When you’re taking skateboarding as a beginner, you don’t actually have a clue how to start, the cost this hobby might incur and the necessary gear and equipment to get. This short guide will help you decide and point you to the right direction and give you the confidence to start on the right foot. So what are the gears necessary to start learning how to skateboard? Obviously you need a skateboard with the proper length and weight to support you. There are tons of cheap skateboards available for beginners. Aside from the skateboard, you need protective gear like a helmet, arm and knee pads and skates shoes. When buying your first gear, it might take time to
choose which one is suited for your needs. So don’t rush into buying anything if you’re unsure and never buy just because it looks good and feels good. If you rush into buying, you’ll most probably just end up spending more money than needed or getting the wrong gear.
Are you now ready to start learning how to skate? Before you try anything crazy and start doing those nasty tricks, you first need to get comfortable standing and balancing on your skateboard. If you’ve just borrowed it, or if you went to a hobby store and purchased cheap skateboards with all the accessories fitted, there’s a big chance that it’s somewhat uncomfortable. If yes, try setting the board on a surface - like grass or over a carpet – and try standing on it and finding your balance, jumping on it or playing around with it. Next, try balancing yourself on the front wheels then on the back wheels. While standing on the board, try moving your feet on different positions. The objective is to get used to the feel and size of your board, and try to find your balance. This only means to check whether you’re more comfortable skating with your left foot in front or with your right foot. Find the position you’re most comfortable in and just go with that.
You’ve already purchased your first skateboard and they’re not your usual cheap skateboards. You’ve also seen skaters at the park or on movies and television shows. Now you know how skating’s supposed to work, but how do you really get started? What sort of starter skateboard gear do you need? Well, the first thing you should get is a good pair of shoes. You can of course skate in regular shoes, but it will be a lot harder and even dangerous. Specially designed skate shoes are built with a large flat bottom for better board grip, and often with other features like stronger and more durable materials in areas where you’ll likely wear the shoe down. You should also get an exceptional helmet. You may see skaters not wearing protective helmets and you’re probably worrying as well that wearing one will make you look weak or stupid. The thing is you’re better
off with a helmet and stay alive in cases of accidents.