The Ultimate Buying Guide for Fingerboards: Decks, Trucks, Wheels, and More
Overview
Fingerboarding is a popular hobby that involves using miniature skateboards to perform tricks and stunts. If you're interested in getting started with fingerboarding, it's important to choose the right equipment. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about fingerboards, including the different types of equipment available, key considerations when choosing a fingerboard, features to look for, prices, tips, and frequently asked questions.
Types
1. Fingerboard Decks: Fingerboard decks are the main component of a fingerboard and come in various sizes and materials. Wooden decks are the most common and affordable, while composite decks offer more durability and precision.
2. Fingerboard Trucks: Fingerboard trucks are responsible for the turning and stability of the board. They come in different widths and materials, with metal trucks being the most popular for their strength and durability.
3. Fingerboard Wheels: Fingerboard wheels come in different sizes and durometers, with harder wheels being better for tricks and softer wheels better for cruising. They also come in different materials, with urethane wheels being the most popular for their grip and durability.
4. Fingerboard Grip Tape: Fingerboard grip tape is used to provide traction and grip on the board. It comes in different colors and textures, with black grip tape being the most common.
5. Fingerboard Bearings: Fingerboard bearings are responsible for the smoothness and speed of the wheels. They come in different ABEC ratings, with higher ratings indicating smoother and faster bearings.
6. Fingerboard Accessories: Fingerboard accessories include ramps, obstacles, and other items used to create a fingerboard park or course.
Key Considerations
1. Skill Level: Consider your skill level when choosing a fingerboard. Beginners may want to start with a complete fingerboard set, while more advanced riders may want to customize their board.
2. Size: Choose a fingerboard size that fits your hand comfortably. Most fingerboards are around 96mm long and 30mm wide.
3. Material: Consider the material of the deck, trucks, and wheels when choosing a fingerboard. Wooden decks are the most common and affordable, while metal trucks and urethane wheels offer more durability and precision.
4. Brand: Choose a reputable brand when buying a fingerboard. Popular brands include Tech Deck, Berlinwood, and FlatFace.
Features
1. Concave: Look for a fingerboard deck with a concave shape, which provides more control and stability when performing tricks.
2. Graphic: Choose a fingerboard deck with a graphic that appeals to you.
3. Bushings: Look for fingerboard trucks with bushings that can be adjusted to your preference.
4. Bearings: Choose fingerboard bearings with a high ABEC rating for a smoother and faster ride.
Prices
Fingerboards can range in price from around $10 for a basic set to over $100 for a high-end custom board. It's important to choose a fingerboard that fits your budget and skill level.
Tips
1. Practice regularly to improve your fingerboarding skills.
2. Customize your fingerboard to make it unique and personalized.
3. Create a fingerboard park or course to practice and perform tricks.
4. Watch tutorials and videos online to learn new tricks and techniques.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a wooden and composite fingerboard deck?
A: Wooden decks are the most common and affordable, while composite decks offer more durability and precision.
Q: What is the best size for a fingerboard?
A: Most fingerboards are around 96mm long and 30mm wide, but choose a size that fits your hand comfortably.
Q: What is the best brand for fingerboards?
A: Popular brands include Tech Deck, Berlinwood, and FlatFace.
Q: What is the difference between hard and soft fingerboard wheels?
A: Hard wheels are better for tricks and soft wheels are better for cruising.
Q: How do I improve my fingerboarding skills?
A: Practice regularly, customize your board, and watch tutorials and videos online to learn new tricks and techniques.