A Beginners Guide to Choosing Your First Skateboard

Skateboarding is a thrilling sport that has been enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels for decades. Whether you’re looking to cruise around town, perform tricks at the skatepark, or enjoy the feeling of rolling on four wheels, choosing the right skateboard is crucial to getting started on the right foot. With so many different types of skateboards, brands, and components available on the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners to know where to start.

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about choosing and buying your first skateboard, from the various types of skateboards and components to how to maintain and care for your board correctly.

So, whether you’re a complete newbie or just looking to upgrade your current setup, read on to jump on board and begin your skateboarding journey.

What is a skateboard?

A skateboard is a small, narrow board with wheels on the bottom used for transportation or sport. Skateboarding involves riding and performing tricks on a skateboard and has become a popular activity worldwide.

Types of Skateboards

Skateboards come in various shapes, sizes, and styles to accommodate different preferences and skill levels. Here are some of the most common types of skateboards:

Cruiser:

A cruiser skateboard is designed for transportation and cruising around town. They usually have more prominent, softer wheels for a smoother ride and a more expansive deck for stability.

Longboard:

Longboards are more prolonged and broader than standard skateboards designed for cruising and downhill riding. They have bigger wheels and are more stable at higher speeds.

Old School:

Old-school skateboards have a retro design similar to the original skateboards from the 1970s. They have a more expansive deck, smaller wheels, and a kicktail for tricks.

Street:

Street skateboards are designed for doing tricks and riding in skate parks. They have a smaller, narrower deck and harder, smaller wheels for better control.

Freestyle:

Freestyle skateboards are used for performing technical tricks and maneuvers. They have a flat, symmetrical deck and smaller wheels for better control.

Downhill:

Downhill skateboards are designed for racing down hills at high speeds. They have a more extended, expansive deck, bigger wheels, and trucks with a lower center of gravity for stability.

Electric:

Electric skateboards have a motor and battery attached to the bottom, allowing effortless transportation and cruising without pushing. They come in various shapes and sizes.

Considerations to make before purchasing your first skateboard

Before purchasing your first skateboard, there are several considerations to ensure you choose the right one for your needs and skill level. Here are some essential things to consider:

Purpose: Consider why you want a skateboard. Are you looking for a mode of transportation, or do you want to learn tricks and ride in skate parks? Different types of skateboards are designed for various purposes.

Deck size: The size of the skateboard deck is vital for stability and control. A more expansive deck may be more comfortable if you have large feet. Smaller decks are better for technical tricks.

Trucks: The trucks are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck. They come in various sizes and can affect how the board turns and maneuvers. Consider the width of the deck when choosing the size of the trucks.

Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in different sizes and hardness levels. More prominent, softer wheels are better for cruising and transportation, while smaller, harder wheels are better for tricks and riding in skate parks.

Brand and quality: Choosing a reputable brand and quality skateboard is essential to ensure safety and durability. Cheaper, lower-quality skateboards may break easily and can be unsafe.

Budget: Skateboards can range from around $50 to over $200. Consider your budget and how much you will spend on your first skateboard.

By considering these factors, you can choose a safe, durable skateboard that suits your needs and skill level. Try out different types of skateboards before making a purchase, if possible, to get a feel for what you prefer.

How to choose the correct bearings for your skateboard

Bearings are an essential skateboard component, allowing the wheels to spin smoothly. Choosing suitable bearings can make a significant difference in how your skateboard performs. Here are some factors to consider when selecting bearings for your skateboard:

ABEC rating:

Bearings are rated on the ABEC scale from 1 to 9, with higher ratings indicating greater precision and smoother spinning. However, the ABEC rating is one of many factors to consider when choosing bearings.

Brand:

Look for reputable bearing brands that are known for their quality and durability. Some popular bearing brands include Bones, Bronson, and Spitfire.

Material:

Bearings can be made from various materials, including steel, ceramic, and titanium. Ceramic bearings are more expensive but tend to last longer and spin faster.

Riding style:

Consider your riding style when choosing bearings. Standard bearings should suffice if you’re a beginner or primarily use your skateboard for transportation. However, higher-quality bearings may be necessary if you’re an experienced skater who does tricks or rides in skate parks.

Budget:

Bearings can range in price from around $10 to over $100. Consider your budget when choosing approaches.

Which is the best skateboard for beginners?

Choosing the best skateboard for beginners can be overwhelming, with many options. A good skateboard for beginners should be easy to control, stable, and durable. Here are some options to consider:

Complete skateboard: A complete skateboard is an excellent option for beginners as it comes fully assembled with all the necessary components. This removes the guesswork from selecting individual parts and ensures the skateboard is constructed correctly.

Cruiser skateboard: Cruiser skateboards are designed for transportation and cruising around town. They have larger, softer wheels and a more expansive deck for stability, making them a good option for beginners who want a comfortable ride.

Mini skateboard: Mini skateboards are smaller and easier to control, making them an excellent option for younger or smaller beginners. They’re also a good choice for those who want to learn tricks, as they’re lighter and more maneuverable.

Longboard: Longboards are more prolonged and broader than standard skateboards and are designed for cruising and downhill riding. They have bigger wheels and are more stable at higher speeds, making them a good option for beginners who want a smooth ride.

Old school skateboard: Old school skateboards have a retro design and are similar to the original skateboards from the 1970s. They have a more expansive deck, smaller wheels, and a kicktail for tricks, making them a good option for beginners who want to learn basic tricks.

Choosing a reputable brand and quality skateboard is essential, regardless of the type selected. Some popular skateboard brands for beginners include Element, Santa Cruz, and Powell Peralta. It’s also a good idea to try out different types of skateboards to find what works best for you. By choosing the right skateboard for your needs and skill level, you can learn to skate safely and enjoyably.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing and buying your first skateboard can be a fun and exciting process, but it’s essential to take the time to research and make informed decisions. By understanding the various types of skateboards, components, and maintenance tips, you can ensure that you get the most out of your skateboarding experience. Remember to prioritize safety by wearing proper gear and taking precautions when practicing tricks or riding in public spaces. With the right mindset and equipment, skateboarding can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby that provides endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression. So, take the plunge and get ready to jump on board!

FAQS

What size skateboard should I get?

The size of your skateboard depends on your personal preferences and intended use. For beginners, a skateboard with a deck width between 7.5 and 8 inches is a good starting point.

What type of skateboard should I get?

The type of skateboard you choose depends on what you plan to do with it. If you want to cruise around town, a longboard or cruiserboard might be a good choice. A standard skateboard or a shorter “street” board might be more appropriate if you want to perform tricks.

What components should I look for in a skateboard?

The critical components of a skateboard are the deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings. Look for high-quality details from reputable brands, and ensure that the features are compatible.

How much should I spend on a skateboard?

The cost of a skateboard can vary widely depending on the quality of the components and the brand. As a beginner, spending a little money on a skateboard is okay, but investing in quality components will make a difference in your skating experience.

How do I maintain my skateboard?

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your skateboard in good condition. This includes keeping the bearings clean and lubricated, tightening or replacing loose hardware, and checking for signs of wear on the deck and wheels.