How long do skateboard decks last? (Quick Ans!)

If you’re an avid skateboarder looking for a reliable ride that will last, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is picking out the right skateboard deck.

Skateboards come in all shapes and sizes and selecting the right one can determine if your skating experience lasts longer or ends prematurely. But how long do skateboard decks actually last?

To answer this question, let’s look at factors like construction materials, wear-and-tear, weather conditions and usage habits (like whether or not you carry your board around versus riding it). Read on for some useful tips to get the longest life possible out of your trusty board.

How long do skateboard decks last?

Skateboard decks can range from 2 weeks to 6 months in terms of longevity, which is mostly contingent upon the frequency and style that you skate.

The moment your deck begins to lose its ‘pop’ – or how high it goes when impactful forces are applied – then switching out for a new board should become a top priority.

Competitive skaters on shorter boards have been known to cycle through them within 2 weeks, while more laid-back riders may find they last up to 2 years.

Signs that my skateboard deck needs to be replaced:

As you use your skateboard, the deck will inevitably wear out and become weaker. How do you know when it’s time to replace your skateboard deck?

Look the signs that your skateboard deck needs to be replaced.

Cracks and Chips

One of the most obvious signs that your skateboard deck needs to be replaced is the presence of cracks or chips on the surface.

Over time, the constant impact and pressure of skateboarding can cause the deck to develop small cracks or chips that weaken its structure.

If you notice that your deck has visible cracks or chips, it’s time to get a new one. Even small cracks can expand and eventually cause your deck to break in half while you’re skating, which can be dangerous.

Delamination

Another sign that your skateboard deck needs to be replaced is delamination. Delamination occurs when the layers of your skateboard deck start to separate.

You can usually tell your skateboard is delaminating by looking at the edges of the deck. If the layers are starting to come apart, it’s time to get a new deck.

Delamination affects the strength and durability of your deck, making it unsafe to skate on.

Bent or Warped

If you’ve noticed that your skateboard isn’t as smooth to ride as it used to be, it may have a slight bend or warp.

When a deck is bent or warped, it affects your balance, making it difficult to perform tricks and maneuvers.

You may also experience wheel bite, which is when your wheels touch the deck when turning. If you notice that your deck is bent or warped, it’s time to get a new one.

Razor Tail

A razor tail is when the back of your skateboard deck starts to curl up and become sharp.

This is a sign that your deck has been worn down too much and needs to be replaced. A razor tail can make it difficult to land tricks and can also cause you to slip while riding.

A new deck will provide a smooth, flat surface to land on and give you the confidence to tackle bigger and more challenging tricks.

Wear and Tear

Lastly, general wear and tear are signs that your skateboard deck needs to be replaced.

Skateboarding takes a toll on your deck, and there will come a time when it has surpassed its lifespan.

If you see that your board has lost its pop or has become too soft, it’s time to replace it. A board with a lack of pop makes it difficult to perform tricks, and one that’s too soft can make landings harsher than they need to be.

Conclusion

As skaters, having the right skateboard deck is essential for any trick we want to learn. Once we know what kind of skating style fits us best and how long do skateboard decks last, we can choose a board that can last us for years and help us improve our skills on the daily.

With proper maintenance, your skateboard deck should last thousands of miles and even decades, if you take the time to care for it properly.

Extreme temperature changes and rain can wreak havoc on a skateboard if not taken care of, so make sure you store it in a cool dry place when not in use.

Investing in quality hardware components like loosening or tightening wheel screws every few weeks can also greatly extend the life-span of your board’s deck, making sure you’re always rolling with a set up that is prepped and ready to go.

FAQs

How often should I change my skateboard deck?

This depends on the frequency and style of your skating, as well as external factors such as weather conditions and usage habits. Generally speaking, competitive skaters cycle through decks every 2 weeks, whereas more laid-back riders may find they last up to 2 years.

Can I prolong the life of my skateboard deck?

Yes, you can. Taking care of your skateboard deck by cleaning it regularly and storing it properly can help prolong its life. Using a grip tape with good quality adhesive can also help keep your deck in better shape for longer.