Ready to get on four wheels but feeling overwhelmed by all the options? Don't worry, we'll make it easy with our guide! Whether you want to ride street, park, or just cruise around town, here's what you need to know to choose your first skateboard.
Skateboard Basics: Deck, Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings
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The deck (the board) : Made of maple wood, its width varies from 7.5" to 9'" and more. The wider it is, the more stability you gain but the less maneuverability you lose. A deck between 8.0" and 8.25" is often a good compromise for beginners.
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Trucks : The metal axles that attach the wheels to the board. Their width should match your deck for proper balance. Truck height can be low, normal, or high, influencing stability and maneuverability: low trucks are more stable for street riding, while high trucks offer more range for turns and tricks. Price differences are often related to weight and more durable materials, which can make a big difference for regular riders.
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Wheels : Their diameter and hardness influence your speed and ability to ride on different types of surfaces. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are ideal for street riding, while larger wheels (56-60mm) are better for park riding or cruising. The hardness rating, measured in durometers (e.g., 99A), determines grip and glide: harder wheels are ideal for technical tricks, while softer wheels absorb shock better and grip better on rough surfaces.
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Bearings : Their ABEC rating determines how smooth your ride will be. ABEC 5 or 7 is perfect for starting out. The most important thing is to avoid water and sand if you want them to last longer.
What type of board is right for you?
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The complete : A setup that's already assembled and ready to ride. This is ideal if you're just starting out and want good value for money without the hassle.
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Custom : If you want a skateboard that's perfectly suited to your style and skill level, choose each piece separately. Perfect if you're already a bit experienced!
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Cruisers and longboards : If you're looking for a board to comfortably get around town or for relaxing rides, cruisers and longboards are perfect options. A cruiser will be more compact and maneuverable, ideal for the city, while the longboard offers more stability and comfort for long distances or downhill riding.
Choosing the Right Deck Size
The size depends on your style and preferences:
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Street and technical tricks: Between 7.75" and 8.0" for more control.
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Park and bowls: Wider (8.25" and larger) for stability.
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Cruising and transportation: A longboard or cruiser, perfect for the city.
Avoiding beginner mistakes
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Choose a board that is too narrow if you have big feet or too wide for technical tricks.
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Wheels too hard on uneven ground = washing machine vibes.
Ready to skateeeeee?
Whether you're a beginner or looking to take your skateboarding to the next level, come see us at Homies. We have a selection of complete skateboards and parts, and our experts are here to help you choose the perfect board and answer your questions!
Visit us in store or order online!
