Skateboard Griptape Provides Grip and Style

Skateboard griptape is the self-adhesive sheet that you put on the surface of your skateboard. It is similar to sandpaper and is granulated to provide a good stance and grip on the board. Skateboard gritapes are typically made from silicon carbide, and they often come in standardized size 9 x 33 inches (23 cm x 84 cm). They are sold either as a single sheet or griptape rolls.

The most typical griptape is a black griptape, but vividly colored griptapes have become increasingly popular among skateboarders. Some manufacturers also make clear griptapes.

How to Remove Skateboard Griptape

Skate griptape will get worn down over time, especially if you ride your board often. Shoes and dirt smoothen the granulated surface, making performing tricks more difficult.

You can remove griptape by blowing hot air on it with a hairdryer. This warms and makes the adhesive more liquid-like, so you should be able to peel it off easily with the help of a box knife. You can remove the possible adhesive residues by scraping them gently off after rubbing them first with nail polish remover or any alcohol-based cleaner. After the residues are removed, you can apply a new griptape to your deck.

How to Apply Griptape On a Skateboard

Applying a skate griptape is relatively easy and needs only a few tools. You should start by removing the paper from the griptape’s sticky side. Then gently press the sticky side onto the deck. Remember to make sure the griptape is centered before pressing it to the deck.

When pressing it to the deck, make sure that all air bubbles are removed - many griptapes are now perforated to make this process easier. Once you have done this, you should make cuts in each corner of the griptape. Then create guidelines for the cutout shape by pressing the tape down from the edges of the deck with a tool. After this, you can cut the excessive griptape with a sharp knife. Lastly, you need to create holes for bolts with a pointy tool.

If you are still unsure about how to apply griptape, our video How to Put a Griptape on a Skateboard explains the process step-by-step.