The key to buying is to know what you want. That sounds obvious, but there are so many things to consider when buying a product that it's easy to get lost in the information superhighway that is the Internet.

So, before you perform an Internet search for "skateboard online shop", or something like that, try searching for "about skateboarding" first. This will bring up websites filled with all the information you need to know. Read up on the history of the sport, the tricks, the boards, the gear. Work out what sort of skateboarding you want to do. Do you want to skateboard at a ramp, or on the street? Do you want to do tricks or just cruise around? Your answers will play a big role in choosing the type of board that will be best for you.

So, once you decide on the type of skateboarding you want to do you'll be able to better match the type of deck (board) that's for you. There are so many skateboard decks to choose from. They come in various shapes and sizes and differing weights and strengths. There are flatter decks or more concave decks. There's a deck for everyone.

Skateboard manufacturing companies are always looking to improve board design, so you'll find decks made of plastic or fiberglass, but the most popular type of deck is a wooden deck.

The brand names abound: Element, Tony Hawk (the Michael Jordan of skateboarding), Girl, Habitat, Santa Cruz, Toy and Enjoi, to name a new. An Internet search will bring up the relevant websites. Browse through and read about board technology, sizes, shapes.

The most popular deck is the standard 7 ply maple deck. The Habitat "Skylite" board is made of 5 ply maple, which makes it lighter, while the Element "Fiberlight" has a strip of fiberglass, which according to the company website, makes it able to better "withstand intense abuse".

The width of the deck is also important. Wider decks (over 8") are more suitable for transition/vert work, while street tricks demand a narrower board. If you want to do both then an 8" deck is a good starting choice. If you just want to cruise around a wider board is more comfortable.

Skateboards have wheels, and wheels come in a variety of colors, sizes and degrees of hardness. Read up on wheel diameter (height of wheel) and durometer (hardness of wheel). In short, remember that wheel size means speed and wheel hardness means stability.

Shopping for skateboarding deals online is so easy if you take your time. Type "skateboard offers" into your favorite search engine and start browsing and comparing prices. Sites like Skateboard.com and Skatewarehouse.com are good places to start.

While you are there think about getting yourself a pair of skate shoes. Speciality shoes will make your riding experience easier and safer. Skate shoes have a large flat bottom which is better able to grip the board. Some have heel airbags and gel pads for added safety. Also, think about getting yourself a helmet and other protective gear. It's not silly, it's smart.

Dean Erickson. Journalist, and web site builder Dean Erickson lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://gear.skateboard-centralpark.com on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

• A Simple History Of Skateboarding For Girls


• Bullies Zapped in the First Quarter


• The Dune


• Best Gift For Your Child


• TV Critic Reviews Higglytown Heroes


• Teenagers Always Have a Good Excuse


• 10 Steps to Making 2005 Safer For Your Child


• Beating Homework Horrors Forever


• Dont Throw Away That Poem!: Tips For Successful Poem Scrapbooking


• What Can We Do to Make Kids More Likeable?