Fingerboards Buying Guide

Fingerboarding is a popular sport that involves riding small-scale skateboards or fingerboards using your fingers instead of your feet. The sport has been growing in popularity lately, with people of all ages enjoying the thrill of performing tricks and flips on miniature decks. However, if you're new to the sport, it can be daunting to navigate the many options available on the market. In this buying guide, we'll take a look at some of the essential features to consider when you're shopping for fingerboards.

Size and Shape of Fingerboards

One of the most critical factors to consider when buying a fingerboard is its size and shape. This factor determines how well you can control the board and perform tricks. Fingerboards come in many different sizes and shapes, from mini to full size, and it's crucial to find one that best fits your fingers and provides the right amount of control. For beginners, it's advisable to start with a smaller board, usually between 96mm and 100mm long. Smaller boards are easier to control and manage than larger ones, allowing beginners to focus on building their skills and getting used to the feeling of riding a fingerboard. On the other hand, if you're an experienced rider looking for a new challenge, you may want to step up to a larger board. Larger boards are more challenging to control, but they provide greater stability, allowing riders to execute more complicated tricks and maneuvers. When it comes to shape, fingerboards are typically either rounded or flat. Rounded boards have a slight curvature to them, making them easier to maneuver and turn. Flat boards, on the other hand, have a flatter profile that offers more stability, making them ideal for performing technical tricks and stunts.

Materials Used in Fingerboards

Fingerboards are made using various materials, but the most common ones are wood, plastic, and metal. Here's what you need to know about each material:

Wooden Fingerboards

Wooden fingerboards are the most popular option among riders, thanks to their natural feel, durability, and excellent grip. They are made using high-quality wood, such as maple, and come in various shapes and sizes. With wooden fingerboards, you get a solid and smooth ride, great control, and excellent pop.

Plastic Fingerboards

Plastic fingerboards are popular due to their affordability, lightweight, and variety of designs. They are usually made using high-quality plastic and come in various shapes and sizes. However, plastic fingerboards are not as durable as wooden ones and may break or wear out quickly, especially with excessive use.

Metal Fingerboards

Metal fingerboards are ideal for riders who prefer a more realistic feel to their fingerboarding experience. These boards are typically made of aluminum or other high-quality metals and come in a range of shapes and sizes. Metal fingerboards are durable, lightweight, and offer excellent control, allowing riders to execute more complex tricks and stunts.

Trucks

Trucks are an essential component of any fingerboard, and they play a crucial role in providing stability and control. They are the part of the fingerboard that attaches the wheels to the board and allows the user to maneuver the board. When shopping for fingerboards, you'll notice that they come with two different types of trucks: basic trucks and professional trucks.

Basic Trucks

Basic trucks are an excellent option for beginner fingerboard riders or those on a tight budget. These trucks are made of plastic or metal and are typically pre-assembled with a pair of wheels. They are easy to use and offer moderate stability and control, making them ideal for riders who are still learning the basics.

Professional Trucks

Professional trucks are designed with experienced riders in mind. They are made using high-quality materials, such as aluminum or titanium, and offer superior control, stability, and maneuverability. Professional trucks are fully customizable, allowing riders to adjust each part of the truck to suit their riding style and preferences.

Wheels

Wheels are another essential component of any fingerboard, and they come in varying sizes and materials. Here's what you need to know about fingerboard wheels:

Size of Wheels

The size of the wheels you choose will depend on your riding style and preferences. Smaller wheels are generally more maneuverable and faster, while larger ones provide more stability and control.

Materials Used in Wheels

Fingerboard wheels can be made using plastic, rubber or silicone, or other materials. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, and you'll need to decide which one best suits your needs. For example, plastic wheels are affordable and durable, but they tend to wear out quickly and can be a bit noisy. Silicone wheels, on the other hand, are more expensive, but they offer superior grip and smoothness, making them ideal for executing technical tricks.

Grip Tape

Grip tape is an essential feature of any fingerboard, as it provides the rider with grip and control over the board. Most fingerboards come with grip tape preinstalled, but you can also purchase additional grip tape separately. Grip tape comes in different colors and designs, allowing riders to customize their fingerboards to their liking. Some grip tapes are also made using high-quality materials that provide superior grip and control.

Conclusion

When shopping for a fingerboard, it's essential to consider factors such as size and shape, materials used, trucks, wheels, and grip tape. By doing so, you'll be able to find the right board that meets your needs and allows you to take your fingerboarding skills to the next level. With so many options available on the market today, finding the perfect fingerboard may take some time and research, but the end result is well worth the effort.