Complete vs. Custom-Built: Discover Which Skateboard Is Right for You
Are you thinking about taking up a new hobby or you are already comfortable surfing down the streets? Skateboarding is a thrilling sport that combines athleticism, creativity, and adrenaline, so it’s no wonder it attracts a lot of young enthusiasts.
If you are one of them or you are the parent of a child who is eager to get on the wheels, then you have probably faced the question – what is the right skateboard to get? While complete models provide convenience and accessibility, custom-built setups offer personalised performance and style. So which option should you go for when browsing through well-stocked Australia skateboard shops?
Complete Skateboards
Ready-to-ride skateboards for sale come fully assembled, which means you can use them straight out of the box. They typically include a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape, providing beginners and casual riders with a hassle-free option.
Advantages
- Convenience: The primary advantage of complete models lies in their convenience. They eliminate the need for individuals to research and assemble individual components, making them ideal for beginners or those lacking technical knowledge.
- Cost-effective: These options often offer a more cost-effective solution compared to custom-built setups. Since all components are bundled together, manufacturers can offer competitive prices, making them accessible to a wider audience.
- Beginner-friendly: Assembled by experts, complete varieties are designed with beginners in mind. They typically feature components that are well-suited for learning basic skills and techniques, such as stable trucks and softer wheels for smoother rides.
- Consistency: When you buy skateboards you want to ensure consistency in performance and quality. Since all components are chosen and assembled by the manufacturer, users can expect uniformity in their riding experience, which is beneficial for those prioritizing predictability.
Disadvantages
- Limited customization: The most significant drawback of complete skateboards is their lack of customization. Users have little to no control over individual components, limiting their ability to tailor the setup to their specific preferences or riding style.
- Lower quality components: While complete skateboards offer convenience, they often compromise on component quality to maintain affordability. Some may feature subpar trucks, wheels, or bearings, which may not withstand rigorous use or perform optimally for experienced riders.
- Restricted performance: Since complete skateboards are designed with general users in mind, they may not provide the performance capabilities desired by more experienced or advanced riders. This limitation can hinder progression and stunt skill development.
Custom-Built Skateboards
Every experienced rider will tell you that if you are serious about boarding, you should design your own skateboard. Custom models entail individually selecting and assembling each component according to personal preferences, riding style, and performance requirements. This approach offers riders greater control over their setup, allowing for enhanced performance and unique aesthetics. And luckily, skateboard shops offer a wide range of premium components from different brands, so you can easily find everything you need.
Advantages
- Personalization: The biggest advantage of custom-built skateboards is the ability to personalize every aspect of the setup. From selecting the deck shape and size to choosing trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape, users can tailor their boards to precisely match their preferences and requirements.
- Enhanced performance: Custom-built setups enable riders to optimise performance based on their specific needs. When they select high-quality components suited to their riding style, users can experience improved stability, manoeuvrability, speed, and durability, enhancing their overall skating experience.
- Creative expression: Building a custom skateboard provides an avenue for creative expression and individuality. From choosing unique graphics for the deck to selecting colourful wheels and accessories, riders can showcase their personality and style through their customized setup.
- Long-term investment: While custom-built skateboards may entail higher initial costs compared to complete setups, they often represent a better long-term investment. If you invest in premium components and durable materials, you can enjoy a setup that withstands heavy use and provides consistent performance over time, potentially saving money on replacements and upgrades. The good thing is that Australia skateboard stores stock up on a variety of parts along with other skateboarding accessories with different price ranges.
Disadvantages
- Complexity: Building a custom skateboard requires technical knowledge of skateboard components, compatibility, and assembly procedures. For beginners or those unfamiliar with skateboarding equipment, the process can be intimidating and overwhelming, potentially leading to mistakes or suboptimal setups.
- Higher cost: Custom-built skateboards tend to incur higher costs compared to complete setups, particularly when opting for premium components or specialized brands. The cumulative expenses of individual components can add up quickly, making customization financially prohibitive for some riders.
- Time-consuming: Unlike complete skateboards that are ready for use upon purchase, custom-built setups demand time and effort for component selection, sourcing, and assembly. This process can be time-consuming, requiring patience and attention to detail, which may deter individuals seeking immediate gratification.
- Trial and error: Customizing a skateboard often involves a degree of trial and error, especially for those experimenting with new components or configurations. Riders may need to iterate through multiple setups to find the optimal combination that suits their preferences and performance requirements, which can be frustrating and costly.
Bottom Line
The choice between complete skateboards and custom-built setups boils down to individual preferences, priorities, and experience levels. While complete skateboards offer convenience and accessibility, custom-built setups provide unparalleled personalization, performance, and creative expression. Make sure you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option, so you can make the best decision and enjoy a fulfilling skateboarding experience.