Skate Shoes FAQs
What are some common types of skate decks?
Most decks are made from Canadian maple in either seven to nine ply layers, depending on the skaters preference. However some decks are made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, aluminum, plastic, bamboo and even resin. Different boards have different weights with helps with strength and support allowing the user to perform different stunts and tricks. Decks also come in different sizes from 7 to 10.5 inches wide, this is also just for preference. Professional skaters each have their own preference for which size allows them to perform the best tricks. For every day skating the size depends solely on preference and most people purchase boards that are 8 inches wide because that is the size that is widely available.
What are some common types of skate wheels?
Wheels com in array of sizes, and even moldings, to fit the preference of each individual skater. Larger wheels range from 55 to 85 millimeters in circumference and roll faster as well as move easily over cracks in pavement. Smaller sizes of wheels range from 48 to 54 millimeters in circumference and help keep the board closer to the ground, require less force for movement and also make for a slower top speed. Wheels are also available in the variety of densities that are measured on a durometer on an A scale. Softer wheels reach a score around A75 and hard wheels measure at A101. In actuality the A scale ranges from 1-100 however manufacturers use the term 101 to symbolize the hardest the wheels could possibly be. Some wheel manufactures now use B scales which have a larger range of density.
What are skate trucks?
Connecting the wheels to the deck are two t shaped metal, usually aluminum alloy, contraptions known as skate trucks. There are two trucks on every skate board and they are located at either end of the board. Each truck holds two wheels and is attached at the top to the deck of the skate board making it a whole skate board. The top of the truck is screwed into the deck, and is most commonly referred to as the baseplate, and the part connected to the wheels is referred to as the hanger. The axle for the wheels runs through the hanger. Additionally between the hanger and the baseplate are bushings and rubber grommets that provide cushion, absorb shock and allow the trucks to bend. All of these features allow the skate board to function properly while in use and even better for tricks.