SWITCH SKATE & SNOW BLOG

Skateboarding isn't just about mastering tricks, it's a vibe and culture, a lifestyle, and for many of us, a daily uniform. The clothes we wear when we ride say just as much about us as the boards beneath our feet.

Every snowboard season, we hear the same question in our shop and online: “Which one should I go for — Union Force or Contact Pro?” As we head into the 2026 season, this debate is heating up more than ever. At Switch Skate and Snow here in Ajax, Ontario, we’ve seen firsthand how these two iconic bindings perform in the hands (and feet) of riders across Canada.

Explore the top spots for indoor skateboarding in Toronto. Find expert gear & local tips from Switch Skate and Snow.

While bearings like REDS/Super REDS are more common for skateboards and longboards, if you’re using sliding-tray setups, snowboards with wheel-based dolly systems, or custom hybrid boards for off-season cross-training, bearings still play a role.Choosing Super REDS gives you smoother, quieter rolling, which can make transitions and transport more pleasant. But if you just want decent wheels for occasional use or travel, REDS remain solid and cost-effective.

According to our findings on Skateboarding in Winter. Reduced traction: Snow, ice, moisture, and cold concrete surfaces make wheels slippery — increased risk of slipping or losing balance. Board and wheel strain: Cold can make skateboard wood more brittle and wheels harder — less shock absorption and rougher ride. Keep on reading out find out more

When people ask is skiing or snowboarding easier, the real answer depends on how you learn and what you enjoy. Skiing is usually easier for beginners because the forward-facing stance feels more natural and stable. Snowboarding, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve at first, but once you get past the early falls, many riders find it easier to progress and master. If you’ve tried skateboarding, surfing, or any board sport, snowboarding may feel more intuitive. But if you want to get comfortable on the slopes quickly, skiing often provides a smoother start. Understanding your comfort level, balance, and goals can help you choose the winter sport that fits you best.

Learning how to ollie is the first real milestone in skateboarding. In our 10-step guide, we break down the exact stance, timing, and foot movements that help beginners pop higher, slide smoothly, and land with confidence. Once we understand how to ollie with proper form, every other trick becomes easier — and the board finally starts to feel like an extension of us.

If you’re searching for the best Toronto skateparks, we’ve put together a detailed guide covering the top indoor, outdoor, free, and paid spots across the city. We break down features, difficulty levels, beginner-friendly areas, and what makes each park worth visiting so you can plan your next skate session with confidence.

We break down the best skateboard trucks for 2026 with real performance insights, beginner-friendly guidance, and expert picks you’ll actually want to skate. Our top choices—from Ace, Independent, and Thunder—are all available at Switch Skate & Snow in Ajax, Ontario, serving skaters across the GTA and Canada. This guide helps you match the right truck size, feel, and style so you ride smoother, turn sharper, and progress faster.

Find the best skateboard for beginners with our top 3 picks, checklists, and expert tips to choose your first board.

To help skaters choose the right deck this year, we reviewed the top 5 best skateboard brands of 2026 based on strength, pop, balance, value, and real-world rider feedback. We also compared the information with trusted local sources that are well-known skate retailers to ensure accuracy. The result is a guide packed with genuine insights, not fluff!

At Switch Skate & Snow, we’ve hand-tested and reviewed the best Smith snowboard helmets of 2026 for riders across Canada. From the all-round Mondo MIPS to the pro-level Method Pro, this in-depth guide covers fit, comfort, protection, and value—helping you find the perfect helmet for your next run in the GTA, Durham Region, or beyond.