Before you drop into the skate park or cruise the urban streets, having the right skateboard gear essentials is key not only for nailing your tricks but also for staying safe. Whether you’re a beginner just finding your balance or an experienced rider pushing your limits, the right equipment can make all the difference in your skateboarding experience. This guide will walk you through all the fundamental gear you need—from your board setup to protective gear and maintenance tools—so you can ride confidently and enjoy every session.
Skateboard Deck: Choosing the Right Size and Shape
The skateboard deck is the foundation of your ride; it’s what you stand on and controls how you maneuver your board. Choosing the right deck size and shape is essential because it affects comfort, stability, and performance.
Deck width typically ranges between 7.5 to 8.5 inches. Narrower decks (7.5″ to 8.0″) are great for technical street skating since they are lighter and easier to flip. Wider decks (8.0″ and above) provide greater stability, making them better suited for ramps, pools, or cruising around town.
Aside from width, pay attention to the deck’s shape and concave (the curvature across its width). A deeper concave offers better foot grip and control during tricks, while a flatter deck might feel more comfortable for cruising. Many skaters try out different sizes and shapes before settling on their ideal deck, so don’t hesitate to experiment.
Trucks: Types and Importance
Trucks are the T-shaped metal parts mounted under your skateboard deck, connecting the wheels and allowing the board to turn. Choosing the right trucks is crucial because they influence turning responsiveness and stability.
Truck width should match the deck width closely. For example, if you have an 8-inch deck, look for trucks with an axle width around 8 inches. This alignment ensures the wheels stay within the edges of your deck, reducing the risk of wheel bite, where the wheel touches the board during sharp turns.
Trucks come in two primary truck styles: traditional kingpin (TKP) and reverse kingpin (RKP). Most street and park skaters prefer TKP trucks because they offer quicker turning and better control for tricks. RKP trucks are more common for longboards and cruising due to their smoother, more stable turns.
Aside from size, consider the hardness of the bushings (the rubber rings inside the trucks). Softer bushings allow for sharper turns, while harder bushings offer more stability at higher speeds.
Wheels: Hardness and Size Considerations
Wheels are more than just the parts that roll; their size and hardness drastically affect how your skateboard rides on different surfaces.
Wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm) and generally ranges from 50mm to 60mm for skateboards. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are preferred for technical street skating because they’re lighter and keep you closer to the ground, enhancing control for flip tricks. Larger wheels (55-60mm) are better for transition skating, like ramps and bowls, providing more speed and smoother rides over cracks and rough surfaces.
Wheel hardness is measured on the durometer scale, typically from 78A to 101A. Softer wheels (78A-87A) absorb impacts better, making them ideal for cruising and rough terrain. Harder wheels (88A and above) slide more easily and hold speed better on smooth surfaces, making them ideal for street and park skating.
Bearings: Improving Ride Smoothness
Bearings are the small circular components inside each wheel that let it spin freely. Good bearings directly affect how fast and smoothly your skateboard rolls.
Bearings are rated on an ABEC scale (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), which measures precision and tolerance. While a higher ABEC rating can indicate better quality, the real difference for skateboarding often comes from the manufacturer’s overall bearing design and lubrication, not just the rating.
Look for bearings that are rust-resistant, come with built-in lubrication, and are durable under impact. Some brands cater specifically to skateboarding with features like shields and speed enhancers. Regular cleaning and lubrication of your bearings also help maintain a smooth ride over time.
Protective Gear: Helmets, Pads, and Wrist Guards
Safety should always be a top priority when skateboarding, regardless of skill level. Protective gear protects you from serious injuries and helps you skate with confidence.
Helmet: The most essential piece of protective gear is a well-fitted skateboard helmet. Unlike bike helmets, skate helmets cover more of the back of the head and are designed to withstand multiple impacts. Make sure the helmet meets safety standards such as CPSC or ASTM.
Pads: Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards reduce the risk of scrapes, bruises, and fractures when you fall. For beginners or those practicing new tricks, pads can make the learning process less intimidating. Even experienced skaters use them while trying out challenging maneuvers.
Wrist Guards: Wrist injuries are common in skateboarding, so wrist guards are highly recommended. They help support the wrist during falls and reduce the chance of sprains or fractures.
Skate Shoes: Enhancing Grip and Control
The right pair of skate shoes significantly impacts your grip, comfort, and board control. Skate shoes are designed with flat, grippy soles typically made from vulcanized rubber or cupsole constructions that provide both flexibility and cushioning.
Look for shoes with reinforced areas around the toes and sides since these spots endure the most wear during tricks and ollies. Additionally, a good skate shoe will offer a snug fit but also allow some freedom of movement.
Popular skate shoe brands often incorporate padded collars for ankle support, and breathable materials for all-day comfort. Remember, worn-out shoes can reduce grip, so replacing your skate shoes periodically is essential to maintain performance.
Maintenance Tools and Accessories
Keeping your skateboard in good shape is key for longevity and performance. Basic maintenance tools make adjustments and repairs easy to handle by yourself.
A skateboard tool, commonly referred to as a “T-tool,” combines a socket wrench and screwdriver designed specifically for skateboard hardware. It usually fits the kingpin, axle nuts, and mounting bolts, enabling you to tighten or loosen parts as needed.
Other handy maintenance items include:
- Replacement hardware screws and nuts
- Grip tape (to replace worn-out grip surfaces)
- Bearing lubricant and cleaner
- Spare wheels or wheel spacers
Regularly checking your hardware for looseness, cleaning bearings, and replacing components when worn out will ensure your skateboard stays reliable and safe.
Putting It All Together: Building Your Perfect Skateboarding Setup
With all the essential gear in hand, you’re ready to put together a skateboard setup tailored to your style and goals. Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Select a deck width and shape that match your skating style
- Choose trucks that fit your deck and preferred turning responsiveness
- Pick wheels sized and hardened for your terrain and riding style
- Invest in quality bearings for a smooth, fast roll
- Prioritize protective gear, especially a certified helmet and wrist guards
- Wear durable skate shoes with good grip and support
- Keep maintenance supplies handy for ongoing care
Starting with the right gear sets you up for success. It improves your performance, keeps you safe, and enhances your skateboarding experience across every session. Remember, the best skateboard gear is the gear that feels right for you and helps you progress comfortably and confidently. Now, gear up and enjoy the ride!
