Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the different types of skateboards available online? Choosing the right board can be difficult and confusing, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. In many cases, each skateboard is unique in its design and composition, with a variety of features that affect its performance.
Based on your skill level, budget, and preferences, you’ll need to narrow down your options by evaluating the various elements of different skateboards. Some have greater stability, while others are more lightweight and responsive. Let’s take a look at the different components so you can make an informed decision:
Pick a Reputable Skate Store
If you plan on taking up skateboarding, the first thing you should do is shop skate gear from a reputable Australian online store. They not only have a wide range of high-quality products, but they’ll also have knowledgeable staff who will help you make an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right board for you.
A good skate shop has a vast selection of products for both beginners and professional skateboarders. They carry a wide range of boards, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tapes, as well as protective gear. They also have a selection of clothing and accessories such as t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and socks. So, once you get the quality skateboard you need, you’ll also find a range of essential skateboarding gear and accessories to start practising.
Another reason to shop skate gear from a well-equipped skating store is their commitment to carrying high-quality products from reputable brands. They carry a wide range of brands, including popular ones such as Santa Cruz, Independent Trucks, and Bones Bearings. You’ll also find lesser-known, yet highly-regarded brands like OJ Wheels and Shorty’s Hardware. This way, you’ll have a variety of options to choose from, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences.
In addition to its wide selection of products, a good skateboard shop also offers a variety of services to its customers. It has a team of experienced and knowledgeable employees who are passionate about skateboarding and are more than happy to help you with any questions or concerns that you may have.
Lastly, a good online skate shop lets you shop from the comfort of your own home. Their websites are user-friendly and easy to navigate, so it’s simple for you to find the products you’re looking for. Additionally, they have a simple return policy and offer free delivery on purchases that exceed certain amounts.
Complete vs Custom Build
If you’re a complete beginner, a complete skateboard is a great option for you because it’s ready to ride right out of the box. You don’t have to worry about assembling the parts yourself or making sure everything is compatible. Plus, they come with all the necessary components, so you don’t have to go out and buy each individual part.
Another advantage of complete skateboards is that they’re often designed with beginners in mind, so the parts are typically less expensive, and you don’t have to spend much money to start with. This is a great way to test the waters and see if skateboarding is something you’re really into before investing in more expensive gear.
Also, complete skateboards are often more durable and less likely to break than custom-built boards, which saves you a lot of time, money, and frustration in the long run.
What Type of Skateboard Deck is Best?
When it comes to skateboard decks, one of the best options is a 7-ply maple deck. And it’s easy to see why! Maple is a type of hardwood that’s known for its durability and strength. It withstands a lot of wear and tear, which is important for a dynamic sport like skateboarding.
The 7-ply construction adds to the deck’s strength and durability. Each ply is another layer of wood that’s glued together, and the more plies there are, the stronger the deck is. So, a 7-ply deck is going to be able to handle more abuse than a deck with 4 or 5 plies.
Another benefit of maple decks is that they’re often very lightweight, which makes them easier to manoeuvre. This is especially helpful for doing tricks with your board.
What Type of Wheels Do I Need?
When it comes to choosing the right wheels, there are a few things you should consider:
-Size: Wheels come in different sizes, and the one that’s best for you depends on your skill level and what you’re using the board for. As a beginner, it’s a good idea to start with larger wheels that will give you more stability;
-Hardness: The wheels’ durometer is measured on a scale of 1-100A, the higher the number, the harder the wheel is. Soft wheels (78A-87A) are good for beginners because they provide more grip and are better for cruising and sliding. On the other hand, harder wheels (88A-101A) are better for tricks and high-speed riding;
-Material: Urethane is widely used in skateboard wheels, it’s durable, handles impact well, and it also provides good grip and control.
Do Bearings Make a Difference?
Bearings are small but essential parts of the skateboard that go inside the wheels and help them turn. They’re available in different ABEC ratings, and the ideal choice for you depends on your needs:
-ABEC 3: These bearings are a good choice for beginner skateboarders. They’re not the most precise, but they’re quite affordable, so they’re a good balance of cost and performance;
-ABEC 5: These bearings are a step up from ABEC 3 in terms of precision. They’re a little more expensive, but they’re also a little more durable. They’re a good choice for beginner skateboarders who want better performance out of their bearings;
-ABEC 7: These are the most precise and also the most expensive. They’re not necessary for beginners, but they’re good for experienced riders who are looking for the best performance.
