Just like with most things and sports equipment, skateboards come with weight limits and capacities. In general, skateboards have the capacity to hold around 200 to 300 pounds without any problem at all. Note, however, that the safe weight capacity of a skateboard may also be affected by certain factors, such as the type of skateboard, wood type used, and whether or not it is carbon fiber reinforced. So, can you skateboard if you’re overweight? Why not!
Skateboard Weight Limit
The average deck of a skateboard can hold a safe weight of 200 pounds without getting cracks caused by pressure or breaking. A regular skateboard features an official weight limit of 272.3 pounds. This maximum weight limit was determined with several factors in consideration, including the testing speed, ease of maneuver and thrust.
With this said, every skateboard will break because of wear and tear regardless of the weight of the one using it. In fact, there are some thin, perhaps underweight skateboards, need to change decks every two weeks or months, especially if they are pros.
To ensure that your skateboard can carry at least 200 pounds, you can check its size. It should be at least 8 inches in width, and is made out of 7 or 8 layers made of North American maple wood. To further its durability and flexibility, you may want to get a deck with carbon fiber discs located at its truck mounts.
Longboard Weight Capacity
The average capacity of a longboard in terms of weight is 300 pounds. Still, there are some factors which may have an impact on the weight capacity of a longboard. This includes the type of wood used in its construction, the shape and size of the board, as well as the main parts, including the wheels, bearings and trucks.
A longboard deck is commonly made out of bamboo or maple. Boards that are constructed from Bamboo can have a comfortable weight capacity of 300 pounds, while Maple boards can hold up to 220 to 260 pounds.
As you also take into consideration the width of a board, those with a width of 7 to 9 inches are ideal for riders with a weight of 200 to 250 pounds. On the other hand, longboards which are 10 inches or more generally offer more weight capacity. Added to this is the act that the more plies a board has, the more durable it is expected to be.
Is a Rider’s Weight Really Important?
When it comes to riding, weight has an effect on your capacity to enjoy your skateboard. This does not mean, however, that you can no longer skateboard just because you are overweight. You simply need to look for a different style or size of board, especially if you are still starting out.
As you get your very first skateboard, make sure to check all of the specifications and features. Also, as you start skateboarding, it is good to accept early on that decks are bound to break. This may not have anything to do with your weight. After all, even young ones break their boards. You may be less likely to experience this if you learn the proper ways of landing your board properly.
To make a proper landing, land, on the trucks’ bolts, slightly bending your knees as the board wheels come into contact again with the pavement. You may also observe that weight also plays a huge role in speeding up on hills. Skaters who are on the heavier side may have the tendency to get a good momentum when riding down hills. This, however, could be disadvantageous as speed may lead to injuries when uncontrolled.
Still, do not lose hope. Danny Way, the heaviest pro skater, weights 180 pounds. Despite his weight, he was able to break several skateboarding records, such as the highest air. This record was first broken in 1998, reaching 16.8 feet air, and later on broke this record three times more.
Choosing the Right Skateboard if You’re Overweight
One way to deal with skateboarding and your weight is making sure that you get the right skateboard. Note that skateboards are available in different sizes and shapes, with several different components. Every component may be selected to cater to more weight.
Before buying a skateboard, check the specifications that will suit you best. One of the first things that you can take into consideration is that the more weight you have, the more prone you are to experiencing broken decks when improperly landing tricks.
Another consideration is getting every skateboard component separately. This means getting individual components such as the trucks, wheels, and decks, and assembling them together to maximize the best weight capacities.
- Wheels
The best wheels for overweight skateboards are those that come with a bigger diameter. The best ones come with 55mm in diameter or more. With this, however, you may need to secure riser pads to prevent wheel bite. The bigger the wheel, the better support and balance you can expect as you get momentum.
- Trucks
Skateboard trucks connect all other components to the board, allowing it to turn. If the trucks are constructed using high-quality materials such as titanium, steel or aluminum alloy, they may have a weight capacity of 350 pounds.
- Bearings
The bearings will not significantly create a difference to the weight capacity of a skateboard, provided that you get them from reputable manufacturers.
Conclusion
Can you skateboard if you’re overweight? Yes, you can. By following the tips mentioned above, specifically, when it comes to choosing the best skateboard for your needs, you will be up and skateboarding in no time! Rather than choosing a skateboard just because you got attracted to the design or graphic, make sure to consider the factors mentioned above to secure a skateboard that will suit your size and weight. In this way, you will be able to enjoy skateboarding despite your weight. As you continue improving your skills, you will also learn the techniques to avoid breaking your deck. Remember – the wider your skateboard is, the more weight capacity it can offer.