When you are talking about skateboarding equipment you are usually including many things. From skateboard ramps to decks and trucks to protective gear, the term skateboarding equipment covers it all.

When you start out you will need a skateboard and a ramp and some protective gear. You can either buy a premade skateboard or build your own. Buying a complete board is easier, but since skating is all about self expression building your own can be rewarding and you will get a product that completely reflects who you are.

Choosing Skateboard Decks

The length of your skateboard deck should be determined by how tall you are. This will give you the right amount of control over your skateboard. Here is a chart that can serve as a guide.

Under 4’ = 29” or smaller
4’ to 4’10” = 29” to 30” long
4’10” to 5’3” = 30.5” to 31.5” long
5’3” to 5”8” = 31.5” to 32” long
5”8” to 6’1” = 32” to 32.5” long
Over 6’1” = 32.4” and up

The width of your deck should be determined by your foot size and what you want to do while skating. If you like to ride ramps or spend most of your skating time at skate parks then a wider board is better. For street skating you will want a narrower board.

Also, when choosing your deck make sure that you (or the person you are buying it for) likes the graphics and brand. If you are a parent buying a board for a child or teen then you will especially want to get there input on this - otherwise they may not enjoy their skateboard.

Choosing Skateboard Wheels

Getting the right skateboard wheels is actually fairly simple. Choose a wheel that is between 52mm to 54mm, with a hardness of 99a and get a graphic that you like and you should be good to go.

Choosing Wheel Bearings

The bearing go inside your wheels and make them spin smoothly. You want bearings that are smooth enough AND are durable. There is a rating system called ABEC that is used for bearings, but doesn't work very well for skate bearings (so I won't bore you with the details).

When you are buying bearings the most important thing to look at is the customer ratings. For a medium priced bearing I like

For a higher end bearing I like

These are both customer top rated at Amazon.com and are very good quality. Until you are a very good skater stick with the medium grade bearings, because it is likely you will go through them quickly.

Choosing the Skateboard Trucks

Skateboard trucks come in a variety of heights and widths. You will want to match the width of your truck to the skateboard. The following chart should be helpful.

4.75 for up to 7.5" wide decks
5.0 for up to 7.75" wide decks
5.25 for up to 8.125" wide decks
For 8.25" and up, you can use 5.25 trucks, or use super wide trucks (like the Independent 169mm)

Most beginning to intermediate skateboarders will be happy with medium height skateboard trucks and firm bushings for more control. More experienced skateboarders will want medium bushings in their trucks. The bushings are little rubber donuts that act like shocks.

This is the basic skateboarding equipment that you will need to put together your board.

When you are purchasing your pieces also be sure to pick up some grip tape, risers, and the parts to put it all together. For instructions on assembling your skateboard click here, and don't forget to check out this article about skate ramps and rails