So you finally have your own skateboard. What should you do next? You have probably watched your friends riding their boards, have played skateboard video games, or have watched pro skaters on TV, but how do you get started? The very first thing you should do is get the basic gear. Shop online or at your local sports store. And before you step on to your skateboard, get the following gear:
Shoes.
While you can skate with regular shoes on, it is advisable to wear skateboarding shoes. Regular shoes can sometimes limit your movement and even impose danger. Specially designed shoes for skateboarding on the other hand have wider flat bottoms which maximize your control on the board. Skate shoes are also reinforced in parts that are more likely to wear down while riding and performing tricks, a feature you cannot expect in a regular pair of shoes.
Clothes.
Fashion is an essential part of skateboarding whether anyone wants to admit it or not. Rugged and worn out shirts and pants, Chuck Taylor Converse or Low-top Classic Vans, optional pair of socks (preferably black), baseball hat worn backward, or anything that would resemble the punk or hip-hip skater look is the most common. However, what you wear is entirely up to you. Just make sure that you are comfortable and ready to go.
Pads.
Elbow, wrist, and knee pads protect parts of your body from injury, cuts and bruises. It's suggested that you pad up when you skate. Some may say that pads limit their movement. But what the heck? It is better to compromise your movement and guarantee safety than be free and risking it all.
Helmet.
If you are a beginner and you skate anywhere near a teenager or anyone who is more advanced than you are, wearing a helmet makes you look un-cool, weak, or stupid. But don't worry about it. Being safe is not a showing of weakness or stupidity. After all, what's the use of your skateboard if you are lying in a hospital bed with a head injury that was caused by falling while riding your board?
Once you have all these, it is time for you to go out and practice your moves. But remember, ride safely. Learn the basics of skating. Know how to push, glide, brake, and fall properly. Have fun!
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