Surfskating for Beginners: The Essentials You Need

Have you thought about catching the concrete wave but not sure how to start? Hang loose, we've got your back! We've created a small series of short videos covering the essentials for starting with surf skating.

What Actually Is a Surf Skate?

Yes, maybe we should begin by explaining what on Earth a surf skateboard is. In the video, Gregor shows you a standard cruiser board and compares it to the surf skate to illustrate what you're about to get into.

The truth is, surf skates offer a very different experience compared to traditional longboards or skateboards. So give yourself some time to get used to the board, even if you already know how to ride sideways. One thing to remember, as our novice Siana said, “Keep calm and stay away from pebbles, they hurt!”

The Beginning: Get on the Board

With surf skates, there are a few important pointers when you're about to get on the board and push off. The specific truck system and the way it moves affect how you should position yourself on the board and how you kick start it.

Moving Further by Pumping the Board

Surf skates are also very different in the way you move and gain speed. Rather than pushing, you ‘pump’ your way forward, and normally, speed is not what you're aiming for. The goal here is to carve your heart out onto the street and get the maximum surf feel.

Safe Stopping Tips

Ok, you've managed to get on the board and ride it, but you also need to know the best way to stop (and not end up in the grass like our novice). Due to the unique truck system of the surf skateboard, you cannot stop in the same way as you would on a regular longboard or skateboard. Luckily, it's quite easy to learn how to stop. Check out how to do it.