How to Build Your First Fingerboard Setup — A Beginner's Guide
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So you want to get into fingerboarding — good choice.
It's one of those hobbies that looks simple but goes
as deep as you want it to. Whether you're a total
beginner or a skater looking for something to do when it is a bad weather, this guide walks you through exactly how
to build your first setup.
What is a fingerboard setup?
A fingerboard is a miniature skateboard you ride with
your fingers. Same parts, same tricks, same culture —
just smaller. A complete setup consists of four parts:
- Deck
- Trucks
- Wheels
- Griptape
You can buy these separately and build your own, or
grab a complete setup straight out of the box.
## Step 1 — Pick your deck size
Decks come in different widths, usually between 32mm
and 36mm. Here's a simple way to think about it:
- 32mm — narrow, better for technical tricks
- 34mm — the sweet spot, great for beginners
- 36mm — wider, more stable, easier to land on
If you're just starting out, go with 34mm. It's the
most forgiving size and works well for all trick types.
## Step 2 — Choose your trucks
Trucks are the metal axles that connect your wheels
to your deck. Make sure your trucks match your deck
width — most standard fingerboard trucks fit 32mm
to 36mm decks without any issue.
Look for trucks that feel solid and don't wobble
too much out of the box. You can always adjust the
tightness with the delivered tool later.
## Step 3 — Pick your wheels
Wheels affect how smooth your setup rolls. Harder
wheels are faster and better for tricks. Softer wheels
absorb more impact and are more forgiving on rough
surfaces.
For a first setup, standard wheels work perfectly.
Once you get more experience you can experiment with
different shapes and hardness levels.
## Step 4 — Add griptape
Griptape goes on top of your deck and gives your
fingers grip when you ride. Foam griptape is the
most popular type — it's soft, grippy, and easy
to apply. Just cut to size and press down firmly.
## Should you buy a complete setup or build your own?
Both work. Here's the honest breakdown:
**Complete setup** — easier, cheaper, ready to ride
straight away. Perfect if you're just starting out
and want to see if you enjoy it first.
**Build your own** — more control over every part,
more fun to put together, and you learn more about
how everything works.
At TRASHKID we offer both. Our Classic Setup comes
with a wooden deck, trucks, wheels and foam griptape
— everything you need to start riding in one box.
Or shop the parts separately and build something
that's fully yours.
## Ready to start?
Browse the full TRASHKID collection and find your
first setup today.