From protecting your shoelaces and finding the right kick to your board to making homemade wax—these clever tips and DIY solutions will level up your skateboarding experience. We’re diving headfirst into some of my favorite skateboarding life hacks that’ll make your life easier.
What are skateboarding life hacks?
Skateboarding life hacks can significantly impact your journey on four wheels. These practical tips and tricks bring forth unique, out-of-the-box solutions to common challenges skaters face, ranging from wear and tear to optimizing performance.
Let’s do a quick reality check before getting stuck on this checklist. It’s essential to understand that while these hacks will surely boost your skateboarding experience, they’re by no means a substitute for regular practice.
1. Microwave your skate shoes for instant comfort
Remember not being able to perform your favorite tricks with new, stiff shoes? Microwaving your new skate shoes is one hack that could help you. This might sound crazy, but there’s a bit of science behind it.
New skate shoes can be rigid and uncomfortable, hindering your movement and trick execution. Microwaving them for around 30 seconds to a minute makes them flexible and molds them to the shape of your feet much faster. This hack gives you the perfect blend of comfort and flexibility for a kickass shred session.
2. The “crazed-twisting” hack for better shoe grip
Let’s talk about another shoe-brandishing trick: the zealous twist! Adopted by pros like Zeon Wright, twisting your shoes like crazy can enhance their grip and allow for improved handling on the board.
The way your shoes fit you contributes significantly to your control over the board. This hack provides that snug and seamless grip, making you feel more at one with your board. Moreover, it enhances that pivotal skateboard-shoe bond more swiftly, letting you get back out there doing what you love sooner.
3. Make your skateboard wheels last longer with the freezer
Contrary to getting your shoes hot, get your wheels cold! To increase longevity, try preserving your new skateboarding wheels by storing them in the freezer.
For some, this may sound like unprecedented bro-science, but this hack has some die-hard proponents, like infamous skater Ryan Sheckler. The freezing hack is said to increase the wheels’ endurance, ensuring more hours of sick runs. However, be sure not to follow this as gospel, as there’s some mixed consensus in the community.
4. Fipping your wheels to avoid “coning”
For those skaters who love to ride hard and long, wheel degradation should be too familiar. But did you know that you can flip your wheels around to prevent uneven wear, also known as “coning”?
Wheels gradually wear out based on your ride intensity and style, leading to cones or flat spots. To avoid this, every two to three months, flip your wheels or change their position. The switch not only promotes even wear but also lets you keep flaunting those sick graphics—double win!
5. Cleaning skateboard bearings in Windex
Yes, you read that right! An ingenious hack involves cleaning your skateboard bearings with Windex! If Jamie Foy, a notable figure in the skateboarding community, swears by it, you know it’s got to hold some water. Bearings play a crucial role in providing the rider with smooth control over the skate. A regular maintenance regime is crucial for maintaining their performance. Windex is an easy-to-access and effective way to keep your bearings clean.
Note: It’s important to do some brief double-checking of the bearing maintenance specifics that align with your skateboard’s model and type. All skateboards are not made equal, and the same goes for their maintenance.
6. Using a “swapping” pattern for wheel positioning
The best way to balance out the wear and tear on your skate wheels is to shuffle them around using a “swapping” pattern that skaters swear by. This technique ensures an even distribution of wear across all wheels, helping them last longer. Simply swap your left rear wheel for your right front, your right front for your left rear, and so on.
7. Shoe baking
“If freezing your wheels and microwaving your shoes didn’t sound already outlandish enough, here’s one more for the list.”
If freezing your wheels and microwaving your shoes didn’t sound already outlandish enough, here’s one more for the list. Try baking your shoes for a while—but not too long—to get that sweet spot between durability and comfort. However, this method is not recommended if your shoes have metal elements on the laces or within the shoe—a crucial point to remember. So, only do it if you’re ready for something moderately risky.
8. The “microwave, wear, and mold” technique
After microwaving your shoes, immediately wearing them helps mold them to the shape of your feet. This not only amplifies your board control but also aids in a quicker breaking-in period for the shoes. Remember, as you step into those scorching shoes, you’re setting a firm foundation for a more fluid and explosive skating experience. Plus, it’s definitely a faster way to get your ride on point than the traditional “wear and tear” approach!
9. Melted laces
Shoelaces tend to wear out even faster than skateboards, but there’s a way to make them last longer. Once you’ve laced up, use a lighter briefly on the parts that will rub against the board. This slight melting of the nylon strands in the laces strengthens them. While it’s unclear if setting the rest of your shoe aflame will boost its durability, it’s an intriguing thought!
10. Freezer positioning
For our final hack—and it’s a cool one—get strategic with your wheel placement in the freezer. This little-known tip can extend the life of your brand-new wheels while ensuring a smoother, more glide-worthy ride. So, even if it seems a little unconventional, it’s a straightforward and easy hack. Just place your wheels in the freezer and let the cold do its magic. After all, every second you can extend your skating time is precious!
1. Laces Lifespan Hack
Whether you’re a gritty street skater or an air-defying vert skater, shredded shoelaces are a constant bane. And here’s a lifesaver! Melting nylon laces lightly or dabbing some super glue could prolong their life. This hack hardens the fibers, making them more durable. Meaning, you’re not stuck replacing laces after every gnarly session!
Why’s this in our top 5? Well, laces are the unsung heroes of skateboarding. But they often get brushed aside. By following this hack, not only do you keep laces longer, but your skate sessions become a lot less hassle-filled. It’s a small yet crucial part of improving your skateboarding style.
2. Shoe Flexibility Hack
Comfortable shoes are the key to a killer ride, and breaking-in new shoes can be anything but. You can ditch the long days of foot pain and jump straight to a solid skate session with this hack. A bit of a game-changer, isn’t it?
3. Bushings Longevity Hack
Your bushings getting warped and affecting your ride could be a real bummer. But flipping your bushings around every once in a while can keep your board riding straight. It’s a lesser-known fact that can make a world of difference in how your board feels.
Who wouldn’t want their bushings to function like brand new without having to buy new ones? This hack serves precisely that purpose. It brings you closer to that perfect untouched ride with every flip, ensuring improved performance without spending a buck.
4. Board Pop Hack
Unleash that latent pop our boards possess with just a little wax, folks! Waxing the nose and the tail of your board, especially the edges, increases your pop! Useful on rough ground, this hack could give that much-desired bounce and smoothness when you skate around.
This hack’s a stand-out because it takes an everyday tool, wax, and transforms your ride. Your jumps get elevated, and you pull-off tricks like a cakewalk. It’s like stepping into that buttery-warehouse-cement feeling, preparing you for any skateboarding challenges that come your way!
5. Board Marking Hack
For the uninitiated in the room, marking your front and back trucks might seem like child’s play. But trust us, this simple annotation helps you avoid confusion and keep your ride smooth. A Sharpie or a marker is all you need to get started.
This simple yet effective hack is the best way to keep your board on track, literally. It keeps your ride intact, ensuring your bushings aren’t stressed the wrong way and you don’t lose that ‘familiarity’ with your board as you improve your skateboarding style. Now that’s what we call a pretty solid life hack!
Shoe or lace hacks
First, the wear and tear on your shoes and laces from skateboarding can be insane. Maintain those vital laces by lightly melting the nylon fibers with a lighter, turning them into a durable, robust beast. Don’t have nylon laces? No problem. Use superglue or hot glue to get the same result. Either way, you’ll have a solid defense against that nasty lace breakage.
Even your shoes can enjoy some hack-love. Break in those new shoes by microwaving them for 20–30 seconds. They’ll stretch out and feel worn in within minutes, as swiftly as a Tony Hawk 900. If they have metal parts, no sweat! Just microwave in short bursts to avoid disaster. Each shoe hack improves comfort, making your ride smoother and more enjoyable.
Board hacks
Have you ever felt your board lacking that extra bit of pop? You’ll enhance your pop and overall skateboarding experience by waxing the nose and tail’s edges. When it comes to rough terrain, skating can feel like a battle. However, waxing your board in the right places will make it feel like you’re riding on silky warehouse cement. The difference is tangible and, in the long run, could make a significant difference.
Bushings get warped over time, but that’s no reason to fret! Extend their lifespan with a simple flip trick. Rotate your bushings 180 degrees and reinsert them. The warping will balance out, and you’ll keep steering straight. It’s a simple yet effective tip to keep your board functional longer.
DIY wax and ledge hacks
Wax is a skateboarder’s best friend, and while affordable, you might get caught short when you need it. Fear not, DIY buffs—we’ve got you covered. By baking crayons and candles together, you can create your wax. No crayons? A stick of deodorant can serve you just as well!
When it comes to those grinding sessions, having your ledge can significantly improve your performance. An elbow grease and DIY magic can bring a homemade ledge to life. All you need are cinder blocks, metal coping, and cement glue. Assemble, glue, and apply your DIY wax, and you’re ready!
Marking your trucks
Establishing a new love affair with a virgin board: Don’t forget to mark your front and back trucks. Use a permanent marker to place “front” and “back” signs on your trucks. This way, you’ll avoid that weird ride feel due to mismatched trucks based on their wear patterns. It’s a simple but easily overlooked hack.
Remember that while these life hacks can enhance your game, learning skateboard tricks from the humble Ollie to the ambitious kickflip takes time, patience, and commitment. Check out these best skateboard tricks for beginners to start your journey.
Dos and don’ts of implementing skateboarding life hacks
Applying skateboarding life hacks involves a balance. On one side, they can be a massive boon to your progress and overall experience. Conversely, they can cause unnecessary complications if not executed correctly. Let’s ensure you’re on the fast track to success by understanding the dos and don’ts for these hacks.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Verify whether the hack is suitable for your skill level. | Experiment to see which hacks work for your style. |
| Always prioritize safety first. | Avoid putting yourself in harmful situations for the sake of a hack. |
| Don’t get discouraged if a hack doesn’t yield immediate results; the payoff may come later. | Don’t get discouraged if a hack doesn’t yield immediate results; the payoff may come later. |
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Additional skateboarding life hack tips
While the hacks we’ve discussed so far will elevate your game, here are some additional tidbits to fully round out your skateboarding lifestyle:
- Keep a skate tool handy. It’s compact enough to fit in any backpack, and a loose truck will never catch you unawares.
- Regularly clean and lubricate your bearings, improving speed and overall performance.
- Curate a collection of your favorite go-to spots. This way, you’ll always have options when itching to skate!
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Additional skateboarding life hack tips
- Always start small and proceed with minuscule adjustments for the best outcome.
- Patience is your pal; don’t rush the process.
- Keep your skateboarding gear in top shape with regular maintenance.
Informal shots at skateboarding life hacks
- Considering getting your first skateboard as an adult? It’s never too late! Check out these [tips for buying a skateboard for adult beginners](
Steven’s Top Skateboarding Hacks: The Good, The Bad, & The Sketchy
As I’ve shredded the streets and parks, I’ve stumbled upon some insane hacks that have totally shaped my skate journey. From mind-blowing to downright hilarious, let’s dive into these skateboarding secrets.
Microwave Magic (Or Mayhem?): Heard of microwaving shoes to break ’em in? I was skeptical, but man, I gave it a shot! Results? Pretty sick! But let me tell you, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Imagine a sitcom episode in your kitchen. My tip? Watch out for those metal inserts. I kinda missed that memo and got treated to a mini fireworks display in my microwave. Yup, I did that.
Light ‘Em Up, Laces!: Using a lighter on my shoelaces was a game-changer. At first, I thought, “This is insane!” But after trying it out, I got a few more days out of those bad boys. Melted nylon? Definitely not something I thought I’d ever say, but here we are.
In the end, these hacks aren’t just fun experiments; they’re a glimpse into the creativity and resilience of the skate world. Some will be solid choices, while others might leave you saying, “What was I thinking?” But hey, that’s skateboarding! We’re all about the ride, the spills, and those quirky tidbits in between. So, strap in, give these hacks a whirl if you’re feeling adventurous, and remember: it’s all just part of the ride. Skate on!
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| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Lightly melt nylon shoelaces for extra durability | Don’t melt cotton laces, they’ll just burn |
| Microwave new shoes for a quick break-in | Avoid microwaving shoes with metal parts for long |
| Regularly flip bushings to avoid warp | Don’t bash trucks on the ground in frustration |
| Wax the board edges for more pop | Don’t over-wax; it can get messy |
| Mark front and back trucks separately | Avoid assuming you’ll remember without marking |
Caption: key concerned dos and don’ts for skateboarding life hacks.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Have lingering doubts, questions, or thoughts about these skateboarding life hacks? No worries! Here are some commonly asked questions, with answers provided to give more clarity and confidence in your skateboarding journey.
Can I use any glue for the shoelace hack?
While you could theoretically use any glue, I highly recommend silicone-based glue. This type of glue retains the flexibility of your shoelaces while providing the needed enduring structure, making it an excellent choice for this hack.
What type of wax works best for the board waxing hack?
You can use the general multi-purpose wax available in stores for this hack. The real deal isn’t about the type of wax but where and how you apply it. On my blog, you can read more about the crucial skateboarding moments in The Greatest Skateboarding Moments Part 2.
How long should I microwave my shoes?
Given the potential risk of damage, start with short intervals (a few seconds to a minute). Monitor your shoes continually throughout the process to ensure they are not damaged.
How often should I implement these hacks?
These hacks are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The frequency of use can vary based on how often you skate, your style, and how quickly your gear wears out. The key is to listen to your intuition and understand what works best for you.
Are these life hacks only for professional skateboarders?
Absolutely not! These hacks are for skaters across all skill levels. Whether you’re picking up a board for the first time or have been shredding parks for years, these hacks can significantly improve your experience. The goal is to make your skating sessions smoother, less expensive, and frankly, more fun. That said, make sure to remember safety first. Always use these hacks under proper supervision or better yet, with someone who’s already attempted them.
Can I come up with my own life hacks?
Yes, you can! The great thing about skateboarding is that it fosters creativity. Whether it’s coming up with new trick combinations or inventing clever ways to deal with everyday issues like a worn-out shoelace, there’s always room for innovation. But remember, not all hacks may be the best for your gear or safety, so always consult with your skateboarding community before going full throttle with a new hack.
Can these hacks help me perform better tricks?
Indirectly, yes. While these hacks won’t magically make you land a Mctwist or a kickflip, they’re designed to enhance your overall skateboarding experience. For instance, a hack to achieve higher board pops may help you perform air tricks better. And remember, comfortable and optimal gear always translates into a better and safer skateboarding performance which could help you avoid unwanted skateboarding habits.
What’s the easiest hack for a skateboarding beginner to start with?
A great beginner-friendly skateboarding hack is protecting your shoelaces. You can significantly increase your laces’ lifespan by using a lighter to lightly melt the nylon fibers or applying a dab of super glue. For more tips, check out this article on helpful tips for new skateboarders.
Can I use regular wax for my board?
Yes, you certainly can. It is important to apply it to areas where you usually get wheelbites. Regular candle wax can work wonders, and even a deodorant stick can do the trick in times of need!
How often should I flip my bushings?
Flipping your bushings depends on how often and intensely you skate, but a general rule of thumb is to check them every month. If they’re starting to show signs of warping, that’s your cue to flip or replace them.
When should I use the shoe microwave hack?
This process is geared towards breaking into new shoes. However, be cautious about the duration and the specific type of shoe—shoes with metal parts need shorter bursts in the microwave.
Final thoughts
Life hacks and skateboarding—an unlikely combo, right? But, as we already established, these hacks make skateboarding more accessible, budget-friendly, and fun. Remember, the underlying spirit of these hacks is ingenuity and a good bit of daredevilry inside all of us. How many of these hacks are you already using? 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 skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and always keep shredding!
Key takeaways
In this article, we dove headfirst into skateboarding life hacks. Here are some key takeaways:
- Shoe and shoelace life hacks can dramatically extend the life and performance of your skateboarding gear.
- Unique hacks like microwave conditioning and regular board waxing open doors to new skateboarding highs.
- The essence of these hacks is experimentation, creativity, and a dash of daring.
- While these hacks are fun and inventive, safety should always be your utmost priority.
- Skateboarding life hacks are about enhancing your skateboarding experience, maximizing your gear longevity, and, ultimately, adding a lot of fun to your rides.
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