Skateboarding can be both thrilling and terrible, depending on the style and sturdiness of the skateboards used. For all the new skateboarders, it is a common question to ask how long do skateboards last?
Well, it is not easy to figure out how long a skateboard will last because it depends on several elements. They include the grip tapes, trucks, rims, and decks of the skateboard. However, the average lifespan of a skateboard is 1 to 2 years. But that’s not the case with all skateboarders as some of them get their deck broken within a few months.
For detailed information, I am going to describe some tips and tricks to help you increase the lifespan of your skateboard. So let’s take a look at them!
How Long Do Skateboards Last?
A skateboard deck can last between 2 weeks and 6 months. In most situations, the skateboard will last between 5 months and 2 years. It also relies on the surface you skate on if you skate more on streets then your skateboard deck will not last long. Many skateboarders destroy their decks in a matter of months, while others maintain them for almost five years depending on how often they skate and in what environment they skate.
If you are skating in the streets mainly and not in the skatepark, chances are your skateboard will last longer as the ground on the streets is rougher. It also depends on the weight you are putting on your skateboard deck. The deck of a skateboard has a weight limit for sure and putting more weight than that limit can result in breaking the deck in less time.
Also, if you are skating on a smaller skateboard then your chances of hitting the ground are less. There are many durable decks available on the market that come with a fiberglass or carbon layer to increase the durability of the deck. And yeah, they cost a bit more than regular skateboards.
What are The Factors That Determine The Life of a Skateboard?
As I stated before, the longevity of your skateboard is determined by a variety of elements. It is critical to know the factors so that you can understand how to maintain your skateboard to last long. A tip that I can share and have applied is to use Deck Rails for your skateboard to maximize its lifespan.
The following are the most important factors:
- Surface Area
- Stunts
- Quality of the Skateboard
- Weather and Riding Conditions
- Skateboard Abuse Level
Surface Area
Your skating terrain or ground has a significant impact on how prolonged your skateboard lasts. For example, when you ride on the road or rough ground, your skateboard’s tires will degrade and wear out more quickly and severely.
If you want to do stunts on the road, you will smash frequently. Also, your skateboard will degrade much more quickly due to the road’s harsh structure. It can harm the skateboard.
So, I suggest that you only skate in light areas and skate parks that are designed for skating. I also suggest going somewhere other than the road because the concrete is terrible for skateboarding.
Stunts
Attempting stunts on your skateboard will injure it more severely. Specifically, if you do it on harsh terrain, it can harm your skateboard.
So, instead of doing stunts and flips on rough surfaces, I recommend you practice them on light and flexible interfaces. It can be like grass or a playground made for skateboards because they will not harm the skateboard when you fall.
Quality of the Skateboard
Of course, if the quality of your skateboard is high, it will last for longer. Excellent and good-quality skateboards are also pricier and last longer than inexpensive skateboards. So, keep that in mind to bring good-quality skateboards for you. If you are a beginner at skateboarding make sure to get a skateboard that can bear the harsh riding style.
Weather and Riding Conditions
When it is about the weather and surroundings in which you ride, it means skating in the rain and water. They will damage or tear out your skateboard very easily and quickly. Skating in the rain is not suggested because it will considerably reduce the lifespan of your skateboard.
Skateboard Abuse Level
When I say skateboard misuse, I’m not saying about the tricks. Instead of this, I am talking about flying and throwing the skateboard into the air.
There are a lot of riders who exercise skating and fail. Due to this, they can’t control their rage and smash their skateboard to the ground. This will break their skateboard and make it less sturdy. So, it is essential to keep yourself cool and calm while skating.
How Long Do Skateboard Wheels Last?
Skateboard wheels are constructed of polyurethane which is a robust and durable material for manufacturing. However, they won’t last forever.
Even if your skateboard wheels will fracture before your joints, the more you use them, the quicker they will degrade. So, before you change your skateboard tires, you should be capable of utilizing them at least a few times.
Skateboard tires are available in different colors and shapes. Classic white or black tires, vivid pink tires, gleaming silver tires, and more colors are available. You have to select the boards that appeal to you the most when purchasing your board. They will offer you riding a distinct style and flair!
The durometers of wheels range from 78A to 101A. The tighter the wheel, the quicker your axles will be. Also, common hardware parts will break out. Gentler tires are slower than harder wheels, although they are more pleasant for riding and tricking.
How Long Do Electric Skateboards Last?
Electric skateboards have a long life expectancy of 12 to 13 years. The lifespan of an electric skateboard is also determined by how it is used. Besides that, high-quality electric skateboards will last longer than low-quality skateboards.
Also, these electric skateboards are preferable for professional riders. It is because they have to use the skateboards at the professional level. Although these skateboards are a bit costly they can afford them.
How Long Do Longboards Last?
The longboards are the most expensive and vulnerable deck types. Longboards are best for riding
as they are designed to last for a long. A longboard typically lasts between two and five
months.
The lifespan of the skateboard is also determined by its construction and use practices. Thick
decks typically last longer than thinner ones. And smoothing out sometimes is safer than rolling
and bouncing.
You can enhance the lifespan of your skateboard by following the points given below;
- Keep the deck away from moisture
- Give proper maintenance at home
How Long Do Skateboard Trucks Last?
Skateboard trucks typically last between two and four years. It all depends on their durability
and owner application. If you can offer your truck sufficient support and attention, you can still
extend its useful life.
How you utilize and care for your truck throughout the years will affect how long it lasts. You must take good care of your skateboard trucks if you want to increase their lifespan.
Does the type of Rider affect the Lifespan of Skateboards?
Yes, the type of rider affects the lifespan of the skateboard. Although I stated that your skateboard can endure for two years on average, that is for an average-level skater. If you want to know how long your skateboard will last, I advise you to determine whether you are a ‘Pro,’ ‘Intermediate,’ or ‘Everyday Rider.’
Pro Rider
When I talk about the pro rider, I’m talking to riders who compete in skateboard contests, travel for hours on skateboards, and practice flips and feats daily to improve.
A skilled rider’s skateboard can last anywhere from a week to a few months. Experienced skateboarders ruin their boards more quickly, and some pro riders replace their boards every month. It is because they perform absurd feats that lead their boards to break down faster.
In addition, they are willing to spend more money on skateboards. For example, if the wheels do not improve or become more suitable for skating, they will simply be replaced.
Amateur Rider
The amateur rider is a user who does not skate every day but rides a minimum of three to four times a week. He is the rider who rides for fun playing in skateboard-friendly locations.
The skateboard of an average rider will endure for at least 6 months to 2 years. If you take care of it and only use it once in a while, it will stay even longer than this.
The Daily Rider
The daily rider is a skateboarder who just rides for work and school. Thus, I know several skateboarders who only skateboard to go from one location to another.
Unlike the amateur rider who regularly attempts tricks and travels with friends, these riders only go out with friends and conduct tricks on occasion. Daily riders can expect their boards to last for at least two to four years. It is based on where they skate and how they utilize it.
So, to determine how long your skateboard will last, you must first comprehend all three sorts of skateboard riders and then select which category you fall into.
When to Replace the Skateboard Deck?
The upper portion of the board on which you stand is known as the deck, and it is among the most crucial components. It is also not supposed to stay forever because excessive use will degrade it.
There is no precise period for changing the skateboard deck because there are so many various varieties. The best skateboards for beginners are available in wooden, plastic, fiberglass, and more kinds. But you usually have to change it every four to six months. As quickly as your deck starts to bend or break, you can change it. Keep in mind that the more you use your board, the shorter its longevity.
After at least two years of intensive usage, the typical skateboarder will damage a deck. If you only do mild skating for enjoyment, you shouldn’t need to repair your skateboard deck for a long time.
Otherwise, if you are a trickster who skates furiously, you will have to change it sooner. Persistent skaters frequently break boards within four to six months of continuous usage, so be prepared to change it!
How Can I Water-Proof my Skateboard?
How can you make skateboard decks water-resistant? If it is constructed of wood, fiberglass, or carbon, you can protect it without too much difficulty. But with wooden planks, the procedure is a little more complicated.
To ensure that all of the gaps and holes are thoroughly coated and filled, you will have to bind your boards many times. This can be accomplished using an industrial-grade sprayer that enables people to work from a distance.
It is a little more costly, but it spares you time and effort. It is because you won’t like to walk over your boards, again and again, to ensure everything is equally coated.
Even if you waterproof your hardwood skateboard deck several times, it will absorb moisture over time. Especially if there are any visible gaps or holes, there will be more chances of damaging it.
You will have to wrap your deck when you are not riding to keep it from warping or cracking. If you won’t be using your skateboard for an extended period, you should wrap it with a sheet or something similar. It will ensure that it is protected from outdoor conditions.
On the other hand, new parts will break out at the same pace as old ones. So, it should only take you an hour or two to replace your regular gear.
You have to ensure you have the correct-sized Allen bolts for each part, as well as the appropriate skateboard equipment. It will be simple to replace your axles and push nuts without putting too much effort.
Skateboard Maintenance Tips
Below are the tips to keep your skateboard last for a long;
- Don’t Throw your Skateboard
There’s a risk that the skateboard’s tail will collide with the ground and shatter. It is because the tail is more delicate and less robust than the center part. Although skateboarding might be frustrating sometimes, you must attempt to keep control and avoid throwing the skateboard.
- Keep your Skateboard Dry
Many skateboarders do not know how to keep their boards. They simply place them on the cold ground in the winter or even in the car, where they can easily be struck by something. So, don’t leave your skateboard where it can be damaged.
- Don’t Ride in the Rain
Skating in the winter can damage your skateboard as rain could soak into the tree. And it can convert into a haze that will harm your board. It can also destroy additional components, such as bearings.
- Don’t Leave your Skateboard in the Car
Many skateboarders make the common and dangerous error of leaving their skateboards in the car. If you leave your skateboard in the car, the heat will be much higher and cause serious damage to the deck’s structure, as well as the wheels and trigger.
- Do not Slip on the Tale of your Skateboard
Many skateboarders enjoy sliding or pausing on the tail of the board. It not only grinds the tail on the floor but can also shatter the board after a few trials. So, don’t fall on your skateboard’s tail as it can shatter the tail. It is because the tail is the most fragile part of the skateboard.
- Clean the Skateboard
Maintaining and cleaning your skateboard is among the most efficient and useful actions to perform over time. This will keep your skateboard last for many years.
- Don’t Ride on the Stone, Glass, and Sand Surface
Skateboard wheels will be ruined if you ride on sand or glass. Also, if your skateboard falls to the floor while standing on hard floors, it will be severely damaged.
- Know how to Land Well on your Skateboard
Landing correctly on your skateboard is critical because landing incorrectly on the deck can cause your skateboard to fracture into two pieces. The most efficient and safe technique to land on the decks is to land with both feet on the front of the center bolts.
- Don’t do Tricks and Stunts
Most inexperienced riders make the blunder of attempting feats and flips that are inappropriate for their level of ability. Doing stunts that are not appropriate for your skill level is extremely risky. It increases your chances of smashing your skateboard, particularly if you are a beginner rider.
- Tighten your Tracks
It is easy to forget to adjust your rails before each ride, but doing so can ensure that they endure for a year. Also, they provide you with additional stability and convenience. This is a technique that will make your job much easier.
How to Clean the Skateboard?
You will have to follow the steps given below to clean your skateboard;
- Clean your Deck
The first and most important part of cleaning your skateboard is cleaning your skateboard deck.
First of all, use the needle to remove any loose dirt, grit, or muck from the deck. Then use freshwater to thoroughly remove the dirt that remains. After you have cleaned the surface of the deck, continue this to the bottom.
It is crucial to understand that your deck is water-resistant. But as soon as you wipe it gently with water, you shouldn’t have any issues.
- Clean your Wheels
Now you have to disconnect the skateboard’s tires. You will have to wipe the rims and axles with a toothbrush and some water after wiping the board.
Then, for a few moments, soak your axles in a glass of alcohol until they are clear. Finally, extract the axles, tighten them, and spin them to remove any residual alcohol.
Here is the complete step-by-step process of cleaning the skateboard wheels.
- Plug in all parts
After you have finished cleaning your skateboard, all you have to do is connect all of the pieces as they were before. You will have to check all parts carefully to avoid any type of trouble.
Here are the top 5 tips to make your skateboard last longer.
Conclusion
Every other skateboarder is concerned about how long do skateboards last nowadays as everyone can’t invest as much money as pro skaters. It relies on the use, construction quality, and maintenance of the skateboards. So, I have explained all about the endurance of skateboards in this article.
Skateboards can be made to last longer with proper maintenance. Furthermore, good riding skills boost the board’s endurance and durability.
I hope this article was informative and you definitely will share it with fellow skaters. Happy Skating 🙂
FAQ’s
What are the different types of skateboards?
There are different types of skateboards that you can use according to your preferences. You can choose any type of skateboard longboard, penny board, electric skateboard, downhill skateboard, and street skateboard.
How do you know when it’s time to replace the skateboard?
Many factors will cause you to replace your skateboard. If the decks of the skateboard will not run smoothly and you have seen some cracks on your skateboard, you will have to change it for smooth riding.
What should you look for in a new skateboard?
When you go to buy a skateboard, you will have to check the placement of the trucks and decks, the height and width of the board, and the length of the deck. This will help you to purchase the right item for your wonderful experience.
What is the best way to maintain and repair your skateboard?
There are several economical methods to repair and maintain your skateboards such as the use of glue to fix bangs, using wax or oil to avoid dryness, and the use of spray that will keep the board shiny and new.
How long do longboards last?
Longboards usually last 5 to 6 years before needing to be replaced. The materials used in the manufacturing of the boards, how they are utilized, and who uses them can all affect how long they last.