Every skater knows the frustration of a session cut short by a simple equipment failure. I’ve been there, carrying around more than I needed, only to be saved by the one thing I almost left behind. Sometimes, it’s just having an extra bearing or a trusty skate tool that makes all the difference. It’s not just about saving your own session; it’s also about being there for your fellow skaters. We’ve all experienced those moments when a small fix is all that’s needed to keep the good times rolling.
Must-Have Skateboard Essentials
Essential skateboarding items and a backpack bag
Whether it’s a broken bearing, a ledge begging for wax, a minor scrape, or a torn lace, unexpected issues pop up. After a quick review of my own skate backpack, here’s a rundown of the 11 essential items I always carry when I’m out skateboarding.
1. Skate Tool
several skateboard tools
A skate tool is, without a doubt, the most crucial item you can bring. It’s saved me from countless trips back home and allows for on-the-fly board adjustments, which are especially helpful when riding transitions. A good skate tool is an investment, and you truly get what you pay for. I personally lean towards the Silver skate tool for its robustness and speed, though it lacks a re-threader.
Here’s why a skate tool is a must:
- It’s sturdy and makes quick work of hardware adjustments.
- It handles both Allen and Philips bolts.
- It can be used to rough up grip tape.
- It lets you fine-tune your trucks.
2. Extra Bearings
Bronson vs Bones bearings
Bearings are prone to breaking, especially if you use less expensive brands like Bones Reds or Mini Logo. I keep an extra set with me, not just for myself, but to help out other skaters too. You don’t need to carry brand-new bearings; a few used ones will be sufficient to get you through a session. It’s also wise to have a few extra speed rings/washers because they are easy to misplace when swapping out wheels.
3. Hardware
Bolts and nuts can get damaged from over-tightening or simply wear out with time. Keeping a spare set of hardware is a smart idea. While you may not need them often, when you do, you’ll be relieved you have them.
4. Axle Nuts
Axle nuts wear out quickly, especially if you’re landing primo frequently. They are cheap to replace and can save the day when a bearing change is needed. Trying to put a nut back on a damaged axle thread can be incredibly frustrating.
5. Pocket Knife or Utility Knife
A pocket or utility knife can be very versatile for cutting laces, leveling out chipped edges, or trimming grip tape. It’s a tool that has many uses and is invaluable in a variety of situations.
6. First Aid Kit
Sometimes, accidents happen. I recently cut myself while replacing grip tape and was fortunate someone had a bandage. That experience led me to always carry a small first-aid kit. It’s something you hope you don’t need but are glad to have when you do.
7. Food and Drinks
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when skateboarding. I typically bring one or two water bottles filled to the brim. A banana is great for a quick energy boost, and sandwiches are perfect for longer sessions. Feel free to adjust food choices to what you personally prefer.
8. Wax
skateboard wax and grip tape
Wax is ideal for slappies on curbs, grinding rusty flatbars, and dry ledges. It’s also useful for waxing your board to do boardslides on copings. Be considerate and ask other skaters before applying wax. Over-waxing can be a nuisance, as I recently saw with some rollerbladers who went overboard at my local park. I had to use grip tape to remove the excess wax they left behind. To prevent a waxy mess, keep wax wrapped in a plastic bag. For quick wax removal, carry a small piece of sandpaper or grip tape.
9. Extra Laces
Snapped laces are a common annoyance when skating. While you can often fix them temporarily, it’s great to have an extra pair on hand for those times when you have to fully replace them. Skate shoes usually come with extra laces, so be sure to stash them in your backpack.
10. A Phone
A phone is essential for calling for help if you get injured. But it’s not just for emergencies; a good phone camera is great for capturing awesome skateboarding moments.
11. Tissues
Tissues aren’t just great for keeping your hands clean. Sometimes you just have to go.
Useful but Less Essential Skateboarding Gear
Now let’s go over some useful items that aren’t strictly necessary to carry but are good to have.
Re-threader
A re-threader isn’t a must, but it’s handy to have around for those times when you strip an axle. While it’s not something you’ll need often, you’ll definitely appreciate it when you do.
Shoo Goo
While I don’t carry Shoo Goo with me, it is an essential item for any skateboarder to have at home. It works wonders for extending the lifespan of your shoes. I recently managed to fix a pair of shoes that were almost unusable using Shoe Goo, suede, and Ripcare.
Skate Backpack
A skate backpack is incredibly convenient, with numerous small pockets for storing all your gear. The ability to attach your skateboard is a great feature. The downside is grip tape can wear through the bag over time, though some bags are more durable than others.
Final Thoughts
If I had to choose just one item from this list, it would absolutely be a skate tool. It’s saved me countless times, and I frequently hear skaters asking if anyone has one. It might be easy to overlook, but having a skate tool available can save a session. While you probably won’t need every item every time you skate, having them on hand for when you do can prevent a frustrating end to your session. Remember to always inspect your board before you go out. Often, you can catch problems before they happen. Finally, keep your backpack secure to prevent theft. Being aware of your surroundings can make your skating experience more enjoyable.
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