Skateboarders and other extreme sports enthusiasts not only want to show off their skills, they also want to look good with fashionable skateboard gear while doing it. Ensure you’re offering the styles and accessories that your customers want by studying skateboarding apparel and accessories news and trends from a variety of reliable sources.

By staying apprised of industry happenings like seasonal trends, hot colors, skateboard apparel brands and innovative accessories, you’ll be able to stock the products in demand and discuss them with expertise. Gather information on topics and skateboard clothing distributors that can help increase your business by trying to:

1. Read about new skateboard accessories, skate clothing manufacturer news, and wholesale skateboard clothing through online news stories, printed sources, online forums and blogs.

2. Attend sports trade shows that feature skateboarding apparel and accessories to find new skateboard apparel companies, discover emerging skateboarding apparel and accessories news and trends and see innovative displays and merchandising in action.

3. Sign up with associations designed for sports apparel retailers to network with other owners, take advantage of business-related seminars and get industry news from other skateboard activewear retailers.

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Get company news, skateboard gear trend forecasts and feedback through news articles and blogs

Changes in company product lines, seasonal trend watches and the latest accessories on the market are just a few of the topics you'll discover through published and online news sources. Skate enthusiasts' blogs and the message boards on skateboarder apparel manufacturer or retailer sites are also a great source of first-hand opinions on fashions and accessories. Keeping up with the pulse of the market can help you decide what inventory to keep on hand, what to clearance and what to order in the future.

I recommend: News stories, celebrity and apparel designer interviews and reviews of skateboard apparel companies, clothing and gear are all available through The Skateboard Industry website. Check out the fashion trend watches for clothing, shoes and accessories through the print or online editions of Transworld SKATEboarding. The website’s news stories and online user forums will also keep you up to date on customer demands. Keep an eye on skateboard culture at Thrasher Magazine.

Join groups to network with other retailers and find reliable wholesale skateboard apparel sources

Discuss the state of the industry, merchandising ideas and reliable sources of skateboarding apparel and accessories with other retailers through organized associations. By participating in groups that also include manufacturers and distributors, you can also get information on new product offerings and seasonal designs first hand.

I recommend: Keep up with skateboarder apparel and accessory news through articles, seminars and newsletters by becoming a member of the Board Retailers Association. The group also provides legal advice and open lines of communication with manufacturers. Take part in events and study information provided by the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association. Network with other retailers and even discover new sources of wholesale skate apparel as you interact with manufacturers and marketers.

Find display ideas, new skate apparel brands and wholesale skate apparel at industry trade shows

By attending sports and skateboard-related trade shows and expos, you'll be able to see the latest apparel, accessories and skateboard protective gear up close and in action during live demonstrations. Study the exhibits to gather display ideas and discover what new skateboard apparel is generating the most buzz.

I recommend: Check out new skateboard apparel brands, cutting-edge gear, hot colors and innovative ways to market the products at an Action Sports Retailer trade show. The show’s website also offers industry news to keep you up to date on the latest trends and company information. The skate category of the Surf Expo not only reveals new fashions and accessory offerings, but also features a ramp contest that gathers skate enthusiasts willing to discuss effective products and equipment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before ordering a new line of skateboard accessories at an industry show, for example, consider asking other retailers in attendance if they've had success with the brand or experienced any problems with the distributor. Talking to some actual skateboarders at the show can also help you discover if there's truly a market for the new apparel or devices.

Express your individuality with a wide array of skateboard gear. Think beyond the basics and explore skateboard apparel designed by your favorite skateboarder and shoes that perform as well as they look. Goggles and backpacks express your hip style without spending a fortune.

Look at the details of each company you're considering doing business with. You'll want to explore the shipping prices, return policies and customer satisfaction standards before you place a large order. Make sure you understand the details before you commit yourself and you'll be less apt to regret your choices.

1. Explore a variety of skateboard apparel companies.

2. Find your favorite shoes in skate apparel brands you love.

3. Complete your look with skateboard accessories.

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Look for wholesale skate apparel

Purchasing wholesale can save you money by taking out the retail aspect of the business. While you may not be able to purchase every item you want at wholesale prices, you can probably find most at wholesale prices and shop retail only necessary or when you want additional service.

I recommend: Dogfunk.com stands ready to outfit you in skateboarder apparel for men, women and kids. Skate Warehouse has a large selection of skateboard active wear from all of your favorite brands.

Pick up shoes to match your favorite skateboard apparel

Skateboard shoes are created specifically for the unique needs of skateboarders. The bottoms are made to grip the board, making it easier for you to land those tricks and ride off in style. Today's skate clothing manufacturers recognizes the importance of not only the performance of the shoe but also the appearance of the shoe and has really stepped up to meet the demand for high style.

I recommend: Blackholeboards.com has a variety of skateboarding shoes to help you maintain your grip on your skateboard deck, making tricks easier to perform well. BuySkateShoes.com specializes in skate shoes at outlet prices, saving you money.

Top off your style with the perfect skateboard accessories

Just like you choose the perfect accessories to finish off the look of a room, choosing the perfect accessories for your appearance makes a powerful statement. Accessories allow you to take a basic look and make it uniquely your own. From your choice in watches to back packs to the goggles you wear, you set the tone for your style with the accessories you select.

I recommend: The House has a variety of skateboard accessories including grip tape, stickers and tools to help you stay prepared and on your board. Outlook Skateboards stands prepared to help you choose all of your accessories including backpacks, hardware and music.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of opportunities for savings, like free shipping or discounts for bulk purchases, when purchasing skateboarding apparel and accessories.

Skateboard clothing distributors have to do more than just offer skateboarding items for the boards. If you are considering opening a skateboard shop or improving one that is already open, supplying all skateboarding apparel and accessories types and styles ensures that you can appeal to the largest customer base.

Besides the skateboards and items for them, you should need skateboard accessories to help the skater look his best and stay safe while skating. Consider the following suggestions when ordering your inventory:

1. Make safety a priority by offering skateboard protective gear.

2. Sell skater activewear to help skaters maintain a skater look while wearing appropriate clothing.

3. Offer skate shoes to complete the skater look.

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Remember the skateboard protective gear

Safety is the number concern when you are skateboarding. Having top notch skateboard protective gear isn't a matter of wearing what is fashionable. It is a matter of wearing what is going to keep you safe. Helmets, knee pads and elbow pads are all necessary while skateboarding. When you order these items, you should ensure that you have protective gear for skaters of all ages and sizes. Toddlers, children, teens and adults may all have a need for skateboard protective gear.

I recommend: BuySkateShoes.com offers skateboard accessories, including protective gear. This company offers youth and adult sizes on most protective gear. BlackHole Boards sells skateboard protective gear, including high impact rated gear to protect you when doing extreme stunts or riding fast.

Consider skateboard activewear

Skateboard activewear is designed specifically to minimize the risk of falls and catching the clothing on the skateboard or obstacles around while skateboarding. While all types of clothing are available, t-shirts and socks are the most readily available.

I recommend: OutLook Skateboards is a skate clothing manufacturer. You can find skateboard apparel, including hoodies and t-shirts at this store. All prices on skateboard clothing include shipping. Skate America offers skateboarder apparel for skaters of any age, including toddlers, men and women. This company sells items from numerous skateboard apparel companies, including Rukus, DC and Rockstar Energy.

Purchase shoes to match skateboard accessories

Skateboard shoes that match the skateboard accessories complete the skater look. While the look of the shoes is important, the functionality of the shoes is also important. Skateboard shoes should be safe to skate with and comfortable. Some of the styles available are the traditional skate shoe, clogs, boots and tennis shoes.

I recommend: Skate Warehouse sells a varied selection of skateboard gear, including men's and women's skate shoes. Some of the shoes are classic style shoes. Others are boots and clog style. DogFunk.com offers numerous types of skate shoes and other skateboard apparel. This company has men's and women's shoes in a variety of styles.

Skateboarding apparel and accessories pricing and costs vary according to manufacturer and features. If price is an issue, you may want to look for businesses that sell wholesale skateboard clothing and skateboard accessories. Otherwise, see what the many skateboard apparel companies offer for avid skaters.

If you're new to skateboarding, take your time picking out the right board. It needs to be one you feel comfortable with and is easy to work on. Test out many boards to find one that feels right, whether you're standing on it or jumping on it. After that, you'll want to select skate shoes and the rest of the gear you'll need.

Keep the following tips in mind when you're considering skateboarding apparel and accessories pricing and costs:

1. Keep your skateboard zipping along with top-quality wheels.

2. Purchase skateboard protective gear to cushion falls.

3. Skateboard in style with the latest skateboard apparel.

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Select the best skateboard gear for your skateboarding style and level

Wheels are the most important part of your skateboard gear. Without proper wheels, you will not get the smoothness, maneuverability and speed you need to do many tricks. Choosing the right wheels is an art. Read the information carefully to be sure you're getting the best wheels for your style and level of expertise. You'll get discouraged if you select wheels that are too swift for beginners. On the other hand, if you're into extreme skateboarding, you don't want wheels that will hang you up.

I recommend: Expect to pay $30 or up for a set of quality skateboard wheels. Skatepark of Tampa and Skates Dot Com both offer wheels that range in price from $12-50. Learn more about skateboard wheels at About.com.

Think safety first when buying skateboard protective gear

Safety is paramount when skateboarding. Even simple maneuvers can be dangerous, but if you're into extreme boarding, you need to purchase the best pads and helmet you can. Elbows, knees and wrists take the brunt of most falls, so be sure you wear padding on these vulnerable spots. For the best protection, look for pads with hard plastic guards that can help prevent injuries.

I recommend: The House sells helmets from about $30-50. Skate America has packages that include pads and helmets for around $100.

Keep up with the trends by checking out popular skateboarder apparel brands

Whether you attend competitions or just skate in a local park, you can stay current on skateboarding apparel and accessories trends by reading skateboarding magazines and surfing online to discover the latest fashions offered by skateboard apparel companies. Watch for trends in hoodies, T-shirts, skate pants, board shorts and skate shoes to keep your apparel fashionable.

I recommend: Tactics Board Shop sells skateboard activewear, such as skate shorts that range in price from $40-65. The skatewarehouse.com offers clothing from many popular companies. Choose your favorite skate clothing manufacturer from their catalog. You can expect to pay $50-140 for their men's skate shoes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Some wholesale skateboard clothing distributors sell shoddy equipment and knock-off or pirated skateboard apparel brands. If you buy wholesale skateboard apparel or accessories, be sure to select a reputable dealer.