How to Ride an Electric Skateboard [Safely & for Beginners]

Electric skateboards are a fun way to get around. If you’re a newbie, it can feel a bit challenging getting the hang of things. You need to maintain proper balance and have patience. Taking things slow, and knowing what you want to get out of your board, will make things a lot easier. An electric board built for rugged terrain will move differently than a skateboard created for the streets.

Make a Break from Tradition

If you never set foot on a traditional skateboard before, you might want to give that a try first. Usually longboards are good for beginners. You’ll want to be comfortable before cruising around on an electric skateboard. You want to ride an electric skateboard on a smooth surface, where there is plenty of room to fall. Always make sure to wear a helmet and pads in case of an accident.

Unlike traditional skateboards that let you brake with your feet, electric skateboards brake via remote. You should slow down before braking, and keep your feet securely on board while moving. Make sure to come to a complete stop before you dismount. After you get comfortable riding your board in straight lines, you’ll become comfortable carving in no time.

Don’t Throw Out the Manual

Read over your manual, because you’ll use a remote to control your skateboard, so learn the controls available. Your wireless remote control should make your board move forward, reverse, and brake. If you have a Bluetooth controller, you can power your skateboard with your smartphone.

Step on And Get Ready

After you’ve gotten a handle on the controls, and have suited up with some safety gear, it’s time to get on board. Place your foot flat on the board, and use the remote to move your board forward. You want to do this, so you can get accustomed to how your board feels when in motion.

When you’re ready, place both feet on your board shoulder-width apart. You want to maintain a stance similar to standing on a traditional skateboard, so you keep your balance while cruising. Make sure to stay limber, and bend your knees a bit. Stiff riding is no good, especially on a motorized skateboard.

As you slowly accelerate your electric skateboard, you’ll want to lean in the direction you’re moving in, to stay stable. When you need to brake, make an effort to slow down first. You don’t want to end up lurching forward because of a hard stop. You can change your course, by leaning in the direction you want to travel.