Equipment Advice - So Good Skate

Getting the right setup can make learning easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Beginners do not need the most expensive gear, but they do need equipment that is proper. Bad equipment will hinder your progress and be less fun to use because it will limit things like like speed, ollie "pop", grip, and it can hinder your tricks.

What You Need

A solid complete skateboard from a trusted brand Use skateboards from a trusted source like your local skateshop. Pay attention to the feel of the wood on a professional deck, use that knowledge when purchasing other boards. Tip: Don't waste your time and money with "Walmart" gear.
Skate shoes with good cushion and board feel Find a pair of skateboarding shoes that have enough cushion so you don't "feel" concrete when you jump. Buy shoes that fit and prevent your feet from sliding forward to avoid stubbing your toes on the inner frontside of the shoe. Tip: Find out what your favorite skater wears or any other professional shoes used by professionals that fit your style. Use those.
A properly fitted helmet Most skaters deem helmets as unnecessary or "uncool". However, we at SoGoodSkate advice that you utilize one. Tip: Do not use a bicycle helmet or any of the styrofoam cushioned ones they are prone to fatigue, instead use a helmet with regular soft foam liners.
Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards Pads are great for beginning to novice skaters. We recommend that you use pad equipment to fast track your learning whilst staying safe from pain. Tip: It doesn't matter how you look when you are shredding! Imagine how much faster you can progress if injuries were prevented during your practice sessions. Focus on that.
Wheels and trucks that match your style of skating In general the edge of your truck should match the edge of the skateboard, street skaters have smaller wheels than vert/bowl skateboarders. Tip: Find a professional skater that does the type of skating you want to learn, research their setup!

What to Avoid

Cheap toy-store boards Cheap store boards from major retailers like Walmart are incredible slow, they don't roll far, and they break very easily. This limits the possibilities for skaters to perform most actions required of a professional skateboard. Tip: Don't be cheap, buy a professional quality setup. You can ask to ride other people's skateboards and when you feel like you like a certain setup ask them what equipment they have.
Running / Tennis shoes Running shoes are not meant for skateboarding and will tear earlier. Do not make the rookie mistake of riding in shoes not created for skateboarding. Tip: Every successful pro skater wears shoes that are specifically designed for skateboarding. We suggest you do the same.
Ignoring safety gear when learning basics By it's nature skateboarding can hurt. It is best that you protect yourself until you can anticipate and learn how to fall properly without getting injured. Tip: Although pads cannot prevent injury a majority of them will be prevented whilst you learn the proper way to fall.
Slow wheel bearings The best part of skateboarding is to ride. For riding to be enjoyable you need professional grade bearings in your wheels. If you have bad bearing you will feel as if your skateboard doesn't move and the lack of speed is fighting against you. Tip: By wheel bearings specifically built for skateboarding. A bad bearing setup can completely ruin a skaters attitude towards their skateboard and deem the board "unskateable"".