Grip Tape Installation

Skateboarding can offer an exciting thrill along with the benefit of outdoor exercise. When a skateboarder rides on the board, his feet are in constant contact with the board, except when performing some stunts. In order for the feet to remain secure and have traction, grip tape is installed on the board's surface. Grip tape reduces slipping and creates a rough surface, perfect for shoe soles to grip when applying downward pressure. You can apply grip tape to your board in under an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Utility knife
  • Grip tape
  • Nail
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove your skateboard trucks from the deck. These are secured via four screws for each truck. Unscrew the screws and pull off the trucks.

    • 2

      Clean off the top of the board. Ensure that no debris or dirt is present. Dry the board thoroughly.

    • 3

      Peel off the grip tape's paper backing. Only peel halfway at first, enough to get a large portion of the sticky surface exposed.

    • 4

      Set the grip tape on the board, sticky side down. Ensure that you have an even amount of grip tape overlapping on both sides of the board.

    • 5

      Press down with your hand with firm pressure and push forward to smooth out the grip tape and deter any bubbles from forming. As you smooth flat, gradually peel the paper backing completely off.

    • 6

      Trim the edges away from the board perimeter with a sharp utility knife. Angle the knife slightly over the board surface as you trim away the excess.

    • 7

      Flip the board over and poke holes through the truck screw-holes. Flip the board back over and poke through from the top. Reattach the trucks and have a fun ride.