Ultimate Beginner Skateboard Guide: Tips how to start skateboarding
Welcome to Madd Gear's Ultimate Beginner Skateboard Guide, your one-stop resource for everything you need to know about how to start skateboarding.
Whether you're a parent looking to introduce your child to outdoor activities, a new skater eager to learn, or someone returning to skateboarding after a break, this guide on how to start skateboarding will help you navigate the exciting world of skateboarding. If you've been wondering how to get into skateboarding or searching for the best tips on how to skateboard for beginners, you’re in the right place.
Junior-Sized Skateboards for Younger Skaters
When choosing a skateboard for beginners, especially for younger skaters, a junior-sized skateboard is an excellent choice for learning how to start skateboarding. These boards are designed specifically for new skaters, offering a manageable size that makes learning easier while allowing room for skill development.
Learning how to skateboard starts with the right fit - smaller decks mean more control and confidence. For those just figuring out how to get into skateboarding, a junior-sized board can make all the difference.
Benefits of Choosing a Junior-Sized Board
- Easier Control: Smaller decks are easier for young skaters to maneuver, building confidence as they figure out how to start skateboarding.
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Better Fit: Junior-sized skateboards are tailored for smaller feet, ensuring proper placement for balance and stability - a key part of learning how to skateboard for beginners.
- Smooth Progression: As young skaters grow and improve, they can transition to larger boards without feeling overwhelmed, making these boards ideal for learning how to start skateboarding.
Recommended Models
To ensure an enjoyable experience, invest in a high-quality skateboard for beginners. Here are two top recommendations from Madd Gear:
Madd Gear LTR Complete
Perfect for skateboarding for beginners, this board features soft wheels for smooth rides at skate parks or flat surfaces. Its maple ply deck is durable and ideal for young skaters learning how to start skateboarding.
Madd Gear Grind Complete
A step up for beginner to advanced skaters, this premium double kicktail board features a high-quality maple deck and aluminum trucks, offering durability and performance.
Shop NowKey Takeaway: Junior-sized skateboards are perfect for young skaters starting their journey and learning how to start skateboarding, offering better control and a comfortable fit while understanding the basics of how to skateboard.
Importance of Wearing Protection While Learning
Safety is paramount when learning how to start skateboarding, especially for beginners. Wearing protective gear is essential to minimize the risk of injury and build confidence as you master new skills.
Anyone exploring how to get into skateboarding should start with the right mindset: safety first. Whether you’re figuring out how to skateboard for beginners or practicing your first push, gear up properly before every ride.
Types of Protective Gear: Helmets, Pads, Wrist Guards
Helmets
A must-have for all skaters, helmets protect your head from serious injuries during falls. Choose a helmet that meets CPSC safety standards for optimal protection when learning how to start skateboarding.
View HelmetsPads
Knee and elbow pads shield against scrapes, bruises, and more severe injuries. Look for adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit while learning how to skateboard safely.
View PadsWrist Guards
These prevent wrist fractures by absorbing impact during falls. Select comfortable yet sturdy wrist guards for effective protection as you learn how to start skateboarding.
View Wrist GuardsHow to Choose the Right Size and Fit for Maximum Safety
Properly sized protective gear ensures comfort and effectiveness. Here's how to find the right fit:
- Helmets: Measure your head's circumference just above your eyebrows and compare it to the manufacturer's sizing chart.
- Pads: Measure the circumference of your knee and elbow joints to find the correct pad size.
- Wrist Guards: Measure around your hand just below the knuckles (excluding the thumb) and compare with manufacturer sizing options.
In addition to wearing protective gear, practice safe skating habits to enhance your experience in skateboarding for beginners. Start on flat surfaces, progress gradually to tricks, and stay mindful of other skaters in shared spaces.
Key Takeaway: Prioritize safety with helmets, pads, and wrist guards when learning how to start skateboarding. The right equipment helps you feel confident as you explore how to get into skateboarding safely.
Understanding Skateboard Components
To choose the best skateboard for beginners and understand how to start skateboarding, it's crucial to understand the key components: decks, trucks, wheels, and bearings. This knowledge helps you make smart buying choices and better understand how to skateboard effectively.
Decks: Material Types, Sizes & Shapes
The deck is the flat surface where you stand while skateboarding. Most decks are made from laminated maple for strength and durability. Deck sizes vary (7.5-8.5 inches wide, 28-32 inches long), depending on your preferences and style of skateboarding for beginners.
Popsicle-shaped Decks
These are symmetrical with rounded edges - perfect for beginners learning tricks and how to start skateboarding.
View Popsicle DecksCruiser Decks
With wider shapes, these boards offer more stability but may be less suitable for advanced tricks.
View Cruiser DecksLongboards
Characterized by longer deck and larger wheels, designed for cruising and transportation over longer distances.
View LongboardsTrucks: Materials & Sizing Considerations
Trucks connect the wheels to the deck and control turning. Quality trucks are typically made from aluminum alloy, though beginner boards may use lightweight composite materials. Ensure trucks match your deck's width for stability and control when learning how to skateboard for beginners.
Wheels & Bearings: Hardness Ratings & Choosing Appropriate Options
Wheels, made from polyurethane, come in various hardness levels (durometer):
- Softer Wheels (78A-87A): Offer grip on rough surfaces, ideal for cruising.
- Harder Wheels (88A-101A+): Provide speed and slide capabilities, suited for tricks.
- Medium-Hard Wheels (90A-99A): Versatile for skateboarding for beginners across different terrains.
- Diameter: Smaller wheels (50-56mm) suit trick-focused skating, while larger wheels (60mm+) are better for cruising.
- Bearings: Look for bearings with an ABEC rating of 5 or higher for smooth performance.
Key Takeaway: Understanding skateboard components like decks, trucks, wheels, and bearings is essential for choosing the right skateboard and learning how to start skateboarding or improving how to skateboard efficiently.
Finding Your Preferred Skateboarding Style
Discovering your personal skating style is a fun part of learning how to start skateboarding. Whether you love tricks, cruising, or park rides, your style helps shape how you grow.
Street vs Park vs Cruiser Skateboarding Styles
Street Skateboarding
Urban obstacles like stairs and ledges are your playground. Choose smaller wheels (52–56mm) and narrower decks for easy control when learning how to skateboard.
Park Skateboarding
Focus on ramps and bowls. Wider decks (8–8.25 inches) and medium wheels (54–58mm) give you stability while you experiment and learn how to skateboard for beginners.
Cruiser Skateboarding
Perfect for relaxed rides or commuting. Wider, longer decks (8.25 inches+) and large wheels (62–70mm) make it smooth and fun - a great start for anyone exploring how to get into skateboarding casually.
Selecting Boards Tailored to Specific Styles
- If you're younger or just beginning: how to start skateboarding: Look for a narrower deck (around 7.5-8 inches wide) with small-to-medium sized wheels (52-56mm).
- If you're slightly more advanced: Opt for a slightly wider deck (8-8.25 inches) combined with medium-sized wheels (54-58mm).
- If general cruising is your goal: Choose a wider and longer deck (8.25 inches or more) and pair it with larger wheels (62-70mm).
Experiment with different setups to find what suits you best. Don't hesitate to test various combinations of decks, trucks, and wheels to discover your ideal skateboard for beginners.
Key Takeaway: Understanding your style helps you choose the right skateboard for your goals and makes learning how to start skateboarding enjoyable and personal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should a beginner start skateboarding?
How to start skateboarding begins by selecting a skateboard for beginners, wearing protective gear, and practicing in a safe, flat area. Focus on basics like pushing, balancing, turning, and stopping before attempting tricks. Watching tutorials or taking lessons can accelerate learning to skateboard.
How can I teach myself to skateboard?
Teach yourself how to start skateboarding by following online tutorials, such as Madd Gear's Skateboarding Basic Guide, and practicing regularly. Break skills into small steps, progress at your own pace, and stay consistent to master skateboarding for beginners.
How to skate step by step?
- Choose a skateboard for beginners and proper safety gear.
- Determine your stance: regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward).
- Place your front foot near the middle of the deck, toes slightly outward.
- Push off gently with your back foot while balancing on the front foot.
- Bend your knees for stability during motion.
- Practice steering by shifting your weight between heels and toes.
How do beginners get comfortable on a skateboard?
Getting comfortable is the first step in how to start skateboarding. Start by standing on the board without moving to build familiarity. Gradually practice gentle pushes, focusing on balance. Short, frequent sessions help develop muscle memory and confidence.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Beginner Skateboard Guide equips parents, teens, and new skaters with the tools to learn how to start skateboarding safely and confidently. By choosing the right skateboard, wearing protective gear, understanding components, and finding your preferred style, you’ll be on your way to mastering the joy of skateboarding.
At Madd Gear, we’re dedicated to helping riders at every level - from those learning how to skateboard for beginners to those progressing through advanced techniques. With quality products, expert advice, and a passion for the sport, we make it easier for anyone exploring how to get into skateboarding to ride with confidence.
Start Your Skateboarding Journey Today
Ready to begin how to start skateboarding? Check out Madd Gear's selection of quality skateboards and protective gear designed specifically for beginners.
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