Absolute Best Skateboards For Starters: A Complete Guide

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Thinking about learning to skateboard? Awesome! It is a fantastic hobby, a great way to get exercise, and a super cool way to express yourself. But where do you even begin, especially when it comes to choosing the right gear? Selecting the best skateboards for starters can feel overwhelming. All the different brands, sizes, and styles can leave you scratching your head. This article breaks it all down, offering clear, practical advice to get you rolling with confidence. We'll cover everything from what to look for in a beginner-friendly skateboard to the top recommended boards on the market. Plus, we'll throw in some essential tips for mastering the basics and staying safe while you learn. Consider this your ultimate guide to starting your skateboarding experience.

1. What to Look for in the Best Skateboards for Starters: A Buyer's Guide

Understanding Skateboard Components

Starting with skateboarding can seem like diving into a whole new language. Decks, trucks, wheels, bearings – it's a lot. But don't worry, we'll break it down. The deck is the wooden part you stand on, usually made of maple wood. Trucks are the metal axles that hold the wheels, and they affect how the board turns. Wheels are, well, the wheels. Bearings go inside the wheels to help them spin smoothly. Each part plays a crucial role in how the board performs.

Choosing the Right Deck Size

Deck size matters, especially for beginners. A standard deck width is between 7.5 and 8.5 inches. Smaller decks (around 7.5-8.0 inches) are often recommended for younger riders or those with smaller feet. They're easier to flip and control. Larger decks (8.0 inches and up) offer more stability, which can be helpful when you're just learning to balance. A good starting point is an 8.0-inch deck; it provides a nice balance of control and stability.

Wheel and Bearing Considerations

Wheels and bearings can significantly affect your riding experience. Softer wheels (around 78a-85a durometer) are better for rough surfaces because they absorb more vibration and provide a smoother ride. Harder wheels (95a and up) are faster and more suitable for skate parks and smooth surfaces. For bearings, look for ABEC ratings. Higher ABEC ratings (like ABEC 7 or 9) indicate greater precision, but a good set of ABEC 3 or 5 bearings will do just fine for beginners.

2. Top Beginner Skateboards: Reviews and Recommendations

Pre-Assembled Complete Skateboards: Ready to Roll

One of the easiest ways to get started is with a pre-assembled complete skateboard. These boards come fully assembled, so you don't have to worry about putting anything together. They're perfect for beginners who just want to start riding right away. Brands like kizworld offer a range of complete skateboards designed specifically for beginners, with quality components and affordable prices.

Custom Builds: Tailoring to Your Style

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, you can consider building your own custom skateboard. This allows you to choose each component individually, ensuring that the board perfectly suits your style and preferences. While it requires a bit more research and effort, building a custom board can be a rewarding experience. You'll learn a lot about skateboarding components in the process.

3. Mastering the Basics: Skateboarding Tips for Beginners

Alright, you've got your board. Now what? The first thing is to get comfortable just standing on it. Find a grassy area or a carpeted surface and just practice balancing. Get a feel for how the board responds to your movements. Once you're steady, start practicing pushing off with one foot while keeping the other on the board.

Start slow and focus on maintaining your balance. Don't worry about going fast; just get used to the motion. Once you're comfortable pushing, try lifting your pushing foot onto the board and gliding for a short distance. Keep your knees bent to help absorb any bumps and maintain your balance.

• Start on a smooth, flat surface: Parking lots or empty streets are ideal.
• Practice your stance: Figure out if you're goofy (right foot forward) or regular (left foot forward).
• Learn to fall: It's inevitable, so learn to roll and protect your head.

Turning is another fundamental skill. Start by leaning gently in the direction you want to go. Use your body weight to guide the board. As you become more confident, you can start practicing sharper turns by pressing down on the heel or toe edge of the board. Remember to keep your weight centered and your knees bent.

"The best way to learn to skateboard is to just get out there and do it. Don't be afraid to fall, and don't give up if you don't get it right away."

4. Skateboarding Safety Gear and Essential Accessories for Starters

so you're getting the hang of riding your board, which is awesome. But before you start trying ollies or hitting up the skate park, let's talk about safety. Trust me, a few key pieces of gear can make a huge difference between a fun session and a trip to the emergency room. First up: a helmet. Seriously, don't even think about skating without one. Concussions are no joke, and a good helmet can protect your brain from serious injury. Look for one that fits snugly and meets safety standards.

Next, consider wrist guards. When you're learning, you're going to fall, and you're probably going to try to catch yourself with your hands. Wrist guards provide support and help prevent fractures and sprains. Knee and elbow pads are also a good idea, especially if you're planning on skating on concrete or trying tricks. They'll save your joints from scrapes and bruises.

• Helmet: Protects your head from serious injury.
• Wrist Guards: Support your wrists and prevent fractures.
• Knee and Elbow Pads: Protect your joints from scrapes and bruises.

Beyond safety gear, there are a few other accessories that can enhance your skateboarding experience. Skate shoes are designed with flat, grippy soles that provide better board feel and control. They also have reinforced areas to withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding. A skate tool is a handy multi-tool that allows you to adjust the trucks, wheels, and other components of your board. It's essential for making on-the-go repairs and adjustments.

Finally, consider getting a skateboard bag or carrier. It makes it easier to transport your board and keeps it protected from damage. Plus, it frees up your hands so you can carry other stuff. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when skateboarding. Invest in quality gear, wear it every time you ride, and you'll be able to enjoy skateboarding for years to come.

Start Your Skateboarding Progression

So, there you have it, your comprehensive guide to finding the best skateboards for starters. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently choose a board that fits your needs and budget, learn the fundamentals, and stay safe while honing your skills. Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a community, a creative outlet, and a fantastic way to challenge yourself. Get out there, find your local skate park, and start rolling. Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the ride.