Beginner’s Guide

How do I choose a skateboard?

Starter Complete (Kids 12 and under)

The simplest way to get started is by purchasing one of our complete skateboards—these are fully assembled skateboards ready to use. For kids 12 and under, we recommend a “starter complete.”

Picking the right size (width) of board is important and depends on your kids’ height. See our size chart for details, but you’re just looking for something under 7.75” at this age. Let your kid choose their favourite graphic to make it fun!

Next Step Complete (Beginners 13+)

The simplest way to get started is by purchasing one of our complete skateboards—these are fully assembled skateboards ready to use. For kids 13+ and adults getting into skateboarding, we recommend a “next step complete.” These skateboards feature upgraded trucks that will last longer, grind further, and carve smoother.

Picking the right size (width) of board is important and depends on your height and what you’re looking to get from the experience. A wider board is more stable, making it easier to ride (especially if you’re taller) and a narrower board is nimbler, making it easier for flip tricks (especially if you’re shorter). For a beginner, any board between 7.75” and 8.25” is suitable.

Size Chart

Approximate Age	Deck Width	Approximate Height	Approximate Shoe Size
5 years and under	6.5’’-7.0’’	3’4’’ and under (104 cm)	< 1 kids
6 to 8 years	7’’-7.5’’	3’5’’ to 4’4’’ (106 to 134 cm)	2-5 kids
9 to 12 years	7.5’’-7.75’’	4’5’’ to 5’2’’ (136 to 158 cm)	5-7 adults
13 + years	7.75’’-8.25’’+	5’3’’ and above (160 cm +)	7-9 + adults

Custom /Build your own complete

You can always build a custom complete skateboard by purchasing the components individually. Grip tape, hardware, and assembly are always included for free. A more advanced skater will have preferences and want to build their own complete by choosing each part: deck, wheels, trucks, and bearings.

Cruiser Complete

These skateboards have wider decks with larger, softer wheels. They are more stable and comfortable to ride, even on rough pavement, making them ideal for transportation.

What other gear do I need?

Proper skate shoes are essential for any skateboarder. They make a huge difference by providing performance and durability specifically designed for skateboarding. 

Proper safety gear is recommended, especially for new riders. Check out our helmets and pads.

How do I maintain my skateboard?

The best way to extend the life of a skateboard is to avoid water and dirt (puddles, sand, mud) as much as possible.

Almost all parts of a skateboard are replaced when needed rather than repaired. Bearings are the exception to this rule as they can sometimes be removed, cleaned, and re-inserted into the wheels. The inner components of a truck (bushings, king pin etc.) can also be replaced. In general, however, once a deck feels soggy or wheels are no longer smooth, they should be replaced. Bring your board by the shop and we’ll be happy to breathe new life into it if we can.

Lessons and Camps

The city of Ottawa offers excellent skateboard camps at multiple locations throughout the city including McNabb recreational facility, Bob MacQuarrie, Manotick, and more. Click here to learn more.

We also highly recommend the programming offered by our friends at Gatineau Skate and the Arnprior Skateboard Association. They are both fantastic organizations!

Skatepark Information

Check out the Ottawa Skateboard Association’s website for a complete list of skateparks in the Ottawa area.

Need more help?  Reach out to us anytime!