Beginner’s Guide: First Time Skating Safely

Ride Smart. Ride Free. Ride Scops.

Skating for the first time can be equal parts thrilling and intimidating. Whether you’re picking up a

longboard, cruiser, or street deck, the secret to a great start is simple: stay safe while having fun.

This beginner’s guide will help you roll into your first session with confidence, balance, and style.

Before you even set foot on the board:

•Helmet – Non-negotiable. Choose a certified skate or bike helmet.

•Pads – Wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads protect you from common falls.

•Shoes – Flat-soled sneakers with good grip are your best friend.

Pro Tip: Your gear isn’t just safety equipment—it’s confidence equipment.

For beginners, stability is key:

•Longboards – Great for cruising and learning balance.

•Cruisers – Compact and fun for short rides.

•Street Decks – Best for tricks, but can feel less stable for absolute beginners.

If you’re riding a Scops longboard, you’re already ahead—organic materials, stable designs, and

smooth ride quality make learning easier.

Two main stances:

•Regular – Left foot forward.

•Goofy – Right foot forward.

Try both and see which feels more natural. Stand on the board on soft grass or carpet to practice

without it rolling.

1 Mount & Dismount – Step on smoothly, step off without jumping.

2 Pushing – Keep your front foot on the board, push with the back foot.

3 Turning – Lean gently toward your toes (toe side) or heels (heel side).

•Empty parking lots, smooth sidewalks, or quiet parks are ideal.

•Avoid steep hills until you’re confident with stopping and turning.

Two beginner-friendly methods:

•Foot Brake – Gently drag your back foot on the ground.

•Carve to Slow – Make wide S-turns to naturally lose speed.

Start slow, focus on smooth movement, and keep your knees slightly bent for balance.

The more relaxed you are, the easier it is to control the board.

Your first skating experience sets the tone for every ride after. By gearing up, starting slow, and

practicing in safe spots, you can skip the fear and dive straight into the joy of skating. And

remember—whether it’s your first ride or your fiftieth, the Scops ethos is the same: freedom, style,

and respect for the road.