Griptape Explained — What the Differences Actually Mean

Grit level. Griptape is rated by grit — the coarseness of the abrasive surface. Most skateboard griptape runs 80–100 grit. Coarser grit grips harder and tears shoes faster. Finer grit is slightly less aggressive and easier on shoes but still provides solid grip. The difference between brands at similar grit levels is subtle — most skaters pick based on brand preference or feel once they've tried a few.

Thickness and feel. Thicker griptape (like Mob) is stiffer and some skaters feel it gives more board feel through the feet. Thinner tape is more flexible and easier to apply cleanly around the nose and tail without bubbles. Neither is objectively better — it's personal preference.

Clear vs black vs graphic. Black griptape is the standard — you can see the deck graphic, the tape is grippy, done. Clear grip lets the full deck graphic show through. Graphic griptape adds a design on top. All three are the same performance material underneath — the choice is purely aesthetic.

The Brands We Carry

• Mob Grip — the most widely used griptape in street skateboarding. Consistent, reliable, medium-thick, goes on cleanly. The standard against which others are measured. Available in black, clear and graphics.
• Jessup — the original skateboard griptape brand, been around since the 1970s. Thinner than Mob with a slightly different feel. Strong following among riders who prefer a more flexible tape.
• Grizzly — Grizzly Grip was founded by pro skater Jamie Foy. Strong graphics range, quality comparable to Mob. Popular for riders who want griptape that matches their aesthetic.
• Santa Cruz — reliable mid-market option with the Santa Cruz brand graphics.

How to Apply Griptape

Applying griptape correctly takes five minutes and the result matters. Peel the backing, centre the sheet over the deck before committing, press from the middle outward to push air bubbles to the edges, use a skate tool or screwdriver to scribe the edge firmly, then cut the excess with a Stanley knife at 45 degrees from underneath. Run the edge of the cut piece over the perimeter to rough it up — this helps the tape bond at the edges and stops peeling.

If you buy a deck from us in store we'll grip it for you. If you're doing it at home and want a hand, come in — it takes a few minutes.

When to Replace Griptape

Griptape wears down with use. When the surface feels smooth rather than abrasive, or when you notice your feet sliding more than usual, it's time to replace it. Dirty or wet grip can be cleaned with a griptape cleaning brush — this removes debris and restores some grip without replacing the tape. But eventually it wears out and needs replacing. At a few dollars a sheet it's one of the cheapest maintenance items in skateboarding.

Griptape FAQ

What griptape do most pro skaters use? Mob is the most common choice — consistent, widely available, reliable grip. Some riders use Jessup for the thinner feel. Both are the right answer.

Does griptape brand really matter? Less than most other components. The difference between quality griptape brands is subtle. The difference between quality griptape and cheap griptape is more significant — cheap grip loses its abrasiveness faster and bubbles more easily.

Can I grip my own board? Yes — it's straightforward with a bit of care. Take your time lining it up before you commit, press out bubbles from the centre and cut cleanly. Or bring it in and we'll do it.

How long does griptape last? Depends on how often you skate, what shoes you wear and the conditions. Street skaters who session regularly might replace it every few months. Casual riders can go a year or more on a single sheet.

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