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Skateboard decks
Skateboard decks have evolved greatly since they became popular during the ‘60s. After a brief slump in sales, skater Larry Stevenson invented the kicktail, a raised end that enabled further control–thereby legitimizing the sport in the 1970s. Today, skateboards have both a raised nose and tail that enable riders to perform jumping tricks such as “ollies.”
An ollie is the most basic jumping trick that a rider must learn before moving on to more technical feats; skateboard decks with at least one raised-end are required to perform an ollie. To perform the trick, riders must balance their weight over the middle of the deck and place one foot on the kicktail. While popping the kicktail down, the rider simultaneously slides their other foot up the deck while jumping forward. When done correctly, the skateboard will leave the ground.
Riders must also have grip tape on their skateboard decks to be able to perform jumping tricks. Grip tape is an adhesive surface, similar to sandpaper, that covers the deck. Without grip tape, the rider will not have the right amount of friction to pull the skateboard off the ground while ollying.
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