How to choose the right Skateboard

Beginner

How to choose the right skateboard. There are more than 300 distinct skateboard manufacturers in the world. It can therefore be difficult to choose the ideal skateboard with this number. Worry not, we are going to walk you through the basics of selecting the best skateboard. We’ll discuss topics like how to size yourself for a skateboard and the best skateboards for various age groups.

Parts of a Skateboard

A skateboard has many different parts, each with a specific function. Understanding these components can help riders choose the right setup for their style of skating.

Deck: The deck is the flat board that you stand on. The deck is usually made of maple wood. It comes in different sizes, shapes, and concaves depending on the rider’s preference and style of skating. The desk can sometimes be a combination of other materials like fiberglass, bamboo, or carbon fiber.

Trucks: Trucks are the metal T-shaped pieces that attach the wheels to the deck. They are adjustable and allow the rider to turn and steer the board. They come in different widths and heights, and their tightness or looseness can also be adjusted.

Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in various sizes, durometers, and shapes.

Bearings: Bearings are small metal rings that fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin freely on the trucks. They are measured by an ABEC rating, which determines their precision and speed.

Griptape: Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material that covers the top of the deck. It provides traction and grip for the rider’s feet and helps prevent slipping.

Hardware: Hardware refers to the bolts and nuts that attach the trucks to the deck.

Types of Skateboards

There are three main types of skateboards that is: standard, cruiser, and longboard. Each type is designed with different sizes, shapes, and features for a specific style of riding.

Standard Skateboard

These are the most common type of skateboard and are designed for tricks and stunts on urban terrain. Standard skateboards are usually symmetrical in shape. They typically have a concave shape that allows riders to lock their feet in place and perform tricks with precision. Street skateboards also have smaller, harder wheels that are better for performing tricks on smooth surfaces.

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Cruiser Skateboard

Cruiser skateboards are designed for cruising around town and commuting. These skateboards are more stable and easier to ride over rough terrain because of their longer and wider decks. Cruiser boards usually have a length of 30 to 33 inches and a width of 8 to 10 inches. They have a mellow or flat concave shape that provides a comfortable ride and allows riders to shift their weight for carving turns. Cruiser boards also have larger, softer wheels that roll over cracks and bumps in the pavement.

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Longboard Skateboard

Longboard skateboards are designed for downhill racing, cruising, and transportation over long distances. They have a longer and wider shape than street and cruiser skateboards, which makes them more stable at high speeds. Longboard skateboards usually have a length of 33 to 59 inches and a width of 9 to 10 inches. They have a gentle concave or flat shape that provides a comfortable ride and allows riders to shift their weight for turning. Longboard wheels are larger and softer than street and cruiser wheels, which provides a smoother ride over rough pavement and better grip for carving turns.

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Skateboard Sizes

There are different sizes of skateboards. The most important dimensions to consider are length and width. The length is measured from nose to tail, and the width across the deck.

Micro Skateboards:

This is the smallest type of skateboard. They are suitable for young children or riders who prefer a compact and lightweight board for technical tricks and street skating.

Mini Skateboards:

These are the second smallest size of skateboard available, typically measuring around 7 inches in width and 28-30 inches in length. These boards are great for younger children or people with smaller feet, as they offer excellent control and maneuverability. They are also ideal for technical street skating, as they allow for quick turns and precise movements.

Mid-Size Skateboards:

These typically measure between 7.25 and 7.357 inches in width and 30-32 inches in length. These boards are suitable for most adult riders, and are a good all-around option for cruising, commuting, and basic tricks.

Full-Size Skateboards:

These are the largest size of skateboards. They typically measure between 7.5 and 10 inches in width and are 32-33 inches long. These boards offer the most stability and are ideal for vert riding, downhill racing, and other high-speed maneuvers. However, they can be more difficult to maneuver for beginners and younger riders.

It’s important to choose the right size skateboard based on your riding style, foot size, and experience level. A properly sized skateboard will allow you to ride comfortably and perform tricks safely and effectively.

Final Words

Proper sizing, appropriate skateboard type, and technique all play a significant role in getting the most out of your skateboarding sessions. With the right skateboard and technique, you can quickly learn advanced tricks like kickflips and heelflips.

So what are you waiting for? Now, it’s your turn!