Posted on August 28 2026
Learning how to change skateboard griptape is an essential skateboard maintenance skill. Over time, skateboard grip tape becomes dirty, worn and less grippy. Replacing your skateboard griptape can give an old skateboard deck a fresh feel and improve your grip while skating.
This guide explains how to remove skateboard griptape, how to apply skateboard griptape and how to cut skateboard griptape for a clean professional-looking finish.
What You Need to Replace Skateboard Griptape
You'll need:
- New skateboard griptape
- Skateboard deck
- Sharp razor blade or Stanley knife
- Skate tool
- Screwdriver
- Optional file or old piece of griptape
Step 1: Remove Your Skateboard Trucks
You can replace griptape with the trucks still attached, but removing the trucks makes applying new skateboard griptape much easier.
Remove the eight truck bolts and take the skateboard trucks off the deck.
Step 2: Remove the Old Griptape
Start at one end of the skateboard deck and slowly peel away the old griptape.
If the skateboard grip tape is difficult to remove, gently warming it can soften the adhesive.
Take your time. Pulling the grip tape away slowly can help prevent large amounts of adhesive being left on the skateboard deck.
Using a hair dryer or heat gun may help loosen up the adhesive.
Step 3: Prepare the Skateboard Deck
Make sure the top of the skateboard deck is reasonably clean before applying new grip tape.
Remove large pieces of old adhesive or dirt.
The cleaner the deck surface, the better your new skateboard griptape will stick.
Step 4: Position the New Skateboard Griptape
Place your new grip tape adhesive-side down over the skateboard deck.
Line it up carefully so there is an even amount of grip tape around all sides.
Don't press the entire sheet down immediately.
Start at one end and gradually peel away the backing while pressing the griptape onto the deck.
Step 5: Remove Air Bubbles
Work slowly across the skateboard deck.
Press the grip tape firmly onto the deck as you go.
If you notice an air bubble, gently work it toward the edge of the board.
Step 6: Cut the Skateboard Griptape
Once the grip tape is firmly attached, use a sharp razor blade or Stanley knife to cut around the edge of the skateboard deck.
Hold the blade at an angle and carefully follow the shape of the deck.
A sharp blade will give you a much cleaner cut.
Step 7: Smooth the Griptape Edges
Use a file or a spare piece of skateboard griptape to rub around the edge of the deck.
This helps smooth the edge and creates a clean finish.
Step 8: Reinstall Your Skateboard Trucks
Find the eight mounting holes and push your screwdriver through the griptape.
Reinstall your trucks and tighten the mounting hardware.
How Often Should You Change Skateboard Griptape?
There is no exact timeframe.
You should replace skateboard grip tape when it becomes:
- Smooth
- Worn
- Torn
- Dirty
- Peeling
- Less effective at gripping your shoes
Can You Put New Griptape Over Old Griptape?
It's generally better to remove the old skateboard griptape first.
Applying new grip tape directly over old grip tape can create an uneven surface and may prevent the new adhesive from bonding properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove skateboard griptape?
Slowly peel the grip tape away from the deck. Gentle heat can help soften stubborn adhesive.
How do you apply skateboard griptape?
Position the grip tape over the deck, gradually remove the backing and press it down while working from one end to the other.
What is the best skateboard griptape?
The best skateboard griptape depends on how much grip and texture you prefer. Different brands and grip tapes offer different levels of traction.
How long does skateboard griptape last?
It depends on how often you skate. Regular skateboarders may need to replace their grip tape more frequently than casual skaters.
