Skateboard Maintenance 101: Keep Your Board Rolling Smooth

What’s up, skate family!

Your skateboard is more than just equipment – it’s your partner in freedom. The corporate skate industry wants you to buy new gear constantly, but here’s the real talk: a properly maintained skateboard can last years, perform consistently, and save you money.

The Daily Love

After every session, take 30 seconds for a quick check: Any new chips in the deck? Wheels rolling freely? Trucks feeling loose? Grip tape still grippy? This isn’t obsessive – it’s catching small issues before they become big problems. Keep your board clean by wiping it down after skating.

Bearings

Your bearings, which make your wheels spin, are often the most neglected part of most setups. Remove wheels with a skate tool, pop out bearings, remove shields, clean with rubbing alcohol, let dry completely, add tiny drop of bearing oil, reinstall. Do this monthly and your bearings will roll like new for years.

Grip Tape Care

Your grip tape is your connection to the board. Use a stiff brush to remove dirt, or grip tape cleaner for stubborn spots. If it’s really worn, replace it – good grip makes a huge difference.

Monthly Maintenance

Check your truck bushings (soft polyurethane pieces inside trucks). If they’re cracked or worn, replace them. Make sure your kingpin is properly tightened – too loose and you have no control, too tight and you can’t turn. Rotate your wheels occasionally for even wear.

When to Replace

Deck: Replace when you see cracks going through, layers separating, or severe razor tail. Wheels: Replace when they have flat spots, are noticeably smaller, or have chunks missing. Bearings: Replace when they won’t spin after cleaning or make grinding noises.

Essential Tools

You only need: skate tool, bearing puller, rubbing alcohol, bearing oil, grip tape cleaner, and spare bolts. This handles 99% of maintenance needs.

Storage Matters

Store your board in a cool, dry place. Avoid extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and moisture. Store it flat or hanging, not leaning against walls.

The MARA Way

At MARA, we build products to last. We’re not trying to sell you new stuff constantly – we want you to get the most out of what you have. When you take care of your gear, it takes care of you.

Make maintenance a ritual. It’s meditative, keeps you connected to your setup, and is a way to appreciate what you have. Your skateboard is your partner in this journey – treat it with respect.

Stay stoked,

The MARA Team