Skaters need grip tape on their skateboard decks for more than looks. It’s crucial for safety and improving performance. It lets you do tricks with more accuracy. Without it, keeping your skateboarding grip is tough.
The surface of skateboard grip tape is similar to sandpaper. This texture keeps your feet from slipping off. It’s especially important for doing complicated moves.
Grip tape is key for beginners learning new tricks. Applying it takes a few steps and tools, like a skate tool or razor. Once on, it must be trimmed and smoothed to remove air bubbles. This careful process helps you stay on your board and keeps it in good shape longer.
Before buying grip tape, know there are many types. Some are clear for custom designs, others are colorful. Shops like Warehouse Skateboards have lots of options. Make sure to get the right size for your board, usually 9″ x 33″ for shortboards. This ensures your whole deck is covered. Remember, grip tape is essential for all skaters, new or experienced.
What is Grip Tape?
Grip tape is crucial for any skateboarder. It’s a sandpaper-like material that sticks to the top of a skateboard. It creates needed friction between the skater’s shoes and the board.
Materials Used
Skateboard grip tape comes in silicon carbide or aluminum oxide. Each type offers benefits in performance, durability, and cost. The surface has grains that help skaters grip their board.
Silicon Carbide vs Aluminum Oxide
Silicon carbide offers great durability and grip. It’s preferred by many pro skaters. Aluminum oxide is more affordable but not as durable. Yet, it still gives enough grip for most skating. The best choice depends on what the skater needs and their budget.
Importance of Skateboard Griptape
The skateboard grip tape is key for doing tricks and riding well. It gives skaters control, which is crucial for success. Grip tape comes in various colors and designs. This lets skaters customize their boards. A typical grip tape size is 9″ x 33″. It fits most skateboards. But, larger sheets are available for bigger boards. Choosing the right grip tape is important for improving skateboarding skills.
Grip Tape Wear & Tear
Grip tape faces wear and tear from constant friction with skater’s shoes. This smoothens the grain over time, reducing grip and trick precision. Proper upkeep and timely replacement keep the skateboard’s grip at its best.
Signs of Worn-Out Grip Tape
It’s crucial to know when your grip tape is worn out to keep your board in top shape. Look for fading color, a smoother surface, and less grip. These signs mean it’s time for new grip tape.
- Fading color
- Smoothing of the surface
- Reduced skateboard traction
Seeing these signs? Think about getting new grip tape to keep your skate deck’s traction strong and your rides safe.
How to Remove Old Grip Tape
Removing old grip tape can be a bit tricky, but the right approach helps. Here’s how:
- Heat the grip tape with a hair dryer to loosen the adhesive.
- Peel it starting from one edge, using a sharp object if needed.
- Pull off the tape slowly, apply heat as required for hard parts.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Maintaining your grip tape well can help it last longer and keep your skateboard’s grip strong. To keep your grip tape in good shape, use these tips:
- Use specialized grip tape cleaners for dirt and debris.
- A household brush works well for surface grime.
- Check your grip tape often for wear and replace it when necessary.
Looking after your grip tape well means better traction and performances on your skateboard.
| Feature | Specification | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 11 inches x 33 inches | Covers most skateboard decks thoroughly |
| Product Weight | 4.0000 ounces | Lightweight for simpler application and use |
| Price | $9.95 | Good value for regular care |
| Features | Hundreds of perforations, silicon-carbide grit binding, waterproof backing, sticky adhesive | Ensures better grip, durability, and ease of use |
How to Apply Grip Tape to Your Skateboard Deck
Applying grip tape to your skateboard is key for better control and safety. This task may seem simple. Yet, paying close attention can boost your performance and stop pesky air bubbles.
First, make sure your skateboard deck is clean and dry. Start by peeling off a bit of the grip tape’s backing. Align it with the deck, leaving about 1 cm of extra material on each side. Gently press down the tape from one end to the other to avoid air bubbles.
If you see any air bubbles, you can puncture them with a box cutter. Or, just push them towards the edges. Follow these easy steps:
- Make sure the deck is clean and dry.
- Align the grip tape and peel off a part of the backing.
- Gently press the grip tape down from one side to the other.
- Use a box cutter to get rid of any air bubbles.
- Mark the tape’s edges with a skate tool.
- Trim off the extra tape at a 45° angle with a box cutter.
- Sand the edges to stop the tape from peeling.
Making a clean cut is crucial for a tidy look. Cut the extra tape at a 45° angle. Then, sand the edges to keep them from peeling. When you’re putting the trucks back on, make holes through the tape. Trim any leftover tape around these holes.
Surveys show about 85% of skateboarders use grip tape. Experts, especially, believe in doing it themselves to up their game. Nearly 95% of pros use it for better performance.
Here’s a look at some of the top grip tapes available:
| Brand/Model | Size | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pepper Grip Tape Co Black Griptape | 9″ x 33.5″ | $8.95 |
| Pepper Grip Tape Co Centered Logo Griptape | 9″ x 33.5″ | $8.95 |
| Opera Skateboards Mask Die-Cut Black Griptape | 10″ x 33″ | $16.99 |
| Jessup Grip Tape Ultra White Griptape | 9″ x 33″ | $6.99 |
Rightly applying grip tape can majorly boost your control and safety on the board. With some practice, you’ll get better. This lets you personalize your board and enhance your skating.
Grip Tape on Skateboard: Types and Variations
Skate grip tape is more than a must-have. It lets skaters express themselves. There are many choices out there. You can pick skate grip that boosts your performance and shows off your style. You can choose clear grip tape to show your deck’s design. Or pick tapes with bright colors and cool designs. The options are wide.
Jessup, MOB, and Grizzly are top brands in high-quality grip tapes. Jessup is known for affordable and easy-to-apply options. They offer great grip. MOB Grip is a favorite among pro skaters. It’s known for its lasting use and top-tier grip. Grizzly Grip Tape is all about looks and performance. It has bold designs that make any skateboard stand out.
Grit ratings for grip tape range from 24 to 80. Gator Super Coarse XC and Diablo Extra Course are perfect for downhill skating. They provide great coarseness and grip. Longboarding works best with this level of grit. It offers stability and control. For a mix of grip and smooth moves, skaters often go for 50-65 grit tapes. Jessup and MOB make 80 grit tapes for everyday skateboarding in parks and ramps.
Transparent grip tapes are becoming popular. They let you show off your deck’s art without losing grip. Custom designs on grip tape are also a trend. They make your skateboard unique and show your creative side. This adds to skateboarding’s culture of creativity.
Here’s a quick look at some popular grip tape brands and their uses:
| Brand | Best Use | Grit Level |
|---|---|---|
| Mob Grip | Professional Skateboarding | 80 |
| Jessup | Street, Park, Vert | 80 |
| Grizzly | Stylish Designs | 80 |
| Gator Super Coarse XC | Downhill, Freeride | 24 |
| Loaded Course | Longboarding | 50 |
| Diablo Extra Course | Fast Freeride, Downhill | 24 |
Think about looks and function when choosing grip tape. Want more info on skateboards? Here’s a great guide on how much a skateboard should cost.
Grip tape mixes usefulness and personal style in skateboarding. It’s key to every skater’s equipment.
Creative Ways to Customize Your Grip Tape
Skateboarders who love being creative look for special ways to make their boards unique. They want their boards to show off who they are. Adding personal touches to your grip tape can make your skateboard more than just a board. It becomes a piece of art. You can use designs like shapes, flowers, stars, mandalas, or comic scenes.
If you want to make your skateboard grip tape your own, start with DIY methods. Use things like spray paint, stencils, markers, colorful tape, and stickers. You’ll need a few things: a skateboard, custom grip tape, a razor blade, and a hairdryer. Make sure the board’s surface is clean for the best stick. To dive deeper, you can find more creative ideas for your skateboard grip tape.
Start by putting your design on the grip tape backwards, using parchment paper and a highlighter. You might paint your design with black acrylic paint, then add a glossy lacquer finish. Placing the grip tape in halves helps prevent bubbles. Score the edges with a screwdriver for a neater look.
For a sharp look, cut the grip tape edges with a razor. Then, sand the edges with scrap tape for a stronger stick. To keep your design looking great, clean it with a gentle soap and water mix.
Also, remember to put together the truck and wheel sets you got from Amazon. These kits include everything you need: bearings, washers, trucks, and wheels. Use a skateboard tool for this. If you need help, local skateboard shops can assist with assembly.
Discover why grip tape is important for your skateboard to work well.
Common Problems When Applying Grip Tape and How to Fix Them
Putting grip tape on your skateboard seems easy. Yet, you might face challenges that affect your ride and safety. Air bubbles are a big issue. They make the surface uneven, ruining your grip and trick performance. To fix bubbles, poke them with a pin to let air out. Then, press down to smooth out the tape.
Not aligning the tape right is another problem. It can leave parts of the board exposed or not properly covered. First, align the tape with the board’s nose. Peel a bit of the tape and stick it on. Slowly remove the rest of the backing. Use your hands to smooth the tape and avoid bubbles. Using a roller will help you get an even layer.
Using tools like a sharp blade is key for a clean trim around the edges. After the tape is on, outline the edges with a screwdriver. This makes a guide for cutting. Trim the extra tape carefully, following your guide. This will prevent rough edges. Fixing these grip tape problems will make your skateboarding better. It ensures your board works well and keeps you safe.
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!