Buy a skateboard — 31-inch complete boards
The skateboard is where almost everyone starts: short, agile and with a kick tail that teaches you to steer, brake and land your first tricks. Apollo complete boards measure 31 inches and come assembled out of the box — deck, trucks, wheels and bearings are already fitted, all you have to do is ride.
What to look for in your first skateboard
For beginners a complete board is almost always the sensible choice: the parts are matched to each other and you do not have to put anything together yourself. Pay attention to these three points in particular:
- Length. 31 inches is the usual size for teenagers and adults. For younger children the shorter skateboards of 51, 61 and 71 cm are handier.
- Trucks. Trucks set looser steer more quickly, trucks set tighter stand more stable. With the T-tool you adjust that in a minute.
- Surface. On rough asphalt softer wheels ride more pleasantly; in the skatepark a harder wheel choice is more usual.
Skateboard, cruiser or longboard?
If you want to learn tricks, the skateboard is the right choice. If it is mainly about riding — to school, to the station, through the park — then look at a midi cruiser or a longboard: those roll more calmly and take less effort over longer distances.
Frequently asked questions about skateboards
Is a complete board better than building your own?
To start with, yes. On a complete board all the parts match each other and the board is ready to ride straight away. Building your own only becomes interesting once you know exactly which deck, which trucks and which wheel hardness you want.
Do I still need to set the board up?
Usually not. If you find the turns too sluggish or, on the contrary, too wobbly, loosen or tighten the kingpin on the trucks a little with a T-tool. Do that in small steps and try it out each time.
What protective gear do you recommend?
Helmet, knee pads and wrist guards — certainly during the period when you are still learning to fall. Have a look at helmets and protective gear.
Can I ride in the rain?
Better not. Water attacks the bearings and will eventually make a wooden deck swell. If you did get wet after all: dry the board off and apply a drop of bearing oil if the wheels start to squeak.
