Secret What Skateboards Do Pros Use: Pro Skater's Top Picks

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Ever watched a skateboarding video and wondered, "Wow, what kind of skateboard do they have?" Pro skateboarders make it look so cool and easy. You might think they have some super special, magic boards. The truth is, while they are amazing skaters, their skateboards aren't that different from the ones you can find at your local skate shop. This article will break down what skateboards professional skaters actually use. We will look at the size of the board, the brands they often choose, and even some of the other parts that make their skateboards perfect for landing those awesome tricks. Ready to find out what skateboards do pros use? Let's roll!

Deck Size: What Skateboards Do Pros Use?

Why Size Matters for Pro Decks

Alright, let's talk about the main piece of the puzzle: the skateboard deck. Imagine trying to wear shoes that are way too big or way too small. It'd be super awkward, right? The same goes for skateboard decks. Pros don't just grab any old board; they're picky about size. Most of the time, you'll see them riding decks that are between 8 and 8.5 inches wide. Think of it like this: an 8-inch board is like a nimble little sports car, quick and easy to flip around. An 8.5-inch board? That's more like a comfy sedan, giving you a bit more room to land those tricks. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where you feel totally in control.

Now, you might be thinking, "Half an inch? Does that really make a difference?" Trust me, it does! It's like the difference between a regular slice of pizza and one of those super wide ones. A little extra space can give you more stability when you're landing a jump. But too much, and it feels like you're trying to steer a boat. Pros have spent years figuring out what width feels best under their feet. It helps them nail those kickflips and grinds we all wish we could do. Speaking of tricks, have you ever wondered, are skateboards dangerous? It's all about control, and deck size is a big part of that.

Finding Your Own Sweet Spot

Don't get hung up on copying the exact size your favorite pro rides, though. What works for one person might not work for another. It's like trying to wear your older sibling's clothes – sometimes they just don't fit right. Your height, shoe size, and even the type of skating you like to do can influence what deck size feels best for you. If you're just starting out, an 8-inch board is often a good place to begin. It's a nice, all-around size that's not too bulky. But as you get more comfortable, you might find yourself wanting a little more or less under your feet. It's all part of the fun of finding your own style. And remember, even though pros make it look easy, skateboarding came from surfing, so it's all about feeling the flow!

Popular Brands: What Skateboards Do Pros Use?

The Big Names You See Around

Okay, so when you watch skate videos, you might see certain brands popping up a lot. It's like when you're into video games, you start noticing the same consoles or controllers. Some of the big names in skateboard decks that pros often ride are like the superheroes of the skate world. Think of brands like Baker, known for their tough boards and cool graphics, or maybe Santa Cruz, with their iconic screaming hand logo. These brands have been around for ages, and lots of pros trust them because their decks are made to handle some serious punishment. It's like choosing a super sturdy bike if you're planning on hitting some gnarly trails. You want something that won't break on you, right? Just like you might wonder, are skateboard trucks universal, pros also think carefully about the parts that make up their ride.

Pro Models: It's Personal

But here's a cool secret: lots of pro skaters actually have their own special "pro model" decks. It's like having your own signature shoe! A brand will team up with a pro skater and design a deck just for them, often with their name or a special graphic on it. Think of it like getting a custom skin in your favorite game. It looks awesome and it's unique to that player. So, while you might see a pro riding a Baker deck, it could be a specific Baker deck designed just for that skater. And here’s the thing – even within those popular brands, what one pro likes, another might not. It's all about how the board feels under their feet. Just like some people think can skateboard helmets be used for snowboarding, it comes down to personal choice and what feels safe and right for you.

Beyond the Deck: Other Gear Pros Use

Trucks: The Steering Wheels of Your Skateboard

Okay, so we've talked decks, but a skateboard is way more than just a piece of wood. Think of the trucks as the steering wheels. They're those metal things that hold your wheels on, and they're what let you turn and grind. Pros are super picky about their trucks. It’s like choosing the right tires for a race car; you need something that responds exactly how you expect it to. Some skaters like their trucks a bit looser for easier turning, making quick carves a breeze. Others prefer them tighter for more stability, especially when landing big jumps. It’s a feel thing, and just like finding the right deck size, it takes time to figure out what you like. You wouldn't use walking shoes for a marathon, right? Similarly, pros choose their trucks based on their skating style. Ever wonder ? Well, there are different sizes, so it's something to consider.

Wheels and Bearings: Making It Roll

Next up: wheels and bearings. These are what actually make your skateboard roll, obviously. Imagine trying to run with square wheels – not gonna happen! Skateboard wheels come in different sizes and hardnesses. Smaller, harder wheels are good for street skating, making tricks on smooth surfaces easier. Bigger, softer wheels are better for cruising around, even if the ground isn't perfect. It’s like choosing between a sports car's low-profile tires and an SUV's bigger, comfier ones. Then there are the bearings, those little guys inside the wheels that help them spin. Good bearings mean a smoother, faster ride. Pros usually go for high-quality bearings so they can keep their speed up without having to push as much. It's all about efficiency, like making sure your shoes are good for skating, not just looking cool. Speaking of cool, have you seen some of the spots where pros skate? You might even ask, ? Well, good gear definitely helps.

The Little Things That Matter

Don't forget the small stuff! We're talking grip tape, those sandpaper-like sheets you stick on top of your deck so your feet don't slip off. Pros have their favorite brands and how they like to apply it. Some even cut out cool designs in their grip tape – it's a way to add a little personal flair. Then there are the bolts that hold everything together. You might think, "Bolts are just bolts," but trust me, you don't want those things coming loose mid-trick! Pros make sure their hardware is tight and reliable. It's like a mechanic making sure all the nuts and bolts are secure on a race car before it hits the track. Even the type of socks a pro wears can be a personal preference! It might sound silly, but comfort and feel are key when you're spending hours on your board. It's all part of the puzzle that makes up a pro skater's setup.

Rolling Away with Knowledge

So, what did we learn about what skateboards do pros use? It's not about having some super secret board. Pro skaters often ride decks between 8 and 8.5 inches wide. While some brands are popular, personal preference is key. They also care a lot about their trucks, wheels, and bearings. The most important thing is to find a setup that feels right for you. Don't worry about having the exact same board as your favorite pro. Just focus on having fun and practicing!