Buying Guide for the Best Skateboards
Choosing the right skateboard can greatly enhance your skating experience, whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater. The key is to understand the different components and specifications of a skateboard, and how they align with your personal needs and skating style. Here are the main specs to consider when picking a skateboard, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.Deck SizeThe deck is the flat board you stand on, and its size is crucial for comfort and control. Deck width typically ranges from 7.5 to 8.5 inches. Narrower decks (7.5-7.75 inches) are lighter and easier to flip, making them ideal for street skating and technical tricks. Wider decks (8.0-8.5 inches) offer more stability and are better for cruising, vert skating, and larger skaters. Choose a deck size that matches your skating style and foot size.
Deck MaterialMost skateboard decks are made from 7-ply maple wood, which offers a good balance of strength and flexibility. Some decks use alternative materials like bamboo or fiberglass for added durability and lighter weight. If you're a beginner, a standard maple deck is a reliable choice. More advanced skaters might explore alternative materials for specific performance benefits.
ConcaveConcave refers to the curvature of the deck. It affects how the skateboard feels under your feet and how it responds to your movements. Low concave decks are flatter and provide a stable platform, suitable for cruising and beginners. Medium concave offers a balance between stability and control, making it versatile for various skating styles. High concave decks have a more pronounced curve, providing better grip and control for technical tricks. Choose the concave based on your comfort and the type of skating you plan to do.
TrucksTrucks are the metal T-shaped parts that attach the wheels to the deck. The width of the trucks should match the width of your deck for optimal performance. Trucks also come in different heights: low, medium, and high. Low trucks are closer to the ground, providing more stability for flip tricks. Medium trucks offer a balance and are suitable for all-around skating. High trucks are better for cruising and carving, as they allow for larger wheels. Consider your skating style and deck size when choosing trucks.
WheelsSkateboard wheels come in various sizes and hardness levels, affecting speed, grip, and smoothness. Wheel diameter typically ranges from 50mm to 60mm. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are lighter and better for technical street skating. Larger wheels (55-60mm) provide more speed and are suitable for cruising and vert skating. Wheel hardness is measured in durometers, with higher numbers (e.g., 99A) being harder and faster, ideal for smooth surfaces and tricks. Softer wheels (e.g., 78A) offer better grip and are suitable for rough surfaces and cruising. Choose wheels based on the terrain you'll be skating on and your preferred style.
BearingsBearings are the small metal rings that fit inside the wheels, allowing them to spin. They are rated by the ABEC scale, with higher numbers indicating greater precision and speed. ABEC ratings range from 1 to 9, but for skateboarding, ABEC 5 to 7 is generally sufficient. Higher-rated bearings offer smoother and faster rides but can be more expensive. Consider your need for speed and smoothness when selecting bearings.
Grip TapeGrip tape is the sandpaper-like material applied to the top of the deck to provide traction for your feet. It ensures you stay securely on the board while performing tricks. Most grip tape is similar in quality, but some offer different textures or designs. Choose grip tape that provides good traction and matches your aesthetic preferences.
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