Street skateboarding is more than just a sport or hobby—it’s a lifestyle that combines creativity, skill, and passion. Whether you’re ollieing down stairs, performing kickflips on handrails, or cruising around urban spots, having the right gear can make all the difference. Choosing appropriate street skateboarding gear not only enhances your performance but also plays a key role in keeping you safe while you push your limits. In this guide, we’ll explore the essential equipment every street skater should have, ensuring you’re ready to ride with confidence and style.
Understanding Street Skateboarding and the Importance of Proper Gear
Street skateboarding focuses on performing tricks and maneuvers using urban obstacles like stairs, ledges, rails, and gaps. Unlike ramp or park skating, where terrain is designed specifically for skating, street skating involves improvising on hard surfaces and unpredictable obstacles. This demands not only skill but also gear that can withstand the impact and environment.
Proper gear protects you against injuries, improves your control over the board, and boosts your overall skateboarding experience. Having the right setup means fewer chances of gear failure when landing tricks, better grip on your board, and reduced risk of scrapes or fractures if you take a fall. This becomes especially important as street skating tends to be harder on both the rider and the equipment due to the rough surfaces and high-impact landings.
Skateboard Components: Decks, Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings
Your skateboard is built from several essential components that work together to deliver performance, and each part should be chosen with street skateboarding in mind.
Decks
The deck is the flat board you stand on and is the core foundation of any skateboard. For street skating, decks typically range from 7.5 to 8.25 inches wide. Narrow decks favor technical tricks because they feel lighter and easier to flip, while wider decks offer more stability, which can be helpful for larger riders or those focusing on control.
Street decks are usually made of 7-ply maple wood, balancing durability and flexibility. Some riders might opt for decks with reinforced layers (like carbon fiber) for extra stiffness and strength, but these tend to be pricier.
Trucks
Trucks are the metal T-shaped parts that mount onto your deck and hold the wheels. For street skating, durability and precision are important since tricks often involve a lot of grinding, sliding, and impact. Look for trucks with solid axle construction and good kingpin tightness for responsive turning. Typically, skaters choose trucks that match the width of their deck to maintain balance.
Wheels
Wheels for street skateboarding are generally smaller and harder compared to those used for cruising or vert skating. A diameter between 50mm and 54mm with a hardness rating of 99A or above gives you the best balance of speed, control, and durability on rough concrete and asphalt surfaces. Smaller wheels are easier to maneuver and control during tricky street tricks.
Bearings
Bearings fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin smoothly. While many beginner bearings work fine, investing in higher-quality bearings reduces friction and provides faster roll speed. Look for bearings rated ABEC 5 to 9 or consider skate-specific brands that prioritize durability over pure speed, as street conditions wear down bearings faster.
Protective Gear Essentials: Helmets, Pads, Wrist Guards
While the thrill of street skateboarding comes with risks, wearing the right protective gear can make the difference between minor falls and serious injuries.
Helmets
Protecting your head is paramount. A good skateboarding helmet differs from a bike helmet; it’s designed to handle multiple impacts and provide full coverage around the back of the head. Look for helmets certified by safety standards such as ASTM or CPSC, with comfortable padding and adjustable straps.
Pads
Knee pads and elbow pads help absorb impact from falls, especially when learning new tricks or skating downhill. Choose pads with sturdy hard shells combined with soft foam interiors for shock absorption without sacrificing mobility.
Wrist Guards
Wrist injuries are common in skateboarding when trying to break a fall with your hands. Wrist guards provide critical support and cushioning to reduce the risk of fractures and sprains. They fit snugly around your wrists and sometimes include splints for extra protection.
Choosing the Right Shoes for Street Skateboarding
Shoes are often underestimated in street skateboarding, but the right pair can boost your control, board feel, and durability. Skate shoes designed specifically for street skating feature:
- Flat, grippy soles: They improve board traction, which is essential for flip tricks and slides.
- Durable uppers: Reinforced areas around the toes and sides resist wear and tear from constant contact with grip tape and ledges.
- Comfort and cushioning: Protect your feet from repeated impact and help maintain energy during long skate sessions.
Popular skate shoe brands such as Vans, Nike SB, Adidas Skateboarding, and Emerica offer a variety of models with these features. When picking shoes, prioritize fit and comfort, and try to replace them as soon as the soles wear thin or the grip diminishes.
Maintenance Tips for Your Gear
Maintaining your skateboard and protective gear ensures longevity and safety. Here are some straightforward tips to keep everything in top shape:
- Regularly check your skateboard hardware: Tighten nuts and bolts on trucks and replace any stripped or rusted screws.
- Clean bearings: Remove bearings occasionally and soak them in a solvent to remove dirt and debris for a smoother ride.
- Inspect grip tape: Replace your grip tape if it becomes overly worn or starts peeling to maintain traction.
- Clean and inspect pads and helmets: Wipe them down after sessions, and replace anything cracked, torn, or heavily worn.
- Store gear properly: Avoid leaving your skateboard in extreme temperatures or damp places, which can warp wood and corrode metal.
Budget-Friendly Gear Options
Quality gear doesn’t always have to break the bank. Here are tips to get the essentials without overspending:
- Start with a budget skateboard complete: Often, complete skateboards from reputable brands come well-balanced and ready for street use at a lower price.
- Look for seasonal promos and sales: Skate shops and online retailers often have discounts during holidays or skate events.
- Buy protective gear in sets: Combo sets for helmets, pads, and wrist guards cost less than buying each item separately.
- Consider secondhand purchases: Gently used decks, trucks, and shoes in good condition can offer great savings.
- Invest first in gear that affects safety: Helmets and wrist guards are non-negotiable; prioritize these before cosmetic upgrades.
By carefully selecting your gear and maintaining it well, you can enjoy street skateboarding safely and effectively without excessive spending.
Setting Yourself Up for Success and Safety
Street skateboarding is a rewarding pursuit that challenges your creativity, balance, and perseverance. Having the right gear—from your skateboard setup to protective equipment and shoes—empowers you to land more tricks confidently while minimizing the risk of injury. Remember, investing time in gear selection and upkeep is investing in your riding longevity.
Start with a solid deck and reliable trucks, wheels, and bearings designed for street conditions. Combine these with a comfortable, grippy pair of skate shoes and essential protective gear like a helmet and pads. Maintain everything regularly and consider your budget to ensure you get the best value. With these essentials in place, you’ll be ready to tackle urban terrain with style, safety, and performance.
