How to buy a Skateboard
This guide is mainly aimed at buying a pro / custom set up. If you are a mum or dad looking to buy your child a skateboard, please have a look at the link below. We have a few Mini Skateboards in there for smaller children too!!
Mini skateboards are normally 28" whereas full size skateboards are 31" in length. Both sizes are suitable for children so it's up to you which size you go for. When buying for younger children they're usually more bothered about the picture on the deck!
Click here to see a range of suitable beginners skateboards
How to buy a Skateboard
Before you start looking, you need to know that there is a lot more to a skateboard than a piece of wood on four wheels. A skateboard consists of lots of parts which all work together to give you an optimum ride. The guide below should help you understand what each of the components do.
Choosing the right Skateboard
The best way to choose the proper skateboard is to to think about your skateboard style of riding, your budget and where you skateboard (the terrain) as these will help choose which type of skateboard and components are right for you.
Click here to see a range of suitable beginners skateboards
Click here to see a range of suitable intermediate skateboards
Click here to see a range of suitable advanced skateboards
Click here to see a range of skateboard longboards
How to buy the deck (board)
While each characteristic plays a role in overall deck feel, it is the combination of all these factors from which a buying decision is made.
 
Materials:
Wood: The most common deck material is wood. Almost all wood deck skateboards are made from Canadian Maple. Each deck maker uses a varying number of plys (layers), usually no less than 5 and no more than 9.
Plastic: Some less expensive skateboards utilise plastic for the deck. While this material is cheaper and more durable than wood, it does not offer the same responsiveness.
Other materials: More recent materials of skateboard design include aluminum and fiberglass/carbon composites. These materials are being used to try to improve upon the durability of wood, while maintaining its characteristics (pop/responsiveness).
How to buy trucks
Size: Size is determined purely by deck width (although some skaters prefer certain truck widths). Most trucks range between 4.75 in and 5.5”. A slightly wider truck will offer a more stable landing platform and shorter turning radius, but is heavier. Certain trucks can be found up to 7 in. This size truck is strictly used in conjunction with longboards.
 
Material: Every truck is made from various versions of alloy metal (although some inexpensive skateboards use plastic). Increasingly, truck manufacturers are experimenting with space age metals in their alloy, like titanium. The goal is to maintain the strength of the truck while reducing the weight. Trucks also incorporate a bushing, which is the mechanism by which a truck turns. These bushings are available in varying degrees of hardness, which affect the ease by which a skateboard turns.
Click here to see a range of trucks | 
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