Before choosing a skateboard, it is worth deciding on the important options. For boys and girls who are just trying their hand at spectacular sports, the classic board is suitable. Simple city movement requires speed and maneuverability. Stunt models require stability. Understanding the design and purpose of the parts will help you choose a projectile for comfortable riding. Let's take a closer look at how to choose a good skateboard and when to choose a longboard.
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How to choose a good beginner skateboard
The technical variety in skateboards is conventionally divided into several basic models. Width and length, type of construction determine the purpose of the board. The equipment of the projectile affects its durability and comfort in use.
Classic skateboards. The shortboard is considered a classic skateboard. Short board (70-85 cm), weight 1-4 kg, universal for beginners. The streamlined shape allows speeds up to 50 km / h. It has good maneuverability, easily overcomes obstacles, glides gently on uneven surfaces. It is more difficult to maintain balance on a skateboard, not suitable for driving on roads.
Longboards. "Long board" reaches a length of 100-140 cm and more, weighs 5-15 kg. The design with soft large wheels, a large distance between the front and rear axles is inferior to short boards in maneuverability. Only a professional can perform tricks on it. But it accelerates well (up to 130 km / h), allows you to perform long descents. Longboard easily overcomes long distances, stable and stable for movement on the track.
Roller-surfing. Wavebord or Ripstik, the deck of such a board consists of two independent parts. The torsion-bar connection in the middle allows you to pick up speed due to body movement, you do not need to push off with your foot. Rollersurfers accelerate quickly and are very maneuverable. Great for performing tricks and feints. The design is strong and reliable, but unstable, traumatic. When the rider is heavy, the wheels wear out quickly.
Important Skateboard Parts
With the right equipment, riding will be easy and harmonious. Incorrectly selected parts spoil the impression and contribute to the rapid wear of the skateboard.
Soundboard
Usually made from 6-9 layers of pressed wood. 90% of the models on the market are 7-ply hardwood planks. American (Canadian) and Chinese maple are considered durable materials. Griptape or "skin" is glued on top - an abrasive tape that does not allow feet to slip while riding. The shells, designed for sliding, are covered with a layer of plastic from below.
Main characteristics of the deck:
- width and length;
- the depth of the deflection between the edges;
- the shape of the bends of the board in front and behind;
- the size of the kicktail.
Narrow decks are more comfortable to ride, wider decks are better for performing tricks. It is worth considering the height and length of the rider's foot. The standard is a width of 19-21 cm and a length of about 80 cm, it is designed for shoe size 41-44 and for a height of 160-195 cm. Almost all manufacturers have models in this size.
Tracks (suspension)
The size of the harness should correspond to the width of the deck, no more than 20 cm in length.Low tracks give more stability, mid-height suspension is universal. High tracks are needed for a number of elements and are in demand among the pros.
Wheels
They are made of polyurethane of varying degrees of rigidity. Soft (73A-79A) designed for a comfortable ride, but wear out quickly. Medium (80A-84A) are considered optimal. Hard (87A-101A) suitable for fast acceleration, abrasion resistant, but do not absorb impacts on uneven roads.
The diameter of the wheels is also important, which affects the speed and passability of the skate on difficult road sections. Fast and passable 54–60 mm, abut against the deck on steep bends. For a relatively flat road surface, a diameter of 51–53 mm is suitable. The smallest wheels of 48–50 mm do not pick up speed well and are suitable for smooth concrete. They are chosen for riding on skateboards.
Bearings
When putting the wheels on the tracks, 2 bearings are inserted inside. They are marked according to the ABEC1-9 standard. They differ in the class of manufacturing accuracy and the maximum acceleration speed. Bearings ABEC5 are considered optimal, they are for daily riding, they allow you to accelerate well.
Which skateboard to choose
For beginners, the classic skate is suitable, it is the most convenient for learning. It is better to take Deku stable and light. Wheels need soft, within 78A – 84A, bearings for an adult class ABEC3 (or ABEC1 for a child).
It is more convenient to move around the city on long and stable boards. It is worth spending money on a good shock-absorbed suspension, wide wheels of medium hardness. They will extend the life of the longboard and easily overcome unevenness in the asphalt.
Experienced riders need strength and maneuverability to perform tricks and practice feints. You will need a board, bearings of 3-5 class of accuracy, wheels with a stiffness above average up to 95 A. Rollersurfers are soft and light, allow you to perform complex elements, slide along the railing.
