Dont pop your shields unless you get bearings for free. If you can afford Bones Swiss (Regular or 6 ball) go for them, if you can’t then stick with Bones Reds.
If you’re ever in doubt about which board you should buy, go with the BBS/ Generator board. I know some Girl shapes are good, but think long term. There’s a reason why tons of pros who didn’t have board sponsors rode flowed BBS/ Generator products & turned down the crailtap box offer.
You can replace everything on your board, but always port over your old bushings. They’re the hardest thing to break in, and they last a long while even after they look munched.
Waxing new ledges and curbs should consist of rubbrick, clear rustoleum and wax.
Wear the shoes you intend on skating for a few weeks before you actually skate them, having them broken in makes a world of difference. Don’t microwave them, bc you may have to Shoe Goo the sole back on after a few sessions and then you’re back at square one.
Don’t wax the hell out of metal coping ledges/ rails/ bars, try going faster first and see if that’s the problem.
Stretch before you skate, regardless of how old you are. You’d be surprised how easily avoidable aches and pains are if you’re thoroughly stretched out. I used to be made fun of at spots by my friends when I’d do this, but I wasn’t the one who couldn’t sleep that night due to neck/ back issues.
Don’t get drunk or high before you skate, the whole “I skate better when I’m inebriated” myth is bullshit. Not only will you be at greater risk when it comes to injuries, but it could lead to an extreme dependence down the road that’ll ruin your life. I can’t stress this one enough, don’t do it.
Low profile cup soles > vulcanized shoes, it’ll save your feet in the long run. Even if you skate vulc soles, try to wear something with support when you’re off the board. I know board feel is important, but so are feet and knees that don’t hurt in your 30’s.
Don’t read the typed descriptions of your favourite pro’s social media posts, just watch the video and keep it moving. You don’t wanna sour the enjoyment you get out of watching your fave pro bc they use their high school drop out education to lecture you on politics and vaccines.