How to Buy a Skateboard

Aug 8, 2010 | By Charlotte Bumstead

Some skateboarders have no problem walking into a skateshop and buying the first board they see. Others will use more caution. There are three main considerations when buying a skateboard: price, brand and personal preference. Follow these steps in buying the skateboard that's right for you.

Step 1

Discover your personal preferences. There are two types of skateboarders: those who skate in skateparks and those who skate on the street. Predict where you will be. If you're riding the half-pipe in a skate park, you'll want a wider board. If you're riding on streets, something slightly thinner will suit your needs.

Step 2

Choose your price limit. Skateboards generally range in price from $40.00 to $100.00, according to a 2010 pricing index. You don't want to spend more then necessary.

Step 3

Visit a skateboard shop. Sometimes main stream shops will overprice boards and the only real difference is the graphic image. Stores often support local skateboarders selling their own board designs---buying these boards will save money and also support local talent.

Step 4

Focus on shape and size of the board and don't be fooled by brand names and fancy graphics. Popular brand names are usually the most expensive and all you're paying for is the name.

Step 5

Feel the weight of the trucks, wheels and boardings of the skateboard. If you will be doing a lot of tricks at a skateboard park, choose something lightweight.

Step 6

Think about how long your purchase will last. Skateboards will break---it's inevitable. Don't spend a fortune on something you might replace soon. If this happens to you, recycle your busted skateboard into a piece of art---and then nothing goes to waste.