The Baseline
First and foremost, you will need a skateboard. A skateboard is built out of a deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings. For beginners, we recommend choosing a skateboard with a wider deck, as it offers more stability, making it easier to balance and control. The deck’s width usually ranges from 7.5 inches to 8.5 inches, with wider decks being better for stability and narrower ones for tricks.
When selecting trucks, which are the metal components that attach the wheels to the deck, ensure they match the width of your deck. The right size ensures better control and maneuverability. Wheels vary in size and hardness; softer wheels (measured by durometer rating) are ideal for beginners as they provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces. For cruising and street skating, consider wheels in the 78A-87A range, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better suited for tricks on smooth surfaces.
Read our article breaking down the best budget skateboards if you’re looking only to dip your toes in, or our article on best skateboards in 2024 to get the most out of your money.
Protective Gear
Safety should always be a priority, especially for beginners who are more prone to falls. A helmet is essential for protecting your head from injuries. Ensure your helmet fits snugly and meets safety standards.
Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are also important. These protect your joints from scrapes, bruises, and more severe injuries during falls. Wrist guards are particularly useful as they help prevent wrist fractures, a common injury among skateboarders.
Read our article on the best skateboarding protection for a breakdown of what you can buy, what it’s for, and why you would select different pieces over another.
Proper Footwear and Clothing
Choosing the right footwear can significantly impact your skateboarding experience. Skate shoes are designed with a flat, grippy sole that provides excellent board feel and control. They often feature reinforced areas to withstand the wear and tear from skating. Avoid shoes with thick, raised soles, as they can make it harder to balance and maneuver.
Wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Loose-fitting pants or shorts and a breathable shirt are ideal. Consider adding a layer if you’re skating in cooler weather, but make sure it doesn’t restrict your movements.
We can’t choose what clothes work for you and we recommend discovering specialty shops for your own body type and style.
Basic Skills and Safety Tips
Before attempting tricks, focus on mastering basic skills like pushing, turning, and stopping. Start by practicing on a flat, smooth surface. Get comfortable with your stance, whether regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward), and learn how to distribute your weight properly.
Familiarize yourself with basic safety rules. Always skate in designated areas and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid skating in areas with heavy traffic or rough terrain. Respect other skaters and pedestrians, and be mindful of local laws and regulations regarding skateboarding.
Ready for more?
Coming soon, we will have guides that will take you from a beginner to an intermediate skater in no time.