Are you looking to purchase your first skateboard? Skateboarding can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to make sure you get the right board for your style of skating and level of experience. This guide will provide you with the information you need to choose the right board and start shredding!
Step 1: Choose the Right Type of Skateboard
When choosing a skateboard, it’s important to select the right type. There are three main types of skateboards to choose from: regular, longboard, and cruiser. Regular skateboards are typically shorter and lighter than the other types, making them ideal for street skating, tricks, and flips. Longboards are longer and wider, and are better suited for downhill riding or cruising. Cruiser boards are a hybrid of a regular skateboard and a longboard, offering the maneuverability of a regular skateboard combined with the stability of a longboard.
Step 2: Pick the Right Deck Size
The size of the skateboard deck is an important consideration when selecting a board. Generally, the length of the board should be equal to your height, plus or minus 2 inches. For example, if you are 5'4", you should look for a board between 7.5" and 8.5" in length. Wider decks are also available for larger skaters.
Step 3: Select the Right Board Shape
Skateboard decks come in two basic shapes - popsicle and cutaway. Popsicle decks are the most common shape and feature a rounded nose and tail. Cutaway decks have a more angular shape and are usually slightly longer than popsicle decks. The shape of the board you choose will depend on your preference and the type of skating you plan to do.
Step 4: Choose the Right Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings
Once you’ve chosen the right deck size and shape, it’s time to select the trucks, wheels, and bearings that will complete your skateboard. Skateboard trucks are the metal pieces that attach the wheels to the deck and come in a variety of sizes and styles. Choose trucks that fit your deck size and skating style. When selecting wheels, look for a size and hardness that will suit your terrain and riding style. Bearings are the small pieces that go inside the wheels and are measured by their ABEC rating. Higher ABEC ratings indicate higher quality bearings.
Step 5: Assemble Your Skateboard
Now that you’ve chosen all the components for your skateboard, it’s time to assemble it. Start by attaching the trucks to the deck with the nuts and bolts provided with the truck. Then attach the wheels to the trucks using the bearing spacers and axle nuts. Finally, insert the bearings into the wheels and you’re ready to ride!
With this guide, you’ll be able to choose the right skateboard for your style of skating and level of experience. Once you’ve selected the board and components, it’s time to hit the streets and start shredding!
RD Deluxe Series Skateboard (Gray Cali Bear)
$21.78
$19.80 USD
