Gripping a skateboard is one of those things that will become a right of passage for almost every skateboarder. It is something that you learn to do along the way of your skateboard journey, and it will slowly become this exciting step in getting a new skateboard. The satisfaction and anticipation of getting that new deck ready will make that first session with it even more enjoyable. But how do we get there? How can we make sure it is done correctly? Well you're in luck! Below is an over simplified breakdown of 5 steps to gripping a skateboard:
- Prep work / Gather supplies
- Line up the griptape
- Push out the air bubbles
- Score the edges
- Cut the excess griptape off
Obviously the above 5 steps are super simplified, so here is some added to context to help you better understand, and how to do each step properly and efficiently.
Prep work / Gather Supplies
- Prep work for gripping a skateboard is pretty simple. Remove the plastic, and remove the "skateboarding is dangerous" sticker (Heads Up: If you don't remove the sticker you will be cursed forever and ever and ever...Trust us. We haven't heard back from Larry in a while....)
- Another thing you could do is sand the top of the deck lightly to help the grip stick better.
- Supplies for gripping a skateboard can be pretty simple as well. You need the Grip (double check width and length), something to cut the grip, and something to score the grip.
- For cutting the grip, we would recommend a razor blade. But realistically, you could use a pocket knife, utility knife, or anything with a blade.
- For scoring the grip, we tend to use a file, but you could use a screw driver, your trucks, or even a skate tool if you have one handy. (Some skate tools even have a file built into it)
Line Up the Griptape
- Our suggestion would be take your time with this and even try mocking up the griptape before you remove the backing paper. This will give you a really good idea of how much griptape will overhang on both ends and side to side.
- Once the backing paper has been removed, lay the griptape down lightly and before you move to the next step, just double check all the edges to make sure you will have even over hang. If you don't simply pull the griptape back off and try again.
Push Out the Air Bubbles
- Pushing out the air bubbles is important and something you don't want to rush through. If you do, you might end up with wrinkles.
- Best practices for pushing out air bubbles: A Griptape roller, or the wheel from your truck. If you do not have a griptape roller handy, you can use your hands or fingers and slowing push the air bubbles down. You could also use the backing paper from the griptape, lay it on top of the deck and slide your hand across to push the air pockets out that way.
- Start from the middle of the deck and work your way out.
- Pesky air bubbles that cannot get rolled or pushed out can be "popped" with your razor blade.
Score the Edges
- Scoring the edges will allow you to cut through the grip easier and works as an outline to follow. Score the grip as much or as little as you please, just know the more you score, the easier and cleaner it will turn out.
- Holding your file at a slight angle will keep you from scratching your grip in places you don't want to.
Cut Off the Excess Griptape
- Take your blade and push it up through the bottom of the grip. As you cut, try to hold your wrist tight and work in long continuous motions.
- Having a new razor blade will make this much easier! If you are using an old, dull blade, you will have a little more difficulty cutting the griptape.
Al Fin
Thats a wrap! Now all you need to do is get your trucks on, and get out and ride your new deck. If you have any questions about anything above reach out, we would be more than happy to help or clarify! |