GUIDE TO SKATEBOARD SAFETY GEAR
Skate gear will come and go, but you only get one body, so take care of it with a skate helmet and pads! Skateboarding requires a lot of trial and error, especially for beginners, but ultimately throughout any skateboarder's time on a board. Falling down is part of the game, and protecting high-impact areas can help to give you more time skating and less time healing. If you are going to ride a skateboard or longboard, look into getting some protective gear.
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What kind of protective gear are you looking for information on?
SKATEBOARDING HELMETS
Helmets are the foundation of protective gear in skateboarding and longboarding because they protect the most important part of your body. Anyone who has taken a big slam knows that helmets are an essential piece of equipment for skaters. There are a variety of helmets to choose from in all sorts of shapes, sizes and prices.
HOW TO MEASURE HELMET SIZE
When choosing a skateboard helmet, the first step is to determine what size you need. Helmets need to have a snug fit without being uncomfortably tight. One way to find the correct size for yourself is to measure your head. Learn how to measure helmet size and cut out the guesswork!
First, you will need a flexible measuring tape such as a tailor's tape. If you don't have one, you can use a piece of string and measure the string with a ruler or a tape measure.
Start by wrapping the tape around your head. Make sure that it crosses the middle of your forehead and stays level while going around to the back of your head. Do not pull the tape too tight. It should be touching your head as it goes around without too much pressure. Mark where the tape meets the other end with your fingers and then check that point on the tape for the measurement. If you are using a string, do the same process and make sure that you do not let go of the measurement point before you can measure it with a ruler or tape measure.
Classic helmets are what people typically think of when they begin looking for helmets. These will cover your head from the middle of your forehead to your neckline. Classic helmets are usually more light-weight and comfortable than other styles, but offer less coverage around your head. They have cutouts for your ears, as well as ventilation holes on the front, top and back. These helmets are best for general use.
CLASSIC HELMETS
FULL CUT HELMETS
Full Cut helmets will be very similar to classic helmets. The main difference is that they will weigh slightly more than classic helmets, fully cover your ears and cover further down your neck for added protection. These helmets are best suited for skating big vert ramps and bowls.Full Cut helmets will be very similar to classic helmets. The main difference is that they will weigh slightly more than classic helmets, fully cover your ears and cover further down your neck for added protection. These helmets are best suited for skating big vert ramps and bowls.
SAFETY CERTIFICATIONS
One factor to consider when buying a helmet is how much protection is needed. Many skateboard helmet manufacturers, such as ProTec, Triple 8 and 187 Killer Pads, produce both certified and uncertified helmets that include different safety technologies.