What Makes a Good Skateboard? (A Beginner’s Guide)

Discover the key components of a great skateboard, how to choose one, and how to maintain it for a safe and enjoyable ride as you start shredding the streets.

Skateboarding is a sport that once you get the hang of it, you’re hooked for life. But you need the right equipment, and with so many things to consider, choosing a skateboard can seem daunting. But fear not, my friends, because this post will break it down for you.

We’ll talk about what a skateboard is, its key components, and what makes a good skateboard. So grab your helmet, hop on your board, and let’s get rolling!

What makes a good skateboard? A good skateboard should have high-quality components such as a sturdy deck, durable trucks, smooth-rolling wheels, and reliable bearings. The size and shape of the board should also match the rider’s skill level and preferred riding style. Proper maintenance and safety measures are also crucial for getting the most out of a skateboard.

What is a skateboard?

Skateboarding is a popular recreation and sport where the rider balances on a small board mounted on wheels called a skateboard. This board is typically made from seven to eight plies of maple plywood deck and has polyurethane wheels attached to the underside by a pair of skateboarding trucks.

Image of a wall of skateboards at a local skateshop. Source: jaya endean, pexels
Image of a wall of skateboards at a local skateshop. Source: jaya endean, pexels

Skateboards are used by pushing with one foot while the other remains balanced on the board. The skateboarder moves by shifting their weight to control the direction and speed of the board. They can perform aerial acrobatics in half-pipe or street-style events with enough practice.

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My favorite complete skateboard (at the moment):

Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard

What makes a good skateboard? (a beginner's guide) | 61vn95mf7ql. Ac sl1184 | skateboard salad
My favorite complete skateboard (at the moment):

Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard

I had my board stolen a few years ago and was forced to quickly replace it with a complete. I got one with an Enjoi deck and loved it so much that I still buy the Whitey Panda deck each time I need a new deck. This complete with budget-friendly, beginner-friendly parts, but I still swear by it.

What are the key components of a skateboard?

The key components of a skateboard are the deck, trucks, and wheels, and each has a specific function.

  • The deck is the flat surface that the rider stands on, made of maple or bamboo wood, and can vary in size and shape depending on the rider’s preference and style of riding.
  • The trucks are metal axles mounted underneath the deck and hold the wheels, allowing the rider to turn the skateboard while in motion.
  • Wheels are attached to the trucks and come in various sizes, shapes, and hardness to fit the rider’s style of skating and the terrain they will ride on.
Image of two skateboards flipped over on the white sand near the sea. Source: pixabay
Image of two skateboards flipped over on the white sand near the sea. Source: pixabay

Additional components include grip tape to provide traction on the deck and bearings to connect the wheels to the trucks and allow them to spin smoothly. Hardware, such as bolts and nuts, connects the different components. Understanding the individual parts and their functions is essential to selecting and maintaining a skateboard for a safe and enjoyable ride.

What makes a good skateboard?

A good skateboard should have high-quality components that are durable and perform well. The skateboard deck, trucks, and wheels should be of good quality and appropriate for the rider’s style of skating and the terrain they will be riding on.

…consider the price of the skateboard when looking for a good quality board.

The grip tape is essential to keep the rider’s feet securely on the board. Bearings should have a high ABEC rating and be well lubricated for a smooth ride and maximum speed.

It is also important to consider the price of the skateboard when looking for a good quality board. A quality skateboard deck can be expensive, but investing in one can lead to a better riding experience and lasts longer. Customization options are available for those who want to personalize their board with different materials and designs.

If you want even more tips and insights, watch this video called “Choosing Your First Skateboard | Skate Shop Edition” from the Braille Skateboarding YouTube channel.

A video called “Choosing Your First Skateboard | Skate Shop Edition” from the BBBBB YouTube channel.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do you still have questions about what makes a good skateboard? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions.

What should I look for when choosing a skateboard?

To choose a good skateboard, focus on the key components such as the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. Consider the size and shape of the board, the riding style and skill level of the rider, and the overall quality of the components.

How do I maintain my skateboard?

Regular cleaning and upkeep are essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your skateboard. Inspect and tighten loose screws, and replace worn-out parts. Always wear protective gear when riding to prevent damage to yourself and your board.

Can I customize my skateboard?

Yes! There are many ways to customize your skateboard. You can choose alternative materials for the deck and wheels, add graphics or designs to your grip tape, or even build your board from scratch. Buy high-quality components and follow proper installation procedures to ensure your safety and the performance of your board.

Conclusion

Well, folks, that’s a wrap! We’ve covered everything from the deck to the wheels and everything in between. I hope you found this post a “wheel” valuable resource in your quest for the perfect skateboard.

So, now it’s your turn. What did you think? Did we cover all the bases, or did we miss something? (Have you ever had a skateboard that was so bad it made you want to switch to rollerblades?) Let me know in the comments section below, and I promise to read and reply to every comment.

And if you found this article helpful, please do me a favor and share it with a friend. And don’t forget to check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and as always, keep on rolling!

Key takeaways

This article covered what makes a good skateboard. Here are some key takeaways:

  • A good skateboard should have high-quality components, including a sturdy deck, durable trucks, smooth-rolling wheels, and reliable bearings.
  • The size and shape of the board should match the rider’s skill level and preferred riding style.
  • A quality skateboard deck can be expensive, but investing in one can lead to a better riding experience and lasts longer.
  • Regular maintenance and proper safety measures are crucial for getting the most out of a skateboard.

Helpful resources

Steven Portrate
Written by Steven Sadder, Staff Writer

Hey! I'm Steven, a lifelong skater, and proud New Yorker. I’ve been skating since I was a teenager. I may be a bit older now, but I'm not slowing down. Follow me for skating tips and latest gear reviews.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Staff Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail.

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