The Ultimate Skateboarding Equipment List: From Beginner to Pro
Skateboarding, a thrilling blend of art, sport, and self-expression, demands the right gear to ensure both performance and safety. Whether you’re a seasoned pro carving up skateparks or a beginner taking your first tentative steps, having the correct equipment is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential skateboarding equipment, providing detailed explanations to help you navigate the world of boards, trucks, wheels, and more.
I. The Skateboard Deck:
The deck is the heart of your skateboard, the platform upon which you stand and perform tricks. Choosing the right deck depends on your skill level, riding style, and personal preferences.
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Size and Shape: Decks are typically measured in width (7.5" to 8.5" is common for beginners, wider boards are generally preferred for larger riders or those focused on street skating, narrower boards are better suited for technical tricks). Length (28" to 32") and concave (the curve of the deck) also affect the feel and control. A deeper concave offers more foot support and control, particularly for technical tricks. Beginners often prefer a less aggressive concave. The shape, whether it’s a popsicle (classic shape), a cruiser (longer and wider), or a specific shape designed for a particular trick, also plays a significant role.
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Construction: Decks are predominantly made of 7-ply Canadian maple wood, known for its strength, flexibility, and pop (the responsiveness of the board when you push down). Higher-quality decks use better-grade maple and tighter construction, resulting in a more durable and responsive board. Some decks incorporate other materials like fiberglass or bamboo for added strength or flex.
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Graphics: While largely aesthetic, deck graphics are a significant part of skateboarding culture. From simple designs to elaborate artwork, your deck’s graphic reflects your personality and style.
II. Skateboard Trucks:
Trucks are the metal components that connect the deck to the wheels, allowing for steering and maneuverability. They consist of several parts:
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Hangers: These are the long, curved metal pieces that hold the wheels. The hanger’s width determines the turning radius of your board; wider hangers provide more stability but less turning, while narrower hangers offer tighter turns but less stability.
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Baseplates: These are the flat metal plates that attach the trucks to the deck. The angle of the baseplate, known as the kingpin angle, influences the turning response.
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Kingpin: This is the large bolt that connects the hanger and baseplate, allowing the hanger to pivot and enable turning.
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Bushings: These are rubber components that sit inside the truck and control the turning response. Softer bushings provide looser, more responsive turns, while harder bushings offer tighter, more stable turns. The bushing’s hardness is measured in durometer, with higher numbers indicating harder bushings. Choosing the right bushing hardness depends on your riding style and preferences.
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Pivot Cups: These are small plastic or nylon cups that sit between the kingpin and the baseplate, reducing friction and wear.
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Axles: These are the bolts that hold the wheels in place on the hangers.
III. Skateboard Wheels:
Wheels are arguably the most important factor determining how your board rides. Key considerations include:
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Size: Wheel size is measured in diameter (typically 50mm to 60mm) and width. Larger wheels are faster and roll over obstacles more easily, making them ideal for cruising and rough terrain. Smaller wheels are more nimble and responsive, better suited for technical tricks and street skating.
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Hardness (Durometer): Wheel hardness is also measured in durometer, usually ranging from 78a to 101a. Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide better grip and are ideal for street skating, but wear out faster. Harder wheels (higher durometer) are faster and smoother but offer less grip.
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Shape: Wheel shape affects how they roll and grip. Rounder profiles are generally smoother, while more square profiles offer more grip.
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Core: The core of the wheel is the material inside the outer urethane. It influences the wheel’s weight and durability.
IV. Skateboard Bearings:
Bearings are small, precision components housed inside the wheels that enable them to spin smoothly. Higher-quality bearings are smoother and faster, making a significant difference in your ride. ABEC rating (Annular Bearing Engineers Committee) indicates the precision of the bearings, with higher numbers suggesting greater precision and smoother performance.
V. Skateboard Griptape:
Griptape is the sandpaper-like material applied to the top of the deck, providing the traction necessary for your feet to stay firmly planted on the board. It’s crucial for control and safety.
VI. Protective Gear:
Safety should always be a top priority. Essential protective gear includes:
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Helmet: A properly fitted helmet is crucial to protect your head from serious injury.
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Knee Pads: Knee pads protect your knees from scrapes and impact.
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Elbow Pads: Elbow pads protect your elbows from abrasions and impact.
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Wrist Guards: Wrist guards are particularly important for preventing wrist fractures, common injuries in skateboarding.
VII. Other Essential Accessories:
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Skateboard Tool: A multi-tool with various sockets and a wrench for tightening and adjusting your trucks and wheels.
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Skateboard Wax: Used to reduce friction on certain surfaces, improving sliding tricks.
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Skate Shoes: Proper skate shoes offer support, ankle protection, and grip. They are designed to withstand the wear and tear of skating.
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Skateboard Bag/ Backpack: To transport your board safely and conveniently.
Choosing the Right Equipment:
Selecting the right skateboarding equipment is a personal journey. Beginners should start with a complete setup from a reputable brand, focusing on durability and a comfortable ride. As you progress, you can experiment with different components to fine-tune your setup to match your style and preferences.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your skateboard in optimal condition. This includes checking the tightness of the trucks and wheels, lubricating the bearings, and replacing worn-out parts as needed. Cleaning your board and replacing griptape when it’s worn down will extend its lifespan.
This comprehensive guide should provide you with the knowledge to choose the right skateboarding equipment. Remember, the journey of skateboarding is as much about the gear you use as it is about the skill you develop. Start safely, have fun, and enjoy the ride!
