Skateboard accessories are items designed to improve your riding experience, keep you safe, and help you maintain your equipment. Whether you are a beginner learning to balance or an experienced skater perfecting tricks, the right add-ons can make a significant difference. These items range from essential safety gear to specialized tools that keep your board in top condition.
Choosing the right accessories involves understanding your specific needs and riding style. Some accessories focus on performance, while others prioritize comfort and longevity. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the most helpful skateboard accessories available today.
Essential Safety Gear
Safety should always be the primary concern for any skateboarder. While falling is a natural part of learning, having the right protective gear can prevent serious injuries and keep you on your board longer. High-quality safety equipment is an investment in your physical well-being.
Certified Helmets
A helmet is the most important accessory you can own. Look for helmets that are specifically rated for skateboarding and meet safety standards like CPSC or ASTM. These helmets are designed to withstand multiple low-impact falls or a single high-impact crash.
Ensure the helmet fits snugly on your head without tilting too far forward or backward. The straps should form a “V” shape under your ears. A well-fitted helmet provides the best protection for your brain during a fall.
Pads and Wrist Guards
Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are essential for beginners and those skating in parks or ramps. Knee pads allow you to “slide out” of a fall safely on transition surfaces. This technique minimizes the impact on your joints and prevents skin abrasions.
Wrist guards are particularly helpful because many skaters instinctively reach out with their hands when they fall. The hard plastic splint in a wrist guard absorbs the impact and prevents fractures. Look for pads with breathable fabric and adjustable straps for maximum comfort.
Maintenance and Repair Tools
A skateboard is a mechanical device with moving parts that require regular upkeep. Proper maintenance ensures your board rolls smoothly and stays quiet. Having a few basic tools on hand will save you time and money at the local skate shop.
The Skateboard T-Tool
The T-tool is the most versatile accessory any skater can own. It features three different socket sizes designed to fit the kingpin, axle nuts, and mounting hardware. Most T-tools also include a removable screwdriver for the bolts on top of the deck.
Using a T-tool allows you to tighten or loosen your trucks to change how the board turns. It also makes it easy to swap out old wheels or replace a broken deck. Because of its compact shape, you can easily carry it in a pocket or backpack while skating.
Bearing Lubricant
Bearings are the small metal rings inside your wheels that allow them to spin. Over time, dirt and moisture can cause them to slow down or even seize up. Specialized bearing lubricant, often called “speed cream,” keeps them spinning fast and quiet.
To use lubricant, you must first clean your bearings with a solvent. Once dry, apply two drops of lubricant to each bearing. This simple maintenance task can significantly extend the life of your bearings and improve your speed.
Grip Tape Cleaner
Grip tape is the sandpaper-like surface on top of your board that provides traction. When dirt and mud get trapped in the grit, the board becomes slippery. A grip tape cleaner is a large rubber block that works like an eraser to pull dirt out of the tape.
Simply rub the block firmly across the dirty areas of your grip tape. The rubber picks up the debris without damaging the adhesive or the grit. This keeps your board looking fresh and ensures your feet stay securely in place during tricks.
Performance-Enhancing Accessories
Once you have the basics, you might want to customize how your board feels under your feet. Performance accessories allow you to fine-tune the responsiveness and smoothness of your ride. These small changes can have a big impact on your comfort level.
Riser and Shock Pads
Riser pads are hard plastic rectangles that sit between your trucks and the deck. They increase the distance between your wheels and the board, which helps prevent “wheel bite.” Wheel bite occurs when a wheel touches the deck during a sharp turn, causing the board to stop abruptly.
Shock pads are similar to risers but are made of a softer, rubbery material. They are designed to absorb vibrations from rough pavement and dampen the impact of landings. If you frequently skate on bumpy streets, shock pads can make the ride much more comfortable for your feet.
Replacement Bushings
Bushings are the colorful urethane rings inside your trucks that determine how easily the board turns. Most trucks come with standard medium bushings, but you can swap them out for “soft” or “hard” versions. Soft bushings are better for lightweight riders or those who like sharp turns.
Hard bushings provide more stability, which is helpful for high speeds or heavier riders. Replacing your bushings is an inexpensive way to completely change the handling of your skateboard. Always ensure you choose bushings that are compatible with your specific truck brand.
Hardware and Protection Add-ons
Some accessories are designed to protect the board itself from wear and tear. This is especially useful if you are practicing grinds or skating in harsh environments. Protecting your equipment helps it last longer and perform more consistently.
Skateboard Rails
Rails are plastic strips that screw into the bottom of your deck. They were very popular in the 1980s and have recently seen a resurgence in popularity. Rails protect the graphics on your board and provide a consistent surface for board slides.
Because plastic slides more easily than wood, rails can make it easier to slide across metal or concrete edges. They also provide a “grab point” for certain types of air tricks. Installing them requires a drill or a strong screwdriver to secure the mounting screws into the wood.
Nose and Tail Guards
The nose and tail of a skateboard are the areas most prone to chipping and “razor tail.” Razor tail happens when the wood wears down into a sharp edge from scraping against the ground. Plastic guards can be attached to these areas to absorb the impact and friction.
While these guards add a small amount of weight, they significantly extend the life of the deck. They are particularly useful for beginners who are still learning how to stop the board properly. Many longboarders also use these to protect their larger, more expensive decks.
Transportation and Storage Solutions
Getting your board from place to place and storing it at home are common challenges for skaters. Specialized bags and racks can help keep your gear organized and protected when you aren’t riding. These accessories are perfect for students or commuters.
Skateboard Backpacks
A skateboard backpack features heavy-duty Velcro straps on the outside to hold your board securely. This allows you to carry your board hands-free while walking or biking. Most of these bags also have reinforced panels to prevent the grip tape from rubbing holes in the fabric.
Inside, these bags usually have compartments for your T-tool, extra wheels, and personal items. Look for a bag with padded shoulder straps, as the weight of a skateboard can become heavy over long distances. High-quality skate bags are built to be much more durable than standard school backpacks.
Wall Racks and Floor Stands
Storing a skateboard on the floor can be a tripping hazard and can lead to dirty walls. A wall rack allows you to hang your board vertically or horizontally, turning it into a piece of functional art. This keeps the wheels off the ground and prevents the board from rolling away.
If you cannot drill holes in your walls, a floor stand is a great alternative. These stands hold the board upright by the rear wheels or the deck itself. Keeping your board in a designated spot ensures you always know where it is when you’re ready to head out.
Conclusion
Skateboard accessories are essential for anyone looking to get the most out of their riding experience. From the fundamental safety of a certified helmet to the convenience of a T-tool, these items help you ride safely and maintain your gear. By selecting the right add-ons for your style, you can improve your performance and protect your investment.
Remember to check your hardware regularly and replace worn-out accessories to ensure your board remains safe to ride. For more tips on maintaining your equipment or learning new skills, explore our other guides on outdoor sports and hobby maintenance.