When it comes to mastering skateboarding tricks, think of rails as the Excalibur of your training arsenal. They're the secret weapon that'll transform your skills from ordinary to extraordinary. If you're aiming to elevate your tricks, you need the right rails to practice on. Whether it's adjustable heights or unique shapes, each option offers something special. Curious about which ones will give you the edge? Let's explore the top five rails.
key Takeaways
- MR Skate Rail offers adjustable heights and high-tensile steel, enhancing trick difficulty and durability for skateboarders.
- Black Diamond's ABS plastic rails improve slide acceleration and protect graphics, ideal for decks with a 14.5-inch wheelbase or longer.
- Madd Gear's non-slip, adjustable height rail provides stability and versatility on flat surfaces for tailored skateboarding practice.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards Rails feature a unique beveled 3D contour for enhanced performance, though frequent replacements may be needed.
- Powell Peralta Rib Bones Rails, with their lightweight design and easy installation, improve slide performance while protecting skateboard graphics.
MR Skate Rail Adjustable Height Skateboard Grind Rail
If you're an enthusiast looking for a versatile grinding experience, the MR Skate Rail Adjustable Height Skateboard Grind Rail is your best bet. This rail caters to skateboards, snowboards, scooters, BMX bikes, inline skating, and snowboarding. With adjustable heights of 7.5", 8.5", and 10", you won't need any tools to set up. Its ellipse shape guarantees strength and a smooth slide, while the wider contact surface adds stability. Crafted from high-tensile steel with thick baking paint, this rail resists bending or cracking. Easy to transport and assemble, it fits in most car trunks, perfect for practicing tricks anywhere.
Best For: Enthusiasts looking for a versatile and adjustable grind rail suitable for various sports, including skateboarding, snowboarding, and BMX biking.
Pros:
- Adjustable height without needing tools, offering versatility for different skill levels.
- Made of high-tensile steel with anti-skid rubber pads for enhanced durability and stability.
- Portable and easy to assemble, fitting conveniently in most car trunks for transport.
Cons:
- Some users noted slight flex during use, requiring additional support.
- Ranked #116,730 in Sports & Outdoors, indicating it's not the most popular choice.
- Current demand has led to back orders, potentially causing delays in availability.
Skateboard Rails Old School Plastic with Mounting Screws by Black Diamond
The Skateboard Rails Old School Plastic with Mounting Screws by Black Diamond are the ideal choice for skateboard enthusiasts looking to enhance performance while protecting deck graphics. Made from durable ABS plastic, these 14.5-inch rails fit any deck, especially those with a wheelbase of 14.5 inches or longer. They include two rails and eight screws for easy installation. Users love the slide acceleration and graphic protection, giving them a 4.2-star rating. While some mention short screws, pre-drilling holes and using longer screws solve this. Overall, these rails are perfect for boosting your tricks while maintaining your board's aesthetic appeal.
Best For: Skateboard enthusiasts looking to enhance slide performance and protect deck graphics, especially those with a wheelbase of 14.5 inches or longer.
Pros:
- Durable ABS plastic construction ensures longevity.
- Enhances slide performance and protects skateboard graphics.
- Easy installation with included screws.
Cons:
- Included screws may be too short for some users.
- Requires pre-drilling holes for optimal installation.
- Over-tightening screws can strip the wood.
Madd Gear 55 Long Flat Bar Skate Rail – Adjustable Height
Perfect for skateboarders, rollerbladers, and scooter enthusiasts looking to enhance their skills, the Madd Gear 55 Long Flat Bar Skate Rail stands out with its non-slip adjustable height legs. You'll love how easy it is to assemble and transport, making your practice sessions diverse and dynamic. Its lightweight design means you can quickly set it up in your driveway or any flat surface. Constructed from heavy-duty materials, it promises durability with wide supports and grippy rubber feet for stability. The 3-step adjustable height system lets you tailor your training, and it's compatible with the Madd Gear Grind Rail Extension Kit.
Best For: Skateboarders, rollerbladers, and scooter enthusiasts looking for a portable and adjustable practice rail to enhance their skills.
Pros:
- Easy assembly and transport for versatile practice locations.
- Durable construction with heavy-duty materials and reinforced tubing.
- Adjustable height system for personalized skill progression.
Cons:
- Some users experienced minor flimsiness during specific tricks.
- May not be suitable for very advanced tricks requiring extreme stability.
- Requires a flat surface for optimal use.
Santa Cruz Skateboards Rails Slimeline HSR Beveled Contour Shape
Skateboarding enthusiasts looking for a high-speed edge will appreciate the Santa Cruz Skateboards Rails Slimeline HSR. These rails boast a unique beveled 3D contour shape and are made from durable high-density material, enhancing your performance on the board. As America's first high-speed rail, it's designed for easy installation and comes in sleek black. With a high customer rating of 4.6 stars, users love the rails' lightweight design but advise on proper installation techniques for best results. However, some note the plastic wears quickly, suggesting improvements in material quality and more color options for enhanced durability and customization.
Best For: Skateboarders seeking a high-speed performance boost with easy installation, who appreciate innovative design but don't mind frequent replacements due to wear.
Pros:
- Unique beveled 3D contour shape for enhanced performance.
- Lightweight and easy to install.
- High customer satisfaction with a 4.6-star rating.
Cons:
- Plastic material wears down quickly with regular use.
- Limited color options for customization.
- Frequent replacements needed due to material quality concerns.
Powell Peralta Rib Bones Rails
Looking to enhance your skateboarding experience? Consider Powell Peralta Rib Bones Rails. With their original shape and sleek black design, these 14.5-inch rails are perfect for unisex skaters of all ages. They're easy to install with predrilled holes and included screws. Users rave about the improved performance in slides and longevity, thanks to the rails' ability to protect graphics and add structure. Weighing just 0.15 pounds, they won't weigh you down. Though some suggest smaller screws for certain decks, the overall feedback is positive. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, these rails are a top choice for smooth tricks.
Best For: Unisex skaters of all ages looking to enhance their skateboarding performance with durable and easy-to-install rails.
Pros:
- Easy installation with predrilled holes and included screws.
- Improves board performance, slides, and longevity.
- Lightweight design at just 0.15 pounds.
Cons:
- Some users suggest the need for smaller screws for certain deck types.
- Does not include alignment tape in the package.
- Limited color options, only available in black.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Rails for Skateboards.
When you're picking rails for your skateboard, focus on material and construction quality to guarantee they last. Consider how easy they are to install and the tools required, so you're not caught off guard. Also, check their compatibility with your deck size and think about portability and storage options for convenience.
Material and Construction Quality
Selecting the right material and construction quality for skateboard rails is essential for enhancing your riding experience. You want rails made from high-tensile steel or heavy-duty plastics to guarantee durability and resistance to wear. These materials stand up to rough conditions, keeping your rails in top shape. Look for reinforced interlocking tubing and heavy-duty connectors that offer stability and prevent bending or cracking. High-density materials in advanced designs can enhance sliding performance while protecting your skateboard graphics. Construction quality matters too—rails with non-slip rubber feet and a wider contact surface boost stability during tricks. Don't overlook the screws; longer, high-quality ones secure your rails effectively, preventing problems like stripping the wood. Choose wisely to maximize your skateboarding sessions.
Installation Ease and Tools
How can you guarantee a smooth installation process when adding rails to your skateboard? Start by selecting rails with pre-drilled holes and included mounting screws, which make setup straightforward. Consider whether you'll need additional tools like a drill or duct tape for proper alignment and guide hole creation. Many users recommend pre-drilling to prevent screws from stripping the wood, ensuring better performance and stability. Pay attention to the quality of the hardware, as screw length and strength are critical for keeping the rails secure. Look for rails with features like adjustable heights or quick assembly designs to enhance convenience, especially if you frequently practice in different locations. These considerations will help you install rails efficiently, elevating your skateboarding tricks.
Compatibility With Deck Sizes
Making certain your skateboard rails are compatible with your deck size is essential for peak performance. If your deck has a wheelbase of 14.5 inches or longer, selecting the right rails becomes even more vital. The rails should fit various deck sizes, allowing you to master different tricks without compromising stability. A proper fit not only prevents damage to your skateboard's graphics but also enhances your slides and tricks.
Pay attention to the mounting hardware, as some setups might need longer screws or pre-drilled holes for stability. Opt for rails that are adjustable in length, offering flexibility to match different deck sizes and personal preferences. This adaptability guarantees a more tailored skating experience, letting you focus on elevating your tricks.
Portability and Storage Options
When your skateboard setup already matches your deck size perfectly, it's also important to think about how easy it is to carry and store your rails. Look for rails that can be disassembled or split into smaller pieces, making them simple to transport and fit into most car trunks. Lightweight designs are key for easy mobility and setup, whether you're practicing in your driveway or heading to the skate park. Quick assembly mechanisms save you time and effort, so you can focus on perfecting your tricks. Rails with folding legs or adjustable heights enhance portability without sacrificing stability. Finally, make sure the rail's dimensions fit both your storage space and practice needs, ensuring it's long enough for effective use.
Durability and Wear Resistance
Selecting the right rails for your skateboard involves considering durability and wear resistance. High-density plastics or reinforced metals are your best bet, as they handle impact and wear from tricks better. Look for rails featuring anti-skid pads or thicker coatings to prevent sliding and reduce surface damage. Users often praise solid constructions with interlocking tubing, which resist bending and cracking, promising longer life. Keep in mind that regular maintenance, like applying wax and avoiding frequent reinstallation, can greatly extend your rail's lifespan. While lightweight rails might seem appealing, they can flex or wear down faster, unlike heavier, sturdier options. Balancing weight and design is essential to ensuring your rails stay in top shape, enhancing your skateboarding experience.
Adjustable Features and Height
Although skateboard rails come in various shapes and sizes, adjustable features and height options are key factors to evaluate for a personalized skateboarding experience. With adjustable height settings like 7.5", 8.5", and 10", you can tailor the rail to your skill level. Multi-step systems offer flexibility, letting you tackle different trick difficulties as you progress. The convenience of tool-free adjustments means you can easily switch between practice spots, whether in your driveway or at the skatepark. A wider contact surface at various heights boosts stability, giving you the confidence to nail those tricks. Some rails even support extensions, allowing you to further customize height and length for advanced training. Choose wisely to enhance your skateboarding journey!
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!