What makes a skateboard setup perfect for beginners? Whether you’re drawn to skateboarding because of its thrill, or simply because you’d love to learn a new skill, selecting the right equipment can make a significant difference in your journey as a new skateboarder. In the world of skating, your skateboard setup refers to the complete assembly—deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and hardware.
Understanding the Basics of a Skateboard Setup
Before diving into which setups are best for beginners, it’s essential to understand the different components of a skateboard. Becoming familiar with what each part does will help you make informed decisions when choosing your board.
Skateboard Deck
The deck is the flat board you stand on, and it is arguably the most crucial part of your setup. Beginner decks are typically 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide, which offers a good balance for control and stability. Decks are usually made of 7-ply maple wood, providing durability and flexibility.
Trucks
Trucks attach the wheels to the deck and play a crucial role in how your board turns. For beginners, standard-sized trucks that match the width of your deck are recommended. This ensures stability and allows for easier turning. Truck height can also affect your ride; lower trucks are generally more stable, making them a good choice for new skaters.
Wheels
Wheels come in various sizes, measured in millimeters, and different hardness levels, known as durometers. Beginners should look for wheels between 52mm and 56mm in diameter with a durometer of 78a to 87a. These provide a good balance of speed and surface grip, making them suitable for different terrains.
Bearings
Bearings are small but mighty, allowing wheels to spin smoothly. Skateboard bearings are rated on the ABEC scale, with 1 being the lowest precision and 9 the highest. For beginners, ABEC 3 to 5 should suffice, offering reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Grip Tape
Grip tape is the sandpaper-like layer on top of the deck that provides traction for your feet. As a beginner, you’ll want a grip tape that is moderately coarse to help keep you steady while learning to balance and perform basic tricks.
Hardware
Hardware consists of the screws and nuts that hold your skateboard together. While simple, it’s essential to choose durable hardware that can handle stress and strain. Most setups use bolts that are 1″ to 1.5″ long, and quality hardware will ensure a sturdy and safe ride.
Characteristics of Good Beginner Skateboard Setups
Now that we’re familiar with the main components of a skateboard, let’s talk about what makes a setup particularly suitable for beginners.
Stability
A beginner-friendly skateboard should prioritize stability. This means choosing a deck width that you feel comfortable with and trucks that support easy turning without sharp, unpredictable pivots. Stability is also influenced by softer wheels, providing a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
Affordability
Starting with an expensive skateboard isn’t necessary. Many budget-friendly brands offer excellent quality setups that don’t compromise on performance. As you’re still finding your feet, an affordable setup will meet your needs without putting undue pressure on your budget.
Durability
You’ll likely push your skateboard to its limits while learning new tricks and techniques. Therefore, a durable setup is vital. Choosing components made from quality materials will ensure your skateboard withstands the inevitable wear and tear of a beginner’s learning curve.
Customization
As you improve, you might want to customize your skateboard to suit your evolving style. Initial setups that allow for easy component upgrades—like wheels or trucks—are ideal for beginners who plan to experiment as their skills progress.
Popular Beginner Skateboard Setups
Here’s a look at some skateboards known for their beginner-friendly designs, practicality, and quality.
Element Section Complete Skateboard
Element is known for crafting durable and reliable decks. The Element Section Complete features a 7.75” width, making it a comfortable size for most newcomers. It also comes with 52mm wheels and Element trucks, which are ideal for smooth and controlled rides.
Powell Golden Dragon Flying Dragon Complete Skateboard
Powell Golden Dragon boards are a staple for many beginner skateboarders. Their Flying Dragon Complete comes with 54mm wheels and ABEC 5 bearings, offering a good balance between speed and stability. Its graphics also add a fun element to your rides.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
This skateboard from Enjoi is perfect for beginners seeking simplicity and performance. With an 8.0” deck, traditional kingpin trucks, and 52mm wheels, it can smoothly glide over urban environments. The Whitey Panda design is both minimalistic and eye-catching.
Globe G3 Bar Complete Skateboard
Globe’s G3 Bar is another excellent choice for beginners. It features an 8.0” deck crafted from high-performance epoxy resin. The board includes 54mm wheels and highly precise Bearings, making it versatile for street and park skating.
Tips for Choosing Your First Skateboard
Choosing your first skateboard can feel daunting with so many options available. Here are a few additional tips to help you make a selection that suits you best:
Consider Your Size
Your size—including weight and shoe size—should guide your choice of deck width. Heavier or taller individuals might prefer wider decks (around 8.0 to 8.5 inches) for extra stability, while lighter, shorter individuals could choose narrower decks (around 7.5 to 7.75 inches).
Assess Your Style of Skating
Consider what appeals to you most in skateboarding. Are you more interested in street tricks, or do you see yourself cruising along urban landscapes? Your interest might affect the size and hardness of your wheels, as well as the type of deck you get.
Think About the Terrain
Where you plan on skating most often should influence your choice. If you envision yourself at skateparks, a board with harder wheels might suit you. For street and everyday use, softer wheels are preferable for handling rough, uneven surfaces.
Exploring Skateboard Brands for Beginners
Getting familiar with brands specifically catering to beginners can also refine your decision-making process. Each brand often has distinct qualities and styles.
Element Skateboards
Element prides itself on creating functional and stylish boards for all skill levels. They emphasize sustainability, using recycled materials for many components. Their skateboards are robust, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is one of the original skateboard companies, renowned for their durable and stylish decks. Their beginner setups offer a fantastic mix of classic designs and reliable components, giving newcomers a good balance of style and usability.
Baker Skateboards
Baker is well-regarded for ease of use and stylish designs. Their beginner-friendly models are tough and often sport unique, bold graphics. Baker’s line offers a range of designed setups, each optimized for practical learning and skill development.
Almost Skateboards
Almost Skateboards offers a range of complete setups, perfect for first-timers. With colorful designs and quality components, Almost ensures that their decks are lightweight yet sturdy, catering well to skaters who are just starting out.
Plan B
Plan B is highly progressive, focusing on quality and high performance. Their complete setups are tailored for versatility, allowing learners to make smooth transitions from the basics to more advanced maneuvers.
Upgrading Your Setup as You Progress
As your skills advance, you might feel the need to tweak or upgrade components of your setup. Deciding on what to upgrade depends on personal preference and particular needs in enhancing your skating experience. Consider these common upgrades:
Wheels
Once you’ve got the basics down and know the type of skating you enjoy, upgrading wheels can significantly improve your performance. Larger or harder wheels might increase speed and help facilitate smoother tricks for the ambitious skater.
Bearings
Better bearings can make your skateboard faster and more efficient. Investing in high-quality bearings, like those rated ABEC 7 or 9, can result in a smoother ride and less friction. This upgrade is beneficial if you start focusing on high-speed runs.
Trucks
Considering new trucks is wise if you’re leaning towards a specific style or if your current ones show wear. As you develop preferences, lighter or more durable options could provide a better match for your improved control and technique.
Caring for Your Skateboard
Maintaining your skateboard is essential in preserving its performance and longevity. Regular inspections of your setup can prevent mechanical failures and ensure everything works as required.
Keep Your Bearings Clean
Bearings need particular attention; dirt and moisture can lead to rust, hampering their effectiveness. Regularly cleaning and lubricating them will maintain their smoothness and ensure your rides remain effortless.
Protect Your Deck
Exposure to water and excess sunlight can damage your deck. Try to store your skateboard in a cool, dry place when not in use. You might also consider using a protective deck spray to safeguard the wood from moisture damage.
Tighten Hardware
Periodic checks on the hardware can prevent components from loosening over time. Make sure that your trucks, wheels, and deck are all securely fastened, and carry a skate tool with you to make adjustments as needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the best skateboard setup is an exciting yet thoughtful process. By understanding the importance of each component and the skateboarding style you want to pursue, you can select a skateboard that perfectly matches your needs. With time and practice, you’ll build confidence and fine-tune your setup to accompany you on your skateboarding adventure. Embrace the learning phase, and remember that every skater started as a beginner too. The joy of improvement combined with the thrill of skating will make the journey nothing short of rewarding.
