Skateboarding is an exciting extreme sport that involves a lot of moving parts. Mastering the art of skateboarding requires skill, patience, and the right equipment. This article is the ultimate guide to the best skateboard equipment to help you catch some air with confidence and style. From decks to trucks, wheels, bearings, and safety gear, we’ve handpicked the top 13 best skateboard equipment available in the market after extensive research and testing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, this buying guide has everything you need to take your skills to the next level. So, let’s dive in and explore the best skateboard equipment to elevate your ride!
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard equipment, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Equipment
Understanding Skateboard Equipment: An Overview
Skateboard equipment consists of various components that work together to create a functional and durable skateboard. The deck is the foundation of the skateboard and is usually made of wood, plastic or carbon fiber. It comes in various shapes, sizes, and designs to cater to different styles of skating. Trucks are the metal T-shaped frames that hold the wheels in place on the skateboard. They are responsible for turning and stabilizing the board. Wheels are also an essential component of the skateboard as they provide traction and support. They come in different materials, sizes, and hardness levels to cater to different terrains and styles of skating. Bearings are small metal balls that fit inside the wheels, allowing them to spin smoothly and with little friction.
Additional skateboard equipment may include grip tape, which is applied to the top of the deck to provide traction and prevent slipping. Bushings are small rubber or polyurethane components that sit between the truck and the deck and are responsible for cushioning and turning the skateboard. Riser pads are rubber or plastic pads that sit between the trucks and the deck and are useful for reducing the risk of wheel bite. Skateboarding shoes are also essential equipment for skateboarders, providing protection and grip when performing tricks and maneuvers. Together, all the skateboard equipment creates a complete setup that allows skateboarders to perform various tricks and gain skateboarding skills.
How Does Buying Skateboard Equipment benefit you?
Skateboarding is not just a fun activity, it can also be a great way to stay physically active and improve mental health. Investing in quality skateboard equipment can enhance your experience and even help you achieve your skateboarding goals. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider buying skateboard equipment.
Safety
Skateboarding is an inherently risky sport. As riders attempt tricks, they are often at risk of falling, and collisions with obstacles or other riders are not uncommon. It is for this reason that safety equipment is essential. Protecting the head with a helmet is crucial to prevent head injuries that could be fatal or cause long-term brain damage. The consistent use of elbow and knee pads, wrist guards, and even mouth guards can help prevent fractures, cuts, and bruises.
Investing in quality skateboard equipment can give riders peace of mind as they perform risky maneuvers, and it can also help prevent injuries during regular riding. By taking precautions and using proper safety gear, skateboarders can have a safer, more enjoyable experience while pursuing their passion. Safety equipment should never be overlooked in the world of skateboarding.
Durability
Skateboard equipment is designed to be durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. A skateboarder needs equipment that is strong enough to handle the pressure and impact of tricks and jumps. The equipment should not easily break or wear out, as this can cause injury to the rider and disruption to their skating routine.
In addition, durable skateboard equipment saves money in the long run. Investing in high-quality equipment that can withstand constant use means that you won’t need to replace it as often. This means less money spent on replacements and repairs. Durable skateboard equipment increases safety, ensures consistency in performance, and gives the rider peace of mind while skating.
Performance
Skateboarding is a sport that demands high performance from every skateboarder. Skaters who are serious about improving their skills need to have the right skateboard equipment that will help them perform to their best. Skateboard equipment includes skateboard decks, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and protective gear like helmets and knee pads.
Each component of skateboard equipment plays a crucial role in the skateboarder’s performance, and choosing the right equipment can make all the difference. For example, a skateboard deck with the right dimensions will provide better stability while performing tricks, and high-quality bearings will enable the skateboarder to achieve maximum speed and agility. The right grip tape will ensure that the skateboarder’s feet stay firmly on the skateboard, reducing the risk of accidents.
Ultimately, investing in skateboard equipment that is designed for performance not only enhances the skateboarder’s skills but also improves their safety on the board. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro-skater, having the right skateboard equipment can help you achieve the results you desire.
Comfort and customization
Skateboarding is a highly individualized activity that requires personal comfort and customization. The wrong equipment can cause discomfort, impact performance, and even lead to injury. From a skateboard deck to the wheels and bearings, the perfect setup can make all the difference in a rider’s ability to execute tricks and maneuvers.
Customization allows riders to tailor their skateboard to their own preferences and needs. It provides greater control and stability, which is essential for more advanced moves. Comfort is also important, particularly when it comes to footwear and protective gear. Customized skateboard equipment that is comfortable and well-fitted will improve a rider’s concentration, balance, and overall enjoyment of the activity. Ultimately, the right skateboard equipment can make all the difference in terms of a rider’s success, performance, and overall enjoyment of the sport.
Guide to Choose the Best Skateboard Equipment
Picking the right skateboard equipment is crucial to perform better and stay safe. So, let’s explore some vital factors that should be kept in mind while making a purchase.
Quality of the deck
The quality of the deck plays a crucial role in determining the skateboard’s performance and durability. A good quality deck is essential to ensure that the skateboard can handle the stress and impact of tricks, jumps, and rides over time. A low-quality deck may break easily, which puts the rider’s safety at risk. It is important to consider the type of skating you’ll be doing, your skill level, and your body weight when selecting the right deck to ensure optimum performance. A high-quality deck may cost more initially, but it will save you from having to buy new decks frequently, ultimately making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
In addition, good quality skateboard equipment, including decks, trucks, wheels, and bearings, helps to improve your skateboarding performance and experience. A good-quality deck provides better control and stability, making it easier to execute tricks and maneuvers. It also ensures a smoother ride, allowing you to glide and turn with more precision. Excellent quality skateboard equipment can enhance your skills and take your skateboarding to the next level. Thus, choosing good quality skateboard equipment is essential for both safety and an enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Type of trucks
It is important to consider the type of trucks before buying skateboard equipment as it greatly affects the overall performance and maneuverability of the skateboard. Trucks are the metal components that attach the wheels to the skateboard deck, allowing it to turn and pivot smoothly. There are two main types of trucks – standard and low. Standard trucks are versatile and suitable for most types of skating, while low trucks are better for technical skating and street-style tricks. Choosing the right type of trucks can enhance the skateboarding experience by allowing for better control and stability, ultimately leading to better performance.
Moreover, different types of trucks also have varying sizes and shapes, which can further affect the performance of the skateboard. The width of the truck should match the width of the skateboard deck to ensure proper alignment and balance. A narrower truck provides greater maneuverability while a wider truck gives more stability. Additionally, the shape of the truck determines the turning radius of the skateboard, allowing for sharper or wider turns. Thus, it is crucial to consider the type of trucks before purchasing skateboard equipment to ensure a smooth and optimized skating experience.
Size of wheels
The size of wheels plays an important role in determining the speed and stability of a skateboard. Larger wheels tend to be faster and more stable, while smaller wheels provide more agility and control. Choosing the right size of wheels depends on the type of skateboarding you plan to do. For example, street skaters typically prefer smaller wheels because they allow for more control and technical tricks, while longboarders prefer larger wheels for cruising and speed.
Additionally, wheel size also affects the ground clearance of the skateboard. If you plan to do tricks and jumps, smaller wheels would be a better option as they provide more clearance from the ground. However, if you plan to use the skateboard for transportation or cruising purposes, larger wheels will be better equipped to handle rough surfaces and cracks in the pavement. Thus, considering the size of wheels is crucial while buying skateboard equipment to ensure maximum comfort and safety while riding.
Grip tape material
Grip tape material is an essential factor to consider before buying skateboard equipment because it contributes significantly to the skateboard’s safety and performance. Grip tape is an abrasive material that is applied to the top surface of the skateboard deck to provide grip for the rider’s shoes and feet. The grip tape material should be of high-quality and durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. A good grip tape material ensures that the rider has maximum control over the skateboard and can perform tricks with ease.
Moreover, grip tape material can influence the rider’s comfort level and durability of their shoes. Poor quality grip tape can cause discomfort and blisters on the rider’s feet, resulting in reduced performance. On the other hand, high-quality grip tape is likely to be comfortable for the rider’s feet and help extend the lifespan of their shoes by preventing excessive wear and tear. Considering the importance of grip tape material in skateboard equipment, it is crucial to invest in the best quality grip tape available to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Bearings
Bearings are an essential component of skateboard equipment. They allow the wheels to spin smoothly, while also providing stability and control. Without good bearings, a skateboard will not perform well, and the rider will have a difficult time maintaining balance and speed.
When purchasing skateboard equipment, it is crucial to consider the quality of the bearings. High-quality bearings will not only make the skateboard faster and smoother, but they will also last longer and require less maintenance, saving you both time and money. Bearings come in different sizes and materials, so it is important to choose the right ones for your needs and budget. Ultimately, investing in good bearings will greatly enhance the performance and enjoyment of your skateboard.
Weight and size of the skateboard
The weight and size of a skateboard can greatly affect the performance and usability of the equipment. A heavier skateboard can be more difficult to maneuver and control, especially for beginners or those with less upper body strength. In contrast, a lighter skateboard may be easier to handle and allow for more tricks and movements. Similarly, the size of the board can also impact performance. A larger board may provide more stability for cruising or carving, while a smaller board may be more suitable for tricks or stunts. It is important to consider both weight and size when selecting a skateboard to ensure it meets your personal needs and preferences.
In addition, purchasing a skateboard that is too heavy or too large may cause discomfort or strain on the rider’s body. An improperly sized skateboard can also be more difficult to store or transport. Ensuring that the weight and size of the skateboard are suitable for your body and intended use can help prevent injuries and enhance the overall skating experience.
FAQ
What are the main parts of a skateboard?
The main parts of a skateboard consist of the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware. The deck is usually made of wood and provides the surface for the rider to stand on. It can vary in size and shape depending on the style of riding.
The trucks are attached to the bottom of the deck and hold the wheels in place. They consist of an axle, kingpin, bushings, and baseplate. The wheels are usually made of polyurethane and come in different sizes and hardness levels depending on the type of terrain and riding style. Bearings are inserted into the wheels to allow them to spin freely. The hardware consists of bolts and nuts that secure the trucks to the deck.
What size skateboard should I get?
The size of the skateboard you should get depends on your personal preference and the type of skating you want to do. Skateboards come in different sizes and shapes, which can affect stability, maneuverability, and speed. As a general rule, the width of the skateboard deck should be proportional to your shoe size. For example, if you wear a size 9 shoe, a skateboard deck between 8.0 and 8.25 inches is a good choice.
If you plan to do tricks and stunts, a smaller skateboard size (7.75 to 8 inches) may be more suitable for better control and maneuverability. For cruising and transportation, a larger skateboard size (8.25 to 9 inches) may be more comfortable and stable. Ultimately, it is your personal preference and skill level that should dictate the size of skateboard that you choose.
What type of wheels are best for street skating?
When looking for a women’s comfort hybrid bike, consider the frame size and material. You want a bike that is the right size for you and the right material for your needs. Generally, steel frames are more comfortable than aluminum frames, but they are also heavier. Comfort hybrid bikes often have upright handlebars, which can help improve your posture and reduce strain on your back and neck.
Other features to look for include a comfortable saddle and suspension. A gel saddle or a wider saddle can help distribute your weight more evenly, reducing pressure points. Suspension, whether in the front fork or seat post, can absorb bumps and vibrations for a smoother ride. The type of tires can also impact your comfort and riding experience. Wider tires with a lower pressure can provide more cushioning and stability, especially on rough terrain or uneven surfaces.
Key Takeaways
After thorough research and analysis, we have narrowed down the top 13 best skateboard equipment available in the market. Each product on our list is highly rated and recommended by both professional and amateur skateboarders. From decks to bearings, trucks to wheels, we have covered all the essential equipment required for an exceptional skating experience.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skater, investing in the best skateboard equipment is a must. Our list includes equipment from top brands that have been tried and tested by experts. So, go ahead and choose the equipment that best suits your needs and hit the streets, parks, or any other surface with confidence and style. Skateboarding is a thrilling and exhilarating activity, and with the best skateboard equipment, you can take your performance to the next level.