Skateboarding is more than just a sport. It’s a culture, a mode of transportation, and a form of creative expression.
Whether you’re inspired by the tricks you see at the skatepark or simply looking for a new way to get around, skateboarding can offer endless enjoyment and challenge.
This guide covers everything a beginner needs to know about skateboarding, from choosing your first board to mastering basic tricks.
Choosing The Right Skateboard
Skateboarding can be exciting and enjoyable, but choosing the right skateboard is crucial for a good experience. Here are the different types of skateboards to consider:
Standard Skateboards
These are best suited for street skating and performing tricks. They typically have a concave shape and double kicktails, providing the manoeuvrability needed for tricks.
Cruisers
If you’re looking for a skateboard for transportation and cruising, then cruisers are the ideal choice. They are slightly longer and equipped with softer wheels to ensure a smoother ride.
Longboards
Longboards are perfect for long-distance rides and downhill racing. Their longer length and wheelbase provide greater stability, making them the go-to choice for downhill and long-distance riding.
When selecting a skateboard deck, it’s crucial to consider various factors related to size and shape:
Width: It’s recommended that beginners choose a deck that fits their shoe size and skating preferences. Ideally, a 7.75″ to 8.25″ width is suitable for most beginners.
Shape: In terms of shape, standard popsicle shapes are highly adaptable and well-suited for mastering tricks and cruising.
Now, we can explore the different components that make up a skateboard.
Skateboard Components to Consider
Trucks: When selecting trucks for your skateboard, it’s essential to ensure that they match the width of your deck for optimal performance. This matching ensures stability and control, which is crucial for a comfortable skating experience. It is also recommended that you measure your deck’s width and choose trucks that align perfectly with it.
Wheels: The type of wheels you choose for your skateboard should be based on your primary skating activity. Softer wheels are well-suited for cruising and handling rough surfaces, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.
On the other hand, harder wheels are better for executing tricks and navigating smooth skateparks, offering enhanced durability and responsiveness.
Bearings: When it comes to bearings, they are typically rated by ABEC numbers, which indicate their precision and speed capabilities.
While higher ABEC numbers generally signify greater precision and speed, it’s important to note that for beginner skateboarders, bearings with an ABEC 5 or 7 rating are usually sufficient to meet their needs and provide a smooth riding experience.
Essential Safety Gear
Safety gear is crucial when it comes to skateboarding. It helps protect you from potential injuries and promotes a safe and enjoyable experience. Let’s delve into the specific safety gear you need to use and understand why they are essential.
Helmet: Always wear a helmet to protect your head from serious injuries in case of falls or collisions.
Knee and Elbow Pads: These protective pads are essential, especially for beginners, as they provide cushioning and support during falls and minimise the risk of injury to your knees and elbows.
Wrist Guards: Wrist injuries are common when learning to skate, so wearing wrist guards is crucial to protect your wrists from sprains and fractures.
Skate Shoes: Proper skate shoes are designed to provide grip and support, helping you maintain control of your skateboard while also protecting your feet from impact.
Finding the Right Location to practice
As you’re looking to sharpen your skating skills, it’s essential to carefully choose the right location for practice. Let’s explore the key aspects to consider when seeking the perfect place to improve your skating abilities.
Skateparks
These purpose-built facilities are ideal for skating practice, offering a safe and controlled environment with features such as ramps, rails, and bowls that cater to various skill levels and styles of skating.
Smooth Pavement
For beginners seeking smooth, even surfaces, focusing on mastering balance and fundamental movements is recommended. Starting on smooth pavement allows for a gradual progression as you build your confidence and skills before tackling more challenging terrains.
Mastering Basic Skills and Techniques
Stance: Regular vs. Goofy
When riding a skateboard, your stance can be regular or goofy. In a regular stance, your left foot is positioned forward on the skateboard, while your right foot is placed forward in a goofy stance. It’s best to try both stances and determine which feels more natural.
When riding in a regular stance, place your front foot near the front bolts of the skateboard and your back foot on the tail of the board.
Pushing
To start moving on a skateboard, place your front foot on the board and use your back foot to push off the ground. Once you have gained momentum, move your back foot onto the board.
Stopping
There are several methods to stop on a skateboard. You can learn to stop by dragging your back foot on the ground, using the tail of the board to brake, or performing a slide stop.
Turning & Carving
When carving, shift your weight to your toes or heels to make smooth, wide turns while riding the skateboard. For sharper turns, lift the front wheels slightly and pivot on the back wheels to change the direction of the skateboard.
Learning How to Master Basic Tricks
Skateboarding is an exhilarating sport that allows you to showcase your skills to your friends by executing the latest and most impressive tricks. Let’s take a closer look at the essential techniques for performing some fundamental tricks to kickstart your skateboarding journey.
Ollie
An ollie is the building block of skateboarding tricks. To perform an ollie, you must pop the skateboard’s tail while simultaneously jumping, allowing the board to lift into the air. Mastering an ollie is crucial for progressing to more advanced tricks.
Manual
A manual is all about balance and finesse. This trick involves shifting your weight to the front or back wheels while keeping the board level and rolling. It’s a fundamental skill that can link tricks and add flair to your skateboarding style.
Shuvit
A shuvit is a stylish trick where you spin the board 180 degrees beneath you while maintaining your position. This trick requires precise foot placement and pop, and once mastered, it can be combined with other tricks to create impressive sequences.
Kickflip
A kickflip is an advanced trick that adds flair to your repertoire. To execute a kickflip, you’ll need to simultaneously pop the tail of the board and flick your front foot to make the board flip beneath you while you jump. It’s a challenging move that showcases both skill and style.
By mastering these fundamental tricks, you’ll lay a solid foundation for your skateboarding journey and be well on your way to impressing your friends with your skills and creativity.
Bonus Tip: Skateboarding Etiquette
Respect Others: Always be aware of other skaters and pedestrians around you. Yield the right of way to others and avoid cutting people off.
Take Turns: In crowded areas such as skateparks, wait your turn to use the ramps and features. Don’t drop in on someone else’s run and be patient while waiting for your opportunity to skate.
Keep Spaces Clean: Take care of the skate spots by picking up rubbish or debris and encourage others to do the same. This will help maintain the cleanliness and integrity of skateboarding areas for everyone to enjoy.
Skateboarding can be very rewarding, offering both physical and mental benefits. For beginners, it’s essential to start with the right equipment, practice basic skills, and always prioritise safety.
With dedication and practice, you will progress quickly and enjoy the thrill of skateboarding. Remember, every skater started as a beginner, so don’t get discouraged by falls and setbacks. Embrace the journey and have fun!
We hope this comprehensive guide gives you a solid foundation for skateboarding.
Happy Skating!
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