Skateboard

A skateboard is a narrow wheeled platform (usually made of plywood), used for recreation and transportation. It was developed in the twentieth century by surfers, who first made them using rollerskates. They are typically part of western youth culture.

Obsolete components

Rails -

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Rails are narrow plastic strips that were fastened under the deck along the edges. They used to be popular among vert skaters to whom they provided additional grip during aerial tricks. They also provide a more slipery surface and protect the deck from scratches during board slides. Most skateboarders no longer use rails, since the boards have become lighter and thus holding a grab during aerial tricks has become easier.

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Copers -

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Copers are plastic covers fastened under the truck's hanger which provide a more slippery surface when grinding. They were invented during a time when street skating was in it's infancy but were not very popular since they wore out very quickly and had to be replaced often.

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Lappers -

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Lappers are plastic covers fastened on the inside of the truck that covered the kingpin and the baseplate. Their purpose is to prevent the skateboard from being stopped when the truck hits an obstacle (for example when rolling up a curb).

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Nose guard -

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Nose guards are plastic "bumpers" fastened to the nose of a skateboard. It's purpose is to protect the nose of the deck from being damaged when the skateboard hits an obstacle.

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Tail bone -

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Tail bone is a piece of plastic fastened under the tail of a skateboard. It's purpose is to protect the tail of the deck from wear. Because a tail bone makes the execution of an ollie more difficult and because the skateboard decks today don't last as long as in the 1980's a tail bone is today a very rare accessory.

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