Tech deck

Types of Tech Deck

Tech Decks are miniature skateboards used for performing tricks, just like real skateboarding. They are popular among fingerboarding enthusiasts and are designed to mimic the experience of street and park skateboarding. There are several types of Tech Decks, each offering a different experience and appeal:

• Fingerboards: These tiny skateboards, which are around 3 inches long, are used to perform tricks with fingers. They have different shapes, concaves, and nose and tail sizes that can be customized to suit the user's preference. Fingerboards are built with different materials such as plastic, wood, and metal.
• Wooden Fingerboards: These are high-quality fingerboards made of layers of maple wood, just like professional skateboards. Wooden fingerboards offer a more realistic skating experience and longer lifespan than plastic fingerboards. They come with different concaves and griptapes for customization and have various shapes to choose from.
• Mini Skateboards: Mini skateboards are larger than fingerboards but smaller than regular skateboards. They are used by kids as a substitute for skateboards and by adults for cruising. Mini skateboards are great for performing tricks in the streets and parks and have small wheels for easy maneuvering.
• Tech Deck DIY Kits: These are Do-It-Yourself kits that provide users with the materials to build and customize their skateboards. The kits include decks, trucks, wheels, and hardware that can be assembled. Users can customize the decks with different artworks, stickers, and shapes, which gives them a personalized touch.
• Collectible Tech Decks: These decks are produced in limited editions and have special graphics, collaborations, and signature pro models. They are more like action figures and are highly sought after by collectors. Collectible Tech Decks are used for display purposes and may come with collectible packaging and certificates of authenticity.
• Pro Model Tech Decks: These decks bear the signatures of professional skateboarders and feature their graphics and specs. They are produced in limited quantities and are aimed at collectors and fans. Some of these decks are made of premium materials and have unique concaves and shapes.

Scenarios of Tech Deck

Tech decks are miniature skateboards that allow users to perform tricks and maneuvers with their fingers. They have many applications and usage scenarios, such as:

• Fingertip skating enthusiasts: Tech decks are popular among skaters who may not have enough room to use a full skateboard. These decks enable people to express their love for skating in a scaled-down version that can be controlled using fingers. The joy of executing tricks and experiencing skateboarding's adrenaline is well captured by tech decks.
• Working and schooling individuals: People employed in offices and those studying in schools can use tech decks as a means of relaxation. During breaks, they can engage in this fun activity that helps to relieve stress and tension. This is very true when one is not able to participate in their preferred physical sport due to space or time constraints.
• Collection: Tech decks are highly sought-after collectibles by some people. This is because they are manufactured with remarkable detail and come in a wide range of designs. As a result, they attract enthusiasts who collect different decks, especially rare or signature boards, for display or as prized possessions.
• Display and educational tools: Tech decks can be used to display skateboarding culture and art. As such, they can be utilized as instructional equipment in classrooms to demonstrate motion physics or as a medium to study design and art. Using tech decks in this way can spur discussions and creativity among students.
• Gifts and novelties: Tech decks make great gifts for people of all ages. They are perfect for those who cannot use a full skateboard for some reason. They provide a fun activity that appeals to people universally. Moreover, they are a good addition to gag gift collections.

How to choose Tech Deck

Choosing the right tech deck is like picking the perfect skateboard but on a much smaller scale. It depends on what tricks one wants to perform and personal preferences.

The first thing to consider is the size of the tech deck. Smaller ones are great for doing tech deck fingerboarding tricks, while bigger ones are better for doing flips and all. The shape of the board matters a lot. Some tech decks have a concave shape, which makes it easier to do tricks. Others have a flat shape that is more stable. Also, check the materials used. A good tech deck is made from quality materials like maple wood or plastic. It makes the board more durable and long lasting.

Also, consider the grip tape. It is rough and makes it easy to hold the fingers. Some tech decks come with pre-applied grip tape, while others need it applied manually. Go for the one that has enough grip for the fingers.

Another thing to consider is the trucks. They are the metal parts that hold the wheels. Some tech decks have adjustable trucks, while others have fixed ones. Adjustable trucks are better because they can be customized to fit different styles of trick fingerboarding. The wheels are just as important as the trucks. Some tech decks have bigger wheels, while others have smaller wheels. Bigger wheels are great for doing tricks on rough surfaces. Smaller wheels are better for doing tricks on smooth surfaces.

Finally, consider the cost. Tech decks are more expensive but offer better quality and performance. However, there are also budget-friendly options that are still good. Overall, choosing a tech deck is many more things than just a board. It involves considering personal preferences and playing style.

Function, Feature, and Design of Tech Decks

Tech decks are mini skateboards that allow users to perform tricks and stunts using fingers. They have different functions depending on their design and features, which are outlined below.

Function

The primary function of a tech deck is to provide a platform for performing tricks. This is achieved through the boards' various designs and features, which are tailored to enhance performance and playability.

Features

• Material

  Most tech decks are constructed from deck maple wood, which is the same material used to make real skateboards. Maple wood is durable and can withstand repeated pressure from finger tricks. Also, tech decks can have metal or plastic material for some components, such like trucks and wheels, which offer a longer lifespan.

• Grip Tape

  Grip tape is an essential component of a tech deck. It is rough on the surface and provides friction, ensuring the fingers do not slip off the deck during trick performances. Most grip tapes have textured or embossed designs that add to their friction.

• Scaling

  Tech decks are scaled down to approximately 1/8 size of a standard skateboard. This size is suitable for hand use, as it offers enough space to perform tricks without being too small to control.

• Movable components

  Like real skateboards, tech decks have movable wheels. This allows users to perform tricks such as ollies, flips, and grinds. The movement also enables the tech deck to perform different trick variations, offering more fun during gameplay.

Design

• Variety of designs

  Tech decks come in a variety of designs, including different shaped decks such as popsicle, old school, and freestyle decks. The designs offer users opportunities to try out various tricks and personalize their tech decks to suit their preferences.

• Realism

  Tech decks are designed to resemble real skateboards. They have the same components, such as decks, wheels, trucks, and bushings. This makes trick performance on tech decks feel similar to real-life skating, enhancing the overall experience.

• Detailed graphics

  Tech decks feature detailed graphics and logos on the surface. This adds to their visual appeal and makes them similar to real skateboards owned by professional skaters. The graphics also allow for personalization, as users can select tech decks with their preferred designs.

Q & A

Q: What is a tech deck?

A: A tech deck is a miniature skateboard designed for performing tricks and maneuvers using the fingers. Usually, it has concave like a real skateboard, complete with grip tape and trucks. Most tech decks are collectibles and used to showcase skating skills.

Q: Who invented the tech deck?

A: The tech deck was invented by Santa Cruz Skateboards in 1978. It was a marketing tool used to promote their skateboards. In 1998, Fingerboards International acquired the rights to the tech deck and released it to the public.

Q: What material is a tech deck made of?

A: A tech deck is made of various materials that include plastic and wood. The deck is made of pressed maple wood, while the wheels and other components are made of high-quality plastic. Some brands may use metal for the axles and bolts.

Q: What is the size of a tech deck?

A: The size of a tech deck can vary depending on the brand and model. Generally, the decks range from 96mm to 105mm in length. The width sizes also vary and are approximately 28mm to 32mm.