In addition to the deck, choosing the right skateboard hardware is crucial to getting the best performance and feel. This article focuses on the different components that come with your board: trucks, wheels, bearings, griptape, and hardware. Each of these elements plays a key role in how smooth, responsive, and comfortable your skateboard is.
1 - TRUCKS
Trucks are the metal axles fixed under the deck that allow you to control turns and hold the wheels in place. Here are the key points to consider when choosing them:
Width: The width of the trucks should match the width of the deck. In general, the hanger width should be slightly less than or equal to that of the deck. Trucks that are too wide or too narrow can throw off the balance of the board.
Height: There are three types of trucks based on their height:
Low: Ideal for boards with small wheels, for street skating or technical tricks.
Mid: Versatile, suitable for most skating styles.
High: Perfect for larger wheels and carving, often preferred for cruisers and skateparks.
Bushing hardness: The bushings are the small rubber components found in the trucks. Their hardness (soft or hard) affects maneuverability. Soft bushings make turning easier and are great for carving, while hard bushings provide more stability, better for street skating or downhill.
2 - WHEELS
Skateboard wheels vary in size, hardness, and material, each factor affecting the type of ride you’ll have.
Size: Measured in millimeters, wheel size affects speed and comfort:
Small wheels (50-54 mm): Best for street skating and tricks, they are lightweight and better for popping.
Medium wheels (55-60 mm): Versatile, they offer more speed, ideal for skateparks.
Large wheels (60 mm and above): For cruisers and longboards, providing comfort on rough surfaces.
Hardness: Measured in durometer (A scale), wheel hardness affects grip and responsiveness:
Hard wheels (99A and above): Perfect for street skating and tricks, they slide better on smooth surfaces.
Softer wheels (78A - 98A): Offer more grip and are great for cruising or skating on rougher terrains.
3 - BEARINGS
Bearings are essential for the smoothness and speed of your skateboard, but the commonly mentioned ABEC rating is not always the best indicator of quality. This scale measures manufacturing precision but doesn’t account for impact resistance or resistance to dirt.
Instead of focusing solely on ABEC, here’s what you should look for:
Material: Steel bearings are common, but ceramic bearings are lighter, more wear-resistant, and require less maintenance.
Removable shields: Opt for bearings with removable shields for easy cleaning, as unprotected bearings get dirty quickly.
Lubrication: High-quality bearings often come pre-lubricated with specific oils to minimize friction and increase durability.
In the end, prioritize bearings designed for skateboarding, tested for impact resistance and outdoor conditions. Reputable skate brands offer excellent bearings, even without the "ABEC 9" label.
4 - GRIPTAPE
Grip tape is the rough, adhesive strip on the top of the deck that ensures your feet grip the board well. Choosing the right grip is important for good traction and optimal control.
Standard grain: Suitable for most skaters, offering a balance between grip and comfort.
Fine grain: Used for technical tricks, it's softer on the feet but offers slightly less grip.
Coarse grain: For maximum grip, often used in downhill skating or bowl riding.
Some customized grips (colors, patterns) are also available without compromising the quality of the grip.
5 - HARDWARE
Though often overlooked, hardware is crucial to keeping the trucks attached to the deck. It comes in different sizes and types depending on the thickness of your deck and whether you use pads or risers.
Standard size: 7/8" to 1" screws work for most setups without pads.
Size with pads/risers: If you add pads to raise the board (to avoid wheel bite during turns), you’ll need longer screws (1" to 1 1/4").
You can also choose between hex or Phillips head screws, depending on your tool preference.
CONCLUSION
Choosing the right skateboard components is essential to optimize your performance and comfort. Each part – trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and hardware – plays a specific role in how you skate. Take the time to evaluate your needs based on your skating style (street, park, cruising, or downhill) and adjust your gear accordingly. The right setup can significantly improve your experience and allow you to fully enjoy your sessions.