Get started right here. We've got a step by step process laid out so you can get a set up and start ripping.
Step 1: Choosing the Skateboard Setup That's Right For You
Get to you local skater-owned core shop and pick out your custom setup:
- Deck: 8.25 inches wide is the most common deck size, but that of course depends largely on your shoe size and personal comfort when you stand on the board. Take the deck off the wall, look at the shape, stand on it, etc.
- Trucks: Choose trucks that match the width of your deck. The skate shop employee can help you out, or the truck brands have this info on their websites.
- Wheels: Wheel size and hardness impact your overall ride. 50-54mm are common sizes. Get hard wheels, aka high durometer, for street skating, and softer wheels if you want to do more cruising.
- Bearings: Everyone will tell you, Swiss bearings are the best. They're pricey, but worth it.
- Hardware: Phillips head or Allen wrench, your choice.
- Grip Tape: Mob or Jessup is pretty much what everyone rides.
Step 2: Safety Gear
New to skating? Gonna be hitting some concrete parks and learning to skate bowls?
- Helmet: It's a good idea to start off with a helmet, especially if you're skating bigger transitions.
- Pads: Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can all be added to your kit if you need.
Step 3: Pushing, Riding, and Controlling Speed
Now, let's get moving:
- Pushing: Place your front foot on the deck and your back foot on the ground. Don't do it the other way around! That's called "Mongo" and you'll get clowned.
Step 4: Learn from the Pros - Expert Insights and Video Tutorials:
Accelerate your skateboarding journey by tapping into the wisdom of experienced skateboarders. Watch videos and read articles with expert tips from pro skaters like Dominick Walker and Amelia Brodka:
- Learn The Basics: Pro skater Amelia Brodka teaches the foundations to skateboarding. From stance and pushing, to stopping and turning. Watch Learn The Basics: Stance, Pushing and Stopping.
- Learn How To Drop In: Pro skater Amelia Brodka teaches you the step by step instructions to get your drop in with ease. Watch How To Drop In.
- Learn How To Ollie: Pro skater Dominick Walker shares his expert advice and step by step instructions to perfect your Ollie. Watch How To Ollie.
Understanding Types of Skateboards for Beginners
Skateboards come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to cater to specific styles and skill levels. We'll delve into the different types of skateboards for beginners, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and preferences.
1. Standard Street Skateboards
You wanna be like the guys in the videos? Here's what you want: Standard street skateboards, popsicle-shaped decks, are the go-to choice for many beginners. These versatile boards are symmetrical in shape, featuring a slightly curved nose and tail. They are well-suited for performing a wide range of tricks, from basic Ollies to more advanced flip tricks. Their balanced design makes them great for street skating, skate parks, and practicing flat-ground tricks
2. Cruiser Skateboards
This is the set up you want just for transportation, heading down to the corner store or a friend's house. Bigger decks size, big, soft wheels, loosey goosey trucks, maybe.
3. Longboards
You want to sidewalk surf? Get a longboard. They're not very nimble and they make Ollies hard and flip tricks nearly impossible, but you can cruise like it's the 1970s.
5. Old School Skateboards:
A lot of brands (think Santa Cruz, Powell-Peralta) constantly reissue their 80s shapes. For a bit of nostalgia, and to feel what the pros of yesteryear felt, set one up.
