Learn Your Craft
SPORTS
ACADEMY
From pushing your first inch to landing your first flip. Step-by-step guides, gear-care basics, and pre-session checklists — all in one place.
Skate Tricks & Techniques
Beginner Basics
Essential Maneuvers
Drop-Ins & Ramps
Pack My Bag
Pre-made checklists for different session types. Check items off before you head out so you never forget your wax again.
No checklists available for skate yet. Liam is working on it.
Gear Care
Bearing Maintenance
- 1. Remove wheels and pop off the bearing shields with a razor or pick
- 2. Soak in isopropyl alcohol or bearing cleaner for 10 minutes
- 3. Spin dry on a cloth, then blow out any debris
- 4. Apply a few drops of speed cream or light machine oil
- 5. Reattach shields, reinstall in wheels
- 6. Break them in — they'll get faster after a few sessions of riding
Never use WD-40 — it attracts dirt and gums up bearings.
Grip Tape Replacement
- 1. Peel off old grip tape slowly, using a hair dryer if stubborn
- 2. Clean deck surface with isopropyl alcohol, let dry completely
- 3. Line up new sheet from nose to tail, pressing down gradually
- 4. Use a screwdriver or file to score the edge of the deck
- 5. Trim excess with a fresh razor blade at a 45° angle
- 6. Poke holes through the grip tape for hardware
Fresh grip = better flicks.
LL
"The more you know, the harder you charge. That's the whole academy in one sentence."
— Liam the Llama