Skateboards

Skateboarding Basics: Skateboards and Their Parts

Skateboarding is a lifestyle for many, combining creativity, physical challenge and community. Choosing the right equipment is essential to get the best possible skateboarding experience. In this article, we will discuss the different parts of a skateboard, such as decks, trucks, bearings and tires, and their importance in the enjoyment and performance of skateboarding. Shreddington Snow, a specialist shop on Kalevankatu in Helsinki and an online store, now also offers all the necessary equipment and gear for skateboarding and surfing.

Deck Selection

The deck is the main part of a skateboard, where the other parts are attached. The choice of deck greatly affects how skateboarding feels and what kinds of tricks you can do.

Materials

Most decks are made from Canadian maple, which is known for its durability and flexibility. Bamboo and composite materials are also used, but maple is still the most popular choice.

Size

Deck width is an important factor, and is usually chosen based on the size of the skater's foot and the intended use. Wider decks (8.25" and up) are more stable and are good for ramps and cruising, while narrower decks (7.5"-8.0") are lighter and easier to flip, making them better suited for street tricks.

Forklifts

Trucks are the metal parts that attach the tires to the deck. They affect the turning and stability of the board.

Width

The width of the trucks should be chosen according to the width of the deck. The truck axle should be approximately the same width as the deck to ensure a balanced board.

Height

Trucks come in different heights – low, medium and high. Low trucks are suitable for smaller tires and technical tricks, medium trucks are multipurpose and high trucks allow for larger tires and smoother turning.

Laurel

Bearings are a small but important part of a skateboard. They affect how smoothly and quickly the wheels spin.

ABEC rating

Bearings are often rated on an ABEC scale (1, 3, 5, 7, 9), which measures the precision and efficiency of the bearing. A higher ABEC rating generally means smoother and faster rotation, but other factors, such as material and lubrication, also affect the quality of the bearing.

Material

Bearings are often made of steel, but ceramic bearings are becoming increasingly popular because they are lighter, more durable, and rotate more smoothly.

Tires

Tires have a significant impact on the ride feel and where and how you can skate.

Size

Tire size is measured in millimeters. Smaller tires (50-54 mm) are quick to accelerate and are great for stunts. Larger tires (55 mm and up) offer better rolling and a smoother ride on uneven surfaces, making them great for cruising and ramps.

Hardness

Tire hardness is measured by a durometer. Harder tires (99A and above) are faster and are great for smooth surfaces and tricks. Softer tires (78A-87A) offer better grip and a more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces.

Shreddington Snow – Everything You Need for Skateboarding

Shreddington Snow offers everything you need for snowboarding, skateboarding and surfing. In our selection you will find skateboards, decks, trucks, bearings and tires from well-known brands such as Vans, Adidas, és, New Balance and Etnies. You can explore our products in our online store or visit our store in Helsinki, Kalevankatu. From summer 2024 we will also offer skateboarding related equipment so you can enjoy skateboarding at its best.

Shreddington Snow snowboard brands

Capita lumilaudatBataleon lumilaudatKorua lumilaudatThirtyTwo lumilautamonot