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To get the skinny on the mini, it is a good idea to know there are two different types of a miniature skateboard. One is actually for standard use and the other is called a finger deck. Get an understanding of what both are.

Finger Board Decks

This version of tiny board became a craze from about the minute they were introduced to the world of toys. For many, it was the perfect way to stay connected to the skateboard hobby when not outside or at a skate park on a normal sized board. For others, it is just a fun, small toy. Really well done mini boards come equipped, though, with everything a full size deck would have. This includes a deck, trucks, wheels, design and grip tape.

The appeal of these is also as collectible items. Since they are cheaper than a standard sized skateboard, you can afford to have an extensive collection of finger boards. So, mini “riders” can also pull off tricks like the full sized skaters can. Tricks like ollies, nosegrinds and kickflips. The art of finger board skating can be taken pretty seriously, with all the tricks you can learn. Not to mention, you can also get a finger-sized skateboard park. There are some manufacturers who make a skate park with ramps, bowls, rails, steps and other details one would find at a life sized skate park.

You can even build your own or order one custom made with the graphics you want. Also, if you search online you can find videos for tricks to learn and how to make your own miniature skateboard. There are plenty of well known and high quality brands that make both full sized boards and the mini boards.

Mini Decks for Skaters

These “life sized” skateboards are miniature compared to the standard size board and especially compared to long boards. For this reason, they are also often referred to as short boards. They have been in development since around the same time that the sport of skating became a mainstream sensation. A standard deck size rages around and in between 30-32 inches in length.

It is possible to get mini skateboards that duplicate the “old school” originals, or with more modern enhancements. That means, for example, you can get a short board with kick tails at both ends for kick flip tricks. The reason these boards are popular is for several reasons. It is a popular choice for college students who need a quick, easy ride to class with an easy to carry mode of transportation. Anyone who needs to get around areas, like on city street sidewalks, that have a lot of people or tight spaces could benefit from one of these boards. And, they are easy to carry. So, whether you want a finger board or a short board, a miniature skateboard may be just right for you. 

Some people scoff at skateboarding, thinking, “Really, how tough can it be? Is there more than just standing? Is it true the board does all the work?” When you’re just starting, you may be thinking these questions. If you don’t already know, you’ll discover very quickly that there’s more to skating than merely standing on a moving board. You’ll need some skill, and you’ll need to practice to get it.

How much practice is needed?

A lot of practice will be needed. Hold-off on attempting the advanced tricks though, it’s important to work on the fundamentals first. Next up, some really important things you’ll want to know if you’re new to skateboarding.

It’ll take a bit of practice to discover the best foot in front and back. It really does not matter which hand you are, left or right. But it is important to know which leg is your dominant or stronger leg. So try and visualize how you go about approaching things. Think back – when you kick a ball, which side do you do it with? Which leg do you normally begin with when you go up some stairs? Which leg/foot do you always use to catch yourself if you ever start to fall? The foot/leg you use will go to the back of the skateboard. It’s not about which direction you prefer to face, and it’s much more about which leg is strongest.

What kind of skateboard should I get?

Start with an inexpensive but very durable skateboard. High quality, beautiful skateboards can be outrageously expensive. They’re so pricey you won’t want to get them dirty! That’s the reasoning behind getting a cheaper board for beginners. These are typically thicker boards on sturdier wheels. These boards will be able to take the pounding and abuse the beginner skater will give it. ABEC skateboards are the way to go because they’re more newbie friendly.

Stopping is actually pretty complicated. In the beginning, it might be better to just drag a foot to slow down. Or you can practice taking small steps with one of your feet to slow you down–think of it as a reverse push off. What this does is take small steps in the reverse direction.

This isn’t great for your feet but it should do the trick. When you’re better, you can stop yourself quite smoothly by dragging the tail-end of the board. Oh, and if you’re going fast, tail grinding is not recommended.

There’s much more to skateboarding than simply riding on a flat board. Believe it or not, skateboards are a legitimate way to travel and they provide you with hours of entertainment. You’ll learn better and faster if you’ll only open up your mind to learning skateboarding as a skill.