Longboarding has become a popular way to get around and have fun. It’s fast, sleek, and offers a great way to hit the road in style. But when you’re going at speed, safety is always an issue. That’s where grip tape comes in.
Grip tape is one of the most important parts of any longboard and can make all the difference between a fun ride and an accident waiting to happen. In this blog post, we’ll explore why do you need grip tape on a longboard is so important for skateboarding and how it can help keep you safe on your rides.
What is grip tape?
Grip tape is a thin layer of abrasive material that is applied to the top of a longboard deck. Grip tape helps to keep your feet glued to the deck, preventing you from slipping and falling while riding. It also provides traction for your feet when pushing off or making turns.
There are many different brands and styles of grip tape available on the market. Some grip tape is clear, while others are brightly colored or printed with designs. You can also find grip tape with different levels of thickness and abrasiveness.
Grip tape is easy to apply to your best longboard deck. Simply peel off the backing paper and stick the tape down. You can trim the edges of the tape with a razor if necessary.
If you are new to longboarding, or if you plan on riding in wet or slippery conditions, you may want to consider using grip tape on your deck. Grip tape can help you stay safe and avoid falls while enjoying your ride.
Why do you need grip tape on a longboard?
There are a few reasons why you might want to consider adding grip tape to your longboard. First, if you’re doing any tricks or fancy riding, grip tape will help keep your feet in place on the board. Second, if you’re riding in wet or slippery conditions, grip tape can help prevent you from slipping and losing control of your board. Third, if you’re just starting out, having some grip tape on your longboard can help with balance and stability as you learn how to ride.
Ultimately, whether or not you choose to add grip tape to your longboard is up to you. If you think it will improve your riding experience, then go for it!
What Does Grip Tape Do?
Grip tape is a material that is applied to the top of a longboard deck in order to provide traction for the rider’s feet. Grip tape comes in a variety of colors, textures, and thicknesses, and can be custom cut to fit any size longboard deck. Grip tape is an essential component of any longboard setup, and can make the difference between a great riding experience and a dangerous one.
When choosing grip tape for your best longboard, it is important to consider the type of riding you will be doing. If you plan on doing a lot of downhill or speed boarding, you will want to choose a grip tape that is thick and has a rough texture.
This will provide the most traction possible and help keep your feet from slipping off the board at high speeds. If you are primarily going to be using your longboard for cruising around town or at the beach, you can choose a thinner grip tape with a smoother texture. This will provide enough traction for everyday riding without being too difficult to walk on.
No matter what type of grip tape you choose, always make sure that it is properly applied to your deck. If it is not applied correctly, it can peel up while you are riding and cause you to lose control of your board. Be sure to clean your deck thoroughly before applying the grip tape, and use plenty of pressure when applying it to ensure that it sticks well.
Must Read: Is It Okay to Skate Without Griptape: In Depth-Guide
The Different Types of Grip Tape
There are three main types of grip tape: clear, colored, and specialty. Clear grip tape is the most popular and versatile type. It is perfect for those who want a consistent look for their deck and don’t mind if it gets scuffed up over time. Colored grip tape is great for those who want to add some personality to their longboard. Specialty grip tape is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their board. It can be found in a variety of colors and patterns, and can even be glow-in-the-dark!
The Benefits of Grip Tape on a Longboard
Grip tape is one of the most important accessories for a longboard. It provides traction and grip, which can help you stay on your board and avoid accidents. It can also protect your deck from getting scratched up.
There are many different types of grip tape available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Some grip tapes are designed for specific purposes, such as providing extra grip for downhill racing or freestyle riding. You can also find grip tapes in a variety of colors and patterns to match your longboard’s design.
Grip tape is relatively inexpensive and easy to apply, so there’s no excuse not to have it on your longboard. If you’re not sure which type of grip tape to get, ask a salesperson at your local skate shop or consult an experienced longboarder.
How to Apply Grip Tape on Longboard
If you’re new to longboarding, you might be wondering if you need grip tape on your deck. The answer is yes! Grip tape is an important part of any longboard setup and helps to keep your feet in place while riding.
Grip tape is usually sold in rolls and can be cut to size with a sharp knife or scissors. When applying grip tape to your longboard, it’s important to start from the center of the deck and work your way outwards. This will help to avoid any air bubbles under the tape.
To apply the grip tape, simply peel off the backing and stick it down onto the deck. Use a firm hand to press down on the tape and make sure that it’s firmly adhered to the board. Once you have the grip tape in place, use a utility knife or scissors to trim off any excess around the edges of the deck.
And that’s it! Your longboard is now ready to ride with a nice, secure grip beneath your feet. Just be sure to practice good safety habits when riding (like wearing a helmet!) and always ride within your abilities.
How To Put Grip Tape On Your Board
If you’re new to longboarding, you may be wondering if you need grip tape on your board. The answer is yes! Grip tape helps keep your feet in place while riding and makes it easier to push your board around. Here’s how to put grip tape on your board:
1. Start by cleaning your deck with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut the grip tape to size using a sharp knife or scissors.
3. Peel off the backing paper and stick the grip tape down, starting at one end of the deck and working your way to the other.
4. Use a roller or something flat and hard to press down the tape and get rid of any air bubbles.
5. Trim off any excess tape around the edges of the deck.
And that’s it! Your deck is now ready to ride.
How To Install Grip Tape on A Longboard Step by Step Guide
If you’re planning on doing any tricks or stunts on your longboard, then you’re going to need to install grip tape. Grip tape is a rough, abrasive material that is applied to the top of the board in order to provide traction for your feet. It’s also useful for protecting the deck from scratches and scuffs.
Installing grip tape is a pretty simple process, but there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to get it right. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install grip tape on a longboard:
1. Start by cleaning the surface of the deck with a rag or brush. This will help ensure that the tape sticks properly.
2. Cut the grip tape to size using a sharp knife or scissors. Make sure that it’s big enough to cover the entire deck surface.
3. Peel off the backing paper from the grip tape and apply it to the deck, starting at one end and working your way towards the other. Use your fingers or a credit card to smooth out any air bubbles that might form.
4. Once the grip tape is in place, trim off any excess material around the edges of the deck using a knife or scissors.
How to Choose the Right Grip Tape for Longboard Riding
When it comes to choosing the right grip tape for longboard riding, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is the size of your deck. If you have a smaller deck, you’ll want to choose a grip tape that’s not too thick so it doesn’t make your board feel too bulky.
The second is the texture of the grip tape. You’ll want to choose a grip tape that’s not too rough so it doesn’t damage your clothes or skin, but also not too slippery so you can still maintain control of your board.
And finally, you’ll want to consider the design of the grip tape. There are a lot of different designs out there, so take some time to look around and find one that you like.
Where to Buy Grip Tape for Longboard
If you’re looking for a good place to buy grip tape for your longboard, you’ve got a few different options. You can buy it online, at a skate shop, or even at some sporting goods stores.
If you’re buying grip tape online, Amazon is a great option. They have a wide variety of brands and styles to choose from, and they usually have pretty good prices. However, make sure you read the reviews before you buy anything, as some products may not be as good as others.
Skate shops are also a great place to buy grip tape. They’ll usually have a few different brands to choose from, and the staff will be able to help you find the right one for your longboard. However, skate shops can be a bit more expensive than other places.
Finally, some sporting goods stores sell grip tape as well. This is usually hit or miss, as some stores will have a better selection than others. However, it’s worth checking out if you’re having trouble finding what you’re looking for elsewhere.
How to Choose the Right Kind of Grip Tape for Your Longboard
Selecting the right grip tape for your longboard is an important decision that can have a major impact on your ride. The type of grip tape you choose should be based on your personal style of riding, the terrain you will be riding on, and the desired feel of the grip.
First, consider your riding style.
Are you a more aggressive rider who likes to perform tricks and carve hard? If so, you may want a more aggressive grip tape with a coarse texture. This type of grip tape provides more grip, making it easier to hold onto the board during aggressive maneuvers.
Next, consider the terrain you will be riding on.
If you will be riding mostly on flat surfaces, you can afford to go with a slightly less coarse grip tape. This will make it easier to move your feet around the board when making tight turns or performing tricks.
Finally, consider the feel of the grip tape.
If you want a softer feel with plenty of grip, you may want to go for a slightly softer grip tape. This type of grip tape will give you the grip and control you need, but with a slightly softer feel.
Ultimately,
the type of grip tape you select should match your riding style, the terrain you will be riding on, and the desired feel of the grip. By taking the time to understand your needs and preferences, you can select the perfect grip tape for your longboard.
Pros and Cons of Using Grip Tape on a Longboard
Pros of Using Grip Tape on a Longboard
1. Increased Traction:
One of the primary advantages of grip tape is that it increases traction between the user’s feet and the longboard. This increased traction can help with controlling the speed and direction of the longboard while riding.
2. Improved Safety:
By increasing the traction between the board and the user’s feet, grip tape helps to ensure that the rider’s feet will not slip off the longboard while riding, which can reduce the risk of falls and injury.
3. Low Maintenance:
Grip tape requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean when it gets dirty.
Cons of Using Grip Tape on a Longboard
1. Reduced Comfort:
The increased grip of the grip tape can reduce the comfort of riding the longboard. This can be especially noticeable if the user is not wearing shoes with any cushioning, such as sneakers.
2. Reduced Speed:
Although grip tape helps with controlling the speed and direction of the longboard, it can also reduce the speed of the board due to the increased friction between the board and the user’s feet.
3. Damage to Clothing:
Grip tape can cause damage to clothing due to the sharp edges of the tape. This can be especially problematic when the user is not wearing shoes while riding the longboard.
The Benefits of Skateboarding with Grip Tape
Grip tape is a necessity for skateboarders of all skill levels and ages. Not only does it provide traction and a secure grip to the board, but it also adds a unique and individualized style to the board. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using grip tape on a skateboard.
Firstly, the primary benefit of grip tape is that it provides a secure grip to the skateboarder. The extra traction allows skateboarders to perform tricks with greater accuracy and confidence. This is useful for skateboarders of all levels, allowing them to progress their skills and finesse their techniques. A secure grip also prevents slips and other potential hazards, making it a great safety feature.
Secondly, grip tape provides greater customization and personalization to the skateboard. Many skateboarders use grip tape to create intricate designs and color palettes, making the board their very own. This allows for a great degree of expression and creativity, and can even be used to make a statement about the rider’s style and personality.
Finally, grip tape is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Most skate shops carry a variety of colors and designs, which makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your board. Additionally, the application process is relatively simple and can be done in a few minutes.
In conclusion, grip tape is an essential tool for all skateboarders, providing extra safety, traction, and customization. With its affordability, ease of installation, and aesthetic appeal, it’s the perfect addition to any skateboard.
When is it Necessary to Have Grip Tape on a Longboard?
Grip tape is generally considered a necessary addition to any longboard. Grip tape provides traction between the rider’s feet and the board and helps to prevent slipping. It also helps to cushion the board and absorb some of the vibrations and shocks from rough terrain.
Grip tape should be applied to any longboard that will be used for downhill or freeride longboarding. The added grip is essential for maintaining stability and control at high speeds. Longboards used for cruising, however, may not require grip tape.
However, riders may opt to add grip tape if they prefer to feel more secure while riding.
Grip tape should be replaced periodically, as it wears out over time. If the grip tape is worn down or peeling, it should be replaced in order to ensure optimal safety and performance. Riders should also check the condition of their grip tape before each ride to ensure that it is still providing adequate traction.
In summary, grip tape is typically a necessary addition to any longboard used for downhill or freeride longboarding, as it provides traction and helps to cushion the board. Grip tape should be replaced periodically, and riders should check its condition before each ride.
How to Apply and Maintain Grip Tape on a Longboard Step by Step Process
Grip tape is an essential component of a longboard to provide traction and stability. Applying and maintaining grip tape on a longboard safely and correctly is critical for a positive and safe longboarding experience. This guide will walk you through the steps of properly applying and maintaining grip tape on a longboard.
Step 1: Prepare the Deck
Before applying the grip tape, you will need to make sure the longboard deck is clean and free of any debris. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or grime from the deck. Make sure the deck is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Apply the Grip Tape
Lay the grip tape onto the longboard deck, making sure the edges are aligned with the deck. Begin peeling off the backing of the grip tape, revealing the adhesive side. Starting at one end, slowly press the grip tape onto the deck, using your hands to smooth out any bubbles. Make sure the grip tape is applied evenly and that there are no gaps or edges sticking up.
Step 3: Trim the Excess
Once the grip tape is applied, you will need to trim the excess. To do this, use a sharp utility knife to carefully cut away any excess grip tape along the edges of the deck.
Step 4: Maintain the Grip Tape
In order to keep your longboard’s grip tape in optimal condition, you will need to maintain it regularly. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime that accumulates on the grip tape. If the grip tape starts to look worn or starts to become less sticky, you may need to replace it.
Following these steps will help you apply and maintain grip tape on a longboard safely and correctly. With proper care, your longboard will have a secure grip and provide a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Overall, grip tape is a great addition to any longboard. Not only does it increase the amount of traction you have on the board, ensuring that your feet stay in place while riding, but it also adds an extra layer of protection from scratches and dings. It can be found easily at most sporting goods stores or online retailers, and with minimal effort you’ll be able to transform your ride into one with optimal safety features and performance capabilities.
Hey, I am Amir Khan, a longboarder and skateboarder. I’ve learned so much during this whole journey, and I share it all on longboardsgeek.com in detailed reviews and guidelines.