Unleash Your Inner Shredder: The Ultimate Guide To Skateboard Shopping

On

Learn everything you need to know about skateboard shopping! From choosing the right board for your skill level to finding the best deals online and in-store, this guide will help you get started with confidence.

Table of Contents

Kickstarting your skateboarding journey? kizworld is here to make skateboard shopping a breeze, whether you're a newbie picking your first board or a seasoned skater looking to upgrade. We'll cover everything from choosing the right deck to finding the perfect wheels, ensuring you're ready to hit the streets or the park with confidence.

Factor

Description

Choosing Your Board

Consider your skill level (beginner, intermediate, advanced) and riding style (street, park, vert).

Essential Tips

Set a budget, research brands and components, try before you buy (if possible), and don't be afraid to ask for advice.

Shopping Online vs. In-Store

Online offers convenience and variety, while in-store provides personalized advice and the opportunity to see and touch products.

Must-Have Accessories

Helmet, pads, shoes, skate tool, and a bag to carry your gear.

Choosing Your First Skateboard

So, you're diving into the world of skateboarding? Awesome! Picking your first board can feel a little overwhelming with so many options, but don't worry, we'll break it down. It's all about finding the right board that matches your style and what you want to do. Think of it like picking a superhero power - you want one that suits you perfectly!

Deck the Halls (or Should We Say, Decks?)

First up, the deck! That's the wooden board itself. For beginners, a classic popsicle shape is a great starting point. It's versatile for learning basic tricks and cruising around. The width is important too. If you've got smaller feet, a narrower deck (around 7.5"- 8") will feel more comfortable. Larger feet? Go for a wider deck (8.25" or higher). Remember, it's all about finding what feels right for you. Don't be afraid to stand on a few at the shop and get a feel for the size!

  • Classic Popsicle Shape
  • Width: 7.5" - 8.5"+

Wheels - Your Board's Shoes!

Next, let's talk wheels! These little guys have a big impact on your ride. For beginners, go for softer wheels (around 90A durometer). They'll roll smoothly over cracks and bumps, making your life easier as you learn. Harder wheels (100A and up) are better for experienced skaters who want more speed and slide-ability. Size matters too! Larger wheels (56mm and up) are faster, while smaller wheels (54mm or less) offer better control for tricks. Since you're just starting, sticking around 52-54mm is a good bet!

Wheel Durometer

Best For

Soft (78A-87A)

Beginners, rough surfaces, cruising

Medium (88A-95A)

All-around performance, street skating

Hard (96A-101A)

Experienced skaters, speed, parks

Choosing Your First Skateboard

Choosing Your First Skateboard

Essential Skateboard Shopping Tips

Alright, so you're stoked about skateboarding and ready to grab your gear. Smart move! But before you zoom off to the skate shop, let's talk strategy. Think of this like fueling up your brain before a rad adventure. We want to make sure you snag the perfect setup without wasting time or money.

Do Your Research, Little Shredder!

Before you even set foot in a store (real or online), do some digging. Jump online and check out different brands and components. It's like scouting out the best spots at the skatepark before you drop in. What brands do your favorite skaters ride? What kind of decks, wheels, and trucks catch your eye? Don't be afraid to fall down the rabbit hole of skate blogs and forums - the more you know, the better equipped you'll be to make a killer choice!

  • WKND Skateboards
  • New Balance SB

Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, try to test out a board before committing. Head to your local skate shop and see if they have any demo boards you can try. It's like trying on shoes - you wouldn't buy kicks without making sure they fit right, would ya? This way, you can get a feel for the size, shape, and how the board responds to your movements. Plus, it's a great excuse to chat up the folks at the shop and soak up some extra knowledge.

Feature

Importance

Deck Size

Affects balance and control, especially for beginners.

Wheel Durometer

Determines smoothness and grip on different surfaces.

Truck Tightness

Impacts turning radius and stability.

Essential Skateboard Shopping Tips

Essential Skateboard Shopping Tips

Skateboard Shopping: Online vs. InStore

So, you're ready to snag your dream skateboard setup! Should you browse online or hit the local skate shop? Both have their perks. Online stores like those offering skateboards in the UK are super convenient. You can compare tons of brands and find sweet deals without leaving your room. Plus, you can geek out on reviews and videos to make sure you're getting the right gear. On the flip side, visiting a real-life skate shop like the ones you can find in articles about skateboard shops in Dubai, lets you see and touch everything before you buy. You can try on shoes, stand on different decks, and even get advice from the skate-savvy staff. It's also a chance to soak up the skate vibes and maybe even meet some fellow shredders!

Shopping Method

Pros

Cons

Online

Convenience, variety, reviews, deals

Can't try before you buy, shipping costs

In-Store

Personalized advice, try before you buy, skate shop vibes

Limited selection, potentially higher prices

Skateboard Shopping: Online vs. InStore

Skateboard Shopping: Online vs. InStore

Gearing Up: Must-Have Skate Accessories

Picking out your board is super exciting, but don't forget the essentials that'll keep you safe and stylish! First off, a helmet is a must – think of it as your brain's best buddy. You can find some cool ones online, like the ones featured on our skate websites page. Next up, pads are your new sidekicks, especially when you're still getting the hang of things. Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can save you from some gnarly scrapes. And let's not forget about shoes! A good pair of skate shoes with grippy soles will give you the control and board feel you need. Check out our article on New Balance SB for some awesome options.

Gear

Why You Need It

Helmet

Protects your noggin' from bumps and falls. Safety first!

Pads (Knee, Elbow, Wrist)

Shield those joints from scrapes and bruises as you learn.

Skate Shoes

Provide grip and board feel for better control and style points.

Gearing Up: Must-Have Skate Accessories

Gearing Up: Must-Have Skate Accessories

Final Thought

Skateboard shopping should be an exciting experience! By understanding the basics and considering your individual needs, you can find the perfect gear to enhance your skateboarding journey. Remember, the most important aspect is choosing equipment that makes you feel confident and excited to ride. So, embrace the process, have fun, and get ready to shred!