The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Skateboard

Are you ready to embark on your skateboarding journey? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, choosing the right skateboard is crucial for an enjoyable and safe experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you navigate the myriad options available on our eCommerce website, ensuring you find the perfect skateboard to suit your style, skill level, and needs.

Understanding Skateboard Components

  • Deck: The deck is the flatboard you stand on. Decks come in various widths, lengths, and shapes. Wider decks (8.0 inches and above) offer more stability and are ideal for vert skating and street cruising, while narrower decks (7.5-7.9 inches) are lighter and better for technical tricks. The material also matters; most decks are maple wood, but some advanced models incorporate bamboo or fibreglass for added strength and flexibility.
  • Trucks: These are the T-shaped pieces that attach the wheels to the deck. The width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. They come in different heights: low trucks are great for street skating as they offer better control for flip tricks, while high trucks provide more clearance for larger wheels, suitable for cruising and vert skating.
  • Wheels: Skateboard wheels vary in size, hardness, and material. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are best for street skating and tricks, offering quick acceleration and better control. Larger wheels (55-60mm) are suited for cruising and vert skating, providing a smoother ride over rough surfaces. The hardness of wheels is measured by a durometer; softer wheels (78A-87A) are ideal for cruising, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are perfect for tricks and smoother surfaces.
  • Bearings: These small but essential components fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin. The ABEC scale rates bearings; higher ratings (ABEC 7, 9) indicate higher precision and speed, but even lower-rated bearings can offer a smooth ride for beginners.

Choosing the Right Skateboard for Your Style

Street Skating: If you’re drawn to ollies, kickflips, and grinding rails, a street skateboard is your best bet. Opt for a narrower deck (7.5-8.0 inches) with smaller, harder wheels (50-54mm, 99A-101A). Lightweight trucks will enhance your ability to perform technical tricks.

Cruising: A cruiser skateboard is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed ride around town or along the beach. Look for a wider deck (8.0 inches and above) with larger, softer wheels (55-60mm, 78A-87A). Cruiser boards often feature a kicktail to help navigate obstacles.

Vert Skating: If you’re hitting the ramps or skateparks, you’ll need a skateboard designed for vert skating. Choose a wider deck (8.0 inches and above) with larger, harder wheels (55-60mm, 95A-101A) and high trucks for better clearance and stability.

Longboarding: Longboards are perfect for downhill racing or long-distance cruising. They are longer and wider than traditional skateboards, providing maximum stability. Look for decks made of bamboo or fibreglass for flexibility and durability and wheels that are large (60-75mm) and soft (78A-85A) for a smooth ride.

Maintenance and Safety Tips

To ensure your skateboard lasts and performs well, regular maintenance is key. Check and tighten the screws and bolts frequently, clean your bearings to keep them spinning smoothly, and replace worn-out wheels and grip tape. Always wear protective gear to prevent injuries, including a helmet and knee and elbow pads.

Shop with Us for the Best Skateboards

At Manly Surfboards, we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of high-quality skateboards to suit every rider’s needs. Our selection includes top brands, unique designs, and the latest technology. Our customer service team is here to help you choose the perfect skateboard for your journey.

Start exploring our skateboard collection today and take the first step towards an exhilarating skateboarding adventure.