How to Setup a Skateboard: 10 Essential Steps to Shredding Success

Master skateboard setup with our 10-step guide. From deck selection to applying grip tape, turn your ride into a shred-ready machine.

Have you ever wondered how to set up a skateboard all by yourself? If your answer was, “Yeah, dude, I’ve always wanted to do that!” then strap in because we’re going on a shred-ready journey! From the grippiest grip tape (check out some killer options here) to the toughest trucks (you’ll not want to skip these), we’ll walk you through a rad setup that would make Tony Hawk proud. Let’s get into it, shall we?

How to set up a skateboard?

Let’s prepare to turn that brand-new board into a guaranteed shred machine with these ten rock-solid steps.

  1. Remove old hardware

    First things first, you’ve got to disassemble your old skateboard. Tackle those pesky trucks by unbolting the hardware previously installed. It can be a bit of a struggle, but after a few bouts with these stubborn bolts, you’ll definitely emerge victorious.

  2. Apply the grip tape

    Grip tape application is a crucial step. Doing it right ensures your board has a smooth and even surface for the best grip possible. Here’s something to keep in mind while setting the grip tape: u003cstrongu003ethe direction mattersu003c/strongu003e. Normally, it’s easy to install the grip tape from any direction. But what if you decide to try something different, like leaving a little gap at the end?u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIf you’re feeling adventurous, prep the grip tape to create a defined gap by cutting it accordingly. Remember, the gap should not interfere with your foot placement when riding or performing tricks.

  3. Smooth the edges

    This might seem like a small detail, but it can make all the difference. Smooth edges prevent the grip tape from fraying or peeling back, keeping your board in top-notch condition for longer.u003cbru003eAfter applying the grip tape, you can always use a spare piece of grip tape to smooth your cut edges. Not only does this neat little hack get rid of any rough spots, but it also leaves your board looking professional and tidy.

  4. Use your trucks to trace the cutting guide

    Run the edges of your trucks over the grip tape to trace a cutting guide. Instead of fiddling around with sketchy tools, the profile of your truck provides a neat, easy-to-follow guideline.

  5. Cut the grip tape

    Grab your trusty razor, engage that steady hand, and let’s get cutting! Follow the guidelines traced by your trucks, and slice away all excess grip tape. One word of advice here: try to make as longer, smoother cuts as possible. This reduces the likelihood of any jagged or uneven lines on your deck.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eCutting the grip tape around the curves of the deck is, without a doubt, the most challenging bit. But don’t worry, we’ve got a trick for this, too: tackle them last. By doing so, you allow yourself more practice and warm up with the easier parts.

  6. Repeat the process

    After the first round of cutting, it’s essential to go over the board again to catch any spots you may have missed.

  7. Apply the trucks

    Once your deck is prepared, it’s time to bolt on the trucks. This is the last lap of the relay, so think of it like the heavyweight finale—it’s about bringing together all the components to make your skateboard functional. As you fix the trucks, remember to keep the sizing and placement accurate. Incorrectly installed trucks could negatively impact your ride, so take your time and do it right!

Dos and don’ts of setting up a skateboard

Whether you’re a skate park regular or a newbie still testing the waters, attention to detail during setup is key. Make note of these ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’:

Do’sDon’ts
Always check the grip tape alignment before application.Never rush the grip tape application process.
Regularly maintain and replace worn-out components.Don’t use unfit equipment or improvised tools.
Understand your style and choose suitable components.Avoid applying enormous pressure when tightening the trucks.
Essential reminders when setting up a skateboard.
🤙 My favorite bearings (at the moment)

Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings

5/5

My rating is based on my five-point ranking criteria checklist.

🤙 My favorite bearings (at the moment)

Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings

Not gonna lie—these are the best bearings I've bought because they are fast and cheap! I've never had any issues with them, and they're super inexpensive and smooth as hell.
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What are some additional tips for setting up a skateboard?

Make the most of your setup with these additional tips:

  • Be patient! Don’t rush it, especially when it comes to applying the grip tape and attaching trucks.
  • Preserve your components. Always save usable components, even if you’re switching to a new setup. You never know when you might need them!
  • Make sure you always have the proper tools. It’s much easier to do the right thing than improvise.
  • Experiment and find what suits you best. Every skater is unique, and so is any board setup. Find your comfort zone.
  • Always ensure you’re setting up in a well-lit and spacious area. Working in small, cramped, dark spaces can be a real bummer.

Is setting up your own skateboard worth it?

As a newbie skater, setting up my board was pretty wild. I was clueless, fumbling with grip tape, making rookie errors, and generally making a mess of things. I remember how my friends would constantly tease me about my board setup attempt! But hey, it isn’t as smooth as a 50-50 grind for everyone, right?

Image of a person holding a skateboard while sitting on a ramp. Source: Pexels

What pulled me through? Well, skateboarding isn’t just about sleek tricks and gnarly rides. It’s also about getting there. The constancy of learning, evolving, and overcoming challenges is a never-ending loop, much like skateboard wheels. The more you mess up, the more you learn.

“Skateboarding isn’t just about sleek tricks and gnarly rides. It’s also about the ride getting there. The constancy of learning, evolving, and overcoming challenges is a never-ending loop, just like the skateboard wheels!”

Looking back, I can say every second was worth it. Building your own skateboard not only elevates you to an entirely different league but also gives you a sense of rich accomplishment. So, my fellow skaters, if you’re on the fence about setting up your board, I’d say go for it! It’s one of the best gifts you can give to your skating journey. Trust me, you won’t regret it. Skate on!

If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Before we wrap up, let’s address some of those burning questions you may still have on your mind. These are some queries that skateboarding enthusiasts often have while setting up their boards.

Why is grip tape important for skateboards?

Without grip tape, your skateboard would be as slippery as ice! The grip tape provides traction for your feet, ensuring they stay firmly on the board during tricks and rides. It’s not just about safety, though; using quality grip tape like Cal 7’s can substantially enhance your control and stability during your thrill-filled skateboarding sessions.

What is the best way to apply grip tape to a skateboard?

The key to applying grip tape effectively lies in alignment and pressure. Begin by aligning the tape on the board, ensuring it covers the deck appropriately. Apply it from the center, gradually working your way out to eliminate air bubbles. Haven’t done this before? Don’t worry! We all start somewhere, and detailed guides like the one here can smooth your ride.

Can I set up a skateboard without any previous experience?

Absolutely! Setting up your own skateboard is a learning curve, and nobody nails it perfectly on their first attempt. As long as you’re willing to learn and avoid repeating mistakes, you’ll soon feel at ease with time. This guide for new skateboarders offers some handy tips that can make this journey even more exciting and less intimidating.

Final thoughts

Setting up your own skateboard might be a ride full of trials and errors, but the destination makes it worth the journey. The joy of rolling on a self-assembled skateboard can be addictive—it’s a blend of accomplishment and exhilaration! Prepare to turn heads at the skate park with your personalized ride, and don’t forget to stay open-minded—there’s always something new to learn in the international students’ club, um, I mean… skateboarder’s world!

So, what’s your thoughts on setting up a skateboard? Is it a challenge you’re ready to embrace, or does it seem too daunting? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on setting up a skateboard. Thanks for reading, and keep shredding!

Key takeaways

This article covered how to set up your skateboard like a pro from a beginner’s perspective. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Disassembling your old board is the first step towards setting up a new one.
  • The right grip tape significantly enhances your move execution during rides.
  • Align grip tape carefully before application for an even surface.
  • Marking the cut line with truck profiles can improve grip tape application.
  • Smooth out grip tape edges with leftover grip tape to prevent fraying.
  • Double-check and redo steps if necessary – this shows attention to detail.
  • Proper installation of trucks plays a crucial role in the board’s overall performance.

Helpful resources

Image of jedain.
Written by Jedain Arron, Founder and writer

I'm Jedain, a 30-something-year-old dad rekindling my love for skateboarding. I've been skating since I was 13 back in New York City, took a long break for adulting, and now I'm back on the board.

This blog documents my journey back to the skatepark (creaky joints and all). Follow along as I relearn tricks, reconnect with the skate scene, and share the ups and downs of returning to the sport.

Nick eggert.
Edited by Nick Eggert, Editor

Nick is our staff editor and co-founder. He has a passion for writing, editing, and website development. His expertise lies in shaping content with precision and managing digital spaces with a keen eye for detail. When not working on the site, you can find him sipping Bourbon at the karaoke bar.

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