Penny board griptapes

Types of Penny Board Griptapes

Penny board griptapes are small, plastic skateboards that provide an exhilarating ride with their short wheelbase and heightened maneuverability. Griptapes are textured black tapes that are stuck onto the surface of skateboards to provide friction and a rough surface for better grip when skating. Griptapes are rough on the side facing up and smooth on the other side. They are made from either aluminum oxide or silicon carbide sandpaper. The griptape holds the feet of skaters in place, thus making them safer when performing tricks on skateboards or penny boards.

Grit Pany boards are usually applied to the surface of the board during manufacturing. However, some brands offer the option of applying the board's grip tape customized by the customers. While Penny boards are usually manufactured with black grip tapes, other colors and patterns can be found on grip tapes made for penny boards if customized. The grip tape is an essential part of the penny board as it enhances the friction of the board and reduces the chances of slipping while skating. Penny board grip tapes come in different types that can be categorized based on the material used for their manufacturing. They are as follows:

• Traditional Sandpaper Griptape: This type of griptape is by far the most popular one. It is made from sandpaper, and its rough surface provides a strong grip. It is usually black in color, but other colors are also available. This sandpaper griptape is usually applied to the surface of skateboards, including penny boards, to enable the board to hold the shoes of skaters in place. The griptape reduces the chances of slipping off while performing tricks on the board.
• Wet/Dry Sandpaper Griptape: This type of griptape is similar to traditional sandpaper but with some differences. It is made with more durable materials to withstand different weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and extreme heat. This wet/dry griptape can be used in any weather condition and will still provide its users with a strong grip.
• Fabric-Based Griptape: This type of griptape is made from cloth materials such as canvas or polyester. It has a rough surface that provides a good grip. This fabric-based griptape does not have the same level of durability as the sandpaper griptape, but it is more resistant to abrasion.
• Rubberized Griptape: This type of griptape is made from rubber. It has a textured surface that provides a strong grip. This rubberized griptape is more shock-absorbent than other types of griptapes, which makes it suitable for heavy users. The only disadvantage of this kind of griptape is that it is not as long-lasting as other types of griptapes.

Scenarios of Penny Board Griptapes

Penny board grip tapes are crucial for maintaining a safe and enjoyable skating experience. They provide the necessary traction and grip, which can wear down or become less effective over time. Here are some common usage scenarios where penny board griptapes are essential:

• Urban Commuting: In urban commuting, penny board griptapes help riders navigate through busy streets and sidewalks. The rough, sandpaper-like texture of the grip tape provides the necessary friction, ensuring that the rider's shoes stay firmly planted on the board even when making quick stops or sharp turns. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas where sudden movements are often required to avoid pedestrians or other obstacles. Moreover, the added grip allows for smooth acceleration and deceleration, which is crucial for maintaining a steady pace in the hustle and bustle of city life.
• Tricks and Stunts: For tricks and stunts, penny board griptapes are vital for keeping the rider's feet attached to the board during complex maneuvers. When doing tricks like kickflips, heelflips, or even just basic ollies, the grip tape's adherence prevents the shoe from slipping off the board, which could lead to falls or injuries. Additionally, the high-friction surface of the grip tape allows for better control and precision when landing tricks, enabling skaters to execute multiple tricks in succession without the board slipping out from under them.
• Downhill Riding: In downhill riding, penny board griptapes provide the extra grip needed to maintain control at high speeds. The steep inclines can cause the board to become slippery, especially when wet or if the rider's shoes have a smooth sole. With a reliable grip tape, skaters can make sharp turns, weave through curves, and brake effectively without the board sliding out from under them. This not only ensures the skater's safety but also allows for a more exhilarating and smooth downhill ride.
• Rough Terrain: When riding on rough terrain, penny board griptapes become essential for maintaining stability and control. The bumpy, uneven surfaces of concrete parks, gravel paths, or even wooden ramps can cause the board to shake violently. However, with high-quality grip tape, the rider's shoes have a secure foothold, reducing the risk of slipping off the board. This is especially important when navigating through potholes, cracks, or other obstacles where precise control is necessary to avoid accidents.

How to Choose Penny Board Griptapes

When selecting a griptape for a penny board, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration to ensure that the right one is chosen.

• Quality

  One must always look for high-quality grip tapes that provide a strong hold on the board. This will offer the riders a safer and more comfortable riding experience. Also, it is important to note that not all grip tapes are the same. Some are made from sandpaper and others from non-abrasive materials. Generally, good grip tapes last long and can withstand extreme weather conditions.

• Texture

  This is a very important factor to consider when choosing a grip tape. For instance, if one is looking for a rough grip tape, the standard grip tape made of sandpaper is the ideal option. This kind of grip tape provides better traction and is suitable for skateboarding in difficult conditions. However, for individuals looking for a smooth grip tape, the clear grip tape is the best option. It has a lesser traction level and is suitable for delicate foot positioning. Make sure to choose a grip tape that has the right texture according to one's preferences and style of riding.

• Durability

  Another important factor to consider is how long the grip tape will last. Penny board riders should choose tapes that are resistant to wear and tear, as well as water and fading. This will ensure that the grip tape remains effective and visually appealing for a longer period.

• Customization

  One of the most interesting things when it comes to grip tapes is that people can customize them to their taste. Therefore, if one is looking for a unique or personalized style, then customizing the grip tape is the ideal option. Customizable grip tapes come with different colors, patterns, and designs. This will allow the users to express themselves through the grip tape on the penny board.

Function, Feature, and Design of Penny Board Griptapes

Penny board grip tapes perform several functions, have unique features, and come in various designs that cater to different preferences and riding styles. Here are their functions, features, and designs:

Functions

• Enhanced traction: All grip tapes provide a rough surface that offers enhanced traction and prevents users from slipping when using the board.
• Better control: The tapes improve the rider's control over the board, particularly during tricks, sharp turns, or sudden stops.
• Increased safety: The grip tapes provide a safe riding surface for riders of all ages.

Features

• Durability: Grip tapes are made from quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear associated with skateboarding.
• Weather resistance: Most grip tapes are made with materials and adhesives that can withstand different weather conditions without deteriorating.
• Customizability: Users can customize their grip tapes to fit their personality by using different colors and designs to suit their style.
• Easy application: Most grip tapes are easy to apply and remove, and users can easily reinstall them if they need to make adjustments.

Designs

• Solid color grip tapes: The basic grip tape design consists of a single color, often black, and offers a simple and clean look.
• Patterned grip tapes: The grip tapes come in different patterns, including checkered, striped, or spotted, and add a unique touch to the board.
• Graphic grip tapes: Grip tapes featuring logos, artwork, or custom graphics offer a more personalized and visually striking appearance.
• Clear grip tapes: The clear grip tapes allow for the board's original artwork or wood grain to show through while still providing traction.

Q&A

Q1: What is the purpose of a griptape?

A1: A board's griptape makes its surface rough to hold the shoes in place when riding on it. Thus, this helps the rider have a good control over the board and a smooth ride.

Q2: What are the different types of griptapes?

A2: There are two main kinds of griptapes: the rough and the milky way. The rough kind has a sandpaper-like texture that offers a good hold. On the other hand, the milky way variety has a smoother texture and is mainly used for cruising.

Q3: How can one maintain their griptape?

A3: Keeping the board's surface clean is all it takes to take care of the griptape. Thus, one can use a brush to remove any dirt or dust that may have collected over time.

Q4: When should griptapes be replaced?

A4: If the board's surface is worn out or its grip lessened, it indicates that it is time to replace the tape. Also, if the griptape has any bumps or tears, replacing it would be in riders' best interests.

Q5: How can one apply a griptape to a penny board?

A5: To apply the tape, first, remove its backing and stick it onto the board. Next, use a razor blade to trim any excess tape along the board's edges. Finally, use a roller to press the tape onto the board and remove any air bubbles.