1. Get on Deck
The perfect skateboard is the first and primary piece of equipment you will need. Some enthusiasts say that's all you need--a good board. The board part of the skateboard is called the deck. You can customize and get a deck separate from the wheels. Smaller decks, typically about 33-inches long are best for doing tricks, while long boards--over 36-inches--are good for cruising and traveling. They have more of a surfing feel to them too. Choose a width under eight inches if you have small feet and want to do more tricks. There also is more versatility in a concave board.
2. Keep on Trucking
The truck on a skateboard is the mechanism under the deck onto which you will attack the wheels. The size of the truck is determined by the width of the deck. Look for a heavier truck to give you more stable landings and check out the turning radius and the tightness of the ball bearings to get an idea of how well it will maneuver.
3. It's Wheel Important
The size and weight of the wheels is another factor that plays into the ease and quickness of your trick abilities. Get small wheels, less than 60 millimeters for street riding and tricking. Use heavier, larger wheels on the long boards to get speed. Hard wheels work best on the street and in skateboard parks with cement rides. The softer wheels give you more endurance and are usually put on the longer boards. Softer wheels also enhance that water surfing feel.
4. Use Your Head When Skateboarding
Of all the protective gear suggested for skateboarders, the helmet is the most important and often the least employed. Protective gear is another thing that the street culture uses as a rebellion tool for parents and authorities. However, you won't be allowed to skate in a sanctioned park without a helmet. A helmet should fit softly and securely. Since skaters often turn upside down and sway from side to side during competitions, the skateboarder's helmet must provide an especially proper fit, in comparison to other sports headgear.
5. The Harder They Fall
Skateboarders experience more falls than most athletes and really need the best kind of protective gear to cover all those important, and breakable, joints most likely to take the hit. Knee, wrist and elbow pads are the first line of defense against breaks and bruises. All the pros wear them and have even gotten into designing protective gear just for their sport. You can find comfortable and really strong pads filled with gel that the pros wear. A strong plastic cup is often sewn over the fabric to give it added protection. While less popular, you also can get fitted for a rump protector and save your tailbone for another ride.
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