Skateboarding is a sport of precision, where every component plays a crucial role in performance and enjoyment. Among these components, the riser pad, often overlooked, has the potential to revolutionize your skateboarding experience. This comprehensive article explores the world of risers, also known as wedges, and delves into how these small additions can significantly impact your ride.
What are Risers/Wedges?
Risers and wedges are essentially spacers placed between your skateboard deck and trucks. Risers are typically flat, while wedges have an angled shape, providing a slight incline. Both serve several crucial purposes, enhancing your skateboarding experience in multiple ways.
Benefits of Using Riser Pad/Wedges
- Preventing Wheel Bite: Wheel bite, a frustrating issue where your wheels rub against the deck during turns, can be effectively eliminated by risers. They create additional clearance, allowing for smoother and safer turns.
- Accommodating Larger Wheels: If you prefer larger wheels for greater speed and smoother rides, risers are essential. They provide the necessary space to prevent wheel bite with larger wheels.
- Enhancing Turning: Wedges, with their angled design, change the geometry of your trucks, making turns sharper and more responsive. This can be particularly beneficial for street skating and technical tricks.
- Smoother Ride: Risers, especially those made of softer materials, can absorb vibrations and shock, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride.
- Protecting Your Deck: By raising the trucks, risers reduce stress on the deck, minimizing the risk of cracks and extending its lifespan.
Types of Risers/Wedges
Risers and wedges come in various materials, each with distinct properties:
- Plastic: Affordable and durable, plastic risers are a popular choice for everyday skateboarding.
- Rubber: Offering superior shock absorption, rubber risers provide a smoother ride, especially on rough surfaces.
- Metal: Known for their strength and durability, metal risers are often favored for aggressive skateboarding styles.
- Shock Pads: These risers incorporate a layer of soft material for enhanced shock absorption and a smoother ride.
Choosing the Right Riser Pad/Wedges
Selecting the right riser pad/wedges depends on your skating style, preferences, and board setup:
- Riser Height: Consider the size of your wheels and the desired turning radius when choosing riser height. Larger wheels typically require taller risers.
- Wedge Angle: If you want sharper turns, opt for wedges with a steeper angle. However, be aware that this can affect stability.
- Material: Choose a material that aligns with your priorities, whether it’s shock absorption, durability, or affordability.
Related: Skateboard Essentials: Must-Have Gear for Optimal Performance
Installation and Maintenance
Installing risers is a straightforward process that involves removing your trucks, placing the risers between the deck and baseplate, and reattaching the trucks. Ensure that the bolts are tightened securely for safety.
To maintain your risers, inspect them regularly for wear and tear. Replace any damaged or worn-out risers to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Related: Deck Rail Maintenance Q&A: Ask a Skate Shop Expert
The Riser Pad Revolution
The increasing popularity of risers and wedges is transforming skateboarding, offering riders enhanced control, customization, and comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, exploring the world of risers can open up new possibilities for your skateboarding journey.
Conclusion
Risers and wedges, often underestimated, are small components that can significantly impact your skateboarding experience. By preventing wheel bite, accommodating larger wheels, enhancing turning, smoothing out rides, and protecting your deck, risers have earned their place in the skateboarder’s toolkit. Embrace the riser revolution and discover how these small additions can elevate your skateboarding to new heights.
Remember, skateboarding is a personal journey, and experimenting with different riser setups can lead to discovering what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations and find the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and style that suits your unique skateboarding preferences.
