How Long Does Skateboard Last? What To Expect (Explained)

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The lifespan of a skateboard depends on the quality of the skateboard, your skating frequency, and how well it is maintained. 

A skateboard can last anywhere from six months to two years. Skateboard lifespan also depends on board size, rider weight, and terrain where you skate, all these factors come into play.

The lifespan of a skateboard is more dependent upon you rather than the board itself. To prolong the life of your skateboard, it is essential to inspect it for damage regularly and to clean and lubricate the bearings.

In this blog, I will explain what shortens a skateboard’s life and give you some tips and tricks from my own experience, on how to make your skateboard last longer. Keep reading

How Long Does a Skateboard Deck Last?

There is no rule that says a skateboard deck will last forever, but it can sometimes last for just a few hours.

Generally, the average lifespan of a skateboard deck is between 3 weeks to 6 months.

It all depends on your skating level, how you land on the deck, and what kind of skating you’re doing. If you’re a beginner, your deck will last longer because you’re not putting as much wear and tear on it. 

But if you’re an experienced skater who does a lot of tricks and jumps, your deck won’t last as long. You may need to replace your deck every 2 to 3 weeks.

As long as you take good care of your board and don’t abuse it excessively. You will be able to use it for many years to come.

If possible, select a deck brand that provides a ticket guarantee. Numerous skateboard deck brands come with a 30-day warranty, at which point you can get a new one. Whenever you buy a skateboard, pick a deck with a 30-day warranty.

When Should I Replace my Skateboard Deck?

If your skateboard deck is showing signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or broken parts, or if it’s starting to warp or deform in any way, or razor tail, then it’s time to replace your deck.

If you’re a regular skateboarder, constantly hitting the pavement, then you know that your deck takes a beating. You should replace your deck every 1-2 months, depending on the wear and tear.

If you are just a casual skater, then your may need to replace your deck once every 3 to 4 months. If you are just cruising, then your deck needs to be replaced after one year depending on the wear and tear of the deck.

Don’t wait until your old skateboard deck completely falls apart. It will be too late, Keep an eye on the condition of your deck and make sure to replace it when necessary. A new skateboard deck will help you enjoy skating even more.

How Long do Skateboard Wheels Last?

The average life of skateboard wheels is about 2 to 3 months, depending on how often you skate. The lifespan of skateboard wheels also depends on the wheel durometer scale, diameter, and how aggressively you skate. 

It also depends on the surface you’re riding on. If you’re skating on rough terrains like concrete or street, then your wheels are going to wear out faster. 

A skateboard wheel is typically made of polyurethane, an extremely durable material.

But the more you skate, the faster your wheels will wear down.

When should I Replace my Skateboard Wheels?

It’s time for new skateboard wheels when the current ones are causing the board to ride unevenly, look bumpy on a flat surface, and change dimension or color.

If your skateboard wheels are old and worn out, it’s probably time to replace them.

 This is usually only an issue with wheels made from poor materials.

If you’re a casual skater who only skates occasionally, your wheels could last for years. But if you’re an extreme skater who hits the streets or skateparks hard every day, you might need to replace your wheels every few months.

How Long do Skateboard Trucks Last?

The average lifespan of skateboard trucks is about 2 to 3 years. It all depends on the quality of the trucks and how often they are used. They will last longer if they are of good quality.

But even the best trucks will only last about 3 years with heavy use. So, if you want your skateboard to last, be sure to get good-quality trucks and take care of them.

“I usually have to replace my trucks every year or two. It really just depends on how often I’m skating and how hard I am on my equipment.” – Ryan H, pro skater

When should I Replace my Skateboard Trucks?

If your skateboard trucks are warped, damaged baseplates, bent axles, or have small cracks you should replace them.

Trucks are one of the most important parts of a skateboard, and if they’re not in good condition, they can affect your riding.

If you skateboard only occasionally, you can expect your trucks to last for four to five years or more. This is good news for casual skaters who don’t want to have to replace their trucks often. 

However, If you are an aggressive skater who enjoys doing tricks that put a lot of stress on your trucks, then you may need to replace your skateboard trucks every year.

How Long do Skateboard Bearings Last?

Skateboard bearings are built to endure a lot of wear and tear, but at some point, they will need to be replaced. Depending on how often you skate and the conditions you skate in.

Most skateboard bearings have a lifespan of about 2 years or more with regular use and proper cleaning and lubrication.

However, some bearings may last longer or shorter depending on the quality of the bearing and how often it is used. 

When should I Replace my Bearings?

When your skateboard bearings start making squeaking sounds or do not spin properly after cleaning and lubing, it may be time to replace them. 

Skateboard bearings are made of steel and can last a long time, but eventually, they will wear out. If you notice that your bearings are not spinning as smoothly as they used to, or if they make noise when you ride, it’s probably time for new ones.

It’s also recommended that if your bearings ball or shields are absent you should swap out your bearings immediately to prevent any mishaps.

How Long does Skateboard Bushing Last?

Bushings are one of the most important parts of a skateboard, and they can wear out over time.

The bushings provide cushioning and allow the skateboard to turn. The lifespan of a skateboard bushing can vary depending on a few factors, such as the quality of the bushing, how often it is used, and whether it is properly cared for.

When should I Replace my Bushing?

There are a few signs that you should look for that indicate it is time to replace your skateboard bushings.

If your board feels unstable when riding, if it is hard to turn, or if the ride is less smooth than usual, these are all signs that your bushings may need to be replaced. Bushings may need to be replaced if they are worn out.

Factors that Determine the Lifespan of the Skateboard

When it comes to the lifespan of a skateboard, there are several factors that come into play. Here are some of the most important factors that determine the lifespan of a skateboard. Let’s discuss

1. How often do you Skateboard

The life of a skateboard is determined by the use of the board and how often you skate on it. If you skate every day, you will have to replace your board more often than someone who only skates once a week.

The board itself can also have an effect on how long a skateboard lasts. The material used to make the deck is what gives it its shape and durability.

So if you are skating a lot then the deck starts to wear out quickly. it means, there are cracks in the deck or the materials used to make it aren’t strong enough for everyday use.

If you are an aggressive skater, then It is important to invest in a good quality skateboard that will last you a long time and will be able to take the wear and tear of skating hard.

2. Type of Terrain you Skate

The type of terrain you skate is another factor that determines how long does skateboard last. If you’re skating on a hard surface like concrete, your board is likely to wear down faster than skating on softer surfaces.

A hard surface means that there are more cracks in the ground for the wheels to ride on. It is more likely that your wheels and bearings will wear out more quickly when you skate on a street or hard surface.

It is recommended to ride on smooth surfaces or skateparks designed especially for skateboarding. In order to prolong the life of your skateboard, try to skate on smooth terrain rather than rough or concrete terrain.

3. Tricks and Stunts

The average skateboard life also depends on how much wear and tear they get from tricks and stunts.

Skaters generally wear out their boards, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware quite quickly, especially if they perform tricks or stunts frequently.

If a skater does not take care of his board, then he will eventually end up with a board that has little power left in it.

To perform tricks, selecting the right surface, such as grass or a skatepark designed specifically for skateboarding is important. Make sure you avoid hard surfaces or concrete surfaces.

4. Skateboard Quality

An important factor that impacts the lifespan of the skateboard is the quality of the skateboard and its components. The better the material used, the longer the lifespan of a skateboard.

In addition to this, the quality of a skateboard is also affected by other factors like:

Deck wood quality:

The type of wood used in manufacturing is also significantly important to note, as this will determine how long the board will last.

The skateboard deck is made from different wood like maple, bamboo, and plywood. These boards come in different shapes, sizes, and thicknesses which vary from brand to brand depending on their features and specs.

The type of wood used in manufacturing is also significantly important to note, as this will determine how long the board will last.

There are many different types of wood that can be used to construct a skateboard deck, but maple is by far the most popular and preferred choice among skaters due to its durability and strength.

However, there are other types of wood such as ash, bamboo, and birch which could be used instead depending on what you prefer or what your budget allows for.

Skateboard Wheels and Bearings:

Wheels and bearings are one of the most important parts of any skateboard. They are responsible for making a skateboard move smoothly.

A good set of wheels and bearings can make your ride feel smooth and comfortable. However, bad wheels can ruin your ride completely and make you feel uncomfortable while riding them.

Trucks:

Trucks are responsible for moving your feet around during a ride as well as holding them securely in place when doing tricks or going downhill fast! Good trucks are essential for ensuring that you have control over your board at all times while riding it!

Assembly of Components:

Another factor that determines how long your board will last is how well it was assembled before being used on the streets by you or another person who also rides a skateboard.

If someone assembles their own board poorly and then crashes into walls or other obstacles repeatedly, this can cause damage to the board which could shorten its lifespan

5. Weather and Riding Conditions

If you love skating in the rain, that’s great. But just know that it can drastically reduce your skateboard life.

Skateboards are made of wood and metal, and both materials are susceptible to water damage. The water will cause the wood to warp and the metal to rust. So if you want your skateboard to last, save it for a sunny day.

It is not recommended to ride in the rain since it will significantly reduce the lifespan of your skateboard.

6. How Well it is Taken Care

How long does skateboards last, is also dependent on how well you take care of your skateboard. Just like any other piece of equipment, a skateboard needs to be properly maintained in order to last for a long time.

One way to ensure that your skateboard lasts for a long time is to regularly inspect it for any damage or wear and tear. If you see any cracks or chips in the deck, it’s important to fix them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. 

Another way to prolong the life of your skateboard is to regularly clean and lubricate the bearings.

It is also recommended to inspect the trucks and wheels for damage and replace them if necessary. By doing this, you will prevent them from rusting or seizing.

By taking proper care of a skateboard, it is possible to extend its lifespan significantly.

However, even the best-cared-for skateboards will eventually need to be replaced. When this time comes, it is important to recycle the old board so that it does not end up in a landfill

However, if a skateboard is left out in the rain or Sun, or if it isn’t cleaned often, it will start to deteriorate much more quickly.

7. Rider Weight

Rider weight is one of the most important factors. The heavier you are, the skateboards become less durable because of the high pressure.

This is because the pressure exerted by a heavier person is greater than a lighter person, and this can cause the board to break or crack more easily. 

In addition, if you are a heavier rider, you will also need to replace your skateboard more often because the weight will cause wear and tear on the deck and trucks.

How to Make your Skateboard Last Longer?

Maintaining your skateboard is essential if you want it to last. Here are some tips on how to make your skateboard last longer. With proper care, you can extend the life of your skateboard and enjoy skating for years to come.

1. Regularly Check for Damage

First, you should regularly inspect your skateboard for damage. Look for cracks or deep cuts in the deck, and make sure the trucks and wheels are still in good condition. If you see any damage, make sure to fix it right away.

2. Clean your Skateboard

In order to extend the life of your skateboard, it needs to be cleaned at least once every two weeks.

Use a soft cloth to wipe down the deck, and use a brush to remove any dirt or debris from the trucks and wheels. You can also use a mild soap and water solution to clean your skateboard if it gets really dirty. 

use a dry cloth to wipe down the bearings, trucks, and wheels of your skateboard. This will help keep them in good condition and prevent rusting.

3. Keep your Bearings Clean and Well-lubricated.

If you want your skateboard to last longer, Keep your bearings clean and lubricated. Here’s how to do it:

  • 1. Clean the bearings with a solvent like WD-40 or denatured alcohol.
  • 2. Lubricate the bearings with a light oil like 3-in-1 oil or sewing machine oil.
  • 3. Spin the wheels to spread the lubricant evenly.
  • 4. Wipe off any excess lubricant.
  • 5. Repeat these steps for the remaining bearings.

4. Don’t Ride in Rain or Wet Condition

It is best to avoid riding in the rain. Rain can cause your skateboard to rust and degrade more quickly. It can also make the deck slippery, which can lead to accidents.

Riding in rain or wet conditions can damage your skateboard and shorten its lifespan. 

Avoid riding in wet or dirty conditions whenever possible. If you want to ride in these conditions, be sure to clean your board afterward as soon as possible.

5. Store your Skateboard in a Cool and Dry place

When you’re not using it, cover your skateboard with a cloth or bag to protect it from dust and dirt. Keep your board in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

The sun can damage the deck and trucks, causing them to warp and break down over time. Store it in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity can damage your skateboard.

It’s also not a good idea to leave your skateboard in the car. The extreme temperatures inside a car can ruin your skateboard.

6. Avoid Riding on a Hard Surface

You probably also know that riding on hard surfaces like concrete or rough terrain can shorten the life of your board and make it more likely to break. Try to skate on smooth surfaces or go to skateparks, which are designed for skating. 

Avoid riding on hard surfaces as much as possible. And when you’re skating on rough terrain, be extra careful not to hit any rocks or roots.

7. Check your Hardware Regularly

Just like any mode of transportation, skateboards need regular check-ups and maintenance to ensure everything is in working order. While it may seem like a daunting task, maintaining your skateboard is actually quite simple.

Here are a few tips on how to keep your skateboard in tip-top shape:

  • 1. Check the hardware regularly. This includes tightening loose bolts and replacing any damaged parts.
  • 2. Inspect the deck for cracks or other damage. If you see any damage, replace the deck immediately.
  • 3. Check the wheels for wear and tear. If they’re looking worn down, it’s time for new wheels.
  • 4. Make sure the bearings are clean and lubricated. This will help keep them spinning smoothly.

This will help keep your skateboard in good condition and make it last longer.

8. know How to Land Properly while doing Tricks

If you’re new to skateboarding, or even if you’ve been skating for a while, it’s important to know how to land on your skateboard properly. If you land improperly on the deck, you can break your skateboard in half.

Last words on How long does skateboard last

I hope this blog will provide you with all the answers you need. 

In short answer, a skateboard can last anywhere from a few months to a few years. It all depends on what kind of skating you do, how often you ride it, and how well you care for it. 

If you’re a casual skater who only rides a few times a week, your board could last for years. But if you’re an aggressive skater who rides every day and does a lot of tricks, your board might only last for a few months.


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Hi, My Name is Henry, Welcome to my little skateboarding world. I have a passion for skateboarding and want to share it with others. I want to teach people how to be successful on the skateboard and appreciate the benefits that come from skateboarding.

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