Easy Comprehensive Skateboard Buying Guide

We’ve all experienced the thrill of a smooth and fast skate ride. But what makes one faster than the others? The secret lies in the design and components of the skateboard – wheels, bearings, trucks, and even accessories.

If you want to add more velocity to your setup, our buying guide breaks down the basics.

This easy yet comprehensive buying guide will guide you in selecting the fastest board. 

When buying a board, remember details make a lot of difference. Let this steer you to the board that elevates your riding to its peak performance.

When it comes to skateboard speed or velocity, the performance factors include the material composition of the board, its size, the diameter of the wheels, and the type of bearings. The material utilized for the board construction plays a role in its overall weight, which in turn can affect how fast it can travel. Board size also contributes to speed, as larger boards cover more distance per push. Wheel diameter further impacts motion, with larger wheels efficiently navigating various terrains.

Street skaters often prefer old-school boards, which are typically made of nine-ply or seven-ply maple wood for durability. Most decks come with pre-drilled holes for eight bolts, which is the standard for securing two trucks to the board. The popsicle shape is popular among street skaters and those who frequent vert ramps, as it allows for a variety of technical flip tricks and maneuvers. Additionally, the choice of bearings is crucial; ceramic bearings are renowned for delivering optimal speeds. When it comes to choosing the right deck, this will help you make an informed decision.

So let’s delve into the exhilarating realm of high-speed rides and explore the remarkable potential of this activity! You’ll have the resources to choose the ideal equipment that suits your requirements, ensuring you’re geared up for swift and stylish rides through the streets.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Skateboard Basics

Before you start tearing up the asphalt with your new high-velocity skateboard, it’s crucial to understand the basics. Just imagine feeling the wind in your hair and hearing your wheels whir as you navigate through curves with utmost precision.

Materials, shapes, and wheels play a significant role in this thrilling  experience.

Understanding how critical decks and wheels are for maintaining skateboard velocity is a key part of the sport.

Guide On The Role Of Skateboard Deck And Skateboard Wheels

When it comes to picking up the pace, your skateboard deck and wheels play an integral role. Wheel materials and sizing can drastically affect your skateboard’s performance. Softer materials grip more but roll slower, while harder ones offer less traction but higher velocity. When selecting skateboard wheels as part of your skateboard purchasing guide, consider their size. Bigger wheels cover more ground, increasing your ride’s performance. Additionally, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing components like skateboard trucks, grip tape, skateboard deck, deck width, and safety gear, including riser pads. Enjoy a customized experience!

Skateboards are composed of several different components, including the deck, truck, wheels, and bearings. Each of these components has specific attributes and values for influencing the velocity of the ride, such as wheel size and material, truck angle and width, and bearing type and quality. By comprehending the characteristics of each of these components, you can personalize your skateboard to attain the velocity you seek.

Next, let’s delve into how to apply grip tape and how skateboard bearings impact your ride’s swiftness.

Guide On Bearings On A Speedy Skateboard

You’ve got to admit, there’s something exhilarating about zipping down a city street or an empty park path on your skateboard. The right bearings are essential to ensure an enjoyable ride, so it’s important to maintain them and choose the right materials. Bearing maintenance and the choice of different bearing materials can significantly affect your skateboard’s speediness. So, don’t neglect them!

This is all about velocity, and having the right parts can make all the difference when shredding at skate parks.

So, make sure to keep your bearings and trucks in good condition for the best ride possible.

Guide On The Effect Of  Skateboard Trucks On Velocity

Let’s dive into the fascinating effect of trucks on a fast skateboard. Specifically, let’s focus on how truck width impacts acceleration and momentum. We’ll also delve into the role of bushings. They are not just a small component but play a significant part in controlling your ride. So, buckle up as we unravel these elements that can either make or break your race to supremacy!

How Truck Width Affects A Fast Board

Gliding down a steep hill, the wind rushing past as you ride but struggling to gain momentum? This might be linked to the width of your trucks. The width of these components directly impacts your ability to accelerate on your board.

Check these aspects:

• skateboard deck composition
• skate rider weight,
• skateboard bushing stiffness

All of these can contribute to your achievable fast skateboard. We recognize the significance of selecting the appropriate equipment for your requirements. That’s why we’re delving into the influence of truck width and its potential to enhance a fast experience.

Enthusiasts often seek guidance from local skate shops to identify ideal complete setups and add-ons tailored to their preferred style. By aligning the right truck width, you can enhance your speeds and elevate your experience.

Role Of Bushings

Don’t underestimate the role of bushings in your gear; these small rubber pieces can majorly impact the responsiveness and maneuverability of your ride, thus influencing how quickly you can dart around obstacles. The choice of bushing materials plays a big part in your journey.

Be mindful when it’s time for a bushing replacement – a well-timed switch could save someone else from danger. We believe in the importance of boards and their components to help keep us safe, so don’t forget to check your bushings and other skateboard accessories regularly.

Now, let’s smoothly roll into how skateboard accessorizing can further help you achieve that desired velocity and optimize your skateboard setup. Whether it’s your trucks, wheels, bearings, bushings, risers, or skateboard grip tape, these skateboard parts all have an impact on performance. With the right combination of materials, including trick boards, you can maximize your response time and maneuverability – allowing you to react quickly to any potential hazards while skateboarding.

Accessorizing A Speedy Skateboard

When it comes to gearing up for park-fast skateboarding, skateboard accessories play a crucial role. Here are some top recommendations for fast-chasing skateboarders:

• Helmets: Essential for safety and designed aerodynamically to reduce drag, these helmets should fit snugly and meet safety standards when skateboarding.
• Deck design: Control and stability are key when it comes to a fast skateboard, so opt for a wider deck for balance and streamlined shapes for enhanced pace.
• Speedy Wheels: The size and hardness of the wheels are important factors in a fast skateboard, with larger, softer wheels providing more grip and stability, while harder, smaller wheels offer greater pace.
• Bearings: High-quality bearings with ABEC ratings can help increase a fast skateboard while also providing smooth, long-lasting performance.
• Trucks: Lightweight and low-profile trucks can improve a fast skateboard but also affect maneuverability and stability.

Now, let’s zoom into some top skateboard models known for velocity. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, it’s always important to make sure you have the right equipment to help you shred those streets fast.

Top Skateboard Models

Let’s dive into the world of fast rides and explore reviews of top skateboard models, including complete boards, that might just give you that adrenaline rushes you seek. We’ll walk you through a detailed analysis of these fast demons, considering factors like deck material, wheel size, bearings, and more. Depending on your personal preference and shoe size, let’s talk about the different complete skateboards (or buildable ones) in this skateboard buying guide.

Don’t worry about where to snag these fast gems either; we’ve got you covered with the best places to shop for your new fast skateboard.

Top Models Reviews

Skateboards are a thrilling way to get around, but safety and durability are key. That’s why we’ve taken the time to review some of the top skateboard models for you.

Our findings reveal that these models offer unmatched durability, remarkable safety measures, heart-racing speeds, and an exhilarating ride experience, making them perfect for performing tricks. Not only do these features serve you, but they protect those around you too.

Santa Cruz Screaming Hand Large 8.25 Skateboard

Features a full shape design and Lightweight, Super Strong 7-Ply Birch construction, with a shorter wheelbase for nimble turning and 95a wheels for responsiveness.

• Pros: Lightweight and strong; easy foot placement.
• Cons: The hardness of wheels may not perform well on rough terrain​.

Arbor Bryan Iguchi Limited 8.75 Skateboard

A 90’s style skateboard with a double kick and multiple wheelbase options, allowing for versatile use from park to local store trips.

• Pros: Versatile design; inspired by pro model snowboards.
• Cons: Limited edition might be more expensive and less available​.

Element Magma Section 7.75 Skateboard

Offers durability and flexibility with its 7-ply Maple wood construction, combined with 52mm 99a wheels for smooth rides and ABEC 5 bearings for precision.

• Pros: Strong construction; good for tricks and cruising.
• Cons: May not stand out for advanced skaters looking for unique features​.

Anti-Hero Classic Eagle XL 8.25 and Anti Hero Grimple Stix Full Face 8.0 Skateboard

Both boast traditional 7-ply construction and a Twin Popsicle shape for excellent pop, with durable wheels and bearings designed for a smooth ride on various surfaces.

• Pros: Great pop and durability; versatile for different skate styles.
• Cons: The traditional design may not appeal to those seeking innovation.

Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid 7.8 and Santa Cruz Classic Dot Full 8.0 Skateboard

These boards are known for their robust performance with lightweight, super strong 7-ply birch construction, stable aluminum trucks, and smooth-riding wheels.

• Pros: Durable and high-performance; suitable for many styles.
• Cons: Mid-size and full-size may not cater to all preferences.

Globe Goodstock Skateboard

A skateboard that excels in control and balance with its Full Concave and Twin Popsicle shape, built to endure with Resin-7 Hard Rock Maple and smooth-rolling 52mm 99a wheels.

• Pros: Ideal for tricks and cruising; durable construction.
• Cons: Twin Popsicle shape might not be the best for beginners​.

Buy Fast Models

After exploring top-rated fast boards, the next step is finding where to purchase them from skateboard shops. We recommend online retailers as they often offer a broad range of options and custom skateboard builder customization capabilities, allowing us to create the perfect skateboard for your fast pursuits

Plus, with the convenience of home delivery, it’s easier to get the right skateboard without sacrificing our own needs.

Skateboards are part of the broader sporting goods category. Within this category, you can find those made from different materials such as wood, plastic, and metal, as well as those of varying sizes, shapes, and colors. Additionally, you can get those with features like skateboard hardware, trucks, wheels, and bearings that can be modified to suit your needs.

For those looking for an even more personalized skateboard experience, you can also find custom complete boards with customizable skateboard decks, graphics, and skateboard accessories.

No matter what you’re looking for, you can find the best complete fast boards available online and in many in-store options.

Conclusion

We’ve taken you through the ins and outs of fast skateboarding, highlighting the importance of wheels, bearings, trucks, and skateboard accessories. From boards to grip tape to trucks and bearings to decks, skateboards have many components that make up their structure. We hope that the skateboard buying guide we’ve left with you will help.

Being fast is thrilling but always prioritize safety. Make sure you always have the proper complete skateboard, with wrist guards and elbow pads you can use every time you go for a ride. We encourage you to share your own experiences and have your say on the best fast skateboard models.

For instance, for wheel size, you can choose from small, medium, or large wheels. For board shape, you can choose from a cruiser, longboard, or mini-cruiser. For bearing type, you can choose from standard, ceramic, or Swiss.

Happy skateboarding, and stay safe!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Size Skateboard To Get Beginners?

For those who are new and seeking their first skateboard, it’s advisable to opt for a skateboard with a wider deck width ranging from 7.5 to 8 inches. This average width provides a well-rounded combination of stability and maneuverability, which are crucial aspects for beginners aiming to find their balance and gain control while riding. Basing on your shoe size would help you choose the correct skateboard deck size, as skateboard decks should be spacious for your two feet as you ride.

What Makes A Board Go Faster?

Several key factors, such as the wheel durometer and the size of the wheels influence the speediness of a skateboard. Larger skateboard wheels tend to cover more ground with each rotation, contributing to increased speeds. Harder wheels offer less friction against surfaces, promoting a smoother ride. Skateboard wheels and skateboard trucks make all the difference, along with the quality of the bearing. These play a role in reducing friction and ensuring efficient motion.

Can A Speed Skateboard Be Too Small?

Certainly, a skateboard can indeed be too small for certain riders. This issue is particularly relevant for street skaters with larger feet who might require a wider board for a more comfortable ride and to perform tricks more effectively. When the skateboard deck size is inadequate for accommodating the rider’s foot size, it can lead to challenges in maintaining balance and overall discomfort during riding. It’s essential to choose a deck size that suits the rider’s foot dimensions to ensure a comfortable and stable experience.

Can You Do Tricks On A Longboard?

Longboards are primarily designed with cruising and stability in mind. While they excel in providing a smooth and comfortable ride, executing intricate tricks may pose some limitations. While some riders can manage to perform basic tricks like manuals or slides on a longboard, it’s important to note that these boards are not typically optimal for ramps or pools where you might want to perform tricks. Some advanced skaters refer to an instruction video to learn basic tricks on a longboard, but they’re not the best fit for technical moves.

How To Choose A Skateboard For A Girl?

Choosing the right board for a female rider involves considering different styles of skating, deck concave, and various factors, such as her shoe size, personal preferences, skill level, and intended style of movement. Ideal deck sizes generally range from 7.5 to 8 inches, offering a balance between stability and maneuverability. It’s also important to select designs or colors that align with her personal taste and style. While budget considerations might come into play, it’s advisable to steer clear of lower-cost boards that could potentially impact safety and overall performance. Investing in a high-quality skateboard guarantees a more satisfying and secure experience on the wheels. While most boards come with four wheels, the size chart can help determine the right fit for stability and maneuverability, ensuring the board complements the intended style.

Why Can’t I Go Fast On A Skateboard?

Several factors could affect your speedy skateboard, such as low-quality bearings, worn-out wheels, rough surfaces on the riding surface, or an inefficient pushing technique. Ensure that your skateboard is equipped with quality parts and maintained well.

How To Balance Your Board At A Higher Speed?

Balancing at higher speeds may involve a wider deck for stability and learning how the board performs through practice. Keep your weight centered over the two trucks of the standard board and use slightly bent knees to maintain balance.

How Do You Gain Speediness On A Skateboard Without Pushing?

You can gain momentum on a skateboard without pushing by utilizing techniques suitable for park skating or cruising on street skating terrain. Such techniques include “pumping,” where you generate momentum by shifting your weight back and forth.

Can You Ollie With A Longboard?

Ollies, which involve lifting the skateboard off the ground, are challenging to perform on longboards due to their larger size and stability-focused design. It would be best if you had boards that have a tail, so you can create the pop that is needed for the ollie trick. They are more commonly done on regular boards. Don’t even attempt as it is nearly impossible or can cause you to get hurt trying to perform this move.

Is It Easier To Learn On A Longboard Or Short Skateboard?

There is no definitive answer, as it depends on the individual’s preference and riding style. Some find it easier to learn on a longboard due to its stability, while others prefer the maneuverability of a short skateboard for learning technical tricks.

Last Updated on April 27, 2024 by Lisette Lao

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