Table of Contents
So, you're thinking about getting into skateboarding? Awesome! One of the first things you'll need is a skateboard complete. But with so many options out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. Don't worry, it doesn't have to be. This guide is designed to break down everything you need to know about skateboard completes, from understanding the different components to choosing the best board for your individual riding style. We'll cover the basics, examine into some more advanced considerations, and offer practical tips for keeping your board in top shape. Whether you're a complete beginner or just looking to upgrade your current setup, you'll find valuable information to help you make an informed decision and get rolling with confidence. Let's get started and find the perfect skateboard complete for you!
1. Choosing the Right Skateboard Complete for Your Riding Style
Understanding Different Riding Styles
Before you even start looking at skateboard complete options, take a moment to consider what kind of skating you want to do. Are you dreaming of grinding rails at the skate park? Cruising smoothly along the boardwalk? Or maybe bombing hills with the wind in your hair? Each style demands a different type of board. For example, a park skater needs a lighter, more responsive board for tricks, while a cruiser benefits from a longer, more stable deck for comfortable riding. Knowing your style will greatly narrow down your choices.
Think about the pros that inspire you. What kind of terrain are they tackling? Do you envision yourself emulating their style? Maybe you want to explore a bit of everything. That's cool too! Just keep in mind that a more specialized board will excel in its intended environment, while a more versatile board will offer a good all-around experience. There's no right or wrong answer, it's all about what brings you the most joy.
Deck Size and Shape
The deck is the heart of your skateboard complete, and its size and shape play a crucial role in how the board feels and performs. Decks typically range from 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide. A narrower deck (7.5-8.0") is generally preferred by street skaters for easier flip tricks, while a wider deck (8.25-8.5") provides more stability and is favored by transition (park) skaters. The shape of the deck also matters. Most modern decks have a symmetrical "popsicle" shape, but variations in concave (the curve of the deck) and kicktail angle can affect the board's responsiveness and feel.
Don't overthink the deck too much at first. As a beginner, a mid-range width (around 8.0") is a good starting point. It'll give you a balance of control and stability. As you progress and develop your own style, you can experiment with different deck sizes and shapes to find what suits you best. Head to your local skate shop and stand on a few different boards to get a feel for what you like. That's the best way to make a good choice.
Wheel Considerations for Your Skateboard Complete
Wheels are another key component of your skateboard complete, and they significantly impact your riding experience. Wheel size is measured in millimeters (mm), and hardness is measured on the durometer scale (A). Smaller, harder wheels (50-54mm, 99-101A) are ideal for street skating because they accelerate quickly and slide easily. Larger, softer wheels (55-60mm, 78-90A) are better for cruising because they roll smoothly over cracks and bumps. They are also much quieter.
For beginners, a mid-range wheel size (around 54-56mm) with a medium hardness (95-99A) is a good compromise. These wheels will provide a decent balance of speed, grip, and slide. As you gain experience, you can fine-tune your wheel choice based on your preferred terrain and riding style. Also, keep in mind that softer wheels are more forgiving on rough surfaces, while harder wheels offer more precise control on smooth surfaces. Here is a breakdown of wheel types:
Wheel Type | Size (mm) | Durometer (A) | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
Street | 50-54 | 99-101 | Tricks, skate parks, smooth surfaces |
Park | 52-56 | 97-99 | Ramps, bowls, transition skating |
Cruiser | 55-60 | 78-90 | Commuting, long distances, rough surfaces |
2. Skateboard Complete Components: A Detailed Breakdown
The Deck: Your Foundation
The deck is the flat, wooden part you stand on, and it's the foundation of your entire skateboard complete. Decks are typically made of 7-9 layers of maple wood, pressed together to create a strong, yet flexible platform. The size of the deck, measured in both width and length, is a critical factor in determining the board's stability and maneuverability. As we discussed earlier, narrower decks are generally preferred for technical street skating, while wider decks offer more stability for transition and cruising. Beyond size, the shape of the deck, including the concave (the curve from edge to edge) and the kicktail (the upward curve at the nose and tail), also significantly impacts how the board feels and performs.
Think of the deck as the canvas for your skateboarding art. It's where you plant your feet, where you generate ability, and where you express your style. A well-chosen deck will feel like an extension of your body, allowing you to confidently execute tricks and steer any terrain. Consider the graphic on the bottom of the deck, too! It's a chance to show off your personality and make your board truly your own.
Trucks: Turning and Grinding
Trucks are the metal axles that attach the wheels to the deck. They're responsible for steering and also play a role in grinding. A skateboard complete has two trucks: a front truck and a back truck. Each truck consists of several parts, including the baseplate (which attaches to the deck), the hanger (the main body of the truck), the axle (which the wheels attach to), and the kingpin (which holds everything together). The tightness of the kingpin determines how easily the board turns. Looser trucks make for easier turning, while tighter trucks provide more stability at high speeds.
The width of the trucks should generally match the width of the deck. If the trucks are too narrow, the board will feel unstable. If they're too wide, the board will be difficult to turn. The height of the trucks also matters. Taller trucks are better for cruising and carving, while shorter trucks are better for street skating. When choosing trucks, consider the quality of the materials. Durable trucks will withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding and provide a more consistent feel over time.
3. Maintaining Your Skateboard Complete: Tips and Tricks for Longevity
You've got your sweet new skateboard complete, now it's time to keep it rolling smoothly. Like any piece of equipment, a little maintenance goes a long way. Regular care not only extends the life of your board but also ensures a safer and more enjoyable ride. Let's explore into some essential tips and tricks to keep your skateboard complete in top-notch condition.
First up, check your hardware regularly. Those nuts and bolts holding your trucks to the deck can loosen over time, especially with all the vibrations from riding. Use a skate tool to tighten them up before each session. Loose hardware can lead to instability and even cause the board to fall apart mid-ride. Nobody wants that. Next, clean your bearings. Bearings are the small metal rings inside your wheels that allow them to spin freely. Dirt and grime can build up inside the bearings, slowing them down and making them less efficient. To clean your bearings, you'll need to remove them from the wheels, soak them in a solvent (like isopropyl alcohol or acetone), and then lubricate them with a bearing lubricant. There are plenty of tutorials online that show you how to do this step-by-step.
Another important aspect of maintenance is wheel rotation. Wheels tend to wear unevenly, especially if you're doing a lot of sliding or strength slides. To even out the wear, rotate your wheels periodically. This means swapping the front wheels with the back wheels. This will help your wheels last longer and provide a more consistent riding experience. Don't forget about your deck. While you can't completely prevent wear and tear, you can take steps to prolong its life. Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack. Also, try to avoid getting your board wet, as moisture can damage the wood and cause the layers to separate. If your board does get wet, dry it off as soon as possible.
- Tighten hardware before each session
- Clean bearings regularly
- Rotate wheels to even out wear
- Store your board in a cool, dry place
- Avoid getting your board wet
Finally, inspect your grip tape. Grip tape is the sandpaper-like material on top of the deck that provides traction for your feet. Over time, grip tape can lose its grip or become damaged. If your grip tape is worn out, replace it with a new sheet. Applying new grip tape is a relatively easy process, and it can make a big difference in your board's performance. Regular maintenance might seem like a chore, but it's an investment in your skateboarding experience. By taking care of your skateboard complete, you'll not only extend its life but also enjoy a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable ride.
4. Upgrading Your Skateboard Complete: When and How to Customize
Knowing When It's Time for an Upgrade
So, you've been shredding on your skateboard complete for a while now. You're comfortable with the basics, maybe even landing some tricks. But you're starting to feel like your board is holding you back. It's time to consider an upgrade. This doesn't necessarily mean buying a whole new board. Often, simply swapping out a few key components can make a world of difference. Maybe your trucks are feeling sluggish, your wheels are wearing down quickly, or you just want a deck with a different shape or size. Whatever the reason, upgrading your skateboard complete is a great way to improve your performance and take your skating to the next level.
But how do you know when it's really time to upgrade? Here are a few telltale signs: your board feels unstable or unresponsive, your wheels are constantly slipping, your bearings are making a lot of noise, or your deck is chipped, cracked, or warped. Also, consider your progression. If you're consistently landing new tricks and pushing your limits, you might need components that can keep up. Upgrading can also be about personal preference. Maybe you want a deck with a cooler graphic, trucks with a different feel, or wheels that are better suited for a specific type of terrain. Ultimately, the decision is up to you. But if you're feeling like your current setup isn't meeting your needs, it's definitely worth exploring your options.
Step-by-Step Guide to Customizing Your Ride
you've decided to upgrade your skateboard complete. Now what? The first step is to identify which components are holding you back. Are your trucks too stiff? Are your wheels too hard? Is your deck too heavy? Once you know what you want to change, you can start researching different options. Read reviews, watch videos, and talk to other skaters to get their recommendations. Don't be afraid to experiment with different brands and styles. Skateboarding is all about personal preference, so what works for one person might not work for another. When choosing new components, make sure they're compatible with your existing setup. For example, the width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. Also, consider your budget. Upgrading your skateboard can be expensive, so set a realistic budget and stick to it. You don't need to buy the most expensive components to see a noticeable improvement in your board's performance.
Once you've purchased your new components, it's time to install them. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, you can always take your board to a local skate shop and have them do it for you. But if you're feeling adventurous, you can easily do it yourself with a few basic tools. There are plenty of tutorials online that show you how to install trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. Just take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck. After you've installed your new components, take your board for a test ride. Pay attention to how it feels and handles. You might need to make some adjustments to the trucks or wheels to get it dialed in just right. Once you're happy with the way your board is riding, you're ready to shred! Upgrading your skateboard complete is a fun and rewarding way to improve your skills and personalize your ride. So get out there, experiment, and find the perfect setup for you.
Final Thoughts on Your Skateboard Complete
Choosing the right skateboard complete is a personal trip. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and what works for one skater might not work for another. The key is to understand your own riding style, preferences, and budget, and then use that knowledge to guide your decision-making process. Don't be afraid to experiment, ask for advice from experienced skaters, and most importantly, have fun! Skateboarding is about self-expression, creativity, and pushing your own boundaries. With the right skateboard complete beneath your feet, you'll be well on your way to enjoying all that this amazing sport has to offer. So get out there, explore, and find the joy of skateboarding!