What to Buy with Your Skateboard?

Introduction

Buying your first skateboard is exciting, but to get the best experience you’ll need more than just the board itself. The right accessories will help keep you safe, protect your equipment, and allow you to maintain or upgrade your setup as you progress. Some items are essential for every skater, while others are useful extras that add convenience, style, and performance.

In this guide, we’ll cover the must-have skateboard accessories and the extras that can make skating even more enjoyable. You’ll find them all at Skates.co.uk.

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Essential Accessories for Skateboards

Helmet and Pads

Skateboarding comes with a risk of falls, so safety gear should always be your first purchase alongside a board. A properly fitted helmet, along with knee, elbow, and wrist pads, makes a huge difference to confidence and safety — especially for beginners and younger riders.

Skate Tool

A skate tool is one of the most useful items for any skater. It allows you to adjust trucks, change wheels, and tighten bolts quickly and easily. Having one in your bag ensures your board is always in good condition and ready to ride.

Grip Tape

While most skateboards come with grip tape already applied, it wears down over time. Having spare grip tape means you can refresh your board when needed, ensuring you always have secure footing for tricks and control.

Skateboard Backpack or Bag

Carrying a skateboard can be awkward, particularly if you’re heading to a park or school. A dedicated backpack or bag makes transport much easier and often includes compartments for pads and tools.

Desirable Accessories for Skateboards

Spare Wheels

Wheels wear down, chip, or flat spot depending on how you ride. Having a spare set ensures you’re never caught out, and many skaters enjoy choosing different hardness levels for street or park skating.

Bearings

Upgraded bearings make your board roll faster and more smoothly. They’re a popular choice for skaters who want to improve performance and enjoy a smoother ride.

Coloured Hardware and Laces

Customising your skateboard with coloured bolts, bushings, or even laces for your shoes is an inexpensive way to add style and personality to your setup.

Wax

Kerb and rail wax is useful for skaters interested in grinding and sliding. It reduces friction and makes tricks smoother, helping you get more from your sessions.

Tips for Choosing Accessories

  • Prioritise safety gear and a skate tool as your first purchases.
  • If you plan on skating both street and park, buy different wheels suited to each surface.
  • For progression, consider bearings and wax to make your board smoother and faster.

Conclusion

A skateboard on its own is just the beginning. To skate safely and keep your setup performing well, essentials like helmets, pads, skate tools, grip tape, and bags should be top of the list. Extras such as spare wheels, upgraded bearings, wax, and custom parts give you more ways to improve and personalise your board.

At Skates.co.uk, you’ll find a full range of skateboard accessories, so you can get everything you need to ride safely and progress with confidence.

FAQs

Do I really need a skate tool?
 Yes. A skate tool makes it easy to adjust or repair your skateboard quickly, and it’s one of the most useful accessories you can own.

How often should I replace grip tape?
 Grip tape should be replaced once it becomes smooth, worn, or starts peeling, as it’s essential for control and safety.

Do I need different wheels for park and street skating?
 Many skaters use softer wheels for rough street surfaces and harder wheels for smooth skateparks. Having spares gives you flexibility.