Asphalt skateboarding is a type of skateboarding that is done on, you guessed it, asphalt. It is different from other types of skateboarding in a few ways and offers some unique benefits. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what asphalt skateboarding is, why you might want to try it, and what you need to get started.
What is asphalt skateboarding?
History of asphalt skateboarding
Asphalt skateboarding is a relatively new phenomenon that started in the early 2000s. It is a type of skateboarding that is done on paved surfaces, such as roads and sidewalks. The first documented instance of asphalt skating was in 2003, when a group of skaters in California started skating on a stretch of road that had just been repaved.
Asphalt skateboarding has since gained popularity among both professional and amateur skaters. Many cities now have dedicated asphalt skate parks, where skaters can come to practice their skills and tricks.
Asphalt skateboarding vs. other types of skateboarding.
Asphalt skateboarding is different from other types of skating in a few key ways. First, it requires a different type of board than traditional street or vert skating. Asphalt boards are typically longer and wider than other boards, with softer wheels designed for smoother riding on rough surfaces.
Second, asphalt skating requires its own set of skills and techniques. Because the surface is uneven and often slippery, skaters need to be able to balance and control their boards at high speeds. Asphalt skaters also need to be able to perform quick starts and stops, as well as tight turns.
Third, asphalt skating can be more dangerous than other types of skating due to the higher speeds involved and the uneven surface. As such, it is important for skaters to wear proper safety gear, including helmets, pads, and elbow and knee guards.
Read: How to pop a skateboards?
What are the benefits of asphalt skateboarding?
Improve your skating skills
Asphalt skateboarding can help you improve your skating skills faster than other types of skateboarding because the surface is smoother. You can also practice tricks that are more difficult to do on rough surfaces.
Get a workout
Asphalt skateboarding is a great way to get a workout because it is an aerobic activity that requires you to use all of your muscles. It is also low-impact, so it is easy on your joints.
Meet new people
Asphalt skateboarding is a great way to meet new people because there are usually other people skateboarding in the same area. You can also meet people at skate parks or competitions.
Provide a smoother ride
The asphalt provides a much smoother ride than concrete which makes for an enjoyable experience and lessens the likelihood of getting injured from vibrations or impact with the ground..
Stabilize the board at high speeds
Riding on asphalt can help stabilize your board at high speeds, making it easier to control and less likely to veer off course unexpectedly..
What do you need to get started with asphalt skateboarding?
Skateboard
If you’re just getting started in the world of skateboarding, you might think that all skateboards are the same. But that’s not the case! There are different types of boards for different riding styles, and if you want to start asphalt skateboarding, you’ll need a board that’s specifically designed for it.
Asphalt skateboards have a few key features that set them apart from other types of boards. First, they’re usually made with harder wheels than other boards, which helps them roll over rough surfaces like asphalt without slowing down too much. They also often have wider trucks (the part of the board that attaches to the wheels), which makes them more stable at high speeds. And finally, they usually have longer decks (the part of the board you stand on), which gives you more space to move around and perform tricks.
Of course, you don’t necessarily need an asphalt-specific board to start skating on asphalt—any good quality skateboard will do. But if you’re serious about this style of skating, it’s worth investing in a board that’s been designed specifically for it.
Protective gear
Skateboarding can be a dangerous sport, so it’s important to wear the right protective gear before hitting the pavement. This includes a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards. Wearing proper safety gear will help protect you in case of a fall, and can even help prevent injuries in the first place by absorbing some of the impact in a fall.
Find a good spot to skate
Not all asphalt is created equal—some surfaces are smoother than others, and some are better suited for certain tricks than others. When you’re first starting out, it’s best to find a spot with smooth pavement that doesn’t have any big cracks or irregularities. Once you’ve gotten comfortable skating on smooth surfaces, you can start exploring rougher terrain and trying out new tricks on different kinds of asphalt.
Asphalt skateboarding: 10 tips to get started
Asphalt skateboarding can be a great way to improve your skating skills and get a workout. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you get started. Here are 10 tips to help you get started with asphalt skateboarding:
1. Get the right equipment. You will need a good quality skateboard and protective gear, including a helmet, elbow and knee pads, and wrist guards.
2. Find a good spot to skate. Look for smooth, flat surfaces such as parking lots or tennis courts. Avoid rough surfaces like sidewalks or streets.
3. Warm up before you skate. Stretch your muscles and loosen up your joints to avoid injury.
4. Start slow and practice basic moves. Don’t try any fancy tricks until you have mastered the basics of skating on asphalt.
5. Be cautious of cracks and other obstacles. Asphalt can be unpredictable, so watch out for cracks, potholes, rocks, and other obstacles that could trip you up or cause you to fall.
6. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Pay attention to traffic and other potential hazards around you while skating on asphalt.
7 Use proper form when skating. Remember to bend your knees slightly and keep your back straight when skating on asphalt. This will help you maintain balance and control of your board.
8. Push off with one foot at a time. When pushing off, alternate feet so that each foot gets an equal workout.
9. Take breaks as needed. Skating on asphalt can be taxing on your body, so take breaks as needed to avoid exhaustion.
10. Have fun! Skating on asphalt is supposed to be enjoyable, so don’t take it too seriously!
Conclusion
Asphalt skateboarding is a great way to improve your skating skills, get a workout, and meet new people. It can provide a smoother ride and stabilize the board at high speeds. To get started, you’ll need a skateboard and some protective gear. Once you’ve found a good spot to skate, check out these 10 tips to help you get started with asphalt skateboarding.