Do unused skateboards go bad? (Overview Guide)

If you’re an avid skateboarder, chances are you’ve gone through many boards over the years and now have several that aren’t being used.

But is letting these unused skateboards just sit around a good idea? Many skaters wonder: do unused skateboards go bad after a while? After all, having a functional board underneath your feet can make or break your skating experience.

In this article, we’ll be diving into why it’s important to keep up with the maintenance of your unused boards, what happens if they’re left unchecked and how to extend their life as well as yours on the course.

Do skateboards go bad if they’re not used?

For the most part, skateboards will not go bad or become unusable if they are not ridden.

However, if the board and its components are exposed to water, extreme temperatures, dirt, and dust for prolonged periods of time and infrequent use, degradation of the material making up the skateboard may occur over time; such as chipping away of paint or warping of the deck.

In addition, staples like bearings and wheels may need regular maintenance in order to ensure that they remain functional after long-term non-usage.

Eventually, keeping a skateboard stored properly preferably indoors in a cool place away from moisture and direct sunlight helps conserve a board’s quality over an extended period of disuse.

Can you still use an old skateboard?

Yes, you can still use an old skateboard. While more modern models may be equipped with better parts and features, an older board can still be a great way to get around or just have fun.

One of the advantages of using an older board is that they are usually cheaper than their new counterparts. They often come with wider boards and softer wheels, making them easier to maneuver and perform tricks.

Furthermore, some people believe that the quality of the wood used in the construction of earlier skateboards was superior to that of today’s boards. For example, older skateboards often had thicker decks which provided increased durability and stability when landing on jumps or performing ollies.

Of course, it’s important to also consider that older boards might require some upkeep in order to keep them in good shape such as replacing damaged trucks or wheels. Nevertheless, regardless of whether you’re looking for a cheap option for cruising around town or if you’re just getting started learning how to skateboard, an old board can be a great choice!

What happens to unused skateboards?

Unused skateboards often have a second life as art, rather than junk. Creative upcycling projects make use of skateboard decks to create anything from wall hangings and furniture to guitars and purses.

Some companies also use old skateboard parts to build new boards with recycled wood, keeping this beloved sport alive while being more conscious of the environment. There are several things that you can do with an old skateboard if it no longer serves as your ride.

Upcycle Your Old Skateboard: Rather than just throwing away your board, why not upcycle it into something new? You can easily turn a single board into a bench, table, or even a hanging shelf! With some basic tools and supplies, you can give your old board a second life. 

Sell Your Old Board: If your old board is still in good condition and doesn’t have any major damage, you could always try selling it online or at local skate shops. This is an easy way to make some money back off of an unused item.

Donate Your Board To A Skatepark: Most skateparks are in need of donations—and unused skateboards are always welcome! It’s nice to give back to the community by donating your equipment instead of throwing it away. 

Give Your Old Board Away To A Friend Or Family Member Who Is Interested In Skateboarding: Is someone you know interested in trying out skateboarding but needs a board? Why not give them yours? This is a great way to introduce someone new to the sport without having to buy them something expensive.

Recycle Your Unused Board Into Raw Materials: Many skateboard companies will accept used boards for recycling into raw materials for their products which means that you can help reduce waste while also supporting the industry.

Conclusion

Although some may say that a skateboard is not “alive” enough to technically go bad, it is still important to recognize the potential risks of riding one after it’s been sitting around for an extended period of time.

Unused skateboards may become warped or warped in shape due to changes in temperatures and humidity, as well as general wear and tear. This can make the board more difficult or even impossible to ride safely.

Such boards are prone to breakage during use which could cause potentially serious injury if they unexpectedly crack while someone is riding on them. Additionally, neglected bearings may become clogged with dirt and debris, leading to an uncomfortable and unsafe ride.

To avoid these kinds of problems and maximize the lifespan of your board, it’s important to inspect it regularly for any issues before each ride and store it properly when not in use.

FAQs

Do skateboards go bad?

Yes, skateboards do go bad over time. The bearings will wear out, the wood will start to crack and split, and the grip tape will start to peel. If you ride your skateboard a lot, it’s important to replace the bearings, wood, and grip tape on a regular basis in order to keep it in good condition.

How old should a skateboard be?

It depends on what you’re using it for. If you’re just cruising around town, a board that’s 10-12 years old should be fine. But if you’re doing tricks, you’ll need a board that’s in better condition with more pop. A skateboard is considered “dead” when the concave (the curve of the deck) has worn down so much that it can no longer hold an edge. The best way to tell if a board is still good for tricks is to do a “kickflip.” If the board flips easily and without catching on the ground, then it’s still good for tricks. Otherwise, it’s time to upgrade to a new one.

How often do you need a new skateboard?

It depends on how often you skate. If you only go out a few times a month, your skateboard should be fine for at least a year or two. But if you’re skating every day, you’ll probably need to replace your skateboard every 6 months or so.