Protecting the tail of your skateboard helps extend deck life and preserves graphics. Tail skid plates come in various colors and styles, from classic tail bone plates to spark-enhanced designs. This guide highlights five top options that balance protection, ease of installation, and value for riders on American streets, parks, and ramps.
Below is a quick summary of the chosen products. Use the table to compare colors, installation basics, and what each option includes. All items are designed to mount to the tail end of standard skateboards and ship with necessary mounting hardware.
| Product | Brand | Color/Style | Includes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Century Tail Bone Style Skateboard Skidplate, 8 inch | Century Skate Shop | Red | 1 skid plate, mounting hardware, 3 screws | Classic 8″ bone-style protection |
| Century Tail Bone Style Skateboard Skidplate, 8 inch | Century Skate Shop | Black | 1 skid plate, mounting hardware, 3 screws | Low-profile matte finish |
| Century Tail Bone Style Skateboard Skidplate, 8 inch | Century Skate Shop | Yellow | 1 skid plate, mounting hardware, 3 screws | Bold visibility and protection |
| Century Tail Bone Style Skateboard Skidplate, 8 inch | Century Skate Shop | Blue | 1 skid plate, mounting hardware, 3 screws | Classic bone design with color |
| Tail Devil Spark Plate | THE ORIGINAL TAIL DEVIL SPARK IT UP! | Black/Glow spark (1 Pack) | 1 spark plate, 2 screws, 1 sticker | Creates sparks on grind or scrape |
Century Tail Bone Style 8″ Skidplate — Red
The 8-inch tail bone style skid plate from Century Skate Shop provides solid tail-end protection with simple mounting. Included are the skid plate and three #4 x 5/8″ pan head wood screws, making installation straightforward on most standard decks. This red variant emphasizes visibility while delivering reliable impact resistance for daily riders and trick enthusiasts alike.
Century Tail Bone Style 8″ Skidplate — Black
Black variant offers a discreet look while still delivering durable tail protection. The kit includes the skid plate and mounting hardware. It’s designed for quick attachment and works well for riders seeking a clean, low-profile aesthetic without sacrificing protection during grinds and toe-overs on urban terrain.
Century Tail Bone Style 8″ Skidplate — Yellow
The yellow edition provides high visibility, helping you spot your board on crowded streets or parks. This 8-inch tail bone skid plate comes with mounting hardware and screws for a quick setup, giving riders dependable protection that’s tough enough to handle frequent landings and tail slides.
Century Tail Bone Style 8″ Skidplate — Blue
The blue variant adds a touch of personality to the deck while maintaining practical protection. Each kit includes the 8″ skid plate and the required mounting hardware. It’s suitable for riders who want dependable tail protection without compromising style.
Tail Devil Spark Plate — 1 Pack
The Tail Devil Spark Plate adds a dramatic sparking effect when performing wheelies, scrapes, or grinds. It includes 3M mounting tape for fast attachment and two Philips screws for added security. Compatible with most wood skateboards, cruisers, and longboards, it offers a fun visual upgrade while protecting the tail from direct wear.
Tail Devil Spark Plate — 1 Pack (Alternative)
This alternative Tail Devil spark plate offers the same quick-stick installation and spark capability. It includes screws and a sticker, with a built-in emphasis on durability and visual flair for night sessions and park tricks. It’s another solid option for riders seeking a bold, spark-ready tail accessory.
Buying Guide: Tail Skid Plate Considerations
Key factors when choosing a tail skid plate include compatibility, material, and protection level. Look for plates designed to fit common deck sizes and shapes, with clear mounting hardware included. UHMW plastic offers low friction and durability for frequent slides, while metal plates provide additional rigidity for heavy use. Consider color and style for visibility, but prioritize attachment ease and security to prevent loosening during rides.
Protection and Durability
Skid plates are primarily designed to shield the tail from wheel bite, curb scrapes, and ground contact during tricks. Classic bone-style plates typically provide ample coverage without adding excessive weight. Spark versions add a visual effect, but ensure the underlying plate remains robust to withstand repeated impacts.
Installation and Compatibility
Most kits include mounting screws and a straightforward installation process. Verify that the screws fit your deck’s wood thickness and that the plate’s footprint aligns with your tail width. Some riders prefer color-matched options to blend with their deck, while others choose bright colors for visibility during night sessions.
Performance and Style
Beyond protection, tail skid plates influence slide feel and wear patterns. A plate that adheres securely reduces rattling and ensures consistent performance on ledges, rails, and pool coping. Styles range from discreet black to vibrant yellow, letting riders express personality while maintaining functionality.
Maintenance and Longevity
Regular inspection helps catch loose screws or wear before it becomes a problem. Cleaning with a damp cloth and checking mounting hardware after heavy sessions can prolong the plate’s life. If a plate begins to crack or peel, replacing it promptly prevents deck damage and maintains performance.
Why Choose a Tail Skid Plate?
A tail skid plate is a practical upgrade for skaters who want to extend deck life and preserve tail geometry. By absorbing impact and reducing direct wear at the end of the board, you can keep graphics vivid longer and maintain consistent performance across parks, streets, and bowls. For riders who value style, spark-plate variants offer an eye-catching enhancement without compromising protection.
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