A lot of questions will pop into your head when you buy a skateboard for the first time, or when packing for a trip. These may be, How much does a skateboard weigh? Does a skateboard’s weight affect my performance, maneuverability, and overall experience? What is the skateboard weight limit for taking in on a plane? and so on. On average, a standard skateboard weighs between 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms).
Actually, the weight of a skateboard can vary based on several factors including the materials, size, and shape of the skateboard components. In this blog post, we will delve into the influence factors of skateboard weight. And we will also explore the impacts of light or heavy skateboards on skateboarding. And also find out all the answers to your questions.
How does skateboard weight affect tricks and maneuvers?
The weight of a skateboard isn’t the most crucial factor, but it plays a role in your skating experience. It influences the overall performance, maneuverability, and comfort of the rider.
Lighter skateboards
Lighter skateboards are easier to flick for tricks, pop higher ollies, and maneuver with speed. These skateboards are ideal for technical skating and freestyle. Because they are more responsive and playful. Lighter skateboards are less stable, especially at high speeds or when landing tricks.
Heavier skateboards
Heavier skateboards offer more stability and control. The added weight makes them easier to balance, especially for beginners. They are good for downhill skating and cruising. Skaters who focus on higher speeds and vertical ramps may prefer slightly heavier skateboards. Heavier skateboards are less responsive and it needs more effort to flick and maneuver.
So the decision and preferences are yours. Your body size, riding style, and experiences will determine what kind of skateboards you are comfortable with most. If you are a beginner or smaller, a heavier skateboard will make you more confident. At the same time, the experienced and larger skaters will prefer lighter skateboards. However, keep in mind that personal preference, riding style, and comfort are just as important.
How Much Does A Complete Skateboard Weigh?
The complete skateboard includes the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tapes, and other components. The overall weight of a complete skateboard will be the total sum of all components of a skateboard.
The standard complete skateboard typically weighs between 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms). Though it depends on the various aspects as I mentioned in the blog. The skateboard I ride has 31 Inches of Deck Length, 7.5 Inches of Deck Width, and a total item weight is 2 Kilograms or 4.41 pounds.
Here is a table of the skateboard components’ weight
| Name of the components | Weight in pounds | Weights in Kilograms |
| Skateboard Deck | 1.5 to 5 pounds | 0.68 to 2.3 kilograms |
| A set of skateboard trucks | 1.0 to 2 pounds | 0.45 to 0.91 kg |
| A set of four skateboard wheels | 0.6 to 1.2 pounds | 0.27 to 0.54 kg |
| A set of eight skateboard bearings | 2 to 4 ounces | 56 to 113 grams |
| Skateboard Hardware | 1 to 2 ounces | 28 to 56 grams |
| A set of four skateboard bushings | 1 to 3 ounces | 28 to 85 grams |
| A standard sheet of skateboard grip tape | 6 to 7 ounces | 170 to 200 grams |
| Total Weight | 3.72 to 9.2 pounds | 1.675 to 4.17 kilogram |
These are the approximate weights of skateboard components. But On average, a standard skateboard weighs between 4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms)
Factors Affecting the Weight of a Skateboard
After knowing the factors you will understand why it differs in weight of skateboards. These factors include
- Materials used in the construction of a Skateboard
- Size and weight of the Skateboard deck
- Widths and materials of the Skateboard truck
- Weight of the Components and Hardware
- Additional Accessories weight
How Much Does A Skateboard Deck Weigh?
When the question arises of how much skateboards weigh, the first thought will come what is the weight of the skateboard decks? The weight of a skateboard deck can vary depending on the materials used, the deck’s size, and additional features. Without any features or attachments, a standard skateboard deck weighs between 1.5 to 5 pounds (0.68 to 2.3 kilograms).
Some factors also influence the weight of skateboard Decks
- Decks with more plies, like 8 or 9-ply, will be slightly heavier. And decks with fewer plies, like 5-ply, will be slightly lighter.
- Maple is the most commonly used material. Also, carbon fiber, bamboo, and fiberglass are used nowadays. But heavier woods like bamboo exist. Bamboo decks can be 10-20% lighter than maple.
- The dimensions of the deck( length, width) can impact the overall weight. Larger skateboard decks may weigh slightly more than smaller ones. For example: Wider decks (8.5 inches+) generally weigh more than narrower ones (7.75 inches and below).
- Different deck shapes, such as popsicle, concave, cruiser, or old school, can affect the weight.
Remember: You should consider your overall weight, experience level, and riding style when choosing a complete setup. If you are a beginner, learning balance and control, you should go for the heavier decks. The price of a skateboard deck also varies on the weight of the deck.
How Much Do Skateboard Trucks Weigh?
Usually, a pair of trucks make a skateboard track set. The weight of the two trucks is also considered while you are thinking about the overall weight.
On average, a set of skateboard trucks weighs between 1.0 to 2 pounds (0.45 to 0.91 kg). An individual truck weighs 0.5 to 1 pound (0.23 to 0.45 kg).
The skateboard deck weights can vary depending on brand, material, and design. For example,
- Some lightweight models like Tensor Mag Light Lo weigh as little as 231 grams. And heavier ones like Independent Standards can reach 377 grams.
- Trucks are generally made from steel, aluminum, titanium, or magnesium. Of them, Steel is the heaviest, and magnesium is the lightest
- Larger trucks generally weigh more than smaller ones. For example, a 7.75″ truck will be lighter than an 8.5″ truck from the same brand and model.
Skaters need to pay attention while selecting the skateboard trucks. It can affect the overall feel and performance of the skateboard. Lighter trucks are often preferred for street skating and technical tricks. On the other hand, heavier trucks may provide more stability and control. This can be beneficial for ramp or transition skating. Try to check the attachment of the trucks to the deck before starting the ride.
How Much Do Skateboard Wheels Weigh?
Skateboard wheels are available in various durometers (hardness levels), sizes, and materials. Lighter wheels accelerate faster and are generally easier to flip. And heavier wheels roll smoother over rough surfaces, offer more grip, and provide more stability at high speeds.
A set of four skateboard wheels typically weighs around 0.6 to 1.2 pounds (0.27 to 0.54 kg). An individual wheel is about 0.2 to 0.3 pounds(0.12 to 0.9 kg).
Larger wheels naturally weigh more. For example, a set of 54mm wheels might weigh around 0.5 lbs, while a set of 60mm wheels could be closer to 0.7 lbs.
Hollow cores can make wheels lighter. On the other hand, filled cores are generally heavier.
How Much Do Skateboard Bearings Weigh?
The weight of skateboard bearings is generally quite low. That’s why, most of the time it is negligible when considering the overall weight of a skateboard setup.
A set of eight skateboard bearings typically weigh around 2 to 4 ounces (56 to 113 grams). The weight of an individual skateboard bearing is about 0.25 to 0.5 ounces (7 to 14 grams).
Two common materials of the skateboard bearing are steel and ceramic. The weight differs with the material. Usually, the difference is 5-7 grams per bearing and 40-56grams in a set. I always prefer the steel bearings.
I always take care of the bearings and sometimes use lubricants for getting more speed.
How Much Does Skateboard Hardware Weigh?
Skateboard hardware refers to the nuts and bolts. These are used to attach the trucks to the skateboard deck. A set of eight skateboard hardware pieces, which includes eight bolts and eight nuts.
Generally, it usually weighs around 1 to 2 ounces (28 to 56 grams). The weight can vary slightly based on the specific brand and design of the hardware. I always try to go for long-lasting and strong nuts and bolts.
How Much Do Skateboard Bushings Weigh?
Skateboard bushings are very small, rubber or polyurethane components. These are placed in the skateboard trucks to provide cushioning and control. The weight of skateboard bushings is minimal.
On average, a set of four bushings might weigh around 1 to 3 ounces (28 to 85 grams).
It varies depending on the materials and design (barrel or cone set, Cylinder bushings). Larger bushings naturally weigh more than smaller ones. For instance, bushings for longboards will be slightly heavier than those for streetboards. Always buy the preferred design of your skateboard.
How Much Does Grip Tape Weigh?
The skateboard grip tape is sold in large sheets. When purchasing grip tape, as a skateboarder you need to often consider factors such as grit (coarseness), adhesive quality, and graphic design.
A standard sheet of skateboard (usually 33″ x 9″) grip tape weighs around 6 to 7 ounces (170 to 200 grams).
Keep in mind that, the weight may vary slightly depending on the specific brand and design. You can also even customize the grip by trying different cuts.
Here is the necessary information about the skateboard weights. Choose the skateboard that suits your needs and preferences considering the overall cost.
Conclusion
So, how much does a skateboard weigh? On average, a standard skateboard is around 4-8 pounds (1.8-3.6 kg). The weight of your skateboard can impact your skating experience, affecting performance, maneuverability, and overall comfort. But remember that, the weight is a factor but it can’t hold your overall performance.
The decision on the weight of a skateboard depends on personal preferences, riding style, and experience level. Don’t forget to consider your body size, riding style, and comfort. Take time to do research, experiment, and find the perfect setup.