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How to Choose the Right Skateboard for You: A Beginner’s Guide
Dec
If you’re new to the world of skateboarding, the variety of skateboards available might leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed. Which skateboard should you choose to best suit your needs? Don’t worry! Today, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on “How to Choose the Right Skateboard” to help beginners make an informed decision when buying their first skateboard.
1. Identify the Type of Skateboard You Need
Skateboards come in various types, each suited to different styles of riding. As a beginner, selecting the right type of skateboard is crucial. The most common types of skateboards include:
- Street Skateboard
If you plan to ride on city streets, squares, or practice tricks, a street skateboard is your best bet. It’s typically shorter and designed for tricks like ollies, flips, and grinding. Street skateboards are lightweight and allow for quick, responsive movements. - Longboard
Longboards are ideal for smooth cruising and long-distance rides. They are longer and wider than street skateboards, offering greater stability. If you want to ride downhill, cruise around, or travel long distances comfortably, a longboard is a great option. - Cruiser Skateboard
A cruiser skateboard is a hybrid between a street skateboard and a longboard. It’s slightly longer than a street board but not as long as a full longboard. Cruisers are versatile and ideal for casual city rides, commuting, or simply enjoying a smooth ride on a variety of surfaces.
For most beginners, street skateboards or cruiser skateboards are the best choices, as they offer a good balance of ease of use and versatility.
2. Choose the Right Size
The size of your skateboard, including its width and length, will greatly affect stability and maneuverability. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
- Width
Skateboard widths typically range from 7.5 to 8.5 inches. Wider boards provide more stability, while narrower boards are more agile. As a beginner, we recommend choosing a skateboard with a width between 7.75 to 8.0 inches. This width strikes a good balance between stability and maneuverability. - Length
Longer skateboards are more stable, making them suitable for cruising, while shorter boards are more nimble and ideal for tricks. For beginners, a skateboard length between 28 and 32 inches is ideal.
3. Select the Right Wheels and Bearings
Wheels and bearings are essential components that determine how smoothly and comfortably your skateboard rides. As a beginner, choosing the right wheels is especially important.
- Wheel Hardness and Material
Skateboard wheels are measured using a durometer scale, which indicates their hardness. Softer wheels (78A-87A) offer better grip and smoother rides on rough or uneven surfaces, making them a good choice for beginners. Harder wheels (95A and above) are better for smooth, skatepark surfaces but may feel less comfortable for new riders. - Wheel Diameter
The diameter of the wheels affects both speed and comfort. For beginners, wheels with a diameter between 50mm to 54mm offer a good balance of stability and versatility on various surfaces. - Bearings
Bearings control how smoothly your skateboard moves. For beginners, ABEC 5 or ABEC 7 bearings are usually sufficient, providing a good balance between speed and control.
4. Consider the Deck Material
The material of the skateboard deck plays a significant role in its durability and weight. Most skateboard decks are made from maple wood, which is durable, flexible, and ideal for most skating styles.
- Maple Decks: Common and durable, great for beginners.
- Bamboo Decks: Lightweight and environmentally friendly but generally more expensive, suitable for those who prioritize weight.
For most beginners, a maple wood deck is recommended as it’s sturdy and perfect for learning basic tricks and cruising.
5. Choose a Reputable Brand
Choosing a trusted brand ensures better quality and customer service. Reputable brands are committed to producing high-quality skateboards and offering support to riders. At TOEC, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch skateboards that undergo rigorous selection and testing to ensure every rider has the best experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right skateboard is a key decision, especially for beginners. We hope this guide helps you understand how to pick a skateboard that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you go for a street skateboard, longboard, or cruiser, the most important thing is to enjoy the freedom and fun that skateboarding brings.
So, grab your skateboard and start your adventure today!
If you have any further questions or need help selecting the perfect skateboard, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you get started on the right foot!