Custom Fingerboard vs Regular: What’s the Difference?

Fingerboarding has evolved from a basic desk toy. What began as a pastime for mini-boards has become an intense hobby and culture with its own techniques and equipment. Among the major choices riders have to make today is the choice between a regular fingerboard and a custom fingerboard. Both have the same fundamental function, but there are several distinctions that can make a world of difference in your experience.

Let's take it down to a basic, authentic level and determine which one works best for you.

What is a Regular Fingerboard?

Typically a mass produced fingerboard. This is a type of boards commonly found in a toy shop or in a starter kit. They are already all the components have been assembled, ready for use and come with standard shapes, simple graphics and average quality parts.

These boards are a perfect introduction to the game for new players. They are cheap, readily available and suitable enough to master simple maneuvers such as ollying, kickflips and grinds. You don't have to sweat the setup or customization - you just choose one and get on the bike.

The downside to this, however, is that as you do better, you might begin to see their weaknesses. It may be slightly too formulaic, wheels may not roll as well, and handling may be slightly off.

What Is a Custom Fingerboard?

You can't get more personal than a custom fingerboard. You don't need to settle for a standard deck, you get to make all the decisions from the deck shape, size, graphics, trucks, wheels, even the grip.

This is a significant degree of control. The custom fingerboard is more than just an aesthetic choice; it's about performance, comfort, and identity. Many riders who are serious about fingerboarding eventually make the transition to custom setups as they find that they can get more precise and smoother tricks to perform with a custom setup.

While some of them are quite similar, there are also some key differences between custom fingerboard and regular.

Build Quality

Typically, regular fingerboards are constructed using less expensive materials and have simpler features. They do a good job, but not always consistently, or for a long period of time.

A custom fingerboard, however, is often constructed with more quality materials as the wooden decks, the metal trucks and premium wheels. This renders the skateboard more durable and gives it a more authentic feel, just like a real skateboard.

Performance and Control

This is where things get really different.

In using a regular fingerboard, tricks may seem more difficult to control. The landing may not be as easy, and more attempts may be required for landing tricks to work every time.

Grips, balance and response will be enhanced with a custom fingerboard. It can be customized to your liking, and is more comfortable in your hands. This will improve the learning curve of advanced tricks and help you overall level up your skills.

Personalization

In the same way, there aren't a lot of alternatives when it comes to regular fingerboards.

If you have a custom fingerboard, it's up to you. Want a wider deck? You got it. Was there a particular soft wheel or a certain graphic design you preferred? No problem. This freedom will enable you to build a setup that truly represents your style.

To many riders, this is one of the most thrilling aspects of fingerboarding. It isn't simply about riding, it's about creating something distinctive.

Price Difference

Let's face it – there's a price factor.

The regular fingerboards are reasonably priced and perfect for novices or casual players. It's possible to start for little or no cost.

Custom fingerboards will be more costly due to their quality and because they can be customised to the rider's preferences. Just picture it as an investment, however. If you're dedicated to fingerboarding, the benefits of performance and durability have made it a worthwhile investment for many.

Skill Level Suitability

When a player is just beginning, using a regular fingerboard is just fine. It will fill you in on the fundamentals without overwhelming you.

As you become more proficient, though, you’ll probably need to upgrade. That's where a custom fingerboard comes in handy. Helps you progress and to test yourself.

Which One to Pick?

This is more or less depending on your level of fingerboarding.

For beginners or the fun-loving, a regular fingerboard will suffice. Easy to use, inexpensive and simple.

If, however, you're passionate about honing your skills, creating content or simply want a more pleasurable experience, you might want to consider switching to a custom fingerboard. You'll notice the difference in control, comfort and overall feel immediately.

Final Thoughts

In the end, there are two kinds of finger board. Regular boards are ideal for beginners and a custom fingerboard is perfect if you want to take your riding to the next level.

Fingerboarding is a matter of creativity, practice and style. After you have had an experience with a setup that is designed for YOU, it is difficult to move back. From beginner to advanced tricks, the right board can mean the difference.

For those looking to take their fingerboarding journey to the next level, a custom fingerboard could be the perfect upgrade.