If you’re a skateboard enthusiast, you know how critical every component is for ensuring an excellent performance on the board. The quality of skateboard components can truly make or break your experience. To help you make the right decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 12 best skateboard components, including everything from wheels and trucks to bearings and decks. Whether you’re looking to upgrade or purchase new components for your board, this buying guide has got you covered with the best skateboard components in the market.
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard components, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Components
Overview of Skateboard Components
Skateboard Components are the different parts that make up a skateboard, and they play an important role in determining the performance of the skateboard. The deck is the largest component that makes up the skateboard, and it is the flat board on which the rider stands. It is usually made of wood, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, and it comes in different sizes and shapes. The trucks are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck and allow the skateboard to turn. They can be adjusted to change the tightness of the turning, which affects how the skateboard handles.
The wheels are the round components that allow the skateboard to move, and they are made of urethane or other materials. They come in different sizes and hardness levels, and they can be chosen based on personal preference and riding style. The bearings are the small metal balls that are placed inside the wheels and enable them to spin. They are rated by an ABEC standard, which determines the precision and smoothness of the bearing. Other components that make up the skateboard include grip tape, hardware, and riser pads, all of which contribute to the overall performance and feel of the skateboard.
Reasons for Buying Skateboard Components
Skateboarding is a thrilling activity that requires the right equipment to ensure maximum performance and safety. Buying high-quality skateboard components is essential for any skateboarder looking to have an enjoyable experience. In this section, we will highlight some key reasons why investing in skateboard components is worth it.
Replacement
Skateboard components are subjected to wear and tear due to regular use. Over time, the components may break or become damaged, leaving the skateboard unusable. This is when replacement becomes necessary.
Replacing skateboard components not only extends the lifespan of the skateboard but also improves its performance. For instance, upgrading the wheels can provide a smoother ride, while changing the trucks can give better control and stability. Moreover, replacing the deck can help to customize the skateboard’s appearance and performance to suit an individual’s preference.
Overall, replacing skateboard components is an essential aspect of maintaining the skateboard’s functionality and maximizing its potential.
Upgrading or Customization
Skateboarding is a sport that allows for a lot of personalization. Many skateboarders like to upgrade or customize their skateboard components to fit their preferences. For example, they might want to change the grip tape to improve the grip or adjust the trucks to make it easier to turn or grind. Upgrading or customizing the skateboard components can improve overall performance and make skateboarding more enjoyable.
Customization is also popular among skateboarders who want to showcase their personality through their skateboard. They may choose different colors, graphics, or even brand names to show their style. Buying skateboard components allows skateboarders to have more control over the final product and create a unique skateboard that fits their individual style. Ultimately, upgrading or customizing skateboard components is a way for skateboarders to make their skateboarding experience more enjoyable and personal.
Maintenance
As with any other type of equipment, a skateboard requires regular maintenance to ensure that it stays in top condition. Over time, the components of a skateboard, including the wheels, bearings, trucks and deck, can become worn or damaged through use. This can affect the performance of the skateboard and make it less stable and less comfortable to use.
By replacing worn or damaged components with new ones, skateboard owners can ensure that their equipment stays in peak condition for longer. This can also help to prevent accidents or injuries that might occur as a result of faulty or damaged components. Some common skateboard components that may need to be replaced over time include wheels, bearings, trucks, grip tape and decks.
Improving Performance
Skateboard components play a critical role in the overall performance of your skateboard. Upgrading or replacing the components can have a significant impact on your riding experience. For example, if you switch to higher-quality bearings, you’ll notice a smoother and faster ride, allowing you to reach higher speeds and keep up with other skaters. Similarly, swapping out your old, worn-out wheels for fresh ones with better grip, hardness, and shape will help you maintain control, reduce wheel bite, and roll smoothly over rough surfaces. Upgrading your trucks could also offer a higher degree of stability, responsiveness and turnability.
If you’re an experienced skateboarder, you may want to choose specific components that suit your riding style or terrain preferences. For instance, riders who prefer technical street skating may opt for smaller, lighter decks and trucks, while vert riders and downhill skaters tend to favor bigger, sturdier trucks and decks with longer wheelbases. By upgrading your skateboard components, you’ll be able to customize your board to your liking, and ultimately improve your skills, confidence and overall enjoyment of skating.
What Things to Consider when Buying Skateboard Components?
Before purchasing skateboard components, there are several important factors to consider that can greatly impact your riding experience.
Skateboard deck size and shape
Skateboard deck size and shape are important factors that should be considered before buying skateboard components. The size of the deck affects the stability and ease of maneuverability while skating, and the shape determines the type of tricks that can be performed. A wider deck provides a more stable ride, while a narrower deck allows for greater maneuverability. Similarly, a rounded tail allows for better control while performing flip tricks, while a pointed tail is better for sliding tricks. Therefore, the right size and shape of a skateboard deck are crucial in determining the type of skateboarding that can be done, and the kind of components that will be required to achieve desired performance.
Another reason why skateboard deck size and shape should be considered before buying components is comfort. An ill-fitting deck can make skating uncomfortable and even lead to injuries. Skaters should choose a size and shape that is comfortable for their height and weight. A properly fitted deck makes skating more enjoyable and allows for the skater to learn new tricks with ease. Overall, buying the appropriate size and shaped skateboard is important to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and efficient skateboarding experience.
Truck width and weight rating
Considering truck width and weight rating is crucial when purchasing skateboard components because it directly affects the performance and stability of the skateboard. The truck width should match the deck width to ensure that the wheels and axles are aligned properly, which will result in better control and balance. Choosing a truck with a wider width than the deck can lead to instability and difficulty in turning, while a narrower truck may not be able to support the deck properly.
Furthermore, weight rating is an important factor to consider as it ensures the safety of the rider. Skateboard trucks have a maximum weight capacity, and if exceeded, it can cause the truck to bend or break, leading to accidents and injuries. Therefore, before buying skateboard components, it is essential to ensure that the selected truck can support the rider’s weight and intended use of the skateboard. By considering these factors, the rider can enjoy a safe and optimal riding experience.
Wheel size and durometer
Wheel size and durometer are two important factors that should be considered when buying skateboard components. The wheel size determines the type of skateboarding you’ll be able to do, with larger wheels suited for cruising and smaller wheels suited for tricks and technical maneuvers. The durometer refers to the hardness of the wheel, with softer wheels providing more grip and a smoother ride and harder wheels providing less grip but a faster roll on smooth surfaces. It’s important to consider your skating style and the terrain you’ll be skating on to choose the right wheel size and durometer for your needs.
In addition, choosing the right wheel size and durometer can affect the overall performance of your skateboard. Opting for the wrong size or durometer can make your ride uncomfortable and may even cause damage to your board or yourself. Therefore, it’s crucial to take both factors into account when selecting skateboard components to ensure maximum performance and safety.
Bearing quality and speed rating
When buying skateboard components, it’s crucial to consider the bearing quality and speed rating. Bearings are what allow your skateboard wheels to spin, and poor quality bearings can negatively impact the performance of your skateboard. Bearings with a higher ABEC rating typically have a smoother ride, faster speed, and better durability. A higher speed rating indicates that the bearing can handle higher speeds without locking up, making it safer and more reliable for high-speed skating.
Choosing high-quality bearings with a high speed rating will ensure that your skateboard performs at its best and lasts longer. Investing in quality components will also save you time and money in the long run as you won’t have to replace them as frequently due to wear and tear. For these reasons, it’s important to pay attention to the bearing quality and speed rating when selecting skateboard components.
Grip tape brand and grit level
Grip tape is an essential component of a skateboard as it helps the feet of the rider to grip onto the board and maintain balance and control during tricks and maneuvers. The brand of grip tape and the grit level are important factors to consider before buying skateboard components as they determine the level of grip and durability of the tape. A high-quality grip tape with a coarse grit level will provide a strong grip, reducing the chances of slipping off the board. On the other hand, a low-quality grip tape with a low grit level will wear out quickly and affect the performance of the skateboard. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a trusted grip tape brand and the appropriate grit level to ensure a safe and smooth skateboarding experience.
Hardware length and type
It is important to consider the hardware length and type before buying skateboard components because it can affect the overall performance and stability of the skateboard. The hardware length refers to the length of the bolts that attach the trucks to the skateboard deck. If the bolts are too short, there is a risk of the trucks loosening and wobbling while riding which can be dangerous. On the other hand, bolts that are too long can create friction between the deck and trucks, inhibiting the board’s movement and reducing its responsiveness. Choosing the correct hardware length can ensure a safer and higher-performing skateboard.
The type of hardware also plays a role in the skateboard’s performance. The most common types of hardware are Phillips head and Allen head bolts. Phillips head bolts are easier to find and use, but they can strip more easily than Allen head bolts which require a specific tool to tighten. Additionally, some hardware brands offer lightweight options that can reduce the weight of the board and improve its maneuverability. Ultimately, choosing the right hardware can enhance the overall performance and durability of the skateboard, providing a better riding experience and potentially saving on maintenance costs in the long run.
FAQs
What are the essential components of a skateboard and what do they do?
Skateboards have several essential components that are necessary for proper functionality. The deck is the main part of the skateboard, which is made of wood or composite materials that provide the rider with a sturdy surface to stand on. The trucks are the metal components that are attached to the bottom of the deck, which hold the wheels in place. They allow the rider to turn and steer the skateboard.
The wheels are made of polyurethane and come in different sizes and hardness levels, depending on the rider’s preference and the type of terrain they’ll be riding on. They provide the skateboard with mobility and speed. The bearings are small metal rings that are placed in the wheel, allowing it to roll smoothly. Finally, grip tape is added to the top of the deck to provide more traction for the rider’s feet. When all these components come together, they create a proper skateboard that can be used for cruising, performing tricks, and more.
What determines the size and shape of skateboard decks?
The size and shape of skateboard decks are determined by a number of factors. One of the primary factors is the intended use of the skateboard. For instance, decks designed for street skating typically have a smaller, more compact shape, while decks designed for vert skating tend to be wider and longer for stability and speed. Additionally, the size and shape of the deck can also be affected by the height and weight of the skater, as well as their personal preferences in terms of style and performance.
Another important factor in determining the size and shape of a skateboard deck is the materials used in its construction. Decks can be made from a variety of different materials, including wood, carbon fiber, and plastic composites, each of which can affect the deck’s weight, durability, and flexibility. Overall, the size and shape of a skateboard deck will depend on a combination of its intended use, the skater’s personal preferences, and the materials used in its construction.
What types of wheels are available for skateboards and how do they differ?
Yes, a mountain bike saddle can be adjusted for different riding positions. The saddle can be adjusted in three ways: height, fore and aft position, and tilt. Height is adjusted by moving the saddle up or down the seat post. Fore and aft position is adjusted by moving the saddle forward or backward on the seat post. The tilt of the saddle can be adjusted by loosening the clamp that holds the saddle to the seat post and adjusting the angle of the saddle. These adjustments can be made based on the rider’s comfort and the type of riding they are doing, whether it be climbing, descending, or cruising on flat terrain.
What are the common materials used for skateboard trucks?
Final Words
As you can see, selecting the best skateboard components is paramount to enhancing and elevating your skateboarding experience. After exploring our top 12 picks and buying guide, we hope that we have armed you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about the components that will best suit your style, preferences, and needs.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned skateboarder, the right components will make a significant difference in the way you perform on your board. So, take your time, evaluate your options, and choose the best skateboard components that will provide you with the ride of your life.