In this post, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about setting up your board for bowls and pools.
If you’re a visual learner, here is a video titled “NEW Skateboard Setup For Transition (Bowls, Ramps).” to see him unwrap a new deck and discuss how a wider board may be beneficial (or not).
A video titled ‘NEW Skateboard Setup For Transition (Bowls, Ramps)‘ from the Zack Dowdy YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Wide decks (8.5″ or wider) provide essential stability for bowl skating
- Truck selection and tightness significantly impact performance in bowls
- Wheel size and hardness affect speed and grip in the bowl
- Safety gear and proper technique are crucial for preventing injuries in bowl skating
Wait… Is there a difference between bowls and pools?
Quick note—Although pool and bowl skating share similarities, their differences come from their origins and design. While the terms are often used interchangeably today, their specific design features differentiate them. Regardless, the techniques and setups for both types are largely the same.
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Gearing up
When it comes to bowl and pool skating, your gear can make or break your session. Here’s what I use when hitting the transition:
- Deck: I go wide! An 8.5″ deck or wider gives that extra stability when flying around the bowl. Increased surface area for efficient power transmission. Personally, I’m riding an 8.5″ Creature deck. If you’re taller or have bigger feet, you might even want to go wider. Some skaters rock 9.25″ or even 10″ decks for pure transition skating! Need help choosing the right size? I have a deck sizing guide here.
- Trucks: Independent 159s are great. They perfectly fit ultra-wide decks and give that responsiveness for quick turns. If you’re going wider, consider Indy 169s or even Ace 66 classics for those extra-wide setups.
- Wheels: This is where personal preference comes into play. I’m running Spitfire Formula Four 56mm wheels, which gives a good balance of speed and control. For bowl and pool skating, that sweet spot of 56-58mm and between 90A to 99A gives you the perfect balance of speed and control.
- Bearings: Quality bearings mean speed, and speed is your friend in the bowl. Red bearings are my go-to. Always have been, but I hear G3 bearings are a solid option, offering high speed without breaking the bank.
- Bushings: This is key because you want to loosen those tricks plenty! The stock bushing might not do it for you. Experimenting is crucial to finding what works for you.
- Risers: I use 1/4″ risers to prevent wheel bite. Catching wheel bite in a bowl is not fun!
- Shoes: Not that important. You won’t need anything too padded, though. Here’s an in-depth guide on choosing the perfect skate shoe.
- Grip Tape: Mob grip all the way. It’s a classic. That extra grip is crucial when carving hard in the bowl.
Tip: Truck Tightness for bowl dskating
I keep my trucks at medium tightness. Most people say to go loose for bowl skating, but after catching some nasty wheel bite, I found that medium works best for me. Finding that sweet spot between stability and maneuverability is key.
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Bowl Safety 101: Keeping Your bones intact and your enthusiasm high
- Always wear a helmet. No excuses.
- Start small and work your way up to bigger bowls.
- Check for debris before your session. You don’t want a pebble sending you flying.
- Learn how to bail safely. Sometimes, running out or sliding on your knee pads is the best option.
Tip: Wheel choice for beginners
If you’re just learning, softer wheels will stick to the wall better at slow speeds. Some skaters swear by 60mm wheels for bowl skating – they say it makes pumping around the bowl easier.
Dos and don’ts of bowl and pool skating
Mastering bowl and pool skating requires not only the right gear but also the correct approach. These dos and don’ts will help you navigate the learning curve safely and effectively, ensuring you progress while minimizing risks.
Dos
- Use a wide deck (8.5″ or wider) for better stability
- Opt for 56-58mm wheels for a balance of speed and control
- Experiment with truck tightness to find your sweet spot
- Wear proper protective gear, especially a helmet
- Start at the bottom of the bowl and work your way up
- Learn to pump for speed before attempting bigger tricks
Don’ts
- Don’t use narrow decks unsuitable for bowl skating
- Don’t ignore the importance of quality trucks and bushings
- Don’t skate bowls without proper safety gear
- Don’t attempt advanced tricks before mastering the basics
- Don’t ignore signs of wear and tear on your equipment
- Don’t skate alone, especially when trying new techniques
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal bowl performance. Clean your bearings every few sessions, tighten loose hardware, and inspect your deck for wear. Replace worn grip tape to maintain traction, and rotate your wheels periodically to ensure even wear. Pay special attention to your trucks, adjusting them as needed to maintain the right balance between stability and maneuverability for bowl skating.
Weather conditions can significantly impact bowl skating. Humidity can make the surface slippery, while extreme heat can soften your wheels, affecting grip and speed. Cold weather can make the concrete harder and less forgiving on falls. Always inspect the bowl for moisture or debris before skating, and consider adjusting your setup (like using softer wheels in colder conditions) to adapt to different weather scenarios.
Improving flow and line selection in a bowl comes with practice and observation. Study experienced skaters and analyze their lines. Start with basic circuits around the bowl, focusing on smooth transitions between walls. Gradually incorporate more complex lines, using different parts of the bowl. Practice pumping to maintain speed without pushing. Remember, good flow often means using the bowl’s shape to your advantage, so experiment with different approaches to find what feels most natural and efficient for your style.
Final thoughts
We’ve covered significant ground today. From the basics of bowl and pool skating setups to the techniques to master, you’re now armed with the knowledge to decide if this style of skating is for you.
Now, I want to hear from you. What’s your experience with bowl and pool skating? Any epic stories or intense bails? Drop them in the comments below. And if you’re in Columbus, maybe I’ll see you at the park.
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