Stepping into the world of skateboarding competitions is exciting and rewarding, but it demands more than just skill and style. Having the right equipment and gear can make a significant difference in your performance, safety, and confidence on the course. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or just starting out, understanding what to bring and how to prepare your gear can give you a real edge in any contest.
Choosing the Right Skateboard for Competitions
When it comes to competitive skateboarding, not every skateboard is created equal. The deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings all play crucial roles in how well you perform during tricks and maneuvers. Typically, competition skateboards are designed to be lightweight yet durable to handle intense use and provide precise control.
Most competitive skate decks range from 7.5 to 8.5 inches in width. Narrower decks offer greater maneuverability and faster flip tricks, making them ideal for street competitions. Wider decks tend to provide more stability, favored in vert or bowl skating. Materials like Canadian maple remain a popular choice because of their durability and flex characteristics.
High-quality trucks with properly adjusted tightness ensure smooth turning and stability during grabs and grinds. The wheels you select should match the surface of the competition—softer wheels (78a-87a) work better for rough outdoor skateparks, while harder wheels (90a-101a) are preferred on smooth indoor ramps for increased speed and slide control.
Bearings are critical for speed and smoothness. Precision bearings, commonly rated by ABEC standards, help minimize friction and keep you rolling faster with less effort, an important factor during timed runs or quickly chaining tricks together.
Protective Equipment You Should Never Overlook
Safety should always be a top priority, especially when tricks get technical and the stakes are high. Skateboarding competitions often involve risky moves that can lead to falls or collisions, so wearing adequate protective gear will help prevent serious injuries.
Helmets
Choosing a helmet that meets safety certifications (like ASTM or CPSC) is essential. Competition helmets are usually lightweight and well-ventilated but provide full coverage to protect the head during impacts. Multi-sport helmets designed for skateboarding can also help absorb shock and reduce the chance of concussions.
Knee, Elbow, and Wrist Pads
Falling is part of skateboarding, so high-quality pads for knees, elbows, and wrists will shield you from scrapes and fractures. Look for pads that fit snugly without restricting movement and have durable outer shells combined with comfortable cushioning inside.
Gloves and Other Protective Accessories
While gloves are more common in downhill or longboarding scenes, some street skaters swear by thin gloves to protect hands during technical grinds or slides. Additionally, mouthguards and padded shorts might be useful for added protection, especially in high-impact competition formats.
Footwear Recommendations for Competitive Skateboarding
Your shoes are the unseen partners that directly affect your board control, grip, and performance. Skate shoes designed specifically for competition feature reinforced areas around the toes and heels to handle constant friction and impact. They also tend to have flat, grippy soles made of vulcanized rubber for maximum board feel.
When choosing shoes for contests, consider models with:
- Good padding and support to protect your feet during landings
- Durability in high-wear areas like the toe box and the sides
- Flexible materials that allow ample foot mobility
- Breathability to keep your feet cool during long competition days
Popular skate shoe brands often collaborate with professional skaters and incorporate feedback to produce models built for performance under pressure. Trying several brands and fits before the event can help you find the perfect match.
Maintenance Tips for Competition-Ready Gear
Keeping your equipment in top condition can be just as important as choosing the right gear. Well-maintained skateboards and protective equipment minimize the risk of failure and discomfort during competition.
- Deck Care: Regularly check your skateboard deck for cracks or chips. Clean dirt off and apply grip tape replacement if the surface becomes worn or loses traction.
- Trucks and Bearings: Tighten trucks according to your preference and clean bearings frequently to remove dust and debris. Lubricate bearings to ensure smooth speeds.
- Wheels: Rotate wheels occasionally to promote even wear, and replace them when they become too worn or flat-spotted.
- Protective Gear: Inspect pads and helmets for cracks or excessive wear, and replace them if they lose their protective integrity or become uncomfortable.
- Footwear: Rotate shoes to extend their lifespan, and keep the soles clean to maintain board grip.
Being proactive with your gear maintenance keeps you competition-ready and can boost your confidence knowing your equipment will perform as expected.
Investing in Your Competitive Edge
In competitive skateboarding, gear is more than just functional; it becomes a part of your personal style and performance toolkit. Investing in the right equipment and protective gear not only enhances your ability to perform but also safeguards your well-being, letting you focus fully on your run without distraction or worry.
From selecting the perfect board to choosing durable protective pads and supportive shoes, every piece plays a role in your success. Maintaining your equipment diligently maximizes its lifespan and ensures you’re always ready to take on the challenges of your next competition with confidence and style.
So, gear up wisely, stay safe, and let your skills shine on the competition stage!
