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Ready to take your skateboarding to the next level? At kizworld, we understand the importance of having the right gear, especially when it comes to professional skateboards. Whether you're a seasoned pro or aspiring to go pro, this article will provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect professional skateboard for your needs.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Deck | Made from durable 7-ply maple; Width and length vary based on skating style. |
Trucks | Provide stability and turning capabilities; Aluminum or titanium for strength. |
Wheels | Different sizes and durometers for various terrains; Choose based on your skating style. |
Bearings | Enable smooth and fast rolling; ABEC rating indicates precision and speed. |
Grip Tape | Provides traction for your feet; Choose a grip tape that suits your preference. |
Top Brands | Element, Girl, Baker, Planar, Santa Cruz, Almost, Birdhouse |
Maintenance | Regular cleaning and inspection; Tighten loose bolts; Replace worn-out parts. |
Choosing the Right Professional Skateboard
So, you're ready to step up your skateboarding game and get yourself a professional setup? That's awesome! Choosing a professional skateboard is a big decision. It's not like grabbing a board from the toy store. You want something that can handle all the cool tricks and stunts you'll be pulling off. It's like picking the right superhero suit – it needs to be durable, reliable, and help you perform your best.
Deck Material and Size
First up, let's talk about the deck – that's the wooden board you stand on. Professional skateboard decks are usually made from 7-ply maple, which is super strong and can take a beating. Think of it like plywood, but way tougher! The size of the deck is important too. If you're into street skating, you might prefer a narrower deck for flipping and doing technical tricks. But if you're more into vert ramps and bowls, a wider deck gives you more stability. It's like choosing between a nimble sports car and a powerful truck – it depends on your driving style! If you're interested in learning more about skateboarding styles, check out our article on vert and street skateboarding.
Truck Size and Material
Next, we've got the trucks – those metal things that connect the wheels to the deck. They're like the steering wheel and suspension of your skateboard. Professional skateboard trucks come in different sizes to match your deck width. You want them to be proportional, so the board feels balanced. Trucks are usually made of aluminum or titanium. Aluminum is lighter and more affordable, while titanium is super strong and durable, but pricier. It's like choosing between a regular bike and a high-performance racing bike – both will get you rolling, but the racing bike is built for serious speed and performance! To learn more about skateboard trucks, check out our article on skateboarding boards and trucks.
Material | Durability | Weight | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Aluminum | Good | Light | Affordable |
Titanium | Excellent | Heavier | Expensive |
Components of a Professional Skateboard
So, we've covered choosing the right professional skateboard, now let's break down the parts that make these boards so special. It's like looking under the hood of a race car – you'll see all the high-performance components that make it go fast!
Wheels and Bearings: The Heart of the Ride
Imagine trying to ride your skateboard with square wheels – it wouldn't be much fun, right? That's why wheels and bearings are crucial for a smooth and awesome ride. Professional skateboard wheels come in different sizes and hardness levels, called durometers. Smaller, harder wheels are great for street skating, providing a fast and responsive ride. If you're more into ramps and bowls, bigger and softer wheels offer more grip and stability. It's like choosing the right tires for your car – you need different tires for different terrains and driving styles. Bearings, those tiny metal rings inside the wheels, are equally important. They allow the wheels to spin freely and smoothly. Higher-quality bearings with a higher ABEC rating mean less friction and more speed. You can learn more about wheels and bearings in our article on skateboarding wheels and bearings.
Wheel Size | Durometer | Ideal for |
---|---|---|
Smaller (50-54mm) | Harder (99a-101a) | Street skating, technical tricks |
Larger (56-60mm) | Softer (86a-92a) | Ramps, bowls, cruising |
Grip Tape: Your Connection to the Board
Ever tried standing on a wet bar of soap? It's slippery and unstable, right? That's why grip tape is essential for skateboarding. It's like sandpaper for your deck, providing the traction you need to stay in control. Professional skateboarders often choose grip tape based on their personal preference. Some prefer a coarser grip for maximum hold, while others prefer a finer grip for a smoother feel. It's like choosing between different types of shoes – some offer more grip, while others prioritize comfort. Remember, grip tape is your best friend when it comes to landing those epic tricks!
- Coarser grip tape: Maximum hold, ideal for technical tricks
- Finer grip tape: Smoother feel, ideal for cruising and flow
Top Professional Skateboard Brands
Choosing a professional skateboard brand is kind of like picking your favorite band. Each brand has its own vibe, style, and team of pro riders. It's about finding one that speaks to you and matches your skateboarding goals. Let's check out some of the top brands in the skateboarding world:
Element: Rooted in Nature and Progression
Element Skateboards is all about connecting with nature and pushing the boundaries of skateboarding. They're known for their iconic tree logo and their commitment to sustainability. Element decks are known for their durability and pop, making them a favorite among street and park skaters. If you're looking for a brand that values both performance and environmental responsibility, Element is a solid choice. It's like choosing a pair of shoes that are both stylish and good for the planet!
Brand | Style | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Element | Nature-inspired, progressive | Durable decks, iconic tree logo, commitment to sustainability |
Girl: Fun, Creative, and Stylish
Girl Skateboards is all about having fun and expressing yourself on a skateboard. Their team of riders is known for their creativity and unique style. Girl decks often feature colorful graphics and playful designs. They also make high-quality trucks and wheels. If you're looking for a brand that embraces individuality and pushes the boundaries of skateboarding, Girl is a great option. It's like choosing a skateboard that's as unique as you are!
- Learn about the best skateboarding boards and trucks.
- Discover how to perform a 180 on your skateboard.
Baker: Raw, Powerful, and Uncompromising
Baker Skateboards is known for its raw and uncompromising style. Their team of riders is legendary for their fearless approach to skateboarding. Baker decks are built to withstand the heaviest impacts and are favored by street skaters who push the limits. If you're looking for a brand that embodies the true spirit of skateboarding, Baker is a top contender. It's like choosing a skateboard that's as tough and gritty as the streets you skate on!
Maintaining Your Professional Skateboard
Taking good care of your professional skateboard is super important if you want it to last a long time and perform at its best. It's like taking care of your bike – you need to keep it clean and make sure everything is working properly. Here are a few tips to keep your board in tip-top shape:
Keep It Clean
Just like you wouldn't want to eat off a dirty plate, you don't want to ride a dirty skateboard! Dirt and grime can build up on your deck, trucks, and wheels, making it harder to control and potentially damaging the components. After a good skate session, give your board a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. You can also use a soft brush to get into those hard-to-reach spots. If your grip tape is starting to get too dirty, you can use a grip tape cleaner to freshen it up. Keeping your board clean not only makes it look good, but it also helps it function properly. To learn how to choose the right skateboard for your skill level, check out our article on choosing a skateboard.
- Wipe down your deck with a damp cloth after each session
- Use a soft brush to clean hard-to-reach areas
- Freshen up your grip tape with a grip tape cleaner
Check for Loose Parts
Before every skate session, take a few minutes to check your board for any loose parts. Pay close attention to the bolts that hold the trucks to the deck, as well as the axle nuts on the wheels. If you notice any loose bolts, tighten them up with a skate tool. Riding with loose parts is not only dangerous, but it can also damage your board. It's like riding a bike with loose handlebars – you never know when you might lose control! If you're interested in learning how to train like a pro, check out our article on training like a skateboarder.
Part | How to Check | How to Fix |
---|---|---|
Truck Bolts | Try to wiggle the trucks – if they move, the bolts are loose | Tighten with a skate tool |
Axle Nuts | Spin the wheels – if they wobble or make noise, the nuts are loose | Tighten with a skate tool |
Final Thought
Choosing the right professional skateboard is a personal journey. By understanding the components, exploring reputable brands, and prioritizing proper maintenance, you'll be well-equipped to elevate your skateboarding experience. Embrace the thrill of professional skateboarding with confidence and style.