Advice for New Skateboard Users

Building your own complete skateboard
Here is a list the components which are needed to make up a complete skateboard
(or 'set-up')

• Deck (or Board)
• Grip Tape (Deck purchases usually come with a free sheet of Grip Tape)
• Trucks (the axle assembly)
• Wheels
• Bearings (which fit inside the wheels before being fitted to the trucks) 
• Deck Bolts (or Hardware, which are used to attach the trucks to the board)
• T-Tool (used to build up and tear down a board, and the adjustment of things like Bushings in Trucks)

Choosing a board to suit you
As individuals, we come in all different shapes, sizes, and weights, and that's also true of skateboards. There is no real right or wrong when it comes to choosing an appropriate size for your skateboard. You simply need to feel comfortable with being able to manoeuvre it around, so it should cater to each individuals physical size.

Skateboard sizes are measured by the width of the board using the 'imperial' measurement system, rather than the metric system which is used throughout Australia. The most common and possibly most versatile sizes board is 8.0" (inches) to 8.125" and then up to the slightly wider 8.25". There are boards available from under 7" and right up to over 10", however for street skating 8.0" to 8.5" are most common.

There are plenty of smaller, younger skaters who choose to ride a larger, wider board, just as there are full grown skaters over six feet tall, who ride a smaller, narrower board. In our experience you will generally adapt to the size and feel of the board you have - yet board size in comparison to each individuals' physical body size and weight should be carefully considered. This will make the board more agile and easier for you to manoeuvre the board around effectively.

If you're unsure or in doubt, please feel free to get in touch. We would be happy to give you advice and guidance, without any obligation - we're here to help you, that's what we do.

Looking after your skateboard
If you want your skateboard to last, firstly keep it dry! Water will corrode the bearings and soften the wood of the deck. Decks perform best when rigid (known as pop) - as opposed to being 'soggy' or soft (no pop), so avoid wet conditions. In the event that your board goes through, or comes into contact with water, dry any water and moisture off immediately. Also avoid sand and sandy surfaces. Sand and dirt can end up inside your bearings, compromising their performance and slowing them down significantly.

Looking after yourself
For all beginners we recommend wearing safety gear - knee and elbow pads, wrist guards, and a helmet. Safety gear provides protection and takes most of the impact out of a fall. It also prevents injuries, which will definitely cause a loss of confidence and take the fun out of learning to skate and skating in general. Having protection also provides a sense of security and thereby gives you extra confidence, rather than the hesitation fear can bring. Confidence and skateboarding go well together - fear and skateboarding, not so much. You can find our range of safety gear here.

Skate within your abilities, and always stay alert and aware of other skaters while at the skatepark.