Introduction
Clear skateboard grip tape revolutionized the way skateboarding enthusiasts upgraded their boards without compromising much on style and safety. What is common in regular grip tapes is that with skateboard grip tape transperant, one can showcase works of art on the deck while providing the grip and toughness required during faultless tricks. Because this tape fuses functionality with style, it has been gaining more and more acceptance among enthusiasts.
In this tutorial, you will be taught how to:
Benefit
How clear grip tape keeps your skateboard much safer and even nicer looking.
Application Process
How to put it on both smooth and without bubbles.
Care and Maintenance Tips
How to help keep clear grip tape cleaner and last longer with professional cleaning tips.
Where to Buy
Finally, where to purchase quality clear skateboard grip tape from top brands.
We will discuss products like Mob Grip, ZUEXT, and Jessup Griptape, which were famous for their quality and performance. Skaters trust these brands for new ideas in grip technology, including Lucid GLOW Grip, promising a better skating experience. Clear skateboard grip tape presents another means of integrating style and performance on the ramp, be it an advanced or a beginner.
Understanding Clear Skateboard Grip Tape
Clear skateboard grip tape has been a game-changer in the skateboarding world, offering both functional and stylish options for skaters. Other than the regular grip tapes that usually are black and cover your deck's artwork, the transparent grip tape allows skaters to expose the graphics of their board without losing quality in the grip.
What Makes It Unique
Definition
Clear skateboard grip tape is a product similar to very fine-grit sandpaper that sticks to the top of the skateboard deck. It provides traction but still shows the design of the deck.
Differences over Traditional Grip Tape
Opposed to regular tapes, which are usually opaque and completely functional, clear ones offer looks and performance. It gives a way for the skater to have his or her graphics, logos, or custom art visible on their board.
Key Features
- See-Through: The most prevailing feature of clear GoFp tape is its transparency. This characteristic, especially, has made it a favorite among those who treat their skateboards as canvases of unique designs.
- Durable: While being see-through, this type of grip tape is built to last and withhold wear and tear just as much as regular ones would do.
- Multi-purpose: Even though it was originally used for skateboards, this usage has widened to other forms where friction is necessary, like scooters and also other more unexpected uses to prevent license plates from getting scratched.
Clear skateboard grip tapes fulfill not only the functional requirements but also the creative side of the skating culture.
Benefits of Using Clear Skateboard Grip Tape
Clear skateboard grip tape is basically for safety. The tractions allow the skateboarders to obtain a firm foothold for minimal slipping or falling. It's just non-slip traction grip tape that gives peace of mind while riding and performing stunts or tricks.
But more than safety, the aesthetic appeal of clear grip tape strikes a chord. Skaters can show off their deck graphics without sacrificing too much in terms of quality grip. The transparency of the tape by nature enables any bright-colored design to stand out through it, making every trick and ride made with one's board a thing of personal distinction.
Clear grip tape is also very versatile. From skateboards to scooters and even wheelchairs. All these make clear grip tape a very decent investment for anyone desiring reliable traction across different surfaces and devices. With clear grip tape, the user merges functionality and style into his skateboarding.
Best Brands Offering Clear Skateboard Grip Tape
When it comes to selecting the perfect clear skateboard grip tape, a few top brands reflect fantastic quality and performance. This withstandrole section will cover some of the leading brands trusted by skateboarders: Mob Grip, ZUEXT, and Jessup Griptape. Each brand has unique features that best fit different needs and preferences.
1. Mob Grip
Mob Grip is synonymous with high-quality grip tapes with performance unparalleled. With its exclusive grit binding process, Mob Grip guarantees sure traction and durability that many professional skateboarders just love.
Key Features:
- Exclusive Grit Binding Process: It enhances grip performance to give perfect control to the skater.
- Size Specifications: It comes in one standard size of 10 inches by 33 inches, fitting about most skateboards in the market.
- Weight and Performance Ratings: Professional skateboarders who prefer the weight and efficiency of grip love this product. Never used.
Available Products:
1,Mob Clear Grip Tape 3 Sheets Skateboard Griptape
Mob Clear Grip Tape 3 Sheets Skateboard Griptape
Price: $24.95
- Reasons to Buy: Fantastic traction, really durable; great showing deck graphics still having performance.
- Reasons to Avoid: More costly compared to other products.
Personal Recommendation: For skateboarders, this may be a very good choice if you want to have both aesthetics and functionality intertwined.
2. ZUEXT
With super sticky adhesive and great resistance to bad weather, ZUEXT managed to carve its niche in the skateboarding arena and emerged as one of the best clear grip tapes for skateboards. These features make it highly attractive to all who need reliable grip tape that can withstand bad weather without losing its performance.
Key Features of Zero Clear Grip Tape
- Super Sticky Adhesive: Ensures strong bonding between the tape and the skateboard deck for minimal peeling over time.
- Weather Resistance: Withstands a variety of weather conditions for continued outdoor skating sessions.
- Bubble-Free Application Technology: Allows for an effortless, even application that reduces air bubbles for a consistent feel across the grip surface.
Size Specs
ZUEXT clear grip tapes come in a generous size of 11 inches by 50 inches, offering good coverage over most skateboard decks. The size versatility allows you to cut and shape to your liking for skaters of different preferences and deck dimensions.
Product Review Highlights
Below are some bestselling products from ZUEXT promising high-quality performances:
ZUEXT Skateboard Grip Tape Sheet, 11" x 50"
- Reasons to Buy: Strong adhesive, no-bubble application.
- Cons: Too wide and might have to be cut for the smaller boards.
Personal Suggestion: Just perfect for skaters looking for extra durability and hassle-free installation.
ZUEXT on your skateboard setup promises you the best grip and a pretty nice finish since its transparency reveals deck graphics. From the driest to the wettest days of skating, the robust build does pretty well. Yes, this gives you a lot more confidence and consistency in your rides.
3. Jessup Griptape
Jessup Griptape has been one of the more well-known names in the skateboard world, especially when it comes to clear options in skateboard grip tape. Mentioned quite a bit alongside other leading manufacturers like Mob Grip and ZUEXT, it is well-known for using high-quality materials alone and some rather innovative ideas in their design.
Variation of Pack Options
JESSUP SKATEBOARD GRIPTAPE 5 Sheets of BLACK 9
Pros:
- Strong Bond: Durable adhesion.
- Bubble-Free: Easy to apply.
- Customizable: Trimmable to fit.
- High Traction: Excellent grip.
- Quality: Made in the USA.
Cons:
- Cost: Higher price point.
- Color: Limited to black.
Jessup 9 x 60-foot long roll caters to varied tastes and requirements, thus making it perfect for both amateur and professional skaters. This role will give an ample amount of grip tape for multiple boards or frequent replacements to put your skateboards in the best possible condition.
Why Buy:
- Bulk Amount: The product is ideal for individuals who repeatedly apply the tape or set up numerous skateboards.
- Durability: It can handle intense skateboarding for a long time.
- Transparency: Perfect for deck graphic visibility without losing any grip on it.
Cons:
- Price Point: More expensive upfront than smaller packages; not suitable for casual skaters.
- Application Skill Required: The larger rolls are sometimes tricky to cut and apply precisely without experience.
Top Picks For Clear Skateboard Grip Tape Another Brands
Yocaher Black Widow 10" x 60' Skateboard Grip Tape
Price: $68.99
- Reasons to Buy: Jumbo roll is useful for multiple uses; aggressive adhesive keeps tape in place.
- Reasons to Avoid: May be difficult to apply bubble-free, unless being careful.
Vicious Griptape Extra Coarse Grit Longboard Skateboard Griptape
Price: $19.99
- Reasons to Buy: Extra coarse grit is great for traction; relatively cheap.
- Reasons to Avoid: Skaters might not appreciate the coarse texture.
DreamFire Clear Skateboard Grip Tape Longboard Grip Tape Clear
Price: $29.99
- Reasons to Buy: See-through design so you see your board's graphics; excellent anti-slippery features.
- Reasons to Avoid: A bit pricier per foot than other brands.
SUPVOX Skateboard Sandpaper Grab Tape Replaceable Anti-Skid Paper Booster Seat Dining Chair Clear Tape
Price: $28.49
- Why Buy: Can be used anywhere, even outside of skateboards. A non-slippery surface makes it safe.
- Why Not Buy: Shipping may take a little longer as it is not as widely available.
BESPORTBLE Transparent Skateboard Sandpaper Tape
Price: $48.44
- Why Buy: Great transparency that keeps the aesthetics of the board intact. Furthermore, it has a strong adhesive that does not peel off.
- Why Not Buy: A little more expensive for some users.
WOONEKY 2 Sheets Skate
Reasons to Buy:
- Affordable
- Customizable
Reasons to Avoid:
- Limited variety
- Potential adhesion issues
Next Longboard Grip Tape Roll
- Pros: Wide coverage area, weather conditions
- Cons: A little heavier than regular tapes
Personal Suggestion: It is outstanding for longboards or bigger skateboards because of the extra coverage this tape can give.
Customer Ratings and Popularity
Over the years, Jessup Griptape has been extremely well-regarded by both pros and enthusiasts for performance and design. So, what's the magic behind it?
Quality of Grip:
This tape is great to grip and doesn't tear up the graphics on your board.
The Application Range:
The grip isn't just for skateboards; it's meant for scooters, wheelchairs, and pretty much anything that needs a non-slip surface.
User-Friendly Application:
Despite the big size of the roll, Jessup grip tape is easy to cut and apply with not too big risks of bubbles and wrinkles.
Jessup Griptape Colors Skateboard Grip Tape Roll
Personal Recommendation: Well, in my opinion, Jessup Griptape happens to be one of the best options out there for people in desperate need of reliable grip tape that will not trade off between looks and functionality.
Its transparency is a perfect avenue for creative expression in board graphics while delivering the reliable performance that pro skateboarders expect.
If you're considering getting a new skateboard, you might want to have a look at this simple skateboard-buying guide. If you'd like to see more options beyond clear skateboards, such as street skateboards, take a look at this list of the best street skateboards.
How to Apply Clear Skate Grip Tape Professionally
Turn your skateboard into an eye-catching display of art while ensuring ultimate performance. The process of correctly applying clear grip tape requires an accurate application. Follow these steps for a professional look:
1. Clean the Deck
Start with a clean skateboard deck; dust and debris should be taken off. This is to give the adhesive a tight bond.
2. Align the Tape
Place the clear grip tape over the deck without removing the backing. Move it around until satisfied with the alignment.
3. Peel and Stick
Beginning at one end, slowly peel the backing paper and smooth the tape down in that direction to the other end. This helps air pockets to a minimum amount.
4. Smooth Out Bubbles
Smooth firmly with a rubber squeegee or with your cloth hand to squeeze out any bubbles that may start forming across the surface.
5. Cutting and Trimming
With a utility knife changed out with a sharp new blade carefully cut around the deck's edges for a clean finish. Holding the knife angled will provide precision as you trim away excess tape.
6. File Down Edges
Smooth out edges with a file; ensure that grip tape is fully on; it will not peel off after some time.
Skaters, through practice, would be able to get the most perfect aesthetic functionality on their boards without having to face most common perils, such as air bubbles, misaligned cuts, and clear skateboard grip tape.
How to Care for Your Clear Skateboard Grip Tape for Durability
Keeping your clear skateboard grip tape in top condition does require regular care and attention. The following is how you can ensure it serves a long period without compromising its quality.
Effective Cleaning Techniques
- Mild Cleaning Solution
- Clean the surface using a soft brush and mild soapy water. This is a non-abrasive way; it will not scratch the transparency while taking away dirt.
- Grip Tape Erasers
- These erasers are specifically designed for grip tapes; they easily remove stubborn debris and restore traction with much ease.
- Avoid Excessive Water
- Too much saturation of the tape will weaken the adhesive. Apply wet methods seldom for durability.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Grip Tape
Even with good maintenance, there are signs that tell you it's time for a replacement:
- Loss of Traction: When the grip doesn't feel as sure as it did when it was new, that is a clear sign of wear and tear.
- Visible Damage: This includes peeling edges or minute cracks, which raise a red flag that it is time for a new sheet of tape.
- Permanent Stains: Unsightly stains cleaning cannot remove may affect both aesthetic and functional aspects.
Invest in high-quality options, such as longboard grip tape or even custom printing services for grip tapes, to amplify performance and style. In order to give you more specific needs, durable alternatives like Non-Abrasive Grip Tape Strips should be used. Regular maintenance will keep your skateboard not only an awesome ride but also an eye-catching masterpiece.
If you'd like to know more about how you can maintain your grip tape, including the different types of grip tapes, check out this comprehensive guide.
Where to Buy Clear Skateboard Grip Tape Online and Offline?
Getting clear skateboard grip tape from the right retailer helps to keep quality assured and fetch the best price. Here's how you could get the best options to make this buy:
Local Stores
- Skate Shops: Since these are specialty stores, you'll often find many variants of grip tapes, including clear ones, which you could see before buying.
- Sporting Goods Stores: Major chains might carry skateboard accessories but are more limited in their selection than specialty skate shops.
Where to Buy Online
- E-commerce Websites: Amazon and eBay have a variety of options with product descriptions and customer feedback for each product.
- Brand Websites: It ensures authenticity and chances of getting better offers or package deals direct from the company.
How to Use Them
- Research: Look out for customer feedback and star ratings about how a particular product performs well.
- Compare Prices: A better deal might be obtained by looking at different platforms.
- Verify Seller Credibility: The retailer should have a good reputation, so buyers can rely on their shipping options.
This gives a skater both local and online perspectives, which helps in making a proper decision on where to buy clear skateboard grip tape.
How to Choose the Right Clear Skateboard Grip Tape
Definitely, quality matters when choosing the right clear skateboard grip tape. Most skaters use Mob Grip and ZUEXT brands since the brand is durable and made to bring out one's performance. Because of this, personal preference, such as style of riding or climatic condition faced, should be put into consideration. If you want versatility, then look at LUCID GRIP PRODUCTS and discover its innovative feature.
Prioritize high-quality products that can ensure safety and aesthetics on your board. Keep in mind, the right grip tape can take your skateboarding experience to a whole new level!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is clear skateboard grip tape?
Clear grip tape is clear instead of regular grip tape, which the skater uses to continue to show deck graphics on their board. Performance and aesthetic appeal have made clear grip tape increasingly popular in the skateboarding world.
What are the advantages of using clear skateboard grip tape?
The benefits brought about by clear skateboard grip tapes are that they offer safety in that they give better grip; they are aesthetically beneficial since the graphics on the deck can be shown without compromising the quality of the grip; and they are versatile enough to be used on any application other than skateboards, like scooters and wheelchairs.
Which are some good brands for clear skateboard grip tapes?
Names like Mob Grip, ZUEXT, and Jessup Griptape rule for the finest quality clear skateboard grip tapes. Each of these brands offers something different: exclusive grit binding processes to offer extra grippy feel, super sticky adhesives, and a host of pack options to fit different skaters' needs.
How can I apply the clear skateboard grip tape like a professional?
Apply clear skateboard grip tape correctly, following a step-by-step guide on how to cut and trim the tape accurately. Also, avoid bubbles or wrinkles in application for the best results.
What is done in order to effectively maintain clear skateboard grip tape?
To keep your skateboard grip tape clear, there are ways to clean it that will not affect the quality after some time. Moreover, know when to change the grip tape so that it continually will serve its performance.
Where to buy a clear skateboard grip tape?
Some transparent skate grip tape is available through local retailers and online stores. It is good to search out retailers that are reliable by offering relatively decent prices and a variety of options for individual tastes.
The Ultimate Guide to Clear Skateboard Grip Tape for 2024