Best Concave Skateboard Decks – Comprehensive Guide

If you’re an avid skateboarder, you’re likely aware of the importance of having a skateboard deck that feels comfortable and responsive under your feet. One of the most critical features of any skateboard deck is its concave, inward curve along the length of the board. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a deep dive into Best Concave Skateboard decks, discussing what it is, how it affects your riding experience, and the various types of concave you’ll find on different skateboard decks.

Table of Contents

• What is a Concave Skateboard deck?
• The Importance of Concave for Skateboarders
• Different Types of Concave Skateboard deck
• Radial Concave
• Progressive Concave
• W-Concave
• Flat Concave
• Convex Concave
• Choose the Right Concave for You
• Measurement of Concave
• Adjustment of Concave
• How Concave Affects Skateboard Tricks
• Pros and Cons of Different Concave Types
• Tips for Maintaining Your Skateboard Deck Concave
• Common Misconceptions About Concave
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions About Skateboard Deck Concave

What is a Concave Skateboard Deck?

Skateboard deck concave refers to the upward curve along the length of a skateboard deck. In other words, the curvature gives a skateboard deck its bowl-like shape. This shape is essential for skateboarders because it provides a natural foothold and helps to keep your feet in place while riding.

 The Importance of Concave for Skateboarders

The concave of a skateboard deck is crucial because it affects how a rider feels while riding. A skateboard deck with the right amount of concave will provide a comfortable and responsive riding experience. However, a patio with too little or too much concave can make it challenging to maintain control, affecting your overall performance.

Different Types of Concave Skateboard deck

Skateboard deck concave comes in various shapes and sizes, each affecting the riding experience differently. Here are the most common types of concave you’ll find on different skateboard decks.

Radial Concave

Radial concave refers to a concave that curves evenly along the length of the skateboard deck. This concave type provides a natural and comfortable foothold, making it a popular choice among skateboarders.

Progressive Concave

Progressive concave is similar to radial concave but with a more significant curve towards the center of the board. This concave type helps provide additional support and control, making it a popular choice for skateboarders who do more technical tricks.

W-Concave

W-concave refers to a concave with a W-shape along the length of the skateboard deck. This concave type helps provide additional support and control, making it a popular choice among skateboarders who do more technical tricks.

Flat Concave

Flat concave refers to a skateboard deck with little to no concave. This concave type is not as popular as others because it doesn’t provide the same support and control.

Convex Concave

A convex-concave is a skateboard deck that curves upward on the edges and dips down in the center. This concave type provides a natural foothold and makes it easier to maintain control while riding. It’s a popular choice among skateboarders who prefer a more aggressive riding style and do more technical tricks.

Select the Best Concave for Your Needs:

When choosing the right concave for your skateboard deck, it’s essential to consider your riding style and preferences. If you’re a beginner or prefer a more comfortable ride, a skateboard deck with radial concave may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you’re an experienced skateboarder or prefer a more aggressive riding style, a deck with a W-concave or progressive concave may be a better fit.

 Measurement Concave

Measuring a skateboard deck concave is relatively straightforward. You’ll need a ruler or measuring tape and a straight edge. Place the straight edge on the skateboard deck and measure the distance between the straight edge and the highest point of the concave. This measurement will give you an idea of the depth of the concave.

 Adjustment of Concave

Adjusting concave is something that takes work to do. It requires specialized equipment and knowledge, which only some skateboarders will not attempt independently. However, some skateboard companies offer skateboard decks with adjustable concave, which can be an excellent option for those who want to experiment with different types.

How Concave Affects Skateboard Tricks

Skateboard deck concave affects how a skateboarder performs tricks. A skateboard deck with a more significant concave will provide more support and control, making it easier to execute technical tricks. However, a skateboard deck with a shallower concave may be better for flip tricks, as it allows for more foot movement.

Pros and Cons of Different Concave Types

Each type of skateboard deck concave has its pros and cons. Radial concave provides a comfortable ride but may need to be more supportive for technical tricks. Progressive concave and W-concave offer more support and control but may feel uncomfortable for some riders. Flat concave is less popular because it provides a different level of support and control. Convex-concave provides a natural foothold and is popular among skateboarders who prefer aggressive riding.

Tips for Maintaining Your Skateboard Deck Concave

Maintaining your skateboard deck concave ensures it lasts as long as possible. Here are a few tips for maintaining your skateboard deck concave:

Keep your skateboard deck dry and clean to prevent moisture damage.

Avoid leaving your skateboard deck in direct sunlight for extended periods, which can cause the wood to warp.

Replace your skateboard deck when it shows signs of wear and tear.

Common Misconceptions About Concave

Several things that could be improved about skateboard deck concave are worth addressing. One common misconception is that a deeper concave is always better. While a deeper concave can provide more support and control, it may feel uncomfortable for some riders. Another misconception is that adjusting concave is easy to do on your own. In reality, it requires specialized equipment and knowledge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding skateboard deck concave is crucial for skateboarders of all skill levels. The type and depth of concave can significantly affect the performance and feel of the board, making it essential to choose a deck that suits your style and preferences. Whether you prefer a shallow or deep concave, a W-concave, or a flat deck, experimenting with different types of concave can help you find the perfect skateboard for your needs. With this ultimate guide, we hope you have a better understanding of skateboard deck concave and how it can impact your skating experience. Get out there and shred!

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between concave and kicktail?

Concave refers to the curvature along the length of the skateboard deck, while kicktail refers to the upward curve at the back of the board.

Does concave affect how high I can ollie?

Yes, concave can affect how high you can ollie by providing more or less support and control.

Is a deeper concave always better for skateboarders?

A deeper concave is only sometimes better for skateboarders. It may feel uncomfortable for some riders and unnecessary for those not performing technical tricks.

How can I tell if my skateboard deck has a convex-concave?

Convex-concave can be identified by looking at the edges of the skateboard deck, which curve upward while the center dips down.

Can I adjust the concave on my skateboard deck?

Adjusting concave requires specialized equipment and knowledge, which only some skateboarders will not attempt independently. However, some skateboard companies offer Concave Skateboard Deck: The Ultimate Guide with adjustable concave, which can be an excellent option for those who want to experiment with different types.