Did you know that the right grip tape can make or break your skateboarding experience? Whether you’re landing kickflips or just cruising down the street, your grip tape is the silent hero keeping you locked onto your board. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about grip tape—from selecting the right size to customizing its look. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to pick the perfect tape for your ride.
What is Skateboard Grip Tape?
Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material with an adhesive underside that sticks onto the top of your skateboard deck to help your shoes grip to the board, ensuring you don’t slide off while you skate. Grip tape for skateboard is usually made of silicon carbide. It’s not known who started sticking sandpaper onto a skateboard deck as a solution to slipping, but it emerged sometime in the ’70s and marked the beginning of the evolution of grip tape as we know it today.
What is the Right Size of Grip Tape for Your Skateboard?
Grip tape usually comes in 9″ x 33″ sheets, while old-school board grip tape can measure up to 12″ x 14″. It’s important to know your board’s dimensions when choosing your grip tape size, as you’ll need a sheet that’s big enough to cover your deck completely.
Consider Grip Tape Stickiness
The more adhesive your tape is, the less likely it is to develop bubbles or tears. It will stick to your board longer and you’ll get maximum use out of it, although this also depends on the brand of grip tape and who’s applying it.
Colours of Skateboard Grip Tape
Most people would recognize the standard charcoal black grip tape that is seen on the majority of skateboards, but grip tape also comes in a wide range of designs and colors that allow you to personalize your deck. Since skateboarding is such a fun and creative pursuit, it’s common for skaters to use their grip tape as a canvas for customization – whether that be with art, words, or various designs. You can do this with supplies like paint pens, whiteout, or even spray paint. Don’t be afraid to express yourself with your board.
How Long Can Skateboard Grip Tape Last?
Skaters usually don’t change their grip tape, they change boards. However, as a rule of thumb, grip tape can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on how often you skate. Replacing your grip tape is personal preference. If you feel that your grip tape is starting to slip, you can replace it with a fresh sheet. It’s important to note that grip tape can only be applied once. You can’t apply old, used grip tape to a new deck, so you’ll need a new sheet of grip tape each time you get a new skateboard deck.
Related article: how to install anti-slip tape?
Conclusion
Choosing the right grip tape makes all the difference in performance, safety, and style. With so many options available in terms of grip, adhesion, and design, skateboarders have the freedom to find what works best for their riding style. Fonitaniya Adhesive Tape has been an adhesive solution provider for over 15 years and continues to innovate grip tape for the industry. Whether you need durability, custom designs, or optimal grip, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs
How do you apply grip tape to a skateboard?
Start by peeling off the backing and carefully placing the grip tape on your deck. Use a file to score the edges, then cut off the excess with a sharp blade. Smooth the edges with the file to prevent peeling.
How do you clean grip tape?
Use a grip tape cleaner or a soft wire brush to scrub off dirt. A damp cloth can help remove stubborn grime, but avoid soaking the tape, as too much moisture can weaken adhesion.
Why does grip tape lose its grip?
Dirt, dust, and moisture can wear down the rough surface over time. Frequent skating and exposure to the elements gradually reduce grip effectiveness.
Can you reuse grip tape?
Grip tape cannot be reapplied once removed. Peeling it off weakens its structure, making it impossible to stick back on securely.
Does colored grip tape perform differently from black grip tape?
Colored grip tape functions similarly to black grip tape, but some designs may have slightly different textures. Performance differences are usually minimal, making color a personal choice rather than a functional one.
