Did you know that skateboarding started in California in the 1960s?
Yeah, it’s that old!
Since then, skateboarding has grown in popularity leading to professional skaters, video games, competitive sports, and more.
So we totally get why you want to get started!
But before you run out to buy the first skateboard you see, here is everything you need to know to get started, from choosing or building the perfect skateboard to maintenance tips and accessories:
Skateboard Sizes
When you’re starting out as a new boarder, it’s important to choose the right skateboard size!
This is why buying your first board from a professional shop is important - you want to make sure you get the right size and fit.
There are different ways you need to size a skateboard: width, length, wheelbase, and nose.
Skateboard Width
Skate decks come in a variety of widths and how wide you want your skateboard depends on your personal preferences.
Most beginners start by using their shoe size to determine skate deck width. Skate decks vary in size from 7.5” to 8.5” so if you have larger feet, you may want to go for a wider board.
Your riding style can also help you determine how wide your board should be. Street skaters tend to opt for narrower decks to do better tricks. Those who ride at increased speeds typically use wider decks.
Skateboard Length
The length of your skateboard depends primarily on your riding style. Deck lengths can range from 28” to 33” with shorter decks (known as “minis”) being the best option for young skaters.
Otherwise, unless you want to try longboarding, the length of your deck doesn’t make a huge difference.
Skateboard Wheelbase
Underneath the skateboard, there are pieces called trucks that allow the wheels to turn. The space between the trucks is used to measure the wheelbase and it usually ranges from 13”-15”.
As a beginner, you don’t really need to worry about this measurement but more advanced boarders may develop a preference as they gain experience.
Skateboard Nose
The nose is the wider piece of the skateboard deck located at the front. Also known as the front kicktail, the nose will help you guide the skateboard in the direction you want to go. A wider nose will help you perform tricks such as flipping down the road.
What Does a Skateboard Cost in Edmonton?
Like anything, the cost of a skateboard in Edmonton can vary depending on the quality, size, and style.
This means that you can easily find something to suit your unique needs within your budget!
For example, our selection of high-quality boards range from $130 to $350. We also offer decks and other components so you can build your own.
Just remember that when it comes to the cost of buying a skateboard, you need to keep in mind other purchases such as shoes and protective gear.
While you could easily buy a secondhand board from anywhere, keep in mind that your riding experience all depends on getting the perfect skateboard to suit your needs.
Building a Skateboard
While there are many board options out there for Edmonton skateboarding, you can also build your own - even if you are a beginner!
We’re not talking about chopping down a tree and creating your board’s individual pieces.
You can put together a skateboard that not only suits your riding style but gives you an opportunity to understand your board’s components so you can fine-tune it to your preferences.
Building a skateboard starts with gripping your deck, which means applying grip tape to provide traction. You then mount the trucks, insert the bearings into the wheels, and attach the wheels.
The process takes some time, patience, and understanding but it’s a great way to create a customized board.
Skateboard Maintenance
Once you buy or build your new skateboard, you have to make sure you take care of it. Proper skateboard maintenance means that your board will last a long time and require fewer repairs and replacements.
To do your own skateboard maintenance, we recommend starting with these tools:
- Crescent or Socket Wrench (9/16,1/2, and 3/8)
- Phillips Head Screw Driver
Or you can get a skate tool that includes everything you need.
There are five basic steps to maintaining your skateboard and it actually doesn’t take much time at all!
Adjust the Trucks
Flip your board upside-down and use the 9/16 socket to adjust the large nuts holding down each truck (there are two). These nuts determine how easy it is to turn the board while riding, so beginners should start with tighter bolts and loosen them as they become more comfortable.
Adjust the Truck Mounting Bolts
With the 3/8 socket or screwdriver, make sure the trucks are securely mounted to your board without over-tightening the bolt.
Adjust the Axel Nuts
Using the 1/2 socket, you can adjust the nuts that attach the wheels to the axels. Tighten them as much as you can without affecting the wheel’s spin - you should be able to slightly wiggle the wheel from side to side.
Clean the Bearings
Skateboard bearings are donut-shaped metal pieces that reduce friction to help the wheels roll faster and smoother. You typically don’t have to clean these unless you have a wheel that isn’t spinning freely.
Check the Grip Tape
Over time, your grip tape can get dirty and be in need of a good cleaning. You can use a special eraser or a toothbrush to remove marks.
You may find that air bubbles form under the grip of your new board. You can easily pop these with a pin and remove the air through the hole.
Skateboard Accessories
What’s the point of owning a new skateboard if you don’t accessorize?
In all seriousness, you do need to invest in some protective gear. You’ll need a good helmet and you may want to consider grabbing some kneepads and elbow pads when you’re just starting out.
Other than that, there are some cool accessories and pieces of gear you can get to enhance your skateboarding experience!
We would definitely recommend getting a backpack designed to carry your skateboard. Skateboarding backpacks look like regular backpacks but they allow you to slide your skateboard through.
If you find yourself riding at night, consider buying a skateboard tail light. This tiny but mighty light will allow you to be seen by cars up to 150 feet away. Safety first!
Otherwise, have fun decorating your board with skate stickers! These classic accessories for Edmonton skateboarding know no bounds - they come in all shapes and sizes and you can choose ones that showcase your awesome and unique personality.
Skate Shops Edmonton
Now that you’re all set to start skateboarding, where are you going to get all of this amazing stuff?
For more than 14 years, Boardom has been providing high-end skateboarding options to Edmonton residents. From high-quality boards to accessories, we have you covered!
We are passionate about boarding and we’re excited to help get you started!
Come visit our shop or contact us if you have any questions.