Skateboarding is an exciting and rewarding activity, but it comes with its fair share of wear and tear on your equipment. Among the most vulnerable parts of your skateboard, the deck often bears the brunt of the stress. Whether you’re landing hard tricks, cruising on rough terrain, or simply going through everyday use, skateboard decks are prone to cracks, splinters, and other forms of damage.
However, there are several ways you can protect your skateboard deck and extend its lifespan. By learning how to care for your deck and adopt some preventative measures, you can avoid premature damage and keep your skateboard performing at its best.
We will explore the best tips for protecting your skateboard deck from cracks and splinters. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skater, these tips will help you maintain your board’s integrity and ensure that your ride remains smooth and safe for longer.
Why Do Skateboard Decks Get Cracks and Splinters?
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why skateboard decks develop cracks and splinters in the first place. The deck is the core part of your skateboard and is subjected to a lot of stress during your rides. Common reasons for cracking and splintering include:
- Heavy Impact: When landing hard after performing tricks like ollies, kickflips, or grinds, the shock can cause the deck to crack or splinter. Over time, frequent hard landings weaken the structure of the deck.
- Moisture Exposure: Skateboard decks are often exposed to the elements, and moisture can be a major culprit in causing wood decks to splinter or weaken. Rain, puddles, or even high humidity can cause the layers of the deck to swell, warp, or delaminate.
- Rough Terrain: Riding on rough or uneven surfaces can put pressure on your deck, leading to chips, cracks, and splinters. Potholes, cracks in the pavement, or gravel can all contribute to the damage.
- Excessive Use: Like any equipment, skateboard decks will naturally wear out with time and use. The constant stress of daily skating will eventually cause wear and tear that leads to cracks and splinters.
- Improper Storage: Storing your skateboard in damp, hot, or excessively cold environments can also cause damage. Leaving your board outside in the rain, heat, or cold for extended periods can cause the deck to warp or crack.
Understanding these factors can help you prevent damage to your skateboard deck and make smarter decisions about how you maintain and care for your board.
7 Tips for Protecting Your Skateboard Deck from Cracks and Splinters
Now that we know why skateboard decks get damaged, let’s explore some practical tips to protect your deck from cracks and splinters. By following these strategies, you can prolong the life of your skateboard and enjoy smoother, safer rides.
1. Use High-Quality Decks and Materials
The first step in protecting your skateboard deck from damage is choosing a high-quality deck in the first place. Skateboards are available in various materials, with maple wood being the most common. However, there are also composite decks that offer greater durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Maple Decks: High-quality maple decks made from 7-ply wood are strong and flexible. Maple is a solid wood that can withstand a good amount of stress, but it’s still vulnerable to moisture and impact.
- Composite Decks: These decks are often made with a combination of materials such as fiberglass, plastic, and carbon fiber. Composite decks tend to be more durable, resistant to cracking, and longer-lasting compared to standard wood decks. However, they are generally more expensive.
By investing in a high-quality deck, you’re starting off with a solid foundation that can resist cracks and splinters better than lower-quality decks.
2. Avoid Riding in Wet Conditions
One of the easiest ways to prevent your skateboard deck from cracking and splintering is to avoid riding in wet conditions. Exposure to rain or puddles can cause the deck to absorb moisture, which can weaken the wood and cause delamination.
If your board does get wet, it’s important to dry it out completely before riding again. Don’t leave your skateboard out in the sun or in a hot car to dry it’s better to allow it to air dry in a cool, dry place.
Pro Tip: If you’re caught in the rain and need to store your board temporarily, place a towel or cloth around it to protect it from the elements. And always make sure to check the weather before heading out for a skate session.
Read More: How to Maintain Your Skateboard Deck for Longevity
3. Store Your Skateboard Properly
Proper storage of your skateboard is crucial in preventing damage to the deck. Storing your board in a humid, hot, or cold environment can cause it to warp, crack, or splinter. The best way to protect your skateboard deck is to store it in a dry, temperature-controlled space.
- Avoid Extreme Heat or Cold: Don’t leave your skateboard outside in direct sunlight or in a freezing environment, as both heat and cold can cause the materials to expand and contract, weakening the deck.
- Keep It Dry: Make sure your board is stored in a dry place. Avoid leaving it on damp surfaces or in areas where moisture can seep into the wood. If you store your skateboard indoors, keep it off the floor to avoid accidental exposure to water or moisture.
- Use a Skateboard Rack: Consider getting a skateboard rack or wall mount to keep your board off the ground and away from potential hazards. This will also prevent unnecessary pressure from being placed on your deck when it’s not in use.
4. Invest in Skateboard Deck Protection Tape
To prevent the nose and tail of your skateboard from splintering, you can apply skateboard deck protection tape to these high-impact areas. This tape is specifically designed to absorb the impact of tricks, grinds, and landings, reducing the chances of splintering and cracking. It’s especially useful for protecting the edges of the deck that are most prone to wear and tear.
Deck protection tape is typically made from a durable, adhesive material that can be applied directly to the edges of your skateboard deck. It’s easy to install and can be replaced when it becomes worn out.
Pro Tip: If you often perform technical tricks like grinds and slides, deck protection tape can be a game-changer for prolonging the life of your board.
5. Avoid Hard Landings and Excessive Impact
One of the primary causes of cracks and splinters is hard landings, especially when you’re performing tricks. When you land awkwardly after an ollie, kickflip, or other trick, the sudden impact puts stress on your skateboard deck. Over time, this repeated impact weakens the deck, causing it to crack or splinter.
- Proper Technique: Work on improving your technique to make your landings smoother and more controlled. Try to land with both feet evenly and avoid putting too much pressure on the nose or tail.
- Gradual Progression: If you’re just learning new tricks, don’t try to push your limits too fast. Start with simpler tricks and gradually build your way up to more advanced maneuvers.
By practicing controlled landings and not overexerting yourself, you can reduce the chances of cracking or splintering your skateboard deck.
6. Regularly Inspect Your Deck for Damage
One of the most effective ways to prevent serious damage to your skateboard deck is to regularly inspect it for any signs of wear and tear. If you catch small cracks, splinters, or other issues early on, you can take preventive measures to avoid further damage.
- Check for Cracks and Splinters: After each session, take a moment to inspect your deck for any visible cracks or splinters. Look along the edges, nose, tail, and bottom of the deck for signs of damage.
- Check the Grip Tape: The grip tape on your skateboard can wear down over time, especially in areas where you place your feet most frequently. If you notice areas of worn grip tape, consider replacing it before it affects your control.
Regular inspections will help you catch potential problems early and keep your deck in good condition.
7. Use Shock-Absorbing Wheels and Trucks
Your wheels and trucks also play a role in protecting your skateboard deck. If your trucks are too tight or your wheels are too hard, the shock from landings and impacts will be transferred directly to your deck, causing it to crack or splinter. By using shock-absorbing wheels and ensuring that your trucks are properly adjusted, you can reduce the impact on your deck.
- Use Soft Wheels: Soft wheels (durometer 78A to 87A) absorb more impact, making them ideal for smoother landings and reducing the pressure on your deck.
- Adjust Your Trucks: Make sure your trucks are not too tight or loose. Adjust them according to your weight, riding style, and the type of terrain you’re skating on to ensure a smooth ride.
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Protecting Your Skateboard Deck
1. How can I prevent my skateboard deck from getting waterlogged?
To prevent your skateboard deck from getting waterlogged, avoid skating in wet conditions and store your board in a dry place. If your deck does get wet, let it dry completely before using it again. Consider using deck protection tape to add a barrier against moisture.
2. Can I fix a cracked skateboard deck?
A cracked skateboard deck is often beyond repair, especially if the crack affects the deck’s structural integrity. While you can try to patch up small cracks with wood glue, it’s usually safer and more effective to replace the deck when cracks appear.
3. How often should I inspect my skateboard deck?
You should inspect your skateboard deck regularly after each session for visible signs of damage, such as cracks, splinters, or worn-out grip tape. Early detection can prevent more serious damage down the line.
4. Does deck protection tape really work?
Yes, deck protection tape helps protect the nose and tail of your skateboard deck from impact damage. It’s a great investment, especially if you perform a lot of technical tricks or grind on rails.
5. What’s the best way to store my skateboard?
Store your skateboard in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Avoid leaving it outside in direct sunlight or in areas with extreme heat or cold. If possible, use a skateboard rack to keep your board off the ground and prevent unnecessary wear.
6. Can using soft wheels prevent deck damage?
Yes, using soft wheels can help reduce the impact on your skateboard deck. Softer wheels absorb more shock from landings, making them ideal for preventing cracks and splinters in your deck.
7. How can I prevent my skateboard deck from warping?
To prevent warping, avoid exposing your skateboard to moisture or extreme temperatures. Store your board in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving it in areas where it can become wet or exposed to heat.
Conclusion
Protecting your skateboard deck from cracks and splinters is essential for maintaining a safe and enjoyable ride. By following the tips outlined in this guide such as investing in a high-quality deck, avoiding wet conditions, properly storing your skateboard, and performing regular inspections you can significantly prolong the life of your deck and enjoy smoother, more reliable skating sessions.
Remember, taking care of your skateboard is not only about extending its lifespan but also about ensuring your safety while you ride. So take these preventive steps, keep your deck in top shape, and get ready to hit the pavement with confidence!
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