A Tech Deck is a miniature skateboard, typically around 96mm in length, designed to be used with fingers instead of feet. It consists of a deck, trucks, wheels, and grip tape, just like a full-sized skateboard, but on a much smaller scale. Tech https://technicamix.com/ Decks come in various designs and styles, allowing enthusiasts to collect and customize their boards.
The History of Tech Decks
Tech Decks were first introduced in the late 1980s as a novelty item. However, they gained widespread popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s, thanks to companies like Tech Deck and Fingerboard. These companies began producing high-quality fingerboards with realistic designs, making it possible to perform intricate tricks just like on a real skateboard.
Why Tech Decking is Popular
Tech decking has become popular for several reasons. Firstly, it provides an accessible way for people to enjoy skateboarding without needing access to skate parks or outdoor spaces. Additionally, the small size of Tech Decks makes them portable and easy to use anywhere, whether at home, school, or work. Furthermore, tech decking allows enthusiasts to express their creativity through customization and trick performance.
Getting Started with Tech Decking
Before diving into tech deck tricks, it’s essential to choose the right Tech Deck for your preferences and skill level. Beginners may want to start with a basic complete set, while more advanced users might prefer to customize their boards with specific components. Understanding the anatomy of a fingerboard, including the deck, trucks, wheels, and grip tape, is also crucial for mastering tricks.
Basic Tech Deck Tricks
Once you have your Tech Deck set up, it’s time to start practicing some basic tricks. The ollie, kickflip, heelflip, and pop shove-it are among the fundamental maneuvers to learn. Each trick requires precise finger movements and coordination to execute properly.
- Ollie: The ollie is the foundation of many skateboarding tricks, including those performed on Tech Decks. It involves using your fingers to snap the tail of the board against the ground, causing it to pop into the air.
- Kickflip: The kickflip is a classic skateboard trick that involves flipping the board 360 degrees along its length while airborne. To perform a kickflip on a Tech Deck, use your fingers to flick the edge of the board and make it spin.
- Heelflip: Similar to the kickflip, the heelflip involves flipping the board 360 degrees, but in the opposite direction. Instead of using your toes to flick the board, use your heel to initiate the spin.
- Pop Shove-it: The pop shove-it involves spinning the board 180 degrees along its axis while airborne. Use your fingers to scoop the board and make it rotate beneath you.
Advanced Tech Deck Tricks
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can challenge yourself with more advanced tricks. The 360 flip, hardflip, and varial kickflip are examples of maneuvers that require precision and skill to perform.
- 360 Flip: The 360 flip combines the kickflip and heelflip motions to make the board spin 360 degrees while flipping. It’s a complex trick that requires precise timing and finger control.
- Hardflip: The hardflip is a variation of the kickflip that involves flipping the board while simultaneously spinning it 180 degrees along its axis. It’s a challenging trick that requires coordination and practice to land consistently.
- Varial Kickflip: The varial kickflip combines a kickflip with a frontside 180-degree body rotation. It’s a stylish trick that adds an extra level of difficulty to the basic kickflip.
Maintaining Your Tech Deck
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your Tech Deck in top condition. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the bearings and trucks can help maintain smooth performance and prevent wear and tear. Additionally, replacing worn-out parts, such as wheels or grip tape, is necessary to ensure optimal performance.
Customizing Your Tech Deck
One of the appeals of tech decking is the ability to customize your board to reflect your personality and style. You can experiment with different grip tape designs, deck graphics, and even customize the shape of your board for a unique riding experience.
Tech Deck Competitions and Events
Tech deck enthusiasts often gather at competitions and events to showcase their skills and connect with other fingerboarders. These events feature various contests, including best trick, highest ollie, and freestyle routines, allowing participants to compete and learn from one another.
The Future of Tech Decking
As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for tech decking are endless. From improved materials and designs to virtual reality integration, the future of fingerboarding holds exciting potential for innovation and growth.
Conclusion
Tech decking is more than just a hobby—it’s a creative outlet, a form of self-expression, and a community of like-minded individuals passionate about skateboarding culture. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fingerboarder, there’s always something new to learn and explore in the world of tech decking.