Fifteen Must Haves For Your ESK8 Ride!

There's a lot of things to have with you on a ride to make sure you're not caught off guard and it's always tough to remember to bring everything. 

As the weather gets better and the riding season starts to heat up again I put together a quick list to help anyone who's just getting started riding or just to have as a nice checklist before a long journey! 

PROTECTION

Helmet: Always wear a helmet. No exceptions. I know they can be uncomfortable at times, but that’s why I have quite a few options to wear for different weather conditions. There's a lot of great helmet manufacturers out there but they basically break down into three categories, full-face, traditional and convertible. With the speed electric skateboards and Onewheels are reaching there's really no replacement for a full-face helmet protection wise but whichever you choose just make sure the fit is correct and snug. 

Gloves: You won’t see me riding without my gloves. Gloves are awesome as far as protection goes, however they can also be dangerous as they can impede the remote function if they don't fit properly. I know, I know...not a problem for the Onewheelers out there. That being said, I've had great success with mechanics gloves from hardware stores and auto shops. They offer a good level of protection while being designed to handle a tool properly i.e. your remote! There are also great motorcycle gloves and ESK8 companies making protective gloves as well. Bottom line is whatever you choose make sure it fits properly otherwise even the best gloves can fail to protect your hands.

Elbow & Knee Pads:  There's a few different kinds, hard pads, soft pads and integrated pads. There are some great integrated pad options i.e. pants that have pads built in or are removable, but just like the helmet and gloves make sure they're comfortable as they only work if you're wearing them and hard pads do give you the most protection. I've also found some that are more sleeve-like, which help keep them in place. Instead of just one pad on the elbow, there are a handful of tiny pads, helping make them flexible. I also liked that they were washable since non-washable pads can get smelly and gross.

Sunglasses: Not only is it a bummer to be caught on a sunny day without sunglasses, but these also protect your eyes from road stuff kicked up during the ride. Always be conscious of protecting your eyes because without them you can’t ride!

Sunscreen: Technically not "riding protection" but when you're riding for awhile it helps!

GEAR

Remote: Remember to check for your remote AND the USB cable to charge your remote too. I've been stuck on a ride waiting for a remote to charge several times, but better than kick pushing. You can’t use one without the other!

Battery Charger: Almost obvious! Just a reminder that sometimes the ride takes us further then planned and great to always have the option to charge.

Power Bank: This is a must have for all riders, to charge your remote or your cell phone for longer rides. Never want to be out Onewheeling all day to find yourself with a dead cell phone.  

MAINTENANCE

Skate Tool: This tool is a must! Whether it's an electric skateboard or Onewheel, make sure you bring something that has the tools you’ll need.

Allen Wrenches: Depending on what you're riding this will change so make sure you're aware what you need but you'll need them. For example Boosted riders need a 3mm for Belts and a 4mm for Batteries. Onewheelers will want an 1/8", 1/4" and 5mm, but if you have the pint you'll want a 3mm and T20 and T30 Torx. Evolve riders will want to bring a 1/8" etc... 

Phillips Head Screwdriver: You'll want a #1 for the Onewheel and Evolve Skateboard.

Needle-Nose Pliers: To help with anything on your board the Skate Tool can't. 

Security Bit: To remove truck mounting bolts if you have one of our locking systems.

Set of Belts:  You always want to have spare belts, always! Gates Corporation makes the industry standard for belts and the only belts you'll see us carry. Visit our Pulley System page for belt sizing guides and information.