Ultimate Guide: Choosing The Good Starter Skateboard

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Thinking about learning to skateboard? Awesome! Getting your first board can feel like a big step, but it doesn't have to be complicated. This guide is all about finding the perfect good starter skateboard, whether you're aiming to cruise down the street or hit the local skatepark. We'll break down the different parts of a skateboard, from the deck to the wheels, and explain what to look for when you're just starting out. We’ll walk you through assembling your skateboard, step by step. You’ll also learn some essential skills to get you rolling confidently. And most importantly, we’ll cover safety gear and practices to keep you protected while you learn.

1. Choosing the Right Good Starter Skateboard: Deck, Wheels, and More

Deck Size and Material: Finding Your Footing

The deck is the heart of your good starter skateboard. It's the wooden platform you stand on, and its size and material significantly impact your control and comfort. Decks are typically made from maple wood, known for its strength and flexibility. For beginners, a deck width between 7.5 and 8.25 inches is generally recommended. Narrower decks are easier to flip for tricks, while wider decks offer more stability for cruising.

Consider your shoe size when selecting a deck. If you have smaller feet, a narrower deck might feel more comfortable. Conversely, if you have larger feet, a wider deck will provide better support. Also, pay attention to the deck's concave, which is the curve of the deck from edge to edge. A mellow concave is more forgiving for beginners, while a deeper concave offers more control for advanced tricks.

Think of it like trying on shoes. You wouldn't buy a pair that's too tight or too loose, right? The same principle applies to skateboard decks. You want a deck that feels just right under your feet, allowing you to move and balance comfortably.

Wheel Considerations: Size, Durometer, and Terrain

Wheels are another crucial component of your good starter skateboard. They determine how smoothly and quickly you'll roll. Skateboard wheels are measured by two factors: size (diameter in millimeters) and durometer (hardness). For beginners, wheels in the range of 52-56mm are a good starting point.

Smaller wheels accelerate faster and are ideal for street skating and performing tricks. Larger wheels roll faster and are better suited for cruising and rougher terrain. The durometer scale measures the hardness of the wheel, with lower numbers indicating softer wheels and higher numbers indicating harder wheels. Softer wheels (around 78a-85a) provide a smoother ride and better grip, making them great for beginners and cruising. Harder wheels (around 99a-101a) are faster and more durable, but offer less grip, making them ideal for skateparks and performing tricks.

Imagine driving a car with the wrong tires. If you're trying to drive on ice with summer tires, you're going to have a bad time. Similarly, using the wrong wheels on your skateboard can make learning more difficult and less enjoyable.

Trucks and Bearings: The Unsung Heroes

Trucks are the metal axles that attach the wheels to the deck. They're responsible for steering and turning. When choosing trucks for your good starter skateboard, make sure they're the correct width for your deck. The truck axle width should be close to the width of your deck.

Bearings are small metal rings that fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin freely. Bearings are rated on the ABEC scale, which ranges from 1 to 9. Higher ABEC ratings indicate more precision and speed. However, for beginners, ABEC 3 or 5 bearings are perfectly adequate. More expensive bearings won't magically make you a better skater.

Think of trucks and bearings as the engine of your skateboard. They might not be the flashiest parts, but they're essential for a smooth and reliable ride.

2. Assembling Your Good Starter Skateboard: A Step-by-Step Guide

Unboxing and Identifying the Parts

so you've got all your components for your good starter skateboard. Exciting! The first step is to unbox everything and make sure you have all the necessary parts. You should have the deck, two trucks, four wheels, eight bearings, eight bolts (for attaching the trucks to the deck), and four nuts (for securing the wheels to the trucks). Take a moment to familiarize yourself with each part. The bolts and nuts might seem small, but they're essential for a safe and functional skateboard.

It's like getting a new Lego set. You wouldn't just start randomly sticking pieces together, would you? Take a look at the instructions (or, in this case, this guide) and make sure you know what each part is and where it goes. This will save you time and frustration later on. Plus, it's kind of satisfying to see all the individual pieces come together to form a complete skateboard.

Attaching the Trucks to the Deck

Now comes the fun part: putting it all together! Start by attaching the trucks to the deck. You'll notice that the deck has pre-drilled holes for the trucks. Place the trucks on the deck so that the kingpin (the large bolt in the center of the truck) is facing inward, towards the center of the deck. Align the truck's baseplate with the holes on the deck and insert the bolts through the top of the deck and into the baseplate.

Once all eight bolts are in place, use a skate tool or a wrench to tighten them securely. Make sure the trucks are firmly attached to the deck, but don't overtighten the bolts, as this could damage the deck. You want them snug, not strangled. Think of it like tightening the lug nuts on a car tire. You want them tight enough to hold the wheel in place, but not so tight that you strip the threads.

3. Mastering the Basics: Essential Skills for Every Skateboard Beginner

Finding Your Balance and Stance

Before you even think about tricks, you need to get comfortable on your good starter skateboard. Start by simply standing on the board while it's stationary. Practice shifting your weight and finding your balance. Determine whether you're goofy-footed (right foot forward) or regular-footed (left foot forward). There's no right or wrong way, it's just a matter of personal preference. Most people find that whichever foot they'd naturally put forward when sliding on a slippery surface is their front foot on a skateboard.

Once you've figured out your stance, practice pushing off with your back foot while keeping your front foot planted on the board. Start with small pushes and gradually increase your speed as you gain confidence. Focus on maintaining your balance and keeping your weight centered over the board. Don't be afraid to bend your knees and use your arms for balance. It's like learning to ride a bike. You're going to wobble and maybe even fall a few times, but with practice, you'll get the hang of it.

Learning to Ride and Turn

Now that you can push and maintain your balance, it's time to start riding! Find a smooth, flat surface like an empty parking lot or a quiet street. Start by pushing off and gliding, focusing on keeping your weight centered and your body relaxed. Once you're comfortable riding in a straight line, start practicing turning.

To turn, lean your weight in the direction you want to go. If you want to turn left, lean slightly to the left. If you want to turn right, lean slightly to the right. It might feel a little awkward at first, but with practice, you'll be able to turn smoothly and confidently. Remember, small adjustments make a big difference. Don't try to make sharp turns right away. Start with gentle curves and gradually increase the angle as you become more comfortable. Think of it like steering a boat. Small adjustments to the rudder can change your course significantly.

4. Safety First: Gear and Practices for a Good Starter Skateboard Experience

Essential Protective Gear: Head to Toe Coverage

Before you even think about stepping on your good starter skateboard, make sure you're properly geared up. Skateboarding can be a blast, but it also comes with risks. Wearing the right protective gear can significantly reduce your chances of getting injured. A helmet is non-negotiable. It's the most important piece of safety equipment you can wear. Look for a helmet that's specifically designed for skateboarding and fits snugly on your head. It should cover your forehead, temples, and the back of your head.

In addition to a helmet, consider wearing knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. These pads will protect your joints from scrapes, bruises, and fractures. Wrist guards are especially important for beginners, as they can help prevent wrist injuries from falls. While it might feel a little dorky to be all padded up, trust me, it's better to be safe than sorry. Road rash is no fun, and broken bones are even worse.

Safe Skating Practices: Know Your Limits

Wearing protective gear is only half the battle. You also need to practice safe skating habits. Start by skating in a safe environment, away from traffic and other hazards. Find a smooth, flat surface with plenty of space to maneuver. Avoid skating on sidewalks or streets with cracks, potholes, or other obstacles.

Know your limits and don't try to do too much too soon. Start with the basics and gradually progress to more advanced tricks as you gain confidence and skill. Don't be afraid to take breaks and rest when you're feeling tired. Skateboarding can be physically demanding, and pushing yourself too hard can increase your risk of injury. Also, be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to other people and objects. Skateboarding is a shared activity, and it's important to be respectful of others.

Final Thoughts: Rolling into the Future

Choosing the right good starter skateboard is a key first step toward a lifelong passion. Remember, it's not about having the fanciest equipment, but about finding a board that feels comfortable and inspires you to get out there and ride. Embrace the learning process, prioritize safety, and most importantly, have fun. The skateboarding community is welcoming and supportive, so don't be afraid to ask for advice or connect with other skaters. With the right gear and a positive attitude, you'll be carving your own path and enjoying the thrill of skateboarding in no time. So, get out there, practice, and enjoy the ride!