Skateboard Wax and the Benefits and Best Practices for Skaters
Ever experienced landing a trick that took a while to perfect, but after applying skateboard wax, it made all the difference? That trick took me hours to land—a nollie frontside nosegrind 180 out. Skateboard wax can significantly enhance your skateboarding experience, helping you nail tricks and enjoy smoother rides. Let’s dive into how skateboard wax can benefit you, the types available, and how to use it correctly.
How Skateboarding Wax Can Improve Your Ride
- Easier Tricks: Skateboard wax reduces friction between your skateboard and obstacles, making tricks smoother and more manageable. Perfect for those long backside noseslides!
- Preventing Sticks and Injuries: By applying wax, you lessen the chance of your skateboard getting stuck on an obstacle, which helps prevent potential injuries. That’s why I always carry skateboard wax with me throughout my skateboarding sessions.
- Prolonging Obstacle Life: Regular application of wax can also protect and extend the life of your favorite skate spots.
- Restoring Obstacles: Wax is perfect for those obstacles that have been soaked in rain or have rust stains, making them skateable again. Say goodbye to stuck nosegrinds!
- Reducing Wheelbite: Wax can lessen the chances of wheelbite, where the wheels rub against the deck, ensuring a smoother ride. This is another handy skateboard hack made possible by wax.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Wax
- Brand Choices: Most skateboard waxes are quite similar across brands. The choice usually comes down to personal preference in terms of brands.
- Versatile Sizes and Styles: Skateboard wax comes in various sizes and styles, allowing you to choose one that fits your preference and needs. Popular choices include Toy Machine’s VHS wax with its cool retro design and Diamond’s Hella Slick Wax known for its iconic shape.
- Alternative Options: If you can’t find skateboard wax, candle wax can be a handy and inexpensive alternative. However, candle wax may not last as long as skateboard-specific wax.
How to Use Skateboard Wax
- Find the Right Spot – Figure out where you need to apply the wax. For ledges, focus on the edges and the parts where you slide the most. For rails, wax the top to make it more slidable.
- Apply Just Enough – Put on a good amount of wax but don’t overdo it. Too much wax can make the surface too slippery.
- Test It Out – Before going all in on a trick, gently slide your board over the waxed area to see how it feels. This helps you gauge if you need more wax or if it’s just right.
- Reapply as Needed – Wax wears off after a while, so reapply it when needed to keep things smooth.
- Wax Etiquette – Remember, there’s an unspoken rule to wax responsibly and consider other skaters. Overwaxing can make obstacles dangerously slick. Always check if someone’s using the obstacle before applying wax.
Using skateboard wax can truly enhance your skateboarding experience. It makes tricks easier, keeps obstacles in good shape, and ensures smoother rides. Not only does wax help you perform better, but it also contributes to the longevity of the spots you love to skate. Whether you’re just starting out looking to improve your basic tricks or a skateboarder aiming for technical tricks, skateboard wax is an essential tool in your arsenal. So, next time you head out to your favorite skate spot, don’t forget to bring along some wax and spread the love with your fellow skaters. Happy Skateboarding!
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