Choosing the best brand of skateboard can be a daunting task for skateboard enthusiasts, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro. With numerous brands available in the market, each claiming to be the best, it’s crucial to evaluate various factors before making a decision. In this article, we will explore different aspects that can help you determine the best brand of skateboard for your needs.
Deck Material: A Crucial Factor
The deck is the foundation of any skateboard, and its material plays a significant role in the overall performance and durability. Here are some popular deck materials and their characteristics:
- Maple: Maple wood provides excellent strength and durability, making it the most common choice for skateboard decks. It offers a responsive feel and is suitable for various styles of skateboarding.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is known for its flexibility, lightweight nature, and eco-friendly properties. Skateboards with a bamboo construction often deliver a smooth ride and good pop.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber decks are relatively new in the market and offer exceptional strength, stiffness, and lightweight construction. They are popular among professional skateboarders due to their high-performance capabilities.
Trucks: The Backbone of Skateboards
Trucks are the metal T-shaped components mounted under the skateboard’s deck. They play a crucial role in stability, turning, and grind performance. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating skateboard trucks:
- Width: The width of the truck should match the skateboard deck to ensure proper stability and maneuverability.
- Material: Most skateboard trucks are made of aluminum alloy for durability and lightweight design.
- Height: The height of the truck affects the center of gravity and the ability to perform tricks. Lower trucks provide more stability, while higher trucks offer better clearance.
- Kingpin: The kingpin is the large bolt that holds the truck together. Some skateboards have removable or adjustable kingpins for customizing the truck’s response.
Wheels and Bearings: Smooth Riding Experience
Skateboard wheels and bearings greatly influence the overall smoothness and performance of your ride. Here’s what to consider when choosing the best ones:
- Wheel Diameter: Different wheel diameters offer varying levels of speed and stability. Smaller wheels provide better maneuverability, while larger wheels excel in maintaining speed.
- Wheel Hardness: Measured by a durometer scale, wheel hardness affects grip and slide capabilities. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better grip, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are suitable for slides.
- Bearings: Bearings are the small metal rings inside the wheels that enable smooth rotation. Higher quality bearings offer better speed and durability. ABEC ratings are commonly used to determine bearing precision.
Popular Skateboard Brands
Now that we’ve explored essential components, let’s take a look at some popular skateboard brands known for their quality and performance:
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Powell Peralta | Powell Peralta has been a pioneer in the skateboarding industry, known for its iconic designs and high-quality decks. |
| 2. Santa Cruz Skateboards | Santa Cruz Skateboards offers a wide range of decks, trucks, wheels, and accessories, catering to skateboarders of all levels. |
| 3. Element Skateboards | Element Skateboards focuses on sustainability and offers durable decks made from bamboo and maple. |
| 4. Birdhouse Skateboards | Birdhouse Skateboards, founded by Tony Hawk, is known for its high-quality decks and supporting various professional skateboarders. |
| 5. Girl Skateboards | Girl Skateboards produces top-notch decks with distinctive graphics, focusing on the artistic side of skateboarding. |
Consider Your Riding Style and Goals
As you determine the best skateboard brand, it’s essential to consider your riding style and goals. Different brands may excel in certain aspects while catering to specific types of skateboarding. Whether you prioritize street skateboarding, vert ramp tricks, or cruising, there is a brand that aligns with your preferences.
Ultimately, the best brand of skateboard is subjective and depends on personal preference. Whether you choose a reputable brand or a lesser-known one, always ensure the skateboard meets your specific needs, offers high-quality components, and suits your riding style.
By considering all the factors discussed in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect skateboard brand that enhances your skateboarding experience.