Skateboarding is an extreme sport that requires a lot of skills and practice to master. One of the essential components of skateboarding is the rails, which offer stability and protect the skateboard decks from wear and tear. Whether you are a beginner or a professional skateboarder, having the best skateboard rails is essential to ensure a smooth ride. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 12 best skateboard rails and created a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the right one for your needs. So, let’s dive in and explore the best skateboard rails available on the market.
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard rails, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
Last update on 2024-09-16 at 03:44 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Skateboard Rails
Understanding Skateboard Rails: An Overview
Skateboard rails are long, thin strips made of plastic or metal that are attached to the bottom or sides of a skateboard deck. They are designed to protect the edges of the board from damage when performing grinds and slides. They work by reducing the friction between the board and the grinding surface while also absorbing some of the impact. Skateboard rails come in various lengths and colors, and some can be customized with graphics or logos.
There are two types of skateboard rails: plastic and metal. Plastic rails are softer and lighter, making them ideal for beginners. They are also less expensive than metal rails. Metal rails, on the other hand, are more durable and provide a smoother slide. However, they are heavier and more expensive than plastic rails. Skateboard rails are not necessary for all skaters, but they are a great option for those who want to protect their board and improve their grinding skills.
How Does Buying Skateboard Rails benefit you?
Skateboard rails are an essential accessory that can help you perform tricks with ease and provide much-needed protection to your skateboard’s edges. Here are some compelling reasons why you should invest in skateboard rails.
Protects skateboard deck from damage.
Skateboard rails are designed to protect the skateboard deck from damage caused by grinding and sliding. Grinding and sliding are essential techniques used by skateboarders when performing tricks and stunts. However, constant grinding and sliding can lead to severe wear and tear of the skateboard deck, which can make it difficult for the rider to perform tricks, and ultimately lead to costly repairs.
Skateboard rails attach to the sides of the deck, providing a smooth surface for the skateboard to slide on during grinding and sliding tricks. Without skateboard rails, the deck would bear the brunt of the impact, leading to unsightly scratches, dents, and even cracks. With skateboard rails in place, the rider can focus on perfecting their tricks without worrying about damaging the deck. Skateboard rails also come in a variety of colors, adding style and individuality to the skateboard while also protecting it from damage.
Increases sliding ability.
Skateboard rails are essential to increase the sliding ability of a skateboard. When performing tricks, skateboarders often need to slide on different surfaces, like rails and ledges. Without proper protection, these surfaces can cause damage to the board’s edge and deck, reducing the skateboard’s lifespan. With skateboard rails, you can increase your sliding ability by allowing the board to slide smoothly over these surfaces without causing damage.
Moreover, skateboard rails also provide a better grip and control while performing tricks. They offer a stable surface for skateboarders to land on and reduce the impact on the board. With enhanced sliding ability and increased control, skateboarders can perform more complex and technical tricks with ease, adding more flair and style to their skateboarding sessions. So, if you want to improve your performance and extend the life of your skateboard, investing in skateboard rails is an excellent option.
Adds a personalized touch to skateboard.
Skateboarding is not just about performing tricks and maneuvers, but also about expressing oneself. Skateboarders seek to personalize their boards to suit their individual styles and personalities. One way to accomplish this is by adding custom skateboard rails.
Skateboard rails not only offer protection to a skateboard’s edges but also add a stylish touch to its overall appearance. They come in various colors, designs, and sizes, and allow skateboarders to make their boards stand out from the rest. Custom skateboard rails can be designed with logos, graphics, or artwork that reflects the rider’s personality or style. Overall, skateboard rails are an essential accessory that not only adds protection to the board but also adds value to the rider’s experience.
Provides a more stable grind surface.
Skateboard rails are essential for providing a more stable grind surface. When grinding on a rail, the skateboarder needs a smooth and sturdy surface to slide across. Without skateboard rails, the deck of the skateboard may scrape or scratch against the surface, which can be dangerous and damaging. Additionally, skateboard rails allow for longer and smoother grinds. They reduce the amount of surface area in contact between the board and the rail, making it easier for the skateboarder to slide and control their movements. Overall, skateboard rails provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for skateboarders looking to take their skills to the next level.
Buyer’s Guides
When looking for the best skateboard rails for your board, there are a few key factors that you should consider to ensure that you get the right set for your needs. Understanding what these factors are can help you make an informed decision and get the rails that will work best for you.
Size
The size of skateboard rails is an important consideration before purchasing them because it affects how well they will fit and function on your skateboard. Rails that are too long or too short can cause problems with stability and could potentially damage the deck. Furthermore, the size of rails depends on the size of your skateboard, so it’s essential to ensure that you choose the right size for your board to avoid any safety issues.
Additionally, the size of your skateboard rails can impact your riding style and performance. Longer rails provide more surface area for grinding, while shorter rails may be better suited for technical tricks. It’s crucial to take into account your personal preferences and riding style when selecting the size of your skateboard rails to ensure that you get the most out of your skating experience.
Material
Material is an important aspect to consider before buying skateboard rails as it affects the durability and performance of the rails. Different materials such as steel, aluminum, and plastic offer different levels of strength and flexibility. Steel rails, for example, are strong and ideal for grinding, but they may add weight to the skateboard, making it less maneuverable. Aluminum rails are lightweight and can withstand heavy use, while plastic rails are suitable for beginners and provide a cheaper alternative.
Considering the material of skateboard rails can also impact the maintenance needed. Some materials may require regular upkeep to prevent rust or corrosion, while others are low-maintenance and can withstand wear and tear. Therefore, choosing the right material for your skateboard rails is essential to ensure optimal performance and long-lasting use.
Shape
Skateboard rails are an important component when it comes to performing tricks and maneuvers. The shape of skateboard rails plays a crucial role in determining the quality of tricks that can be performed. The shape determines the angle of grind, which in turn affects the stability and smoothness of the rail. For instance, curved rails are ideal for grinds while straight rails are best suited for slides. The width and height of the rail also matter as they determine the level of stability and control needed when performing tricks. Therefore, considering the shape of skateboard rails helps ensure that the rails purchased match the rider’s skill level and style of riding, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
Additionally, the shape of skateboard rails also determines how well they fit with other parts of the skateboard. Rails that do not match the shape of the deck can lead to an unstable ride, and in extreme cases, can even cause accidents. Therefore, it is important to consider the shape of the skateboard rails before purchasing them to ensure they match the deck’s shape and size. This not only ensures the rider’s safety but also optimizes the performance of the skateboard. Overall, taking into account the shape of skateboard rails before purchasing them plays a pivotal role in enhancing the rider’s experience, skill, and safety.
Durability
Durability is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard rails. Skateboarding is a high-intensity sport that can put a lot of stress on the equipment, including the rails. You want to ensure that your rails are durable enough to withstand the abuse that comes with skating. Low-quality or poorly made rails can easily break or become damaged, leading to potentially serious injuries.
Choosing durable skateboard rails not only ensures your safety but is also a cost-effective option in the long run. When you invest in high-quality rails, you are less likely to need to replace them frequently or repair them, which saves you money and hassle. Durable rails are also more likely to maintain their shape and performance over time, allowing you to enjoy skating to the fullest without having to worry about equipment failure.
Compatibility
Compatibility is an important factor to consider when purchasing skateboard rails. This is because different skateboard brands and types of decks have varying measurements, meaning that not all rails will fit all boards. Installing incompatible rails can cause damage to the board or make the rails useless. Additionally, choosing rails that are not compatible may also harm your skating experience, as they may not provide the necessary level of stability and support required for certain tricks.
Furthermore, purchasing compatible skateboard rails can help you save money and time in the long run. If you buy rails that are not compatible, you may need to purchase new rails or a new skateboard altogether. This can be costly and time-consuming, as it may mean waiting for new components to arrive or even starting over with a whole new setup. Therefore, taking the time to ensure compatibility with your skateboard is crucial for a successful and enjoyable skating experience.
Brand/Manufacturer reputation
It is essential to consider the brand/manufacturer reputation before buying skateboard rails because it ensures the product’s quality and durability. Reputable brands use high-quality materials and ensure consistency in their production process to ensure that the product meets the industry standards. They invest in conducting research and testing to create rails that can withstand the wear and tear caused by the skater’s tricks.
Moreover, reputable brands usually have a customer service team that can address any issues or concerns with their products. This means that in case of any defects or damages, you can easily contact their support team for replacements or repairs. Overall, buying skateboard rails from a reputable brand ensures that you have a product that is not only safe and durable but also backed by the manufacturer’s guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are skateboard rails?
Skateboard rails are long, thin pieces of metal or plastic material that can be attached to the underside of a skateboard deck. They run along the bottom edge of the deck and are designed to protect the board from getting damaged when performing tricks that involve sliding along hard surfaces.
When riders perform tricks like grinds, slides, or boardslides, the rails slide along the edge of the surface and absorb the impact, preventing the board’s wooden structure from getting scratched or damaged. The rails also make it easier for riders to maintain control during tricks since the metal or plastic creates a smooth surface that helps reduce friction. Skateboard rails come in various shapes and sizes, and riders can choose from different colors and materials to suit their style and preference.
How do skateboard rails affect my skating experience?
Skateboard rails, also called grind rails, provide a raised surface that skaters can slide or grind across, adding to the variety of tricks and maneuvers they can perform. By adding a rail to your skateboard setup, you can increase the level of difficulty and challenge yourself to new tricks, such as slides, grinds, and stalls. Rails also allow skaters to slide along curbs and other obstacles, creating a smoother and more thrilling skating experience.
However, skateboard rails can also affect the overall feel of your skateboard. Adding a rail can make your board feel slightly heavier and less maneuverable, so it’s important to experiment with different setups and find the one that works best for your skating style. Additionally, rails can be quite noisy and can cause wear and tear on your skateboard, so it’s important to regularly maintain your board to prevent damage.
Are skateboard rails easy to install?
Yes, a mountain bike cargo rack can hold heavy items securely during a ride if it is properly installed and designed to carry the weight of the items. When selecting a cargo rack, it is important to consider the weight capacity and ensure it can handle the weight of your items. Additionally, it is recommended to distribute the weight evenly on the rack to prevent any instability during the ride. Properly securing the items with bungee cords or straps can also add an extra layer of security. Overall, a mountain bike cargo rack can be a reliable solution for carrying heavy items during a ride when used correctly.
What materials are typically used to make skateboard rails?
Final Verdict
In conclusion, skateboard rails are a crucial accessory for any skateboarder who wants to take their skating game to the next level. We’ve reviewed the top 12 best skateboard rails and provided a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the one that fits your skateboarding style and budget. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, investing in a high-quality skateboard rail can enhance your overall skating experience and make your tricks more seamless and smooth. So, don’t compromise on the quality of your skateboard rail and get the best skateboard rail that suits your skating needs today!