01 Apr 2025
If you’re new to skateboarding and looking to buy your first setup, making the right choice can make all the difference. A quality skateboard will help you learn and progress, while a poor-quality one can make things unnecessarily difficult. Here’s what to look for, what to avoid, and where to buy your first board.
Where to Buy Your Skateboard
We strongly recommend buying from a local skate shop rather than ordering online. Local shops provide expert advice, let you try out different setups, and ensure you get a board that suits your needs. Plus, supporting local businesses helps keep the skateboarding community strong.
In North Devon, we have two excellent local skate shops:
Patinar Skate Co (Braunton)
Grind Supply Co (Bideford)
These shops stock high-quality skate gear and have knowledgeable staff who can guide you to the best setup for your budget and style.
Skate Shoes
- Avoid running trainers—they have curved soles that make skating difficult.
- Instead, opt for flat-soled shoes made of canvas or leather, which provide better grip and control.
Complete Skateboards
- Avoid cheap boards from supermarkets, toy shops, and Amazon.
- These boards are often made with poor materials.
- The wheels may barely roll due to low-quality bearings.
- Poor construction makes learning harder and can discourage new skaters.
- Brands to avoid: Rampage, Rocket, No Fear, Airwalk, Tony Hawk.
- Good budget-friendly brands: Venom, Santa Cruz, Enuff.
- Local skate shops stock quality brands and will ensure you get a board that helps rather than hinders your progress.
Building a Custom Setup
If you prefer to buy parts individually, local skate shop staff can guide you through selecting the best options within your budget.
You will need:
1. Deck (the wooden board)
2. Grip tape (provides grip on the deck)
3. Trucks (attach wheels to the board)
4. Hardware (bolts for the trucks)
5. Wheels (choose based on surface and style of skating)
6. Bearings (affect wheel speed and smoothness)
Costs can add up, but with expert advice, you can get a solid custom setup tailored to your needs.
Pads & Protective Gear
Wearing pads, especially when learning, can save you from unnecessary injuries. Any protective gear is better than none, so if budget is tight, even lower-cost options are worthwhile.
Budget-friendly brands: No Fear, Venom (better than nothing!)
Higher-quality brand: Rekd, Killer 187, Scabs (offer better protection and durability)
Start with the basics: knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and a helmet.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a good-quality skateboard will make learning much easier and more enjoyable. Always seek advice from experienced skaters or skate shop staff, and support local skate shops whenever possible!
If you have any questions or need recommendations, feel free to reach out or visit one of our local shops. Happy skating!
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