
Tech Decks have been making waves in the world of fingerboarding, offering an exciting and creative way to bring skateboarding to your fingertips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced pro, Tech Deck is the miniature skateboard that allows you to perform real-life skateboarding tricks with just your fingers. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Tech Deck—from choosing the best board to mastering popular tricks and even customizing your setup to fit your style.
If you’re new to Tech Deck, don’t worry! We’ll make sure you understand everything from the basics to advanced moves. The world of fingerboarding can seem complex at first, but with the right guidance, you’ll be mastering ollies, kickflips, and pop shuvits in no time. Grab your board and let’s dive into the world of Tech Deck fingerboarding!
What is Tech Deck? Mini Fingerboarding
Tech Deck is a small version of a skateboard that you can use with your fingers. It’s like having a tiny skateboard right in your hands, allowing you to perform skateboarding tricks without leaving your desk. Originally created as a toy, Tech Deck has now grown into a fun hobby that many people enjoy. It’s simple to use, but mastering the tricks takes practice, just like with real skateboarding.
The best part about Tech Deck is that it’s easy to carry around. You can take it anywhere and practice your moves while sitting at home, in school, or at the park. Whether you’re just starting or looking to learn new tricks, a Tech Deck is a great way to enjoy the feeling of skateboarding in a mini form.
How to Choose the Perfect Tech Deck: Tips for Beginners
Choosing the right Tech Deck is important to enjoy fingerboarding fully. When picking your board, make sure it fits comfortably in your hand. A smaller board might be easier for beginners, but as you improve, you can go for a larger one that offers better control.
There are many different materials that Tech Decks are made from, such as plastic or wood. Wooden boards are more durable and feel more realistic, just like real skateboards. Also, don’t forget about grip tape—choose a board with a good grip tape to help you perform better tricks.
Key Tips to Choose the Right Tech Deck:
- Board Size: Make sure the board fits your fingers comfortably.
- Material: Wooden boards last longer and feel more like real skateboards.
- Grip Tape: Choose a board with good grip for better control.
The Best Tech Deck Tricks: From Ollies to Kickflips
Mastering Tech Deck tricks is what makes fingerboarding so exciting! Start with basic moves like the Ollie, where you lift the nose of the board while the tail stays on the ground. Once you’re comfortable with that, you can try more advanced tricks like the Kickflip, where the board flips in the air under your fingers. These moves are the foundation of any great fingerboarder’s skillset.
As you get better, you can try even more complicated tricks like the Pop Shuvit. This move makes the board spin in a 180-degree turn without using your fingers to assist. The key to getting these tricks right is practice and patience. Don’t get discouraged if you fall a few times—every fingerboarder has been there!
Popular Tech Deck Tricks to Try:
- Ollie: The basic trick that gets you started.
- Kickflip: A fun and challenging move where the board flips under your fingers.
- Pop Shuvit: A cool trick where the board spins without using your fingers.
Tech Deck Customization: Personalizing Your Mini Skateboard
One of the best parts of owning a Tech Deck is customizing it to your liking. You can add your own style by changing the grip tape, trucks, and wheels. Many fingerboarders like to swap out the original parts for ones that offer better performance or a look that matches their personality.
To get started with customization, you can try adding cool stickers or changing the wheels to different colors. You can also experiment with the trucks to make your board turn more smoothly or respond differently. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make your Tech Deck truly yours!
Simple Ways to Customize Your Tech Deck:
- Change the Grip Tape: Add new designs or replace worn-out grip tape.
- Switch the Wheels: Try different colors or sizes for faster or smoother rides.
- Add Stickers: Show off your personality with fun stickers and designs.
Joining the Tech Deck Community: Events Competitions and Online Groups
Being part of the Tech Deck community can make fingerboarding even more fun! There are many online groups and forums where you can meet other fingerboarders, share your tricks, and learn new ones. These communities are full of people who love the same hobby and are always ready to help beginners improve.
You can also find competitions to test your skills. These events are held globally, and they offer a great way to show off your tricks and see how you stack up against other fingerboarders. Whether you’re attending in person or just joining an online competition, it’s a great way to get inspired and have fun.
How to Get Involved in the Tech Deck Community:
- Join Online Groups: Connect with other fingerboarders to share tips.
- Participate in Competitions: Test your skills in local or global events.
- Attend Local Events: Many places hold fingerboarding meetups or challenges.
Tech Deck vs. Real Skateboarding: What’s the Difference?
While both Tech Deck and real skateboarding share similarities, they are quite different in terms of the experience and physical requirements. Real skateboarding involves more space, balance, and outdoor environments, whereas Tech Deck is a mini version that you can practice anywhere. With Tech Deck, you don’t need to worry about falling or getting hurt, making it a safer option for beginners.
However, the excitement of learning tricks and performing flips remains the same for both. While real skateboarding requires mastering body movements and balancing on a moving board, Tech Deck only needs finger precision and control. It’s the perfect alternative if you enjoy the thrill of skateboarding but want to practice indoors or during bad weather.
Top Tech Deck Brands and Models You Should Know About
There are many brands that offer quality Tech Decks, each providing different features and options. The most popular brand is, of course, Tech Deck itself, but other brands like FingerboardHQ and Blackriver are also highly regarded. These companies make boards that are designed for different skill levels, so it’s easy to find one that fits your needs.
The models differ in terms of materials, design, and customization options. Some come with plastic decks while others have wooden ones that mimic the feel of real skateboards. The quality of the trucks, wheels, and grip tape also varies, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
Popular Tech Deck Models:
- Tech Deck Pro Series: High-quality boards that are perfect for pros.
- FingerboardHQ Boards: Known for their custom designs and durable materials.
- Blackriver Fingerboards: Offers high-end boards for serious enthusiasts.
Tech Deck Grip Tape: How to Improve Your Control
Grip tape is essential for keeping your fingers in control while performing tricks on your Tech Deck. Over time, grip tape can wear out, which can make your board harder to control. Replacing or improving the grip tape is one of the easiest ways to enhance your performance and feel more secure while fingerboarding.
When choosing grip tape, look for one that provides just the right amount of grip—too much can make it hard to perform smooth tricks, while too little will cause the board to slip out of your hands. Many fingerboarders opt for grippy designs or patterned tapes that also give their board a unique look.
Tips for Maintaining Tech Deck Grip Tape:
- Replace Worn Grip Tape: Keep your board’s performance at its best.
- Choose the Right Grip: Not too slippery, but not too sticky either.
- Customize with Patterns: Add style while improving functionality.
Mastering Advanced Tech Deck Tricks: Tips for Pro-Level Fingerboarding
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to start mastering more advanced tricks. Pro-level fingerboarding involves mastering moves like the Double Kickflip, Impossible, and Hardflip, which require great finger control and precision. These tricks can be difficult to learn, but with consistent practice, you can take your skills to the next level.
It’s also important to have a clean and smooth surface to practice on. A flat, hard surface will allow your board to slide better and help you get the perfect amount of pop for each trick. Record your sessions to analyze your technique, and don’t forget to learn from other fingerboarders by watching tutorials or joining online communities.
Advanced Tech Deck Tricks to Master:
- Double Kickflip: A challenging trick where the board flips twice under your fingers.
- Impossible: The board flips and spins in a unique way, making it look very difficult.
- Hardflip: A combination of a kickflip and a pop shuvit, adding complexity to your skills.
Tech Deck FAQs: Your Ultimate Guide to Troubleshooting and Tips
As you get better at Tech Deck, you might encounter some common challenges. One of the most frequent questions is how to prevent your board from losing grip. This can happen if the grip tape starts wearing out or if your fingers aren’t making enough contact with the tape. In such cases, replacing the grip tape or adjusting your technique can help improve your performance.
Another common issue is learning complex tricks like the Double Kickflip. If you’re struggling, try breaking the move down into smaller steps. Practice the Ollie first, and then focus on getting the timing right for the flip. With a little patience and persistence, you’ll soon be landing advanced tricks like a pro!
Helpful Tips to Overcome Challenges:
- Fix Grip Issues: Replace worn grip tape or adjust your grip technique.
- Learn Tricks Step-by-Step: Break down complex moves into easier parts.
- Keep Practicing: Don’t give up, even when a trick seems tough.
Conclusion
Tech Deck fingerboarding is a fun and exciting way to experience the thrill of skateboarding with just your fingers. Whether you’re new to it or already a pro, there’s always something new to learn. With so many tricks to master, boards to customize, and a community to connect with, Tech Deck offers endless possibilities for creativity and fun.
So, if you’re looking to improve your fingerboarding skills or simply enjoy a new hobby, grab a Tech Deck and start practicing! With time and dedication, you’ll be able to perform amazing tricks and join the growing community of fingerboarding enthusiasts. It’s a great way to express yourself, have fun, and even challenge your friends!
FAQs
Q: What is a Tech Deck?
A: A Tech Deck is a small skateboard that you can control with your fingers to perform tricks, similar to real skateboarding but on a mini scale.
Q: How do I clean my Tech Deck?
A: You can clean your Tech Deck by gently wiping it with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Avoid using strong cleaners.
Q: Can I change the parts of my Tech Deck?
A: Yes, you can customize your Tech Deck by swapping out the wheels, trucks, and grip tape to improve performance and style.
Q: What is the easiest Tech Deck trick to learn?
A: The Ollie is the easiest trick to learn. It’s the basic move where you lift the nose of the board while keeping the tail on the ground.
Q: Where can I find tutorials to learn more Tech Deck tricks?
A: You can find tutorials online on YouTube or in fingerboarding communities. Many people share helpful tips and step-by-step guides to improve your skills.