Skateboard. Today, we're taking the 10 most frequently asked questions from skateboard and trying to answer them and give you our advice.
Skateboard the 10 most frequently asked questions
We're always asking ourselves how we can improve our service and best meet our customers' expectations. It's true!
This time, we've put together the 10 most frequently asked questions about skateboard, whether in store or on the web, and put together a little guide to answering them and distilling some useful tips!
A selection of the most frequently asked questions, in no particular order. We're off!
Question 1: Does skateboard fear water?
Yes! skateboard is made of wood and metal. On the whole, even if the axles and screws are made of stainless steel, a skateboard board doesn't like to be exposed to water.
As far as possible, therefore, it's best to avoid riding in wet weather. If you can't avoid it, we recommend dismantling the wheels after use to let everything dry out, especially the bearings. A rusty bearing is a dead bearing!
When it comes to storing your board, avoid letting it sleep outside if it's not protected from the elements. For best performance, it's best to have it sleep in your bed, after a big hug ;)
Question 2: Are bushings skateboard universal?
Just about. On the whole, almost all bushings skateshops fit all trucks skateboard skates.
The diameter of the kingpin (the metal part onto which the rubber slips) is always the same, and its length is often comparable from one brand to another.
Except that some bushings are larger than others, and therefore adapted to particular trucks. There are also bushings skate models with a special shape that fits into the hanger. Depending on the model, there may be some play once fitted.
As this is a complex subject, the best way to choose your bushings is to check with the skateshop that the bushings will be compatible with your trucks.
Question 3: What size skateboard is best suited for?
This is the number one question in the store. Of course, the answer can't be given in a single sentence, as there is a suitable size for every body size, which can also vary according to how you use your skateboard.
To find out all you need to know about choosing the right size for your board skate, please refer to our guide"How to choose my skateboard for beginners".
Question 4: How are trucks skate made?
trucks from skate are machined using special machines developed by the major brands to meet certain standards.
The hanger and base are generally forged in one piece, in a single mold, to achieve the maximum level of strength required to withstand the grinds of skateboarders. Made from aluminum and Chromoly (a steel alloy), trucks must be extremely strong. Depending on the manufacturer, the recipe may change, and each model has its own specific features (Hollow axles, for example).
The holes for the axle, kingpin and clamping screws are then drilled by hand, using a high-precision drill.
Finally, the various parts are assembled by hand.
Question 5: Where do I put my feet on my skateboard board?
It all depends! In fact, foot position varies depending on what you're doing.
Basically, a skateboarder should always have his or her front foot just in front of the front screws of the truck for pushing and riding. The rear foot used for pushing should then be placed on the tail, the rear part of the board.
Those pushing with the front foot should position their rear foot on the screws of truck, and then move the rear foot onto the tail once both feet are on the board.
This is the classic riding position, without putting the foot too far forward so as not to unintentionally lift the skate, and with one foot on the tail so as to be able to change direction quickly, make a tick-tock, or engage a trick.
After that... to each his own.
Question 6: Who are the best-known skateboarders?
Big question! There are many skateboarders who have built up a solid reputation in the skateboard world. Depending on the era, names such as Stacy Peralta, Mark Gonzales, Rodney Mullen and Andrew Reynolds have all earned their place in the pantheon.
More recently, the likes of Gustavo Ribeiro, Yuto Horigome and the inescapable Nyjah Huston have left their mark on the discipline.
In recent years, French skateboarders have included our two greatest national representatives, Aurélien Giraud and Vincent Milou, who are regularly among the world's elite!
And few of them have taken their name beyond the confines of skate and into pop culture in general. While names like Bam Margera and Tony Alva may have achieved fame on wheels, as well as worldwide notoriety for their media exposure, only one has been so successful that even non-skiers can mention his name: the one and only Tony Hawk!
Question 7: Are there skateboard sizes for children?
Yes, there are skateboard boards for all sizes. In fact, that's how you choose your size.
Children's sizes are those 35 and under. In the case of a size 35, for example, you should aim for a platform size around 7.5" wide.
Our guides provide all the information you need to choose your size for skateboard .
Question 8: Where are your skateboards made?
All the boards we sell are designed and manufactured by the leading brands of skateboard. Some manufacturers have been around for over 40 years, while others have been freshly created to offer a new vision of skateboard. Unlike most consumer markets, skateboard has escaped total relocation to Asia.
Overall, an estimated 70% of boards sold in skateshops are made in the USA, most of them on the West Coast (led by California and Oregon). 20% of skates come from Spain, notably from the HLC factory that produces the JART, Plan B and Sk8Mafia brands.
The rest are produced in other countries, notably Asia.
It should be noted that the major brands of trucks and wheels also continue to produce their accessories in their country of origin. Independent trucks and Bones wheels, for example, are still made in the USA.
Question 9: What is the difference between skateboard and cruiser?
A skateboard is a symmetrical board used for both skatepark and street. In a nutshell, a skate is a tricks board, with a nose and tail, equipped with small, hard wheels. These boards are ideal for jumping and learning flip tricks and sliders, and can be used on smooth, clean surfaces, as at skatepark.
A cruiser is a utility board, halfway between a longboard and a skateboard. The cruiser borrows from the skateboard its fairly short format, and a kicktail at the rear for easier maneuverability. From the longboard, it borrows trucks, often higher and more playful, and above all larger, softer wheels.
As a result, a Cruiser is better suited to all types of terrain, especially the grainy asphalt found on most roads. On the other hand, the cruiser is less suited to tricks, as it is heavier.
Question 10: Can I start with a custom skateboard?
Another way of putting the question is this: why start with a completeskateboard rather than a custom board?
In fact, there's no reason why you shouldn't start with a custom-made skateboard . Generally speaking, you'll even be able to build a better-quality board, and above all, you can choose your accessories à la carte, to make your own skateboard.
However, most beginners prefer complete skateboards for a simple reason: budget.
A complete skateboard is often worth around a hundred euros, while a custom-built board can cost between €200 and €250 on average.