Skateboard Anatomy Breakdown

Every little part of a skateboard works to give you the smoothest, fastest ride out there! If you’re an absolute skate newbie, let’s breakdown the most important parts to get you started. Whether you’re building your board or getting a complete ready-to-ride skateboard, these 6 parts are essential to get you on the right track! Remember, there are different kinds of skateboard styles; therefore, some facts may vary. Here we go:

DECK

A deck is straight up the flat board that you will ride on. Most commonly, decks are made with plywood or plastic depending on skateboard style: classic, longboard, cruiser, etc. The length of the deck will vary and is dependent on your actual size and preference. Standard deck sizes usually range anywhere from 7.5 inches to 8.75 inches.

RISER PADS

Risers are hard plastic or metal pads inserted between the deck and the trucks to raise the board’s height. The pads allow more clearance between your wheels and deck to avoid shock. They often come in fun colors that are a super cool way to customize your board.

GRIP TAPE

Grip tape is an adhesive heavy-duty textured paper used for grip. When constructing a skateboard, you will need to cut the grip tape to the perfect size and apply it to the deck’s top. The friction on the grip tape allows your shoes to have better control over the skateboard. The tape is crucial as a deck on its own does not provide any grip.

BEARINGS

Skate bearings are itty bitty circular gears that give your wheels the ability to roll. This also determines how fast and smooth your ride will be. Bearing sizes are also pretty standard and universally sized for any wheels. When purchasing separately, make sure to do your research to get quality bearings as they determine such an essential part of your ride experience.

TRUCKS

Trucks are the metal T-shaped hardware that mounts under your skateboard deck. Investing in quality trucks means that you will be able to grind more effectively and increase your board’s longevity. The wheels and bearings will connect to this part of the skateboard. Like everything else, they are absolutely essential.

WHEELS

What is a skateboard without its wheels? Just a board. The wheels and bearings are directly attached to your trucks. The diameter refers to width and durometer to hardness. For street, 50-60mm, wheels with a 95 to 101 durometer are recommended. For cruisers, softer wheels are used anywhere between a 78A-90A durometer and a 54-60mm diameter.