To choose the best skateboard for your child, consider their skill level and size. In addition, make sure the board is durable and safe.
Skateboarding can be an exciting activity for children, but it is important to choose the right equipment for their safety and enjoyment. There are various types of skateboards available in the market, making it crucial to consider certain factors before making a purchase. This visual guide will help you understand how to pick the right skateboard for your child based on their level of experience, height and weight, and the kind of riding they want to do. Choosing the perfect skateboard will allow your child to have fun while riding and improve their skills as they grow.
Credit: www.twowheelingtots.com
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Skateboard
Skateboarding has become increasingly popular amongst younger generations, and for good reason. As well as being a fun activity, skateboarding encourages children to develop their balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness. If you’re considering buying a skateboard for your child, it’s essential to choose the right one to ensure they enjoy it to the fullest while minimizing the risk of injury.
Skateboard Size And Length
- Consider the height and weight of your child when choosing the size of the skateboard.
- The width of the board should be proportional to your child’s shoe size, with smaller size shoes requiring smaller boards and larger size shoes requiring larger boards.
- The length of the skateboard should match the preference and skating style of your child, with shorter boards being better for trick skateboarding, and longer boards being better for cruising and transportation.
Deck Type And Material
- The deck of the skateboard is the flat board on top of the wheels and comes in various materials, including wood, plastic, and fiberglass.
- Wooden boards are the most common and provide the best performance and durability.
- Bamboo boards are eco-friendly and lightweight, making them ideal for beginners.
- Plastic boards are less durable than wooden boards and not suitable for advanced skateboarding.
- Fiberglass boards are strong and lightweight but often expensive.
Wheel Size And Durometer
- The size and durometer of wheels are crucial factors to consider when choosing a skateboard.
- The size of the wheel affects the speed and maneuverability of the skateboard, with larger wheels being faster but less maneuverable and smaller wheels offering greater maneuverability but slower speeds.
- Durometer refers to the hardness of the wheel, with softer wheels providing more grip and smoother rides and harder wheels being better for tricks.
Choosing the right skateboard for your child is essential to ensure they enjoy skateboarding and stay safe. Keep in mind their height, shoe size, skating style, and preferred terrain when selecting a board. Consider the deck type, material, wheel size, and durometer to pick a skateboard that suits their needs.
With the right board and a little practice, your child will be ready to take their skating skills to the next level.
Safety Gear And Accessories
Skateboarding is a fun and exciting sport. However, because of the risks associated with it, safety should always be taken into consideration. If you’re planning to buy a skateboard for your child, make sure to invest in the right safety gear and accessories to keep them safe and protected.
In this article, we’ll delve into the three main safety gear and accessories you must consider for your child’s skateboard: helmet, protective gear, and shoes.
Helmet
A helmet is an essential safety gear for any skateboarder, regardless of age and skill level.
- Choose a helmet that fits your child’s head snugly but comfortably to ensure maximum protection.
- Look for a helmet that is approved by safety standards such as astm and cpsc.
- Helmets made with hard outer shells and padded interiors provide better shock absorption and protection against head injuries.
Protective Gear
Protective gears such as kneepads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are designed to minimize the severity of injuries caused by falls or accidents. It is crucial to invest in proper protective gear to prevent serious injuries.
- Make sure that the gear fits adequately to avoid slipping or sliding during falls.
- Look for high-quality protective gear with sturdy materials that can withstand impact and abrasions.
- Choose protective gear that is specifically designed for skateboarding, with features that allow for full range of motion.
Shoes
Having the right shoes is just as important as having the right safety gear. Your child’s skateboard shoes should provide the necessary support and traction for better balance and control.
- Look for shoes with flat or low-rise soles to provide better grip on the skateboard.
- Skateboard shoes made from durable materials such as suede or leather can withstand the wear and tear of skateboarding.
- Choose shoes that fit snugly, with ample space for the toes for better movement and control.
Ensure that your child wears all the necessary safety gear and accessories before skateboarding to prevent injuries. Remember that safety should always be the top priority when it comes to skateboarding.
WHAT SIZE SKATEBOARD SHOULD YOU RIDE? (7.75, 8.0, 8.25, etc.)
Different Types Of Skateboards
Skateboarding is an excellent sport that allows children to have fun while also improving their coordination and balance. But when it comes to choosing the perfect skateboard for your child, it can be quite challenging. The right skateboard goes a long way in enhancing the child’s skills and confidence.
Different skateboard styles like longboards, cruisers, or trick skateboards each offer a unique riding experience, making it essential to select the right one based on the child’s skill level and goals. In this post, we’ll go through each style’s explanation, how to choose the appropriate style, and its pros and cons.
Explanation Of Different Skateboard Styles
Longboards
Longboards offer stability and control, making them perfect for cruising around town or downhill riding. They are more substantial, longer, and come with bigger wheels than regular skateboards making them ideal for those who want to carve the streets. They come in different shapes, including pintails, drop-throughs, and cruisers.
Cruisers
Cruiser skateboards are versatile and perfect for kids who love to cruise around the streets. They are smaller than longboards and come with softer and larger wheels that provide a smooth ride. They are suitable for tricks, commuting, and short distance travel.
Trick Skateboards
Trick skateboards are the most common skateboard type. They are perfect for performing tricks, riding ramps, and bowls. They are smaller and more lightweight than longboards and cruisers, allowing for quicker and more agile movements.
How To Choose The Right Style Based On The Child’S Skill Level And Skating Goals
Choosing the right skateboard style for your child is crucial to ensure they have a good experience. You should consider their skill level and what they want to achieve when choosing the perfect skateboard.
- Consider the child’s skill level. Beginners should start with cruiser or longboards for stability and control. Once they have gained more experience, they can transition to trick skateboards.
- Think of the child’s skating goals. Ask them if they want to cruise, perform tricks, or commute using their skateboard. Their goals will guide you in selecting the appropriate skateboard style.
- Take note of the skateboard’s size and shape. Choose a skateboard that is proportional to the child’s size and weight.
Pros And Cons Of Each Style
Each skateboard style has its pros and cons.
Longboards
Pros
- Stable and easy to control.
- Perfect for downhill riding.
- Great for carving and cruising.
Cons
- Too big to perform tricks.
- Heavy and not easily portable.
Cruisers
Pros
- Small and versatile.
- Speedy and ideal for commuting.
- Suitable for tricks and cruising.
Cons
- Not ideal for downhill riding.
- Wheels wear out faster than other skateboard styles.
Trick Skateboards
Pros
- Perfect for performing tricks, flips, and slides.
- Lightweight and easier to maneuver.
- Ideal for riding ramps and bowls.
Cons
- Not suitable for cruising or commuting.
- Difficult to control for beginners.
Choosing the right skateboard for your child is crucial to ensure their safety and a good experience. Understanding the different skateboard styles can go a long way in helping you select the perfect skateboard. Consider the child’s skill level, goals, and the skateboard’s size and shape before making a purchase.
The right choice can encourage your child to improve their skills, gain confidence, and enjoy the sport.
Conclusion
As a parent, choosing the perfect skateboard for your child can be quite challenging, but with this visual guide, you are equipped with all the necessary information to make an informed decision. Whether your child is a beginner or an expert, the deck size, trucks, wheels, and bearings are all important factors that you will need to consider.
By taking the time to understand these features, you can ensure that your child’s skateboard suits their individual needs and enhances their riding experience. Remember that safety should always come first, so investing in high-quality protective gear is a must for every skateboarder.
Once you have picked the right skateboard, you’ll be amazed at the joy and confidence it can bring to your child’s life. So, go ahead, make that purchase and let your child experience the thrill of skateboarding while staying safe and confident!
