So you decided to pick up skateboarding; that’s awesome! 🎉 Now, you probably have a ton of questions. This guide is designed to help you get started in the right order. So, whether you’re a total beginner or looking to brush up on the basics, this guide is for you.
1. Understanding Skateboarding culture
Skateboarding is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle and a community. Before you dive into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand the culture that surrounds skateboarding.
- History: A brief history of the origins of skateboarding and its evolution.
- Culture: Discover the cultural impact and evolution of skateboarding Culture.
- Jargon: Get familiar with the lingo of the skateboarding world.
- Etiquette: Everything you need to know about skateboarding etiquette in and out of the skate park.
2. Buying the Right Skateboard and Equipment
In this section, we’ll cover all the essential gear you need for skateboarding, starting with the individual components that make up your skateboard. Knowing these parts is crucial because, in the skateboarding scene, building your board standard practice if you want to be taken seriously. But it’s not just about the board—having the right shoes is just as important.
Below, you’ll find in-depth buyer guides for each component, as well as my top picks for complete boards and must-have gear in case you prefer a more done-for-you setup.
- Deck: The deck is the foundation of your board. Learn to choose the right deck.
- Trucks: Trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to the deck and are essential for turning and stability. Check out our skateboarding truck buyers guide.
- Wheels: Where the rubber meets the road. There’s more to choosing skateboarding wheels than you might think.
- Bearings:Â There’s a lot of debate over bearings. Know how to choose the best bearings are or if it even matters.
- Grip Tape: Grip tape is vital for keeping your feet securely on the board. Proper application ensures your board remains controllable during tricks and rides.
- Skate Shoes: Invest in durable skate shoes with good grip and board feel. The right shoes can make a significant difference in your ability to perform tricks and maintain control of your board.
3. Maintaining Your Skateboard
To keep your skateboard performing at its best, regular maintenance is key. Here’s how to care for your board:
- Grip Tape Care: Over time, grip tape can lose its effectiveness due to dirt and wear. Clean it regularly with a grip tape cleaner or replace it when it becomes too worn.
- Truck Maintenance: Check your trucks for loose bolts or excessive wear. Tighten or replace hardware as needed to maintain stability and performance.
- Wheel Care: Wheels can wear unevenly or develop flat spots. Rotate them periodically to ensure even wear and replace them when they lose their shape.
- Bearing Upkeep: Bearings can get dirty or rusty, affecting your ride. Clean them regularly with a bearing cleaner and lubricant to ensure a smooth, fast roll.
- Deck Inspection: Inspect your deck for cracks or signs of delamination. Small cracks can be repaired, but larger issues may require replacing the deck to avoid accidents.
4. Mastering the Basic Stances and Pushing
Before you start learning tricks, you need to master your stance and pushing technique:
- Regular Stance: Left foot forward, right foot pushes.
- Goofy Stance: Right foot forward, left foot pushes.
- Pushing: Push off with your back foot, keeping your front foot steady on the board.
- Foot Placement: Find the balance between comfort and control. Experiment with foot placement until you feel stable.
Pro Tip:
Don’t rush. Spend time getting comfortable just cruising around before attempting tricks. Balance and control are key!
5. Learning Basic Tricks
Once you’re comfortable riding, you can start learning some basic tricks:
- Ollie: The fundamental trick where you jump with the board. Mastering the ollie opens the door to many other tricks.
- Kickflip: A step up from the ollie, flipping the board in the air.
- Shuvit: A trick where the board spins 180 degrees without flipping.
- Manual: A balancing trick where you ride on two wheels, either the front or the back.
“Skateboarding isn’t about fame or money; it’s about self-expression and pushing your limits.” – Unknown
6. Practicing Balance and Control
Skateboarding requires a great sense of balance and control. Here are some exercises to help you improve:
- Balance Drills: Practice balancing on your board without rolling. Shift your weight from front to back foot to get a feel for the board’s movement.
- Controlled Turns: Work on making smooth turns by leaning your body and adjusting your foot placement.
- Stopping Safely: Learn to stop by dragging your back foot on the ground or performing a slide stop.
7. Exploring Different Skateboarding Styles
As you progress, you’ll discover different styles of skateboarding. Each style has its own techniques and equipment preferences:
- Street: Focuses on tricks performed on obstacles like stairs, rails, and ledges. Requires technical precision and creativity.
- Vert: Involves skating on ramps or half-pipes, with a focus on airs, grabs, and spins.
- Park: Combines elements of street and vert, performed in skate parks with a variety of obstacles.
- Cruising: Relaxed riding, often on longer boards with softer wheels, perfect for commuting or casual rides.
- Freestyle: An old-school style that involves technical flat-ground tricks, footwork, and board manipulation.
8. Safety First: Essential Gear and Tips
Skateboarding is fun but can be dangerous. Always wear protective gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Know your limits and skate in safe, designated areas.
- Helmet: Your most crucial piece of safety gear. Always wear a certified skateboarding helmet.
- Pads: Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can prevent serious injuries during falls.
- Skate Shoes: Proper skate shoes provide grip and protect your feet from impacts.
- Fall Techniques: Learn how to fall safely, rolling with the impact to minimize injury.
- Skating Environment: Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid busy streets and crowded areas, and respect other people’s space.
9. Maintaining Your Skateboard
Keeping your skateboard in good condition is essential for a smooth ride and safety. Here’s how to maintain your board:
- Check the Trucks: Ensure your trucks are tight but allow for easy turning.
- Clean Bearings: Regularly clean and lubricate your bearings to keep them spinning smoothly.
- Inspect the Deck: Look for cracks or damage that might weaken the deck.
- Replace Worn Wheels: If your wheels are worn unevenly, consider rotating or replacing them.
- Grip Tape Care: Keep your grip tape clean by brushing off dirt and debris.
10. Joining the Skateboarding Community
One of the best parts of skateboarding is the community. Here’s how to get involved:
- Local Skate Parks: Visit your local skate park to meet other skaters and practice.
- Online Forums: Join online communities to share tips, watch videos, and discuss skateboarding.
- Competitions: Participate in or watch local competitions to push your skills and learn from others.
- Skate Shops: Support your local skate shop. They’re a great place to meet fellow skaters and get gear advice.
- Social Media: Follow skaters and brands on social media to stay up-to-date with trends and events.
11. Setting Goals and Tracking Progress
Setting goals and tracking your progress is crucial for improvement. Here are some tips:
- Start Small: Set achievable goals, like learning a new trick every week.
- Document Progress: Record videos of your sessions to track improvements and identify areas for growth.
- Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate when you achieve a goal, whether it’s landing a trick or mastering a new technique.
- Stay Consistent: Practice regularly. Even short sessions can lead to significant improvements over time.
12. Final Thoughts: Embrace the Journey
Skateboarding is a journey of self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. Whether you’re aiming to become a pro or just want to enjoy the ride, remember that every skater started where you are now. Keep pushing, stay safe, and most importantly, have fun!