Section 2: Equipment
2.1 The Skateboard
World Skate rules impose no specific restrictions on skateboard dimensions, component brands, or configurations. The board must be human-powered only — no motorized or mechanically assisted boards are permitted. Athletes choose setups based on personal preference and discipline:
- Street deck: Typically 7.75–8.25 inches (19.7–21.0 cm) wide. Narrower boards facilitate flip tricks and technical maneuvers. Concave depth and nose/tail kick angles vary by rider preference.
- Park deck: Typically 8.0–8.5 inches (20.3–21.6 cm) wide. Wider boards provide more stability for aerial tricks and high-speed transitions in bowls.
- Trucks: Axle width generally matches deck width. Truck height (low, mid, high) affects turning radius and wheel clearance. Bushings chosen for responsiveness.
- Wheels: Street: 50–54 mm diameter, 99–101a durometer (hardness). Park: 54–58 mm diameter, 99–101a durometer. Larger, softer wheels provide smoother transitions on rough surfaces.
- Bearings: Standard 608 size. No restrictions on bearing type, material, or ABEC rating.
- Grip tape: Applied to the top of the deck for traction. Standard silicon carbide grit. No restrictions on brand or pattern.
2.2 Protective Equipment
- Helmet (Park): Mandatory for all Park competitors. Must be a certified skateboarding helmet meeting CPSC, ASTM F1492, EN 1078, or equivalent safety standards. Multi-impact foam helmets (not single-impact cycling helmets) are required. Must fit securely with a fastened chin strap.
- Helmet (Street): Not mandatory under World Skate rules, though individual national federations may require helmets for all competitors. Strongly recommended.
- Knee pads: Mandatory for Park discipline. Must be hard-shell knee pads that allow the athlete to knee-slide safely on the course surface. Recommended for Street.
- Elbow pads: Mandatory for Park discipline. Hard-shell or soft-shell elbow pads accepted. Recommended for Street.
- Wrist guards: Optional for both disciplines, though not commonly worn in competition due to impact on board feel.
2.3 Attire and Accessories
- Athletes must wear the uniform of their national federation during Olympic competition
- Shoes must be closed-toe skate shoes — no sandals, slip-ons without heel counters, or barefoot riding
- No jewelry or accessories that may pose a safety hazard
- Headphones and audio devices prohibited during competition runs
- Competitor bib or number must be visible at all times