How to Buy a New Skateboard: The Ultimate Guide [2023]

Are you ready to take your skateboarding skills to the next level? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, buying a new skateboard is an exciting process. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you make the right choice. From deck size to wheel hardness, we’ll cover everything you need to know to find the perfect skateboard for your needs.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know when buying a new skateboard:

  1. Consider your skill level: Beginners may prefer wider and more stable boards, while experienced riders might opt for narrower and more maneuverable options.
  2. Choose the right deck size: Deck size is determined by your shoe size and riding style. A wider deck offers more stability, while a narrower one allows for quicker turns and tricks.
  3. Select the appropriate wheels: Wheel size and hardness depend on the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. Smaller and harder wheels are better for street skating, while larger and softer wheels are ideal for cruising and vert skating.
  4. Pick the perfect trucks: Truck size should match the width of your deck for optimal performance. Look for durable and responsive trucks that suit your riding style.
  5. Consider reputable skateboard brands: Brands like Birdhouse, Powell Peralta, Real Skateboards, and Bones Wheels are known for their quality and performance.
  6. Don’t forget about grip: A good grip tape provides traction and stability, so choose one that suits your preferences.

Now that you have a quick overview, let’s dive deeper into each aspect of buying a new skateboard.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here are some quick tips and interesting facts to keep in mind:

  • Skateboards are typically made with a 7-ply maple construction for durability and flexibility.
  • Bamboo, plastic, and fiberglass skateboards are also available, offering unique characteristics and performance.
  • Skate shops are a great place to get expert guidance and find unique materials.
  • When buying online, make sure to check customer reviews and ratings to ensure you’re getting a quality product.
  • Skateboarding is a sport that requires practice and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t master tricks right away – keep pushing yourself and have fun!

Now, let’s explore each component of a skateboard in more detail.

Skateboard Parts: A Brief Overview

To understand how to buy a skateboard, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with its different parts. Here’s a quick overview:

  1. Deck: The deck is the main board of the skateboard, typically made of wood. It comes in various sizes and shapes.
  2. Grip Tape: Grip tape is applied to the top of the deck to provide traction and grip for your feet.
  3. Trucks: Trucks are the metal T-shaped components mounted on the underside of the deck. They hold the wheels and allow for turning.
  4. Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in different sizes and hardness levels, depending on the type of riding you’ll be doing.
  5. Bearings: Bearings are small metal rings that fit inside the wheels, allowing them to spin smoothly.

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into each component in more detail.

Choosing the Right Deck Size

The deck size is one of the most crucial factors to consider when buying a skateboard. It determines the stability, maneuverability, and overall feel of the board. Here are some tips to help you choose the right deck size:

  • Consider your shoe size: If you have larger feet, you’ll generally feel more comfortable on a wider deck.
  • Think about your riding style: If you’re into street skating and technical tricks, a narrower deck will be more responsive. For cruising and vert skating, a wider deck provides more stability.
  • Experiment: If you’re unsure, try different deck sizes to see what feels most comfortable for you.

Remember, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing the right deck size. Don’t be afraid to try different options until you find the perfect fit.

Selecting the Right Wheels

Skateboard wheels come in various sizes and hardness levels. The right wheels for you depend on the type of terrain you’ll be riding on. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Wheel size: Smaller wheels (49-52 mm) are ideal for street skating, as they offer lighter weight and better maneuverability. Larger wheels (54-60 mm) are better suited for cruising and vert skating, as they provide more speed and stability.
  • Wheel hardness: Wheel hardness is measured on the durometer scale. Softer wheels (78A-87A) offer more grip and are better for cruising and rough surfaces. Harder wheels (99A-101A) are more suitable for street skating and smooth surfaces, as they provide less grip but more slide.

Consider the type of skating you’ll be doing and the surfaces you’ll be riding on when selecting your wheels. If you’re unsure, a medium-sized wheel with medium hardness (52-54 mm, 90A-95A) is a good all-around option.

Picking the Perfect Trucks

Trucks are an essential component of a skateboard, as they determine how the board turns and performs. Here’s what you need to know when choosing trucks:

  • Truck size: The width of your trucks should match the width of your deck for optimal performance. For example, if you have an 8-inch deck, you’ll want 149 mm trucks.
  • Truck height: Low trucks provide more stability and are better for technical tricks. High trucks offer more clearance and are suitable for cruising and vert skating.
  • Truck material: Look for durable and responsive trucks made from high-quality materials like aluminum.

Consider your riding style and preferences when selecting your trucks. If you’re unsure, a medium-height truck made from aluminum is a good all-around option.

When it comes to skateboard brands, there are several reputable options to choose from. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  1. Birdhouse: Birdhouse offers a wide range of complete skateboards and decks made from seven-ply maple. Their boards are known for their durability and performance.
  2. Powell Peralta: Powell Peralta is a legendary brand that provides standard skateboards, longboards, and cruisers. They have a rich history in the skateboarding industry and offer high-quality products.
  3. Real Skateboards: Real Skateboards is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. They offer seven-ply maple decks for all types of skaters, from beginners to professionals.
  4. Bones Wheels: Bones Wheels is a popular brand known for its high-quality wheels. They offer various wheel designs and are used by professional skateboarders worldwide.

These brands have established themselves as leaders in the industry and have a proven track record of producing top-notch skateboards. When buying a new skateboard, it’s always a good idea to choose from reputable brands that prioritize quality and performance.

Graphics: Do They Matter?

When buying a skateboard, you’ll often come across boards with eye-catching graphics. While graphics can be a personal preference, it’s important to remember that skills developed on the board are more important than the design itself. Graphics may fade over time, but the performance of the skateboard remains the same. So, don’t get too caught up in the graphics and focus on finding a skateboard that suits your riding style and preferences.

The Importance of Grip

Grip tape is an essential part of a skateboard, as it provides traction and stability for your feet. When buying a new skateboard, consider the following:

  • Grip tape color: While grip tape comes in various colors, black grip tape is the most common and recommended option. It offers excellent grip and durability.
  • Grip tape design: Some grip tapes feature unique designs or patterns. Choose one that suits your style and preferences.

Remember, grip tape can be easily replaced if you want to change the design or try a different color. The most important thing is to have a grip tape that provides the traction you need for your riding style.

FAQ

person holding fire cracker shallow focus photography

How do I know what skateboard to buy?

Choosing the right skateboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, riding style, and personal preferences. Consider the deck size, wheel size and hardness, trucks, and reputable brands. If you’re unsure, visit a local skate shop for expert guidance.

How do you get on a skateboard for the first time?

Getting on a skateboard for the first time can be intimidating, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Start by placing your front foot on the board and pushing off with your back foot. Keep your weight centered and practice balancing. As you gain confidence, you can start learning basic tricks and maneuvers.

How do I know my skateboard size?

Your skateboard size is determined by the width of the deck. Consider your shoe size, riding style, and personal preferences when choosing the right size. If you’re unsure, a deck width of around 8 inches is a good starting point for most riders.

When should I get a new skateboard?

It’s time to get a new skateboard when your current one is worn out or no longer performs as it should. Signs of wear include razor-tail (the tail of the board becomes excessively thin), worn-out grip tape, and damaged trucks or wheels. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to invest in a new skateboard.

Read more about “… Kader Baker Deck: The Ultimate Guide to Kader Sylla’s Signature Skateboard”

Conclusion

Buying a new skateboard is an exciting process that requires careful consideration of various factors. From deck size to wheel hardness, each component plays a crucial role in the performance and feel of the board. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect skateboard for your needs.

Remember to choose reputable skateboard brands, consider your riding style and preferences, and don’t forget to have fun! Skateboarding is all about expressing yourself and pushing your limits. So, grab your new skateboard and hit the streets with confidence!

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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