Skateboarding Safety Tips

There's something that's so cool about skateboarding. But skateboarding accidents and injuries do happen, especially if riders skate in the wrong place or don't wear protective gear.

To stay safe and prevent injuries while skateboarding, follow these safety guidelines.

Staying Safe & Preventing Injuries

What Safe Skateboarding Gear Do I Need?

Choose the skateboard that's right for your style or activity (for example slalom, freestyle, and speed). Before heading out to skate, you'll need:

A Helmet That Fits Well

It should be a multisport helmet or one specifically meant for skateboarding. Don't ride a skateboard without a helmet.

Wrist Guards

Wrist guards support the wrist during falls.

Knee Pads and Elbow Pads

These pads help prevent scrapes and cushion bones in case of a fall.

Closed-Toe Shoes With Nonslip Soles

Shoes with soles that don't slip help you grip the skateboard.

Goggles or Shatterproof Glasses

These are glasses that won't break into small pieces if they crack.

What Are Safe Places to Ride?

To prevent injuries, it is very important that riders choose safe places to ride. All surfaces should be checked before riding on them. Skateboard only on surfaces that are smooth without cracks or debris, such as garbage or sticks.

How Can I Stay Safe When I’m Skateboarding?

Some safety rules everyone should know include never riding in the street or anywhere near cars or traffic. Also, never skateboard in wet weather.

When learning to ride, try out skateboarding on a smooth driveway that's away from all traffic, the beginner section of a skate park, or a parking lot that's not being used.

At skate parks, obey all safety rules. Stop and look before entering skateboarding areas. Do not skateboard in crowded areas.

Make sure there's only one person on a skateboard at a time, and never hitch a ride from a bicycle, car, truck, bus, or other vehicle. Also, do not wear headphones while skateboarding.

Safe Riding and Learning to Fall

Knowing how to fall while skateboarding is part of learning the sport. To stay safe, use the safety gear listed above and learn how to fall properly:

• Practice falling on a soft surface or on grass. Crouch down as you fall so you won't have as far to fall.
• Land on the fleshy parts of your body and roll rather than breaking a fall with your arms and hands. Relax while falling instead of going stiff.
• Master basic skills, like stopping and turning, before trying more complicated moves.

Safety in Other Sports

Safety matters whether you're skateboarding or doing another activity. To help prevent injuries in other sports, check out these articles:

• Baseball Safety Tips
• Fastpitch Softball Safety Tips
• Football Safety Tips
• Hockey Safety Tips
• Lacrosse Safety Tips
• Tennis Safety Tips