Skateboard Equipment
What Do I Need to Get Started?

You don't need a lot of skateboard equipment when you first start out but it can be expensive so you will want to be sure that skateboarding is for you before you lay out a lot of cash.

However, skateboarding is a dangerous sport so the last thing you want to do is take the extra risk of buying dangerous gear.

The one thing you definitely shouldn't skimp on is safety gear .

This is something I don't recommend you buy second-hand, especially the helmet. A helmet that has had a hard knock can still be weakened even if it looks fine.

When you first start skateboarding you can expect to get a good few bumps and bruises. Make sure you're well protected. Wear quality pads and a helmet every time you skate.

You don't have to fork out a fortune on your first board but you must be sure it's safe.

Buying a Used Skateboard vs a New Board

Don't buy a cheap board from a supermarket or toy shop. These are not designed for serious skating and are plain dangerous.

Not all cheap boards are bad quality or poor value for money but they can be and, unless you know what you're looking at, it's probably not worth the risk.

Buying cheap skateboard equipment doesn't always work out costing less. You may end up with shredded wheels and a broken deck after only a few skating sessions. Or worse, you may end up in hospital.

A cheaper, good quality skateboard can sometimes be acquired second-hand. You will need to get a good look at it first to make sure it's safe.

The best place to buy a used skateboard is from a skate shop. The shop assistant should be able to advise you on what would be the best board to begin on. And it should be in safe condition.

Buying used will possibly get you a better board for your money than going for a cheaper new one. However, if you plan to buy new get good advice from a skate shop and always go for the best board you can afford.

Another option is to buy the components separately and build your own board.

You will need a deck , a pair of trucks , a set of wheels , some bearings and some griptape.

Building Your Own Skateboard

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