Ever feel like your skateboard is trying to shake you off? That moment when your feet slide, and you lose control, can be frustrating, right? It’s a common problem for skaters, and it often comes down to one crucial component: your grip tape.
Choosing the perfect grip tape can feel like a guessing game. There are so many different types, textures, and brands out there. You want something that sticks, but not so much that it tears up your shoes. You need grip that helps you land tricks, not ones that make you feel like you’re glued to the board. This can be a real headache when you just want to skate.
But don’t worry! This post is here to clear the air. We’ll break down what makes great grip tape. You’ll learn how to pick the best one for your skating style. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing grip tape that keeps your feet planted and your tricks landing smoothly.
Top Skate Grip Recommendations
- Mr. Pen grip tape 36.4 x 10.6 inches (110x27cm)
- Made from durable quality silicone-carbide grit
- Super adhesive bubble free application, will not peel in cold or heat
- Easy to cut and trim to fit most skateboards, scooters
- High strength 1/32 inch thickness
- Exclusive silicon-carbide grit binding process for grip that will not wear out
- Mob Grip has been producing one of the industry’s leading skateboard grip tapes since 2000. Professional skaters trust Mob Grip tape with their lives—test out their selection and you’ll understand why! Mob Grip skateboard grip tape is an ultra sticky adhesive that will never come off your board. No matter the temperature, their grip tape will stay on tight! It’s bubble-proof, high strength, and tear resistant. Mob Grip tape also has a unique waterproof backing that trims clean every time.
- Grip tape comes rolled up.
- - Professional skateboard sandpaper helps in practicing Ollie, Kickflip, 360 Flip, and other tricks, enhancing skill levels.
- - The tape design ensures no air bubbles and excellent watertight performance, providing longer-lasting use and better performance.
- - The sandpaper has a thickness of 0.8mm and measures 33 inches (84 cm) x 9 inches (23 cm), weighing 130 grams per roll, suitable for various skateboards.
- - Featuring 80-grip durable tape to ensure better traction and safety while practicing tricks and riding.
- - Suitable for stairs, strollers, pedals, wheelchairs, and other applications, providing reliable anti-slip performance.
- Non skid tape provides extra foot traction for your additional protection on any slippery surface, including stairs, patio, entryways, ladders, deck ramp, laminate, skateboard, scooters, tile, slippery floor, trailers, boats, sporting equipment, and forklifts.
- Bubble Free: ZUEXT Grip tape with hundreds of barely-visible perforations that allow air to escape for a bubble-free application.
- Timeproof High-strength Quality: Thick up to 1.5mm. Exclusive Silicon-Carbide grit binding process for grip that will not wear out.Super sticky adhesive that won't peel in extreme heat or cold.
- Waterproof, long lasting & peel resistant in any weather: ZUEXT abrasive grip tape roll for stairs was specifically designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and any weather conditions, including rain, snow, frost, sun, water, and heat. Stair tread tape creates an exceptional long term grip on all surfaces
- Very sticky and easy to apply! Works great for difficult projects such as scooters, you are able to cut it down to the proper size pretty easy. The color doesn’t fade and the grit is not hard on your shoes.
- PEEL AND STICK - Easy peel and stick application of this 9” X 33” sheet of grip for your skateboard. The tape is also easy to cut for custom applications.
- EXCELLENT GRIP - The 80 grit silicon carbide surface will provide you with great traction for your deck. The enhanced grit helps provide support and gives your shoes a firm grip on the board.
- HEAVY DUTY - This high quality grip is super strong, waterproof, and weatherproof
- LONG LASTING - This griptape features industrial grade glue that adheres to any deck surface. This grip will not peel or wear out easily.
- CUSTOMIZABLE – Black Diamond Grip offers a wide variety of colors and patterns to choose from so your board can best represent you.
- PEEL AND STICK - Easy peel and stick application of this 9” X 33” sheet of grip for your skateboard. The tape is also easy to cut for custom applications.
- EXCELLENT GRIP - The 80 grit silicon carbide surface will provide you with great traction for your deck. The enhanced grit helps provide support and gives your shoes a firm grip on the board.
- HEAVY DUTY - This high quality grip is super strong, waterproof, and weatherproof
- LONG LASTING - This griptape features industrial grade glue that adheres to any deck surface. This grip will not peel or wear out easily.
- CUSTOMIZABLE – Black Diamond Grip offers a wide variety of colors and patterns to choose from so your board can best represent you.
- 9 x 33 Inch Fit Most Sizes of Skateboard, Cruiser or Scooter
- Industry Standard 80 Grit Griptape
- Easy Application on Any Skateboards
- Adhesively Sticky in Cold and Hot Weathers
- Fun Colors and Varies Design to Choose
- Clean Trim to Fit: Waterproof, Tear-proof backing that trims cleanly every time. Size 9" x 33"(84x23cm) widely cut to fit most Razor, Lucky, Micro, Phoenix, kick, electric, gas, kids, or adult scooter and skateboards.
- Bubble Free: ZUEXT 2 Pack of Black Skateboard Grip tapes for longboards with hundreds of barely-visible perforations that allow air to escape for a bubble-free application.
- Timeproof High-strength Quality: Thick up to 1.5mm. Exclusive Silicon-Carbide grit binding process for grip that will not wear out.Super sticky adhesive that won't peel in extreme heat or cold.
- Pro Grade Longboard Grip Tape: Adhesion and grip designed for scooter and skateboard riders of all levels. Improves rider's grip which leads to better tricks and greater safety.
- Ease of Use: With outstanding flexibility, skateboard grip tape sheet can be easily cut to appropriate sizes by using scissors to meet your custom - made requirements. As a result, it is applicable to all stairs and floors of various sizes.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Skate Grip
Are you ready to upgrade your skateboard or just need a fresh sheet of grip tape? Picking the right skate grip can make a big difference in how you ride. This guide helps you find the perfect grip tape for your adventures.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for skate grip, keep these important things in mind:
- Grit Level: This is how rough the grip tape feels.
- Coarse Grit: This is super grippy. It gives you a lot of control. It’s great for tricks and for riders who want a really secure feel.
- Medium Grit: This is a good balance. It offers good grip without being too rough on your shoes. It works well for most skaters.
- Fine Grit: This is smoother. It’s easier on your shoes and can be good for beginners or longboarders who don’t do many flip tricks.
- Adhesive Strength: How well does the grip tape stick to your board? You want tape that stays put. Strong adhesive means it won’t peel up easily.
- Durability: How long will the grip tape last? Good grip tape resists wear and tear from skating and the elements.
- Design and Color: Many grip tapes come in cool designs, colors, and even clear options. You can pick one that matches your style.
Important Materials
Most skate grip tape uses a few main materials:
- Silicon Carbide or Aluminum Oxide: These are the “grit” particles. They are tough and provide the rough surface for your shoes to grip. Silicon carbide is common and very effective.
- PVC or Polyurethane: These materials form the backing of the grip tape. They are flexible and strong.
- Adhesive: This is the sticky stuff on the back that attaches the grip tape to your deck. It needs to be strong and reliable.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your grip tape awesome or not so great:
- Brand Reputation: Well-known skate brands often use high-quality materials. They test their products to make sure they perform well.
- Manufacturing Process: How the grip tape is made matters. Good manufacturing ensures the grit is evenly spread and the adhesive is strong.
- Storage: If grip tape is stored improperly, like in a hot or damp place, the adhesive can weaken. This makes it harder to apply and less likely to stay on.
- Application: Applying the grip tape correctly is crucial. If you don’t press it down firmly or get air bubbles, it can reduce its quality and lifespan.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your board and what you do with it affects the grip tape you need.
- Street Skating: If you do a lot of flip tricks and grind, you need coarse, durable grip tape. It helps your feet stick to the board for precise movements.
- Park Skating: Similar to street skating, park riding demands good grip for aerials and quick turns.
- Longboarding: Longboarders often prefer a medium or fine grit. They might want something easier on their shoes for longer rides. Some longboarders also choose clear grip tape to show off their deck’s design.
- Beginners: Beginners can start with medium grit. It offers a good balance of grip and comfort as they learn.
Choosing the right skate grip tape ensures a better and safer skating experience.
Frequently Asked Questions about Skate Grip
Q: How do I apply grip tape to my skateboard?
A: First, peel off the backing from the grip tape. Carefully lay it over your deck, starting from one end. Press it down firmly, smoothing out any air bubbles. Use a sharp blade to trim the excess tape around the edges.
Q: How often should I replace my grip tape?
A: You should replace it when it starts to lose its grip, looks worn out, or gets damaged. For frequent skaters, this might be every few months. For casual skaters, it could be longer.
Q: Can I use grip tape on my longboard?
A: Yes, you can. Many longboarders use grip tape for better traction. They often prefer a less aggressive grit.
Q: What is the difference between grip tape and skate wax?
A: Grip tape sticks to your board to give your shoes traction. Skate wax makes surfaces like ledges and rails slippery so you can slide or grind on them.
Q: Is clear grip tape as good as colored grip tape?
A: Yes, clear grip tape usually offers the same level of grip and durability as colored grip tape. It just lets you see the design of your skateboard deck.
Q: How do I clean my grip tape?
A: You can gently scrub grip tape with a stiff brush and some water. Avoid using too much water or harsh chemicals, as this can damage the adhesive.
Q: Will my shoes get ruined by rough grip tape?
A: Very coarse grip tape can wear down your shoe soles faster. Medium or fine grit is gentler on shoes.
Q: Can I put grip tape on a scooter?
A: Some people do put grip tape on scooter decks for extra grip, especially for tricks.
Q: What is the best way to store unused grip tape?
A: Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keeping it rolled up and protected will help maintain its adhesive quality.
Q: Does the brand of grip tape really matter?
A: Brand can matter because established brands often use better materials and have better quality control. However, many lesser-known brands also make good grip tape.