All about Street Skateboards

Ever find yourself ill at ease while navigating the maze of skateboard types? Rest assured, you aren’t alone. Because today, we’re going to delve into the stylish world of Street Skateboards, one of the most popular and versatile boards in the skateboarding family.

Are you ready for the ride? Pause, let me take you on a journey.

A journey where you’ll not only learn about a sport but an art, a discipline, and for some- an entire way of life. This adventure isn’t just about a piece of wood attached to four wheels, it’s about the culture and thrill synonymous with Street Skateboarding, and how it can turn your world around.

Just think, you mastering those exhilarating tricks and slides, navigating the cityscape like a pro. Sounds fascinating, isn’t it? So, buckle up because this ride is going to be a thrilling one!

But before we get started, remember – nobody became Tony Hawk overnight. It’s a journey, not a race. Now, ready to roll?

Introduction

Skateboarding, to me, isn’t just a sport – it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and honestly, it’s an art form. I still remember the first time I rode a skateboard; the thrill, the exhilaration, and yes, the numerous falls. But that’s part of the journey, isn’t it?

Now coming to our topic for today – ‘Street Skateboards’. These speed machines can turn every parking lot or an empty stretch of pavement into a playground. Trust me, there’s an undeniable sense of charm in rolling down the street, navigating through pedestrians, and grinding on curbs.

Street skateboards have a distinct construction that sets them apart from other types – they’re typically smaller, sturdier, and designed for maneuverability and durability. They need to take a beating and keep on rolling, that’s what they are made for!

These boards are designed for performing tricks and stunts rather than cruising or downhill racing, although you can still do those if you wish. Yet, it’s not all about tricks; there’s something quietly satisfying about mastering control over your board, smoothly guiding it through corners and obstacles with precision.

I remember how my first street skateboard was a basic, mass-produced one from a popular sports shop. It wasn’t fancy, but it did what it was supposed to – it got me out in the open, made me fall in love with the graceful art of skateboarding, and got me a few scrapes and bruises. But those were like badges of honor I wore proudly.

What are Street Skateboards?

Ah, street skateboards. Now, that’s a buzzy topic I’m excited to dive into! Street skateboards are so much more than just your average boards. They’re tools for self-expression, adventure, and of course, an essential mode of urban transportation. And boy, do I have a thing or two to share about them from my personal experience!

Street skateboards are typically smaller, lighter, and more flexible than the other types of skateboards, making them ideal for urban environments where quick maneuvering is key. These are the skateboards you see people zipping through city traffic with or performing jaw-dropping tricks in parks. They usually measure somewhere between 7 to 10 inches in width, though the most common range is between 7.5 and 8.5 inches. As for length, you’re looking at about 31 to 32 inches on average. Now, these are not hard and fast rules, but they give you a rough idea.

You see, the narrower design helps greatly with tricks. It gives you more control, makes it easier to flip, and generally makes the board more responsive. Take it from me; I’ve gone through countless boards in my quest for mastery, and my top-performing ones were always the smaller, more manageable ones.

A significant element in a street skateboard is its wheels. Street skateboards typically have hard and small wheels to assist with tricks involving sliding or grinding. Generally, they’d be in the range of 50 to 60mm in size with a hardness of around 99A to 101A. Trust me, that range is the sweet spot. I did a ton of experimenting and found that a higher duro wheel works wonders on smoother surfaces like concrete or tarmac, giving a rapid, stable ride.

Street skateboards also have a symmetrical shape with a nose and a tail that are nearly or exactly same. This is perfect for doing tricks either way, forwards or backwards, giving you the flexibility to swing the board around any way you like.

I reckon street skateboarding is all about creativity and guts. It’s about using the urban architecture as your canvas and painting it with your board-and-feet prowess. It’s daring and requires a sense of spontaneity, as no two streets or tricks are ever the same. One time, I remember landing my first kickflip on rough asphalt and the exhilaration was indescribable.

To wrap up, street skateboards are your perfect companions for the gritty, fast-paced urban environment, designed to bear the brunt of the concrete jungle and defy gravity. Whether it’s for engaging in thrilling tricks, commuting, or just simply exploring your city in a totally different way, a street skateboard can redefine your idea of freedom – it certainly did for me!

Distinguishing Features of Street Skateboards

Surely! I’ve always been a big fan of street skateboarding. The raw energy, the precision, the cultural impact – it’s something really special to me. But more than that, I appreciate the unique equipment used by street skateboarders. But to someone just starting out, it can feel like a lot to take in. So here, I’ll cover some key distinguishing features of street skateboards:

1. Deck Size: Street skateboards typically have narrower decks, generally ranging from 7.5 to 8.25 inches wide. They’re smaller for a reason: they tend to be easier to control and maneuver during tricks. This was a game changer for me when I first started skateboarding – I noticed a significant change in my flip trick game once I switched over to a narrower board!
2. Wheels: Here’s an interesting bit – street skateboard wheels are often smaller and harder than their longboard counterparts. They usually measure between 50-60mm in diameter, with a durometer (hardness level) of 95-101A. The small, hard wheels are designed for a smooth ride on concrete and to slide across obstacles effortlessly during street tricks.
3. Trucks: In street skateboarding, the skateboard trucks are usually mid-size, relative to the board’s width, which helps in quick, sharp turns. This might seem minor, but believe me, I can testify that it makes all the difference when you’re trying to pull off that sweet kickflip or grinding down that rail.
4. Concave Shape: Street skateboards have a distinctive concave shape. This curve from the skateboard’s nose to tail provides more surface area to control the board during tricks – your feet have more room to grip and flip the board. It sounds simple, but it actually really impacts the way you pull off a trick!
5. Grip Tape: Street skateboards have a sheet of rough grip tape on top to hold the skateboarder’s feet in place as they perform tricks. It’s not a glamorous feature, but it can be the difference between landing a trick and taking a nasty spill. I can’t count the number of times grip tape has saved me from a potential fall.

To sum up, street skateboards are specialized beasts of the concrete jungle, equipped with distinct features to handle precise maneuvers and high-impact tricks. It’s these unique characteristics that truly set them apart and make them perfect for urban shredding. Trust me, picking the right equipment could be the thing that makes or breaks your street skateboarding journey.

Deck

Ah, the skateboard deck, the most significant part of the skateboard. It’s the part we prize and personalize, the piece of the board that really resonates with our style and skating preference. As a lifelong skateboard enthusiast, I’ve ridden a variety of decks, and let me tell you, a deck can make or break your skating experience.

A skateboard deck is more than just a slab of wood on four wheels, it’s an extension of the skater. The deck is the part we stand on, and boy, does it matter what size and shape it is! In my first experience with skateboarding, I remember choosing a wider deck, thinking it would give me more balance. To my surprise, I found it cumbersome, a bit too tricky to maneuver. So, I bucked up, and traded it for a narrower one. And, voila, what a difference it made. The responsiveness was incredible. That’s when I learned how vital it is to pick the right deck.

Skateboard decks come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Street skateboard decks are usually around 7.5 to 8 inches wide, designed to perform tricks. Keep in mind, the wide or narrow choice heavily depends on the individual skater’s preference. Don’t rush when you choose a deck; explore, experience, and then settle for ‘the one’.

Then there’s the question of material. Most decks are usually made from 7-ply maple wood, offering enough flexibility, strength, and pop. I’ve experimented with wood types in my skating journey, from bamboo decks to artificial materials, but the classic maple, in my opinion, has always held its ground as the superior choice.

Lastly, let’s not forget the artwork or graphics which, apart from functionality, is a huge part of the deck’s appeal. There’s something so satisfying about the process of selecting a deck design that captures your style and personality. I love scouting for ones with edgy, original artwork, it’s like contributing a bit of myself to my board.

So, whether you’re brand new to the world of skateboarding or a seasoned skater exploring new options, remember that finding the perfect deck is key. It’s worth taking the time to consider your preferences and what makes the most sense for you. Trust me; the right deck does make a world of difference!

Wheels

Street skateboarding is this incredibly exhilarating sport that doesn’t just revolve around pushing yourself off the ground and maintaining balance. I mean, those are fundamental aspects, sure, but there’s so much more to it. One factor I find truly fascinating, as a seasoned skateboarder myself, is the role of wheels. Can you believe that? Wheels! They are real game changers when it comes to perfecting your skate sessions.

Now, street skateboard wheels, in particular, are not your everyday station wagon wheels – oh no, they are way more innovative. I’ll share some interesting tidbits about them because, hey, isn’t it fun to nerd out over skateboard gears?

• Diameter – A pivotal aspect of skateboard wheels is their diameter, measured in millimeters. Generally, street skateboard wheels range from about 50mm to 60mm, with most skaters favoring the tight 52mm to 58mm window. Smaller wheels are better for technical tricks due to their lightness, while larger ones give you greater speed. Personaly,I prefer something mid-range, you know a happy medium that lets me cruise but also doesn’t kill my ability to show off some tricks.
• Durometer – Now here’s a fancy word for you – ‘Durometer.’ It’s the hardness rating of the wheels. Most street skateboard wheels boast a durometer between 99a to 101a. What do those numbers imply? In essence, harder wheels slide better and last longer, perfect for street and park skating. I once made the mistake of picking wheels with a lower durometer and let me tell you, the ride just felt sluggish.
• Materials – In my experience, it’s uncommon to find street skateboard wheels made of anything other than urethane. It’s got an excellent balance of grip and durability. Occasionally though, you might encounter wheels made of nylon or rubber, but those tend to wear out quite quickly.
• Shapes – Lastly, I want you to keep an eye out for the shape of the wheels. Typical street wheels come with a ‘conical’ shape – they’re wider at the top and taper down to be narrower at the bottom. The design increases stability and is perfect for sliding tricks. I’ve tried out ‘cruiser’ shaped wheels too, but they don’t give the same thrills as my trusty conical wheels.

There you have it, folks. Remember, the next time you’re headed out to get new wheels, don’t just pick the first pair you see, or the one with the coolest graphic. Consider the factors we talked about. It’s made a difference in my skating, and I bet it will in yours too!

Trucks

When I first got into skateboarding, I confess, trucks weren’t really on my radar. It’s the board and the wheels that get all the attention, right? But let me tell you, I quickly learned that trucks play a vitally important role in skating. After all, they’re what connect your board to the wheels and determine your ability to steer, turn, and perform tricks.

There are three main components of skateboarding trucks: the baseplate, the hanger, and the bushings. The baseplate attaches to the board and holds all other parts of the truck, while the hanger holds the axle, and the bushings allow the board to turn and pivot on the axle.

Different types of trucks are designed for different styles of riding:

1. Standard Kingpin (SKP Trucks): These trucks, also known as regular or traditional trucks, are perfect for street, park, and pool skating. With a versatile design, they offer a good balance of build and performance. I remember when I got my first set of SKP trucks. Suddenly, grinds became smoother and tricks easier to pull off.
2. Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP Trucks): Excellent for downhill racing and cruising, RKP trucks offer enhanced stability at high speeds and a greater turning radius. If you love carving and cruising like me, these trucks are quite a game changer.
3. Longboard Trucks: As the name suggests, these trucks are specifically designed for longboards. Their wider base provides better balance and control, ideal for leisure riding or commuting.

Here are few attributes you might want to consider while choosing trucks:

• Width: The width of your trucks should match the width of your board. Wrong width can mess up your control and balance. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way.
• Height: High trucks are great for bigger wheels while low trucks work better with smaller wheels and are ideal for tricks like flip tricks and grinds.
• Bushings: These tiny rubbery parts affect how your skateboard turns. Soft bushings turn easily while hard bushings offer more stability.

Let’s not underestimate the importance of trucks in skateboarding. They can make a world of difference to your ride, enhancing control, precision and stability. And remember, trucks may be the unsung heroes of skateboarding, but they’re heroes nonetheless. Choose wisely and happy skating!

Street Skateboard Tricks

So, you want to rock the street with some killer skateboard tricks, huh? Well, you’re in the right place. As a skateboarder myself, I’ve hit the pavement more times than I’d like to admit, but it’s all worth it once you nail those tricks. Let’s dive into some of my favourite street skateboard tricks and tips on how to master them.

1. Ollie: The Ollie is the mother of all skateboarding tricks. It’s one of the first tricks most skaters learn, and it’s the foundation for many others. It’s like the skateboard’s version of a basketball player’s jump shot. The Ollie involves popping the tail of your board and sliding your front foot up to get some serious air.
2. Kickflip: Once you’ve got your Ollie down, it’s time to try a Kickflip. This one’s a little trickier. It’s like an Ollie, but with one engaging twist – you flick your board with your toes to spin it 360 degrees along its axis. Do it right, and you’ll feel like Tony Hawk!
3. Pop Shove-it: This trick combines an Ollie with a 180-degree board spin. With a swift, precise back-foot scoop, you can make your board do a full half-rotation, landing back on it smoothly.
4. Manual: The Manual is the skateboard’s version of a wheelie. It requires robust balance and control. The trick is to shift your weight to the board’s tail or nose while keeping the other end elevated off the ground. Let’s just say, there’s nothing like cruising down the street on one wheel.
5. Heelflip: Just as the name suggests, the Heelflip is like a Kickflip but done with the heel. It’s a tougher trick but super satisfying once you’ve got it nailed.
6. Grind / Slide: Ever seen a skater slide or grind down railings or ledges? Yep, that’s a grind or slide. These tricks show off your control and precision, and there’s a wide variety to try out, like the 50-50 grind, the boardslide, and the lipslide.

Remember, practice makes perfect in the world of street skateboarding. Use safety gear, progress at your own pace, and most importantly, have fun! My best tip? Don’t get discouraged if you don’t nail it the first try – even the pros didn’t. Keep at it and embrace the learning process. Trust me, there’s no better feeling than finally landing a new trick. Skate on, my friends, skate on!

Popular Street Skateboard Brands

Alright, let’s dive right into the world of street skateboarding. One of the things I’ve noticed over my years of skating and writing about it, is the incredible diversity in brands in the market. Now, of course, there’s always a debate about what the ‘best’ brand is – and honestly, it mostly comes down to personal preferences and your own skateboarding style. However, some popular brands have certainly made their mark in the skateboarding community, known for their durability, performance and awesome designs. So without further ado, here are some of the top street skateboard brands that I’ve personally tried and can vouch for:

1. Plan B – A classic and respected brand. I’ve ridden a few Plan B boards and they’ve always been solid, with great pop and durable construction.
2. Santa Cruz – They’ve been in the game for a long time and know their stuff. I love their unique designs; they’re real eye-catchers at the park!
3. Element – These guys are committed to eco-friendly production, which I appreciate. Their boards are also excellent performers – smooth and responsive.
4. Baker – A skater-owned brand that delivers on quality. I’ve had a Baker board that lived through countless flips and grinds and still held up strong.
5. Zero Skateboards – Zero boards have a legit reputation for toughness, and based on my experience, they deserve it. They’re like the tanks of the skateboarding world.
6. Enjoi – They always have fun, striking graphics. Plus, the boards are lightweight and snappy, ideal for those technical flip tricks.
7. Almost – They bring innovative ideas to their board design. The one I had featured carbon-fiber disks for added strength. Loved it!
8. Blind – Known for their precision decks. I’ve found them to be consistently top-notch in build and performance.

In summary, it’s worth noting that your choice of street skateboard brand can depend on a whole host of factors like your budget, skater style, and personal brand loyalty. In my opinion, these brands deliver on all fronts – quality, performance, and style. But remember, skateboarding is all about individuality and creativity, so it’s all about finding a brand that resonates with you! Happy skating, folks!

Tips for Choosing a Street Skateboard

Choosing a street skateboard can be a fun, yet challenging endeavor, especially if you’re dipping your toes in the exhilarating world of skateboarding for the first time. Trust me, I’ve been there, standing at the cusp of a skate shop, completely confounded by the array of boards, wheels, and trucks on display. But fear not, by with my experience and knowledge, I’m here to guide you.

First things first – always consider the deck. This is, in my opinion, the heart and soul of your board. My personal recommendation is to always go for a medium-sized deck – around 7.5 to 8 inches wide. It gives a perfect balance, excels in street tricks, and is versatile and nimble to handle. Remember, the wider the deck, the more stable it is, but it can compromise on the nimbleness.

Now, onto trucks. These are the T-shaped pieces that attach your wheels to the deck. My first skateboard had wide trucks, and that just didn’t feel right because they were all over the place. I later discovered that the width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. It creates the perfect harmony for your board, especially when skateboarding in the streets.

Wheels are just as crucial. In my experience, smaller wheels (around 50 to 54 mm) are your best bet for street skateboarding since they’re lighter and closer to the ground, allowing faster flips and tricks. But be warned, on rough terrains, they might not offer the smoothest ride.

Lastly, consider the concave of the deck. That’s the curvature in the middle. A deep concave allows better control and flip tricks. But if you’re just starting out, you might want to stick with a shallower concave, as it’s easier to balance on. I kind of wished someone suggested this to me when I was a rookie.

Hopefully, these tips make your skateboard shopping journey a bit less daunting. Remember, the best skateboard isn’t necessarily the priciest or the most popular one out there. It’s the one that fits you like a glove (or a perfectly broken-in sneaker). So get out there and find your perfect street ride. It’s a trial and error process, but the ride is worth it!

Street Skateboarding Safety

When it comes to street skateboarding, safety has always been a top priority for me. It’s those large cracks in the sidewalk or the unexpected pebble that can bring an impromptu end to a solid shred session; no matter how skilled you are, these “hidden monsters” could strike at any time. I’ve had my fair share of spills, each one teaching me a valuable lesson about the importance of street skateboarding safety.

You see, street skateboarding is indeed thrilling – it’s about weaving your way through urban environments, nailing tricks off park benches and curbs – but when you’re sailing through concrete jungles rather than a controlled skate park environment, safety precautions become even more critical.

One of the most essential safety tips I can offer, drawn from my own experience, is to always be aware of your surroundings. This is essential in avoiding accidents with pedestrians or traffic. After all, your skateboard is a pretty unpredictable vehicle, and you’re sharing the space with others who might not be aware of your intentions. I can’t tell you how many times focused awareness has saved me from nasty collisions.

Next, I personally never skimp on safety gear. I’m talking the big three: a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Sure, sometimes it can feel uncool to gear up, especially when you see pro skaters nailing tricks bare-skinned. But remember, these guys are professionals and even they take a tumble sometimes. As someone who has felt the sting of the sidewalk, I can tell you, scraping your skin raw is not part of the fun.

Skating on flat, open grounds before moving onto risky areas with traffic and pedestrians is another rule I go by. It helps you to master your board without the added danger of other road users. I started out in empty parking lots over the weekends; it genuinely helped me improve my handling and maneuvering before I hit the bustling streets.

Finally, maintaining your skateboard is crucial. Regularly inspect your board for any signs of wear or damage. Believe me, the last thing you want while cruising at top speed is for your truck to suddenly collapse. I’ve had that happen, and well, it was a hard, fast lesson in skateboard maintenance!

Street skateboarding is a pursuit that promises an adrenaline rush like no other but remember, no trick or path is worth your safety. Stay vigilant, wear your gear, and smooth ride to you!

Conclusion

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In wrapping up our engaging discourse about street skateboarding, I thought I’d share my own personal reflections. The exhilaration, the freedom, and the creative outlet street skateboarding offers is unrivaled, in my humble opinion. I’ve spent countless hours on my own board, attempting to perfect tricks and maneuvers. From grinding on urban railings to launching off improvised ramps, the magic of the street skateboard lies in its versatility.

Through exploring different types of street skateboards, we’ve delved into the unique characteristics that make each board special. From the shape, material, and size, every single component of your street skateboard plays a pivotal role in your skateboarding experience. Pairing the right board with your own style and skill level can enhance your control, stability and overall performance.

But let’s not forget that it’s not just about the technicalities. Street skateboarding is also about fostering friendships, pushing boundaries, and thriving in the midst of urban chaos. It’s about sharing spectacular fails, cheering on jaw-dropping successes, and supporting fellow skaters.

As we draw this exploration to a close, remember that skateboarding is not just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. As someone once told me, it’s not about how many times you fall—it’s about how many times you get back up. And that’s a mantra that resonates particularly well with street skateboarding. So, grab your board, hit the streets, and embrace the thrill that comes with every ride.

In conclusion, street skateboarding, with its unique appeal and challenges, is more than just a pastime—it’s an expression of creativity and determination, a test of courage and resilience, and above all, it’s a whole lot of fun. Don’t be afraid to take it to the streets, folks. Happy skateboarding!

Conclusion

In my opinion and years of experience with skateboarding, I can confidently say that Street skateboards have completely revolutionized the realm of skateboard designs.

These boards are not just high performers, they embody a culture, an expression of art that begins on city streets and culminates in the hands of talented skaters. “Street” is not just a type, it’s a testament to the transformative vision of ordinary skateboarders who wanted to push the limits of skills and creativity, right on the streets where they live.

If you want to plunge into a dynamic world of skateboard maneuvers such as kick flips or ollies, Street skateboards are your topmost ally. They are built to withstand the onslaught of rough surfaces and are versatile enough to let you shine in the arenas as well as on the edge of the concrete blocks.

My last word to aspiring skaters – ‘Street’ is a type, but it’s also an attitude. Embrace the freedom of the tarmac, start with a Street skateboard, and always remember – the road does end, but the journey is what it’s all about.

FAQs about Street Skateboards