How To Skateboard

How to buy a new skateboard

By: SUN

How to Skateboarding

There are 4 basic things to consider When deciding which skateboard to buy: cost, trucks, bearings and wheels, and decks

1. Cost. Set your budget at around $50 to $120 for a brand new beginner skateboard. Do not aim for the best board that will set you back a hefty 3-digit figure that does not even include bearings, trucks, and a set of wheels.

A skateboard can be very expensive so the basic principle to remember is to settle for something functional -basic. Sure there are quite a lot of cheap skateboards available but you should be warned that cheap means dangerous. Cheap skateboards will usually mean weak trucks, poor quality wheels that can break easily, freezing bearings, and boards that break easily.

Good skateboard manufacturers will spend a lot of time to make the skateboards that are safer, better and last longer. Usually, skateboards like this will cost around $120.

2. Trucks. There are different types of trucks suited for specific tricks and functions. Some are made heavy while some just look tough. Go to a proper skateboard dealer and seek advice or bring a friend who really knows what trucks are right for your skill level

Try to buy a complete pro grade skateboard. This is high in quality and will last a lot longer. It will feel more comfortable when you ride it.

3. Bearings and wheels. Bearings keep the wheels spinning when you stop pushing. Now, there are different ratings (measured in ABEC value) that determine the speed of the bearings. The slowest are the ‘AA’ bearings. While this will help you maintain a very slow speed downhill, it won’t give you that needed speed on flat surfaces.

‘AA’ is then followed by ABEC 3, ABEC 5, ABEC 7, and ABEC 9. Beginners can go for ABEC 3 or ABEC 5 at the most. These bearings may not give you the best movement but going for the fastest bearings is not a good idea either.

4. Deck. If you want to go for the best deck, choose the one without any graphics. Why? Brandings and designs are what make skateboard decks expensive. Aside from that, deck designs can easily scratch off with a decent amount of skating. Instead of focusing on the cool graphics, get a 7-ply deck and pay attention to the shape of the deck. Get one with a good amount of curve to the kicktails.

Therefore, your ideal beginner skateboard should consist of a 7-ply deck, durable tracks, and ABEC 3 or 5 bearings at a reasonable price.

You can also try building your own pro grade skateboard. You can purchase the board, trucks, wheels, and bearings separately. This will allow you to get the best boards, trucks and wheels.