Learning how to ride a skateboard is like learning a new language, it can feel awkward at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. Whether you’re dreaming of carving down ramps, commuting through the city, or simply cruising around the neighborhood, this beginner’s guide will walk you through every step of the journey.
As a Canadian company proudly based in Ajax, Ontario, we at Switch Skate and Snow have helped hundreds of riders in the Greater Toronto Area get started with skateboarding.
And now, we’re here to help you too, right from your screen.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about how to ride a skateboard, including tips, techniques, and important safety practices.
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Switch Skate & Snow:
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Why Skateboarding is More Than Just a Sport
Skateboarding isn’t just about tricks or shredding rails, it’s a lifestyle, a form of self-expression, and an insanely fun way to stay active. For many of us, it’s also become a key part of our everyday routine.
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It improves your balance and coordination.
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It’s a great cardiovascular workout.
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It helps you build resilience and confidence.
Plus, with skateboarding now officially part of the Olympics, there’s never been a better time to start learning
Choosing the Right Skateboard
Before we even think about hopping on, let’s talk gear. The right skateboard can make all the difference, especially for beginners.
At Switch Skate and Snow, we carry a range of high-quality boards perfect for new riders. Here's what to look for:
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Deck Width: Start with a board that’s around 7.5” to 8.0” wide. It offers enough space for your feet while keeping things maneuverable.
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Deck Material: Go for a 7-ply maple board, it's strong, responsive, and flexible.
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Wheels: Softer wheels (around 78A to 87A) are better for smoother rides and beginner control.
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Trucks: Choose trucks that match your deck width, for better turning and balance.
Looking for guidance near you? Stop by our Ajax store or check out our online inventory, we ship across Canada!
Get to Know Your Gear
You can’t ride well if you don’t know what you're riding. Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Deck: The board itself
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Grip Tape: The sandpaper-like surface that helps your shoes grip the board
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Trucks: The metal parts underneath that attach the wheels to the deck
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Wheels: Self-explanatory, but size and softness matter!
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Bearings: These let your wheels spin
Understanding your setup gives you more control, and helps you feel more confident from the start.
Essential Safety Gear (Yes, You Need It)
We can’t stress this enough: wear your gear. Even the pros wear helmets when learning new tricks. Here’s what we recommend:
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Helmet: Always wear one period.
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Knee Pads and Elbow Pads: These will save you from scrapes and bruises.
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Wrist Guards: Falling on your hands is super common; wrist guards prevent sprains.
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Proper Skate Shoes: Flat soles help grip the board and offer more control.
According to a 2022 study from the Canadian Public Health Association, over 60% of skateboarding injuries among teens could’ve been avoided with the right safety gear. Let’s not be part of that stat.
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Finding the Right Place to Practice
When you're just starting out, where you ride matters just as much as how. Look for:
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Smooth, flat pavement: Empty parking lots or quiet driveways are perfect.
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Skate parks during off-hours: Less crowded means less pressure.
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Beginner-friendly skateparks in the Durham Region like Victory Skatepark in Ajax offer great spots to learn safely.
And if you're looking for a skateboarding community near me, our team at Switch hosts regular beginner clinics, so stay tuned!
Stance Check: Regular or Goofy?
Before you even roll, you need to figure out your stance. Are you regular (left foot forward) or goofy (right foot forward)?
Here’s a quick test:
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Have someone gently push you from behind.
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Whichever foot you step forward with to catch yourself is likely your lead foot.
Don't overthink it, just go with what feels right. You can always adjust later.
Balancing on a Skateboard (Before You Even Roll)
Start by placing your board on a patch of grass or carpet. This stops it from moving, so you can focus on getting comfortable.
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Place your feet over the bolts, shoulder-width apart.
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Bend your knees slightly—this is your power position.
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Keep your back straight and arms out for balance.
Practice this until standing on the board feels second nature. Balance is everything when it comes to learning how to ride a skateboard.
Pushing Off and Getting Moving
Once you’re confident standing, it’s time to roll.
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Back foot off the board, front foot near the front bolts.
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Push off with your back foot like you’re scooting.
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Place your back foot onto the tail of the board.
Remember to keep your knees bent. This helps absorb bumps and gives you better control.
Turning and Carving Basics
Now let’s steer this thing.
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Lean To Turn: Gently shift your weight in the direction you want to go.
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Carving: Practice wide, S-shaped turns. This helps you learn how to distribute your weight and stay smooth.
Pro tip: The more pressure you apply to your toes or heels, the sharper your turns will be.
Stopping Without Falling
Stopping is just as important as starting. Here are a few beginner techniques:
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Foot Brake: Take your back foot off and gently drag it on the ground.
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Heel Drag: Push down on the tail and use your heel to slow the board.
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Grass Stop: If you're near grass, just roll off onto it.
Stopping takes time to master, but it's key for safety, especially if you're skating in public areas.
How to Ride a Skateboard Downhill (Safely)
Downhill skating can feel exhilarating, but also terrifying if you're new. Take it slow:
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Start on small inclines
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Always keep your weight low and centered
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Use your foot brake or carve to control speed
Never bomb a hill until you’ve got stopping and carving locked down.
Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
We’ve seen a lot of first-timers make these missteps:
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Too stiff: Loosen up! Skateboarding is all about flow.
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Looking down: Keep your eyes ahead, not on your feet.
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Standing too narrow: Give yourself a stable base, shoulder-width is the rule.
Mistakes are part of the process, what matters is how we learn from them.
Sticking With It: Practice Makes Progress
There’s no shortcut here, just consistency. We recommend:
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15–30 minutes daily if possible.
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Practice pushing, turning, and stopping before trying tricks.
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Celebrate small wins (like your first successful push or turn).
Skating is about progress, not perfection. And honestly? It’s supposed to be fun.
Skateboarding in Ajax and the Durham Region
We’re proud to serve the skateboarding community across Ajax, Oshawa, Pickering, and the entire Durham Region. Whether you’re looking for beginner-friendly boards, expert advice, or gear that’ll grow with you, we’ve got your back at Switch Skate and Snow.
Want to ride with others? Check out our local meetups, events, and community clinics. Skateboarding is even better when shared.
When to Upgrade Your Gear
As you improve, you’ll eventually outgrow your beginner setup. Here's how to know:
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Your board feels too soft or wobbly
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You want to start learning tricks
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You need better responsiveness for turning
Our team at Switch is always available, online or in-store, to help guide your next upgrade. We carry top brands and offer guidance for skaters at every level.
Conclusion
Learning how to ride a skateboard might seem intimidating at first, but with the right gear, a safe space to practice, and a little daily commitment, you’ll be rolling confidently in no time. Remember, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about enjoying the ride. And if you’re ever in the Durham Region or Greater Toronto Area, stop by Switch Skate and Snow. We’re here to help you every push of the way.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to learn how to ride a skateboard?
Most beginners can learn the basics, like balancing, pushing, and turning—within a week or two of regular practice.
2. Is skateboarding safe for beginners?
Yes, especially if you wear proper safety gear like a helmet, pads, and wrist guards. Start on flat, open surfaces to stay in control.
3. What type of skateboard is best for beginners?
A board that’s around 7.75” wide with soft wheels and quality trucks is ideal. We recommend visiting a local shop like ours for tailored advice.
4. Do I need special shoes to ride a skateboard?
Yes. Skate shoes have flat soles and reinforced sides, offering better grip and durability than regular sneakers.
5. Can I ride a skateboard on the sidewalk?
It depends on your local laws. In many parts of Ontario, it’s legal, but always be cautious of pedestrians and traffic.
