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Ever thought about building your own skateboard from scratch? It all starts with a blank skateboard deck. A blank skateboard deck is your canvas, a fresh start for a ride that's uniquely yours. Forget mass-produced graphics and generic shapes. A blank deck lets you choose the exact size, shape, and material that fits your style.
1. Choosing the Right Blank Skateboard Deck: Size, Shape, and Material
Deck Width: Finding Your Sweet Spot
Deck width is the most important factor. It dictates how the board feels under your feet. Narrower decks (7.5" - 8.0") are easier to flip and are often preferred by street skaters. Wider decks (8.25" and up) provide more stability, which is great for transition skating, bowls, and cruising.
To find your perfect width, stand on a flat surface and have someone measure the distance between your feet. This stance width can guide your decision. Also, consider your shoe size. Smaller feet might feel more comfortable on a narrower deck.
- 7.5" - 8.0": Street skating, technical tricks, smaller riders
- 8.0" - 8.25": Versatile, good for street and park
- 8.25" and up: Transition, bowls, cruising, larger riders
Deck Length and Wheelbase: Understanding the Geometry
Deck length and wheelbase affect how the board turns and feels. Longer decks offer more stability at higher speeds. Shorter decks are more responsive and easier to maneuver. The wheelbase, the distance between the inner mounting holes, also plays a role.
A longer wheelbase (14+ inches) gives you a more stable ride, while a shorter wheelbase (13- inches) makes the board feel more agile. Most blank skateboard decks come in standard lengths, but paying attention to the wheelbase can fine-tune your skating experience. Think about what tricks you want to do.
Deck Feature | Effect | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
Length | Stability vs. Maneuverability | Your height and riding style |
Wheelbase | Turning radius | Trick preference |
Deck Material: Maple and Beyond
Most blank skateboard decks are made from 7-ply maple. Maple is strong, durable, and provides a good balance of flex and pop. However, some decks use other materials, like bamboo or composites, to enhance performance.
Bamboo decks are known for their flexibility and responsiveness. Composite decks, often made with fiberglass or carbon fiber, are lighter and stronger than maple. While these options can be pricier, they offer unique characteristics that some skaters prefer. Maple is still the go to for most people.
2. Customizing Your Blank Skateboard Deck: Art, Grip Tape, and More
Unleashing Your Inner Artist on a Blank Skateboard Deck
A is a blank canvas, waiting for your personal touch. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, there are tons of ways to make your board stand out. Paint, markers, stencils – the possibilities are endless.
Acrylic paints work great and are durable. Paint pens offer precision for detailed designs. If you are not confident in your art skills, stencils are your best friend. You can find pre-made stencils online or create your own. Remember to seal your artwork with a clear coat of polyurethane to protect it from wear and tear.
Grip Tape: More Than Just Traction
Grip tape is essential for keeping your feet planted on the board, but it doesn't have to be boring. You can cut out custom shapes and designs to add some flair. Many skaters create intricate patterns or even spell out their name with grip tape.
Experiment with different colors and textures to find a grip tape that not only looks good but also provides the right amount of grip for your riding style. Some brands even offer pre-cut grip tape designs, saving you the hassle of doing it yourself.
- Paint: Acrylics are durable and versatile.
- Markers: Paint pens offer precision.
- Stencils: Great for beginners and complex designs.
- Grip Tape Designs: Cut out shapes, patterns, or letters.
3. Riding Performance and Blank Skateboard Decks: What to Expect
The Pop Factor: How Deck Material Affects Ollies
The "pop" of a skateboard deck is crucial for ollies and other tricks. It refers to the spring-like energy the deck provides when you snap the tail against the ground. Maple decks are known for their consistent pop, giving you a reliable feel every time you ollie. Decks made from other materials might offer a different type of pop, so experiment to find what suits your style. Think about how high you want to go.
A fresh, new deck will always have more pop than an older, worn-out one. Over time, the wood fibers in the deck weaken, reducing its ability to generate that spring-like effect. That’s why many skaters replace their decks regularly to maintain optimal performance. Also, the shape and concave affect pop as well.
Deck Shape and Concave: Finding the Right Feel
The shape and concave of a greatly influence how the board feels and performs. Concave refers to the curvature of the deck's surface. A deeper concave gives you more foot control and makes flip tricks easier. A mellow concave offers a more relaxed feel, which is great for cruising and flat ground tricks.
Deck shapes vary, but most fall into a few common categories: standard, directional, and old-school. Standard shapes are symmetrical and versatile. Directional shapes have a defined nose and tail. Old-school shapes are wider and often have a flatter nose. Experiment with different shapes and concaves to find the combination that feels best under your feet. Consider what kind of skating you do the most.
Deck Feature | Description | Impact on Riding |
|---|---|---|
Concave | Curvature of the deck surface | Foot control, flip tricks |
Shape | Overall design of the deck | Versatility, stability |
4. Where to Buy Blank Skateboard Decks: Online vs. Local Shops
So, you're ready to grab a and start your custom build. The big question now is: where do you buy one? You've got two main options: online retailers and local skate shops. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so let's break it down.
Online retailers offer a massive selection. You can find almost any size, shape, or material you can imagine, often at competitive prices. Plus, you can shop from the comfort of your couch, which is always a bonus. However, you can't physically inspect the deck before buying it, and you might have to deal with shipping costs and potential delays.
Local skate shops provide a more hands-on experience. You can see and feel the deck before you buy it, ensuring it meets your expectations. The staff can offer expert advice and help you choose the right deck for your needs. The downside is that local shops might have a smaller selection and higher prices compared to online retailers. However, supporting your local skate shop helps keep the skateboarding community alive.
Shopping Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
Online Retailers | Wide selection, competitive prices, convenience | Can't physically inspect the deck, shipping costs |
Local Skate Shops | Hands-on experience, expert advice, supports local community | Smaller selection, potentially higher prices |
Ultimately, the best place to buy your blank skateboard deck depends on your priorities. If you value selection and price, online retailers might be the way to go. If you prefer a more personal experience and want to support your local community, a skate shop is your best bet.
Final Thoughts on Your Blank Skateboard Deck
Choosing a blank skateboard deck is more than just picking a piece of wood. It's about creating a personalized riding experience. From selecting the right size and shape to adding your own unique artwork, every step allows you to tailor your board to your individual style and needs. So, embrace the freedom and creativity that a blank skateboard deck offers. Get out there, experiment, and build a board that reflects who you are as a skater.