How to choose a deck

For those starting skateboarding

Prime Shintaro.

I think it's a deck design that I like, neither the size of the deck nor the ``HIGH'' or ``LOW'' height of the truck. It was the same when I started skateboarding.

While consulting with the store staff, you can choose from the decks and build your own one. I had no idea what it was, but I remember being so happy that I took lots of pictures. I believe that your first skateboard is a great " motivation " for your future skateboarding life.



``I got it from my senior,'' ``I took it with my boyfriend,'' ``I took it with my child,'' ``My brother had it,'' etc.

I'm sure there are people who start buying one for a variety of reasons, but when it comes to buying your first car, don't compromise and be particular about it. If you choose a skateboard with a design that you like the best, you'll want to ride it every day.

I think so, so I have explained it thoroughly below. It's going to be long, but I'd be happy if you could join me.

> First, choose a deck

This is the first board you need to choose when you start skateboarding. It is commonly called "DECK". Anyway, there are so many that it's hard to choose one.

The deck is the "face" of skateboarding and is an expression of self. And it's the most fashionable thing for skaters. Everyone is looking at the brand and design of the deck that other people are riding.

There are also plain colored decks, but I would like you to choose carefully.

＞ What changes with the width of the deck?

First of all, when you go to a skateboard shop or look on the web, you will be confused not only by the different designs but also by the large number of sizes.

What is the width of the deck?

This is probably the first question you will face when making a purchase. It's a little detailed, but let me give you a "subjective" explanation based on my long skateboarding experience and trends, depending on the size of the deck.

・7.5 ~ 7.625 inch

This was the most popular size over 10 years ago, but now it is mainly used by women and children. As it is narrow and short, it is easy to handle even for people with limited strength.

・7.75 ~ 7.875 inch

Although it is thin, it is a popular size among street skaters who like quick movements. The last size that even women can handle without any problems and can be maneuvered with less force.

・8.0 ~ 8.125 inch

The most popular size among street skaters. Slightly wide, it has a moderate sense of stability, making it easy to adjust your stance and gain speed. Considering recent trends, there are many opinions that this is the upper limit size that women can use.

・8.25 ~ 8.375 inch

Nowadays, 8.0 to 8.125 inches is the most popular size even in Japan. It has a better sense of stability than the above-mentioned sizes, so it can be used not only on the street but also on the street. Ideal for those who want to enjoy all-round skateboarding up to R (ramp, ball, etc.) . This is the most popular size worldwide.

・8.5 inch or more

`` Manly size'' that attacks R transition. Although it is a size that can be used on the street, it may feel a little heavy . However, the sense of stability at high speeds is `` excellent .'' It is truly manly to be able to operate such a large deck.

If you are going to start skateboarding, my image is

・Male: 7.875 ~ 8.375 inch.

・Women: 7.75 ~ 8.125 inches.

・Child: 7.5 ~ 7.75 inch

I think it's a good idea to use that as a guide.

＞ What is kick and concave?

If you look closely at the deck, you can see that there is a warp on the front, back, left and right sides of the deck. First of all, the front and rear of the deck.

The front is called the nose and the rear is the tail.The curvature is called the ``kick'' and the curvature from the left and right is called the ``concave.''

To put it very simply, the kick is for ollie, and the concave is for catching when turning a flip.

Please remember that this is an essential item in order to perform a "trick".

The strength of warping actually varies depending on the deck. Skaters call decks with strong curvature "strong kick" or "strong concave."

The key is compatibility with yourself. The settings used by skilled players may not necessarily be suitable for you.
As you continue to skateboard, we recommend trying out different types of decks.

You'll definitely find something you like! By the way, I like decks that are weak in both kick and concave.

Although I have given a long explanation, I hope you now understand a little bit about how to choose a deck.