Safety tips
In 2015, 125,145 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms after being injured skateboarding. More than half of those injured were ages 14 to 24, and about one-third were between the ages of 5 and 14. Newcomers to the sport account for one-third of the injuries. But, even experienced skateboarders fall – a lot. They most frequently are injured in falls caused by rocks and irregular surfaces1.
It's easy to lose your balance when riding a skateboard. With every fall, there's a chance you'll be hurt and end up in an emergency room. Some of those injuries can be severe, and skateboarders have been killed by head injuries and collisions with cars.
Experienced skaters get hurt, too. As the difficulty of tricks increases, so does the risk of injury, while things like rocks and poor riding surfaces are always a threat2. Here are some tips to help reduce your risks of injury.
Gear
Skateboard
Different boards do different things. If you're mountain-boarding, you'll want a big board with knobby tires. In the park, you'll want something considerably smaller. Make sure you have the right board for your activity and that all of its parts are in working order. Check your board for cracks, sharp edges, damaged wheels, and loose parts before you skate.
Helmet
Get a helmet that is specifically meant for skateboarding, not some other activity. Look for a sticker inside the helmet saying it meets the ASTM F1492 skateboard helmet standard. All helmets should have a strong strap and buckle, and the strap should be securely fastened and snug any time you ride.
Shoes
Skateboarding is tough on shoes, feet, and ankles. Always wear closed shoes (not sandals). Spend a little extra money and get a good pair of shoes made with leather or suede. Be sure the soles are made of grippy gum rubber, not regular shoe rubber, and that the shoes fit properly.
Pads and wrist guards
Knee and elbow pads and wrist guards are recommended for riders of all levels. These should have a hard plastic shield and should not hinder your movements. Make sure any pads you wear are snug without constricting your circulation.
Other Gear
Hip pads, skateboard gloves, and padded jackets and shorts are all available and offer added protection. Mouthguards are good protection against broken teeth and other mouth injuries.