What to Wear While Skateboarding in Hot Weather: Keeping Cool and Safe
Skateboarding can be a thrilling activity, but the heat can make it challenging, especially when you want to maintain your safety gear. Whether you're grinding rails, nailing vert tricks, carving up the street, or cruising through parks, staying safe and cool is essential. Here's a guide to what to wear to keep both your performance and your comfort in mind, particularly in very hot weather.
The Importance of Safety Gear
No matter where you skateboard, safety gear is a must:
Helmets: A helmet is your best defense against head injuries. It's a non-negotiable piece of gear that every skateboarder should always wear, regardless of skill level. Even experienced skaters should wear a helmet because the risk of head injury, even from simple falls, is significant. High-ventilation helmets help to keep you cooler while providing protection.
Knee and Elbow Pads: These protect your joints during vert skating or when sliding on pipes or ramps. They can be bulky and hot, but without them, it can be difficult to learn and push your boundaries safely.
Wrist Guards and Gloves: Wrist guards are crucial for tricks that involve landing on your hands, such as slides and flip tricks. Gloves are equally important to protect your hands from getting damaged by concrete, especially if you were to slide or fall.
Skateboarding in a Skate Park
When you're in a skate park, there's a higher risk of falls and accidents, especially when you're doing rails, vert, or other high-risk maneuvers. In this environment, you'll need to be particularly cautious:
Helmets are a must for everyone, especially those new to the sport or performing more advanced tricks.
Knee and elbow pads are essential for protection during vert tricks, ramps, and slides.
Wrist guards can be particularly useful, even if they add a bit of bulk and heat.
Skateboarding on Ramps and Pipes
When skateboarding on ramps or pipes, the risks of injury increase:
Protective gear, including knee and elbow pads, is a necessity. These pads help you learn and push your limits without getting hurt.
Knee pads can be particularly uncomfortable and hot, but they are crucial for safety during these types of maneuvers.
Street Skateboarding and Wearing Less Gear
Street skateboarding can be less restrictive, but it still requires proper gear:
On the street, helmets might be a bit heavier to carry around. However, in areas with cars and e-scooters, always wear a helmet and wrist gloves to protect your hands.
On wide sidewalks, trails, or residential streets, where there's less risk, you might choose to skip the helmet for comfort and ease of carrying.
Hot Weather Tips
Balancing protection and comfort in hot weather can be a challenge:
Lightweight Materials: Look for gear made from breathable and lightweight materials to keep you cooler.
Proper Ventilation: Choose well-ventilated helmets and pads to increase airflow and reduce overheating.
Risk Assessment: Assess the area and the potential for accidents. Always prioritize safety, especially in more dangerous areas.
In conclusion, the key to skateboarding safely in hot weather is finding a balance between injury prevention and comfort. Always wear the necessary safety gear to protect your most vulnerable areas, but choose materials and designs that allow you to keep your cool. Whether you're in a skate park, on the street, or practicing ramps, the right gear can make all the difference in your skateboarding experience.