How to Buy Skateboard Parts

Skateboarding isn't a one-size-fits-all sport, and guessing may not get you far (ask them what they want!). But if you want to surprise a skater, here's how to do it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Skateboard Pads
• Skateboard Wheels
• Skateboards
• Skateboarding Shoes
• Skate Rails
• Skateboard Parts
• Skateboard Helmets
• Skateboard Decks

1. Think about how the skater operates. Does the skater like to go fast on the street? Does the skater like to make his or her board do all sorts of flips? Does the skater like to ride ramps? Does the skater only skate at skate parks?

2. Pick up a deck (the actual wooden board) that is wide and has a bigger wheel base for speed or big ramps. This makes for a smoother and more stable ride. A wide board is usually around 8.5 inches and beyond. For wheels, larger wheels go faster, so look for something 60mm and up. Trucks should be sturdy and somewhat heavy. Look for something wide here, as well, with numbers like 5.2 or 160 (different companies use different scales).

3. 

   Buy a deck that is skinny and light for street riding and for lots of flips and stunts. These are more maneuverable. Look for sizes between 7.25 inches and 7.75 inches for most street boards. Wheels need only be smaller (50-55mm), though harder durometer wheels are often preferred. Many wheels don't mark their hardness, but most shop employees will know. A hard wheel is around 99a. Trucks will simply be the small version made by whatever company you buy. Look for numbers like 5.0 or 149.

4. 

   Purchase a board that is 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide, wheels that run between 53-57mm, and trucks that fit the width of the board if you want to take the middle-of-the-road approach.

5. Note that other parts such as bolts, bearings and grip tape are universal and will work with any board, wheel, truck or skater (unless your skater is really, really picky).

Tips & Warnings

• Some popular skateboarding companies: Birdhouse, Girl, Chocolate, Real, Think, Anti-Hero, Maple, A-Team, Blind, Planet Earth, Black Label, Element, Alien Workshop, Stereo, the Firm or City Stars for boards. Spitfire, Circuit or Dark Star for wheels. Venture, Independent, Thunder, Mercury, Gullwing, Orion, Tensor or Destructo for trucks.
• Skateboarding is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help:

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on 7/1/2006 Krux Trucks are the best out there, in my opinion. They turn great, but most of all they're light so they don't slow you down on the street or in the air. They're also great for grinding. About $20 each (US) as opposed to about $17 (US) for Independent Trucks that are highly overrated.

on 11/22/2005 Zero is another huge deck company. I use them, and they are awesome! Their equipment is great for flip tricks and ramps.

on 11/22/2005 Rictas are generally known as one of the best wheel suppliers in the world! People such as Darren Cambell and other pros use them. If you can get some factory seconds for half the price, they are just as good.