Skate Fingerboarding: a pocket-sized version of skateboarding that packs a surprising amount of fun and challenge. This miniature sport has taken the world by storm, captivating enthusiasts with its intricate tricks, custom setups, and vibrant community. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to level up your fingerboarding game, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know.
Choosing the Right Fingerboard Setup
Just like their larger counterparts, fingerboards come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Selecting the right setup for your style is crucial for optimal performance and enjoyment.
Decks: The Foundation of Your Ride
The deck is the heart of your fingerboard, dictating how it feels and responds to your tricks. Decks come in various widths, typically measured in millimeters (mm).
- Narrower decks (32mm-33.5mm): Offer enhanced flip tricks and technical maneuvers.
- Wider decks (34mm and above): Provide more stability and control, ideal for bowls and ramps.
Trucks: Turning and Grinding Machines
Trucks are the metal axles that attach to the deck, allowing you to steer and grind. They significantly impact your fingerboard’s responsiveness and turning radius.
- Loose trucks: Enable sharper turns and quicker response times.
- Tight trucks: Offer more stability, particularly at higher speeds or on ramps.
Wheels: Roll with Precision and Style
Fingerboard wheels come in various sizes, durometers (hardness), and shapes.
- Smaller wheels: Provide a lower center of gravity, making flip tricks easier.
- Larger wheels: Offer more speed and roll smoother over obstacles.
- Harder wheels: Offer less grip but more speed.
- Softer wheels: Provide better grip, ideal for technical tricks.
Mastering the Basics: Essential Fingerboard Tricks
Before attempting complex maneuvers, it’s vital to establish a solid foundation with basic fingerboard tricks.
The Ollie: Your Gateway to Fingerboarding
The ollie is the most fundamental fingerboard trick, serving as the building block for countless others. To ollie:
- Place your index finger on the tail and your middle finger on the center of the deck.
- Apply pressure with your index finger, snapping the tail down and up.
- Simultaneously slide your middle finger towards the nose to level the board in mid-air.
- Land smoothly with both fingers on the bolts.
The Shove-it: Adding Style and Rotation
The shove-it involves rotating the board 180 degrees beneath your fingers while keeping the deck relatively level.
- Position your fingers as you would for an ollie.
- Pop the tail with your index finger.
- Instead of leveling the board, use your middle finger to guide the nose in a 180-degree rotation.
- Catch the board with your fingers and land smoothly.
Fingerboard Fundamentals: Ollie and Shove-it
Grinding: Conquering Ledges and Rails
Grinding adds a new dimension to fingerboarding, allowing you to utilize obstacles like ledges and rails.
- Approach the obstacle with speed and control.
- Ollie towards the edge of the obstacle.
- As your fingerboard approaches the obstacle, tilt the board to align the trucks with the edge.
- Maintain balance and control as you slide along the obstacle.
Building Your Fingerboard World
Half the fun of fingerboarding lies in customizing your setup and creating your own miniature skatepark.
Customizing Your Fingerboard
Express your individuality and enhance your fingerboarding experience by customizing your setup.
- Grip tape art: Create unique designs using different colored grip tapes or markers.
- Custom decks: Paint or draw on your deck to personalize your setup.
- Truck upgrades: Experiment with different truck brands and configurations for a custom feel.
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Creating a DIY Fingerboard Park
Building a fingerboard park is a rewarding project that allows you to unleash your creativity.
- Simple obstacles: Start with basic obstacles like ramps, boxes, and rails using cardboard, wood, or LEGOs.
- Advanced features: As you progress, incorporate more complex elements like stairs, handrails, and even bowls.
- Realistic details: Add miniature ramps, benches, and other skatepark elements for an immersive experience.
Taking Your Fingerboarding to the Next Level
Once you’ve mastered the basics, a world of advanced tricks and opportunities awaits.
Advanced Tricks: Pushing Your Limits
From kickflips to he ollies to impossibly technical combinations, the possibilities are endless. Numerous online resources and communities offer tutorials and inspiration for taking your fingerboarding to the next level.
Joining the Fingerboard Community
Connecting with other fingerboard enthusiasts can enhance your enjoyment and push your skills further.
- Online communities: Engage in forums, social media groups, and video-sharing platforms dedicated to fingerboarding.
- Local events: Participate in competitions, meetups, and workshops to connect with fellow fingerboarders in person.
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Conclusion: Embrace the Grind
Skate fingerboarding offers a captivating blend of skill, creativity, and community. From mastering the basics to exploring advanced tricks and building your own fingerboard park, the possibilities are endless. So, grab your fingerboard, embrace the grind, and experience the world of fingerboarding!
FAQs
Q: What is the best fingerboard brand for beginners?
A: Several reputable brands cater to beginners, including Tech Deck, [sure grip skate], and P-Rep. These brands offer durable and affordable fingerboards perfect for learning the ropes.
Q: What size fingerboard is right for me?
A: The ideal fingerboard size depends on personal preference and hand size. Generally, a standard 32mm-34mm deck suits most beginners.
Q: Where can I buy fingerboard parts and accessories?
A: You can find fingerboard parts and accessories at various online retailers, local skate shops, and specialty fingerboard stores.
Q: Can I use regular skateboard grip tape on my fingerboard?
A: Yes, you can use regular skateboard grip tape on your fingerboard. However, cutting it precisely to fit the smaller surface area is essential.
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Q: How do I clean my fingerboard?
A: A slightly damp cloth with mild soap works well to clean your fingerboard. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the deck or grip tape.
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