championship. The combination of their skill and innovation earned them the title of "the best skateboarders in the world" and helped to set the stage for the modern skateboarding industry. Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skateboarding.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.