Why a Skateboard Shop is More Than Just a Retail Space
G’day, mate! If you’ve ever watched a kid zip down a suburban street on a deck, you know there’s a vibe that’s hard to beat. A skateboard shop isn’t just a place to buy a board; it’s a community hub, a learning centre, and a bit of Aussie culture rolled into one. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a complete beginner, stepping into a local skate shop can feel like walking into a second living room – the smell of fresh grip tape, the chatter of locals, and the clink of wheels on metal. In this guide we’ll dive deep into what makes a skate shop tick, how to pick the perfect board, and why supporting your neighbourhood spot is a win‑win for everyone.
What to Expect When You Walk Into a Skateboard Shop
First up, the layout. Most Aussie skate shops are split into three main zones: the deck display, the accessories aisle, and the service corner. The deck wall is usually a colourful collage of graphics ranging from classic 90s art to modern street‑style designs. Over at the accessories aisle you’ll find trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and a smorgasbord of safety gear – helmets, pads, and even the occasional novelty sticker. Finally, the service corner is where the magic happens: staff will often have a workbench for assembling boards, tuning trucks, or fixing a busted wheel. Don’t be shy – the crew love to share tips, and many will even demo new gear on a small indoor ramp if they’ve got one.
Choosing the Right Deck: Size, Shape, and Style
Picking a deck is a bit like choosing a surfboard – you need the right length, width, and flex for your style. Here’s a quick cheat‑sheet:
- Length: 28‑32 inches is the sweet spot for most street skaters. Go longer (33‑35 inches) if you love cruising or want extra stability on ramps.
- Width: Wider decks (8.5‑9.0 inches) give you a bigger standing platform, perfect for technical flip tricks. Narrower boards (7.5‑8.0 inches) are lighter and easier to flip.
- Shape: Look for a concave that matches your foot placement – a deep concave helps lock your feet in for flip tricks, while a flat profile is great for cruising.
When you’re in the shop, ask the staff to let you stand on a few decks. Feel the pop‑up, check the grip tape, and imagine how it would feel under your feet on a local skate spot like the The Australian Store website’s featured skateparks.
Trucks, Wheels, and Bearings: The Unsung Heroes
While the deck gets most of the love, the trucks, wheels, and bearings are the trio that keeps you rolling smooth. Here’s how to navigate each:
- Trucks: They come in two main sizes – low and high. Low trucks are tighter, giving you better control for technical street tricks. High trucks are looser, perfect for cruising and transition skating. Look for reputable brands like Independent, Thunder, or the Aussie‑made SkateCo.
- Wheels: Measured in millimetres, wheel size determines speed and grip. 50‑54mm wheels are ideal for street skating; 55‑60mm for park and transition; 61‑70mm for cruising and downhill. Hardness (durometer) also matters – 99a‑101a is hard and slides well on smooth surfaces, while 95a‑97a offers more grip on rough concrete.
- Bearings: The ABEC rating (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) used to be the go‑to metric, but today most skaters look at the material – steel vs. ceramic. Steel bearings are durable and cheap; ceramic bearings are smoother and lighter but can be pricey.
Most skate shops will have a demo board set up so you can feel the difference. Don’t hesitate to ask for a quick spin – it’s the best way to gauge how the trucks turn and how the wheels bite into the pavement.
Safety Gear: Look Cool, Stay Safe
We all love that “no‑worries” attitude, but a busted wrist can put a damper on a whole season. A good helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are a must, especially for beginners. Many shops stock Aussie‑approved safety gear that meets AS/NZS 2063 standards. Pick a helmet that fits snugly, has ventilation, and maybe a cheeky graphic that matches your deck’s vibe. Remember, the right gear not only protects you but also boosts confidence – you’ll be more likely to try that new trick when you know you’re covered.
Local Skate Culture: Why Supporting Your Skate Shop Matters
Australian skate culture is a tight‑knit community, and the local shop is the beating heart. When you buy from a brick‑and‑mortar spot, you’re funding events, sponsoring local riders, and helping keep the streets and skateparks maintained. Many shops host weekly “shred nights,” demo days for new product launches, and even charity fundraisers for local youth programs. By hanging out at the shop, you’ll meet fellow skaters, learn about hidden spots, and maybe even get invited to a secret night‑session at a private warehouse.
How to Keep Your Board in Top Condition
Even the best board can lose its mojo if you don’t give it a bit of TLC. Here’s a simple maintenance routine:
- Clean the deck: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt. Avoid soaking the board – excess water can weaken the wood.
- Check the trucks: Tighten the kingpin nut to your preferred turning radius. Loose trucks wobble; overtightened trucks can cause premature wear.
- Swap wheels: If you notice flat spots or uneven wear, rotate or replace them. A quick spin test on a flat surface will reveal any wobble.
- Lubricate bearings: Drop a few drops of skate‑specific oil, spin the wheels, and wipe away excess. This keeps them smooth and reduces friction.
Most skate shops will gladly service your board for a small fee, and many offer free tune‑ups for regular customers. It’s a good habit to bring your board in for a check‑up every few months, especially after a hard session.
Online Shopping vs. In‑Store: When to Choose Each
There’s a lot of talk about buying decks online – it’s convenient, often cheaper, and you can compare hundreds of graphics in a few clicks. However, the in‑store experience offers a tactile advantage: you can feel the flex, test the grip, and talk to staff who know the local terrain. A hybrid approach works best – browse online for inspiration, then head to the shop to try before you buy. Many Aussie shops now have a “click‑and‑collect” service: order online, swing by the store, and pick up your gear while getting a quick demo.
Top 5 Australian Skate Spots to Test Your New Board
If you’re lucky enough to live near one of these iconic locations, you’ll get a real feel for how your new deck performs:
- St Kilda Skate Park (Melbourne): A classic street‑style park with concrete bowls, ledges, and a massive rail.
- Bondi Skate Spot (Sydney): Beachside vibes, smooth concrete, and a friendly crowd.
- West End Skate Plaza (Brisbane): Known for its steep banks and deep bowls – perfect for transition skaters.
- Perth’s Skate Central: A newer facility with a mix of street and park features, great for testing both trucks and wheels.
- Adelaide’s Skate Oasis: A hidden gem with smooth grind rails and a chill community.
Take your board out to any of these spots, and you’ll quickly learn whether you need a tighter truck set‑up or softer wheels for smoother rides.
FAQs About Skateboard Shops
Q: Do I need to buy a complete skateboard or can I build my own?
A: You can do either. Many skaters prefer a “complete” for convenience – it comes pre‑assembled with a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. If you’re after a custom feel, you can mix‑and‑match components in‑store. The staff can help you assemble it on the spot.
Q: How often should I replace my grip tape?
A: When the grip starts to feel slick or lifts at the edges, it’s time for a fresh sheet. Most skaters replace it every 6‑12 months, depending on usage.
Q: Are there any discounts for students or bulk purchases?
A: Many local shops offer student discounts (show your ID) and bulk deals for teams or schools. Ask the crew – they love supporting the next generation of skaters.
Q: What’s the best way to learn new tricks safely?
A: Start on a smooth, low‑impact surface, wear safety gear, and break the trick down into steps. Watching tutorials on YouTube and then practising at the shop’s indoor ramp (if they have one) can speed up progress.
Q: Can I trade in my old board?
A: Some shops run trade‑in programs where you can hand over a used deck for credit towards a new one. It’s a great way to upgrade without breaking the bank.
Connecting with the Wider Skate Community
Beyond the shop floor, there are plenty of online forums, Instagram pages, and local Facebook groups where Aussie skaters share tips, post videos, and organise meet‑ups. Joining these groups can keep you in the loop about upcoming events, new product drops, and even discount codes. A quick search for “Best Australian store skate community” will land you on several active threads.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit – A Quick Checklist
- Bring a friend or a notebook for tips.
- Know your size – have your shoe size handy for deck width recommendations.
- Ask for a demo board to test trucks, wheels, and bearings.
- Check the shop’s event calendar – many host weekly skate nights.
- Take advantage of any free tune‑up or safety gear trial.
Final Thoughts: Your Next Skate Adventure Starts Here
Whether you’re after a fresh deck with a sick graphic, a set of new wheels that bite into the pavement, or just a place to hang out with fellow skaters, a local skateboard shop is the place to be. It’s where the culture lives, where advice is free, and where the next generation of Aussie skaters gets inspired. So next time you’re cruising the streets, swing by your neighbourhood skate shop, have a yarn with the crew, and walk out with gear that feels like it was made just for you.
Ready to Roll?
Now that you’ve got the lowdown, why not check out the home page of The Australian Store for a quick look at the latest decks, trucks, and accessories? Their shop section is stocked with everything a skater could need – from beginner-friendly completes to pro‑level components. And while you’re browsing, feel free to explore Strategies Beer for a refreshing break; they’ve got some great resources on building community events that could inspire your next skate meet‑up. Grab a board, gear up, and hit the pavement – the streets are waiting, mate!