If you’re skateboarding, you know you need a deck. However, you aren’t going to get the best out of your day if you bring nothing else along with you. Having access to the essentials needed for a skating session can make enjoying your favorite hobby even more exciting and fun.
So, grab your board, but consider bringing along these other essentials that most skaters recommend. We think you will be glad you did.
Skateboard Bag Essentials - Our Top Picks
Skate Bag
Anyone who is into skating needs some kind of bag. Skaters can choose a backpack in whatever style and shape they want to tote around essential items. We do have a couple of recommendations for what to look for when choosing a bag, however.
The first must-have bag feature is a set of pockets. This is the best place to stow items like laces for shoes, hardware, wax, and much more.
You might also want to place a plastic bag in your skater’s bag. This is another way to hold onto small items you don’t want to lose. It can also act as a small garbage bag when you aren’t near a bin.
Skate Shoes
A good skate shoe can’t be ignored while engaging in a street skateboarding session. So while you might not be tossing a shoe into your bag, you should make sure to keep a pair or two of laces. You never know when cruising along will result in broken laces that you need to swap out on the fly.
Skate Tool
A skate tool is an important thing to have with you when you’re skateboarding. Make sure that the skate tool has both a Phillips head screwdriver and an Allen wrench to handle working with a truck or grip tape.
A skate tool is helpful because it helps replace hardware, tweak a truck, or even work with your deck when needed.
Extra Bearings
Bearings can break during a skateboard session. Therefore, this is one piece of hardware that you should keep with you at all times. When a bearing beaks on you, there’s no need to move to a shop if you have another one ready in your pack.
Even an old bearing tucked away somewhere will help you make it through the skating session. It’s also an excellent idea to keep a few washers or speed rings around in case you happen to lose them when swapping out parts.
A Set of Wheels
You might also want to be one of the skaters who carries a wheelset with them from place to place. The great thing about adding a wheel or two to your pockets is that you can easily switch yours out. Otherwise, you have to stick with whichever wheel is already attached to your skateboard.
It’s also worth being aware that some people prefer harder wheels, while others want to use softer wheels. There are differences and your choice should be based on what sort of skating you like to do. Adding extras to your pack will make sure you are ready for anything.
Axle Nuts
As a skater, even if you have a new deck, you should make sure you have hardware in case it’s needed. For instance, while you skate on your board, it’s not uncommon to destroy an axle nut. Thankfully, these are inexpensive and useful if you need to replace a bearing.
Wax
Skaters who do a trick or two know that trying to glide over dry surfaces is difficult. Having wax is helpful when skating on ledges or flat bars that might be a little sticky. The wax will make the surface more buttery and easier to work on.
To prepare the surface, use a utility knife to cut up the substance and then apply it to the surface before all your favorite trick skating.
Music
Not every item you take out in the street with you to skateboard is used to shred. For instance, many people enjoy having a form of entertainment going while they sit low and relax on their deck.
This is precisely where music comes in. You can fill up your phone with music, use a streaming service, or even go old school with an MP3 player or CD device. It’s a great way to enjoy tunes while participating in a sport you enjoy.
Camera
Do you like to ride your skateboard in the skatepark? If you enjoy pulling off tricks during a session, you might want to carry a camera with you. Not only can you set up filming of your own fun, but you can also catch some video of another skater who is on a sweet ride doing ollies, kickflips, and more.
This is not to mention how useful it can be to get great photos and videos as you move around the town.
Safety Equipment
Nobody wants to deal with scratches, scrapes, and broken bones, which is why safety gear exists. Everyone should be using a skateboard helmet since it can prevent serious head injuries.
In addition to a helmet, consider other safety gear. Some of the best gear options include knee and elbow pads, as well as wrist guards.
Skating Clothes
One of the things that many skateboarders are known for is a fantastic sense of style. What you wear can be almost as important as the graphic plastered on your deck. When you ride downhill or roll into the park on your skateboards, you want to be sure you look good.
The great thing about this sport is that you can wear whatever you want and still get speed and manage incredible stunts. However, most people stick with traditional clothes that cover the skin to prevent injuries. A hoodie or a long-sleeved t-shirt and a pair of jeans are a common choice.
However, don’t be afraid to be bold and show off your personality.
The Extras
Whether you’re riding a longboard down the street or trying to shred ramps at the skate parks, there are items you should have with you. The items above are great for most skates, but you could also consider a few additional items:
- A reusable water bottle to keep hydrated
- Extra skate parts beyond the ones listed above
- A pair of headphones to listen to tunes
- A power bank so you can watch the power on your devices
- Several snacks so you don’t need to spend money on meals
- A small first aid kit, set of bandages, and other needed medication
Conclusion
At this point, you should have a skate bag filled with great items that you can carry with you anywhere you go. Add a board to your hand and you are ready to head out to the course to pull off a few awesome tricks. You’ll have everything you need whether you stay at the park or end up going somewhere else when you’re done.
As a skater, a complete skateboard is a must-have, but so are all the little extras that make the act of skating fun and easy. So check this list to pack up everything you could need and head out there and have some fun!