Concretelines.com.au Review

Based on checking the website, Concretelines.com.au appears to be a legitimate Australian online retailer specialising in skateboards, longboards, and related gear. The site offers a wide array of products from well-known brands, coupled with information about their physical store and customer testimonials.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Design and Navigation: Clean, user-friendly, with clear categories and a responsive layout.
• Product Range: Extensive selection of skateboards, longboards, parts, apparel, and accessories.
• Pricing: Appears competitive, with various price points catering to different budgets.
• Payment Options: Offers instalment payments, indicating flexibility.
• Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $75 to Australia and New Zealand.
• Customer Support: Phone number and email address readily available.
• Physical Presence: Established brick-and-mortar store since 2006, adding to credibility.
• Customer Testimonials: Features positive reviews from local skaters.
• Ethical Considerations: The products offered (skateboards, longboards, and related gear) are generally permissible and do not fall into categories deemed unethical in Islam.

Overall, Concretelines.com.au presents itself as a reliable and well-established option for purchasing skateboarding equipment in Australia and New Zealand.

Here are some excellent alternatives for those seeking quality non-edible sporting and outdoor gear in Australia, all of which align with ethical consumption principles:

• Anaconda

  • Key Features: Wide range of outdoor adventure and sporting goods, including camping, hiking, fishing, cycling, and water sports equipment. Offers both online and instore shopping.
  • Average Price: Varies widely depending on product category, from budget-friendly accessories to premium gear.
  • Pros: Extensive product selection, frequent sales and promotions, physical stores across Australia, strong focus on outdoor lifestyle.
  • Cons: Some niche items might be less specialised compared to dedicated stores.

• Bunnings Warehouse

  • Key Features: Australia’s leading retailer of home improvement and outdoor living products. While primarily hardware, they stock a good range of sporting equipment like bikes, outdoor play, and garden recreation items.
  • Average Price: Generally affordable, catering to DIY enthusiasts and families.
  • Pros: Widespread store network, competitive pricing, diverse product range that extends to active outdoor pursuits.
  • Cons: Not a specialist sports store, so high-performance gear might be limited.

• Rebel Sport

  • Key Features: One of Australia’s largest sports retailers, offering a comprehensive selection of sportswear, footwear, fitness equipment, and sporting goods for various disciplines.
  • Average Price: Mid to high range, reflecting brand quality and specialised products.
  • Pros: Huge variety of sports categories, latest releases from major brands, knowledgeable staff, both online and physical stores.
  • Cons: Can be pricier for some items compared to general department stores.

• Decathlon Australia

  • Key Features: Global sports retailer known for offering affordable and innovative sporting goods for over 70 sports. They design and manufacture their own brands.
  • Average Price: Very competitive and generally lower than traditional sports brands.
  • Pros: Excellent value for money, wide range of niche sports equipment, focus on accessibility for all levels of athletes.
  • Cons: Fewer physical stores in Australia compared to local chains, some products might not be as premium as top-tier brands.

• Mountain Warehouse Australia

  • Key Features: Specialises in outdoor gear and clothing for hiking, camping, skiing, and general outdoor pursuits. Focuses on practical, durable products.
  • Average Price: Mid-range, with frequent sales.
  • Pros: Good value for outdoor essentials, robust and practical designs, caters well to family outdoor activities.
  • Cons: Product range more focused on specific outdoor activities rather than general sports.

• Paddy Pallin

  • Key Features: Australian outdoor and adventure retailer with a long history. Offers high-quality, durable gear for hiking, camping, climbing, and travel.
  • Average Price: Higher price point, reflecting the premium quality and specialisation of their products.
  • Pros: Expert advice, focus on sustainable and ethically sourced products, excellent customer service, renowned for quality and longevity.
  • Cons: More expensive, less suitable for casual or budget-conscious buyers.

• Ryda

  • Key Features: Australian online retailer for electronics, including car audio, marine electronics, and general electronics. While not directly sports gear, they offer accessories that can enhance outdoor activities (e.g., portable speakers, GPS).
  • Average Price: Varies widely based on electronic category.
  • Pros: Wide range of tech products, good for specific electronic needs related to outdoor activities, competitive online pricing.
  • Cons: Not a dedicated sports equipment store; focus is on electronics.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Concretelines.com.au Review & First Look

Concretelines.com.au, established in 2006, positions itself as a long-standing and reputable online and physical skate shop based in Australia. A first look at their website reveals a clear dedication to the skateboarding and longboarding community, offering a comprehensive selection of products designed for enthusiasts of all levels. The site’s aesthetic is clean and intuitive, immediately highlighting their core offerings: skateboards, longboards, parts, cruisers, old school decks, and a range of apparel including tops, bottoms, hats, caps, beanies, socks, and undies, alongside shoes. This broad categorisation ensures that visitors can quickly navigate to their desired items.

The homepage prominently features new thrills and popular collections, such as the Powell Peralta Bones Brigade 16th Series Skateboard Decks, which are highly sought after by collectors and riders alike. The pricing for these collector’s items, like the full collection at $1,620.00 or individual decks at $269.99, is clearly displayed, providing transparency from the outset. Beyond high-end items, the inclusion of shoes from brands like ASICS and Etnies demonstrates a commitment to providing essential gear for everyday skaters. The website also emphasizes their in-store service for board repairs, a valuable offering for local customers, reinforcing their community-focused approach.

Initial Impressions of the Website Layout

The website layout of Concretelines.com.au is straightforward and functional, aiming for ease of use over flashy design. The top navigation bar is concise, featuring “Shop Now,” “Checkout,” “Cart,” and “Wishlist” icons, which are standard e-commerce features. A phone number, “(07) 5536 2677,” is clearly visible at the top, indicating direct customer support availability. The homepage is structured with attractive banners promoting various product categories like “Discover New Thrills” and “Shop Shoes Now!”, effectively guiding visitors through their extensive catalogue.

Transparency and Contact Information

Concretelines.com.au scores highly on transparency. The business has clearly stated its establishment year (2006), implying a long history in the market, which often correlates with reliability. Their physical address, “SHOP 5A, THE STRAND, GRIFFITH STREET, COOLANGATTA, QLD 4225,” is provided, confirming a real-world presence. This information is crucial for building trust, as it allows customers to verify the business’s existence beyond the digital realm. Furthermore, both a phone number and an email address (“[email protected]“) are supplied, offering multiple channels for customer enquiries and support. This level of detail is a strong indicator of a legitimate operation.

Products and Brand Availability

The range of products available on Concretelines.com.au is impressive. They cater to a broad spectrum of skateboarding styles, from park and street to old school, cruisers, and downhill. Their brand list is extensive and features many reputable names in the skateboarding industry, including:

• 187 Pads®
• Alien Workshop
• Almost Skateboards
• Anti Hero Skateboards
• ASICS
• Bones Bearings
• Carver Skateboards
• Creature
• DGK
• Etnies Shoes
• Independent
• Krooked Skateboards
• Loaded
• MOB Grip
• Powell Peralta
• Santa Cruz
• Spitfire Skateboard Wheels
• Thunder Trucks
• Toy Machine
• Zero Skateboards

This diverse brand portfolio ensures that customers have access to high-quality, trusted equipment. The inclusion of protective gear, such as helmets and pads, also shows a commitment to rider safety.

Concretelines.com.au Features

Concretelines.com.au offers a variety of features designed to enhance the shopping experience for skateboarders and longboarders in Australia and New Zealand. From flexible payment options to a robust online presence, these features contribute to its appeal as a dedicated skate shop. Understanding these functionalities can help potential customers evaluate if the platform meets their needs and preferences.

Online and In-Store Shopping Experience

Concretelines.com.au provides a dual shopping experience, offering both online purchasing convenience and the traditional in-store visit. This hybrid model is a significant advantage, particularly for a niche market like skateboarding, where enthusiasts often prefer to see and feel products before buying, or seek expert advice in person. The online store features a comprehensive catalogue with detailed product descriptions and images, allowing customers to browse and buy from anywhere. For those near Coolangatta, Queensland, the physical shop offers immediate access to products and services like board repairs. This blend of online accessibility and physical presence enhances customer trust and satisfaction, providing flexibility in how customers choose to interact with the brand. It’s estimated that businesses with both online and offline channels see a 20% higher customer retention rate compared to single-channel businesses (Source: National Retail Federation).

Flexible Payment Options and Shipping Policies

The website proudly highlights its flexible payment options, including the ability to “Pay in instalments / Online or Instore.” This feature is highly attractive to customers who may prefer to spread the cost of larger purchases, making high-quality gear more accessible. Such payment flexibility has been shown to increase conversion rates by up to 30% for online retailers (Source: Shopify). Additionally, Concretelines.com.au offers free shipping on all orders over $75 to Australia and New Zealand, a significant benefit that can reduce the overall cost for customers and encourage larger purchases. For instance, Australian consumers expect free shipping, with 80% of online shoppers listing it as a top priority (Source: Australia Post). This competitive shipping policy positions them favourably against competitors.

Customer Support and Community Engagement

Concretelines.com.au demonstrates a commitment to customer support and community engagement. Their contact information (phone number and email) is prominently displayed, indicating a readiness to assist customers. Furthermore, the website features a “Join the Skate Community – Shop Here!” call to action, suggesting an effort to foster a sense of belonging among their customers. Testimonials like “I’ve been skating for years, and this shop is hands down the best! The repairs are quick, the staff is super friendly, and the vibe is always awesome.” from “Alex J., Local Skater,” provide social proof and highlight positive customer experiences. Their active Instagram presence, linked directly from the homepage, further reinforces their engagement with the skateboarding community through posts about events, new products, and customer interactions. Data suggests that companies with strong customer engagement strategies see a 23% higher share of wallet and profitability (Source: Gallup). Skeehan.com.au Review

Repair Services and Expert Advice

A standout feature of Concretelines.com.au is their in-store repair service: “Whip Your Board Back into Shape in Minutes! No Booking Required!” This is a significant advantage for skaters who often need quick fixes for their boards. Such services build strong customer loyalty, as they provide practical solutions beyond just selling products. The website also states, “Expert advice, a wide selection, and free delivery across Australia and New Zealand ensure a seamless skating experience,” indicating that staff are knowledgeable and can offer guidance to customers, whether they are beginners or experienced riders. Providing expert advice is crucial in niche markets, with 70% of consumers stating they are more likely to buy from a brand that offers personalised experiences (Source: Salesforce).

Social Media Presence and Real Stories

Concretelines.com.au leverages social media, specifically Instagram, to connect with its audience. The website features a live feed of their Instagram posts, showcasing recent activities, product highlights, and community events. This dynamic content keeps the website fresh and provides a direct link to their community. The “Skaters Speak: Real Stories, Real Stoke!” section, with quotes from satisfied customers, adds an authentic touch, making the brand feel more relatable and trustworthy. This user-generated content is highly effective, as 79% of consumers say user-generated content highly impacts their purchasing decisions (Source: Stackla).

Concretelines.com.au Pros & Cons

When evaluating any online retailer, it’s crucial to weigh its strengths against its weaknesses. Concretelines.com.au, as a specialist in skateboarding and longboarding gear, presents a compelling offering, but like all businesses, it has areas where it excels and others where there might be room for improvement. A balanced perspective helps potential customers make informed decisions about where to spend their hard-earned cash.

Advantages of Concretelines.com.au

Concretelines.com.au offers several compelling advantages for skateboarders and longboarders. Firstly, its deep specialisation in skate and longboard gear means customers get access to a curated selection of high-quality products from reputable brands. This contrasts with general sporting goods stores that might offer a wider range of items but lack the depth and expertise in this niche. Their focus allows for a more comprehensive inventory of decks, trucks, wheels, and accessories specific to skating disciplines.

Secondly, the long-standing physical presence since 2006 significantly boosts its credibility. In an age where many online businesses appear and disappear quickly, a brick-and-mortar store with a proven track record (nearly two decades in business) provides a tangible sense of reliability and trust. This physical location also enables valuable in-store services, such as quick board repairs, which are a huge convenience for local skaters and a strong differentiator. Statistics show that businesses with a physical presence often engender greater trust, with 60% of consumers preferring to shop from retailers that have both online and physical stores (Source: Statista).

Thirdly, customer support and engagement are strong points. The clear display of phone and email contact information, coupled with positive customer testimonials directly on the homepage, indicates a commitment to customer satisfaction. The actively updated Instagram feed also demonstrates a genuine connection with the skateboarding community, fostering a sense of loyalty and belonging among customers. This community aspect is vital; brands that actively engage with their communities can see up to a 6x increase in sales (Source: HootSuite).

Fourthly, the competitive shipping policy of free shipping on orders over $75 to Australia and New Zealand is a major draw. For many online shoppers, shipping costs can be a deal-breaker, and this policy removes a significant barrier to purchase, making higher-value orders more attractive.

Potential Areas for Improvement

While Concretelines.com.au shines in many areas, there are a few aspects that could be enhanced to provide an even more robust experience. One potential area for improvement could be the depth of educational content on the website. While they offer “expert advice,” this isn’t immediately evident in detailed guides or how-to articles on the site itself. For beginners, or those looking to understand the nuances of different setups (e.g., choosing the right deck for a specific style), more extensive written content or video tutorials could be highly beneficial. This type of content can not only attract new customers through SEO but also improve customer confidence and reduce return rates. Businesses that invest in educational content see 3x more leads and 6x higher conversion rates (Source: Content Marketing Institute).

Another point to consider is the limited visibility of detailed return or warranty policies directly on the homepage. While most e-commerce sites will have this information in a dedicated section (usually in the footer), making it slightly more prominent or linking to it clearly from product pages could enhance trust. Customers appreciate knowing the terms and conditions for returns or faulty items upfront, which can reduce hesitation before making a purchase. According to a study by UPS, 68% of consumers check a return policy before making a purchase (Source: UPS Pulse of the Online Shopper).

Lastly, while the Instagram feed is a great touch, integrating reviews for individual products directly on product pages could further enhance the shopping experience. Customer reviews are powerful social proof, providing unbiased opinions and insights from other buyers. Currently, the site features general testimonials, but specific product reviews can help potential buyers make more informed decisions by seeing feedback on particular items. Products with reviews can see an average increase in conversion rates of 270% (Source: Spiegel Research Center). Techcollect.com.au Review

Concretelines.com.au Alternatives

While Concretelines.com.au stands out as a dedicated destination for skateboarding and longboarding gear, the Australian market offers several other reputable retailers catering to sports, outdoor activities, and general merchandise that may also meet consumer needs, especially for those seeking ethical, non-edible products. Diversifying your shopping sources can sometimes lead to better deals, a wider selection, or different levels of specialised support.

Comparing with General Sporting Goods Stores

General sporting goods stores in Australia, such as Rebel Sport or Decathlon Australia, offer broader product ranges that encompass various sports beyond skateboarding. While they may not have the hyper-specialised inventory of a dedicated skate shop, they often carry a good selection of entry-level and mid-range skateboards, protective gear, and footwear that can be suitable for casual riders or those just starting out.

• Rebel Sport: Known for its extensive range of sports apparel, footwear, and equipment for popular sports like running, soccer, and fitness. Their skateboarding selection might be limited to popular brands and models, but they offer competitive pricing and frequent sales.
• Decathlon Australia: A global giant, Decathlon focuses on providing affordable sports equipment for a vast array of activities. Their in-house brands offer great value, and while their skateboarding range might not cater to high-performance pros, it’s excellent for beginners and intermediate riders seeking budget-friendly yet quality gear.

These stores are often more accessible, with a wider network of physical stores across Australia, making in-person browsing and immediate purchase easier.

Exploring Outdoor and Adventure Retailers

For those interested in the broader outdoor lifestyle that often complements skateboarding, retailers like Anaconda or Mountain Warehouse Australia offer alternative non-edible products. While not directly focused on skateboards, they provide a range of items valuable to an active outdoor individual:

• Anaconda: A go-to for camping, hiking, fishing, and water sports gear. They might carry protective equipment (like helmets and pads) that are cross-compatible with skateboarding, or offer apparel suitable for active wear. Their focus on durable outdoor equipment aligns with the needs of active individuals.
• Mountain Warehouse Australia: Specialises in outdoor clothing and equipment, including durable jackets, trousers, and accessories suitable for various weather conditions. While not direct skateboarding gear, their offerings can be useful for comfort and protection during outdoor activities, including cruising on a longboard.

These stores are strong alternatives if you’re looking for general outdoor apparel, bags, or safety gear that isn’t specific to skating but complements an active lifestyle.

Online Marketplaces and Specialised Online Retailers

Beyond dedicated stores, online marketplaces like Amazon Australia (for broad categories like Skateboarding or Longboarding) also serve as alternatives. While these platforms host various sellers, diligence is required to ensure ethical and legitimate purchases. Some online retailers might not have a physical presence but specialise in niche categories. For instance, some local independent skate shops might have their own e-commerce sites, offering unique or smaller brand selections. Always check for transparent contact information, clear return policies, and customer reviews when purchasing from lesser-known online entities.

When considering alternatives, it’s essential to assess factors like:

• Product Specialisation: Do you need highly specific, performance-oriented gear, or are general recreational items sufficient?
• Price Point: Are you looking for budget-friendly options, mid-range, or premium products?
• Customer Service: Is in-person expert advice and repair services important, or is online support sufficient?
• Shipping and Returns: What are the shipping costs and return policies like?
• Ethical Sourcing: Do the brands and retailers align with ethical consumption principles, including fair labor practices and sustainable materials where applicable?

Concretelines.com.au Pricing

Understanding the pricing structure of Concretelines.com.au is crucial for potential customers to budget effectively and compare value. The website showcases a range of products, from entry-level accessories to high-end collector’s items, indicating a pricing strategy that caters to various segments of the skateboarding community. This section will delve into the general price points, any visible discounts or promotions, and how their pricing compares to industry standards.

General Price Points of Products

Concretelines.com.au offers a wide spectrum of products, and their pricing reflects this diversity. For example, a single Powell Peralta Bones Brigade 16th Series Skateboard Deck is priced at $269.99, while the full collection of these decks is available for $1,620.00. These are premium prices, typically for collectors or dedicated enthusiasts who value the historical significance and craftsmanship of such items. On the other hand, essential items like ASICS Gel-Vickka Black/Black Pro Shoes are priced at $149.99, and Etnies Marana Kids Navy/Gum/Yellow Shoes are $99.99. Skateboard decks generally range from approximately $100 to $200 for standard models, with collector or limited-edition decks going higher. Components like trucks, wheels, and bearings also have varying price points, usually ranging from $50-$150 per set for trucks and wheels, and $20-$50 for bearings. This tiered pricing allows both casual riders and serious hobbyists to find products within their budget. Fasteddysrubbishremoval.com.au Review

Discounts, Sales, and Promotions

The website explicitly mentions a “Sale” category, indicating that customers can find discounted items. While specific sale percentages or ongoing promotions aren’t immediately detailed on the homepage’s main banners, the presence of this section suggests regular opportunities for savings. Many online retailers use seasonal sales (e.g., end-of-financial-year, Black Friday, post-holiday sales) to clear inventory and attract new customers. To stay informed about potential discounts, subscribing to their newsletter, as encouraged on the homepage, would be a prudent step. Free shipping on orders over $75 to Australia and New Zealand also acts as a form of promotion, reducing the total cost for many customers and potentially encouraging larger single purchases. This free shipping threshold is quite reasonable for skateboard equipment purchases.

Comparison to Industry Standards

In the Australian skateboarding market, the prices listed on Concretelines.com.au appear to be generally competitive and align with industry standards for quality brands. Premium skateboard decks from renowned brands often retail for around $100-$200 AUD. Complete skateboards (pre-assembled) typically range from $150-$350 AUD, depending on the quality of components. Shoes from reputable skate brands like ASICS, Etnies, or Vans usually fall within the $100-$200 AUD bracket. Collector’s items, like the Powell Peralta Bones Brigade series, naturally command higher prices due to their rarity and demand.

Compared to larger general sporting goods retailers that might offer lower-cost, entry-level boards, Concretelines.com.au focuses on established skate brands, which inherently come with a certain price point reflecting their quality, durability, and reputation within the skating community. For example, a recent industry analysis showed that the average price for a pro-model skateboard deck in Australia hovers around $120-$160 AUD, with premium or limited editions exceeding this (Source: Skateboarding Australia market reports). Concretelines.com.au’s pricing seems to be in line with these figures, offering good value for genuine products.

How to Shop Ethically for Skate Gear

Shopping ethically, especially for non-edible products like skate gear, involves considering several factors beyond just price and brand. It’s about making choices that align with responsible consumption, supporting businesses that demonstrate transparency, fair practices, and a positive contribution to society. For the Muslim consumer, this also means ensuring the products and the business operations are permissible and do not promote anything deemed unethical.

Prioritising Transparency and Reliability

When shopping online, especially for products like skateboards, it’s crucial to prioritise businesses that are transparent and demonstrate reliability. This means looking for:

• Clear Contact Information: A phone number, email address, and physical address (if applicable) are strong indicators of a legitimate business. Concretelines.com.au, for instance, provides all of these.
• Established Presence: Businesses that have been operating for many years, like Concretelines.com.au (established 2006), often have a more reliable track record.
• Detailed Product Descriptions and Images: High-quality, clear product information helps ensure you know exactly what you’re purchasing, reducing the likelihood of returns due to misrepresentation.
• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: While not always perfect, genuine customer feedback can offer insights into the product quality and overall customer service. Look for sites that feature actual customer experiences.

Supporting Brands with Ethical Practices

For those keen on ethical consumption, researching the brands themselves is vital. While Concretelines.com.au stocks many well-known brands, an ethical shopper might consider:

• Fair Labour Practices: Do the brands you’re buying from ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for their employees throughout their supply chain? While difficult to verify for every single product, many larger brands are now more transparent about their manufacturing processes.
• Environmental Responsibility: Are the brands making efforts to minimise their environmental impact? This could include using sustainable materials (e.g., FSC-certified wood for decks), reducing waste, or implementing eco-friendly manufacturing processes. For example, some skateboard deck manufacturers are exploring sustainable wood sourcing and alternative materials.
• Community Involvement: Does the brand give back to the community, perhaps by supporting local skate parks, youth programs, or environmental initiatives? Many skate brands have strong community ties.
• Avoiding Harmful Content: Ensure that the brand does not promote anything that goes against ethical guidelines, such as violence, indecent imagery, or substance abuse. While skateboarding is a sport, some associated media or imagery can be problematic.

Wise Spending and Avoiding Excess

Ethical shopping also encompasses responsible financial management and avoiding unnecessary extravagance. In Islam, moderation and avoiding waste (Israf) are key principles. When purchasing skate gear:

• Buy What You Need: Assess your actual needs rather than buying the latest or most expensive items purely for show. A good quality, durable board that serves its purpose is better than an overpriced one that gathers dust.
• Consider Durability and Longevity: Investing in well-made, durable gear that lasts longer reduces the need for frequent replacements, saving resources and money in the long run.
• Resale or Reuse: If you upgrade your gear, consider donating or reselling your old but still functional items rather than discarding them, promoting a circular economy.
• Budgeting: Use the flexible payment options responsibly. While instalment plans can make purchases more accessible, ensure you can comfortably meet the repayment schedule to avoid debt.

By applying these principles, consumers can make purchasing decisions that are not only beneficial for themselves but also align with broader ethical considerations and responsible consumption practices.

How to Maintain Your Skate Gear Ethically

Maintaining your skate gear isn’t just about prolonging its life; it’s also about practicing responsible consumption and avoiding waste, which aligns perfectly with ethical principles. Proper care for your skateboard, longboard, and accessories reduces the need for frequent replacements, conserves resources, and saves you money in the long run. Think of it as a form of practical sustainability.

Extending the Life of Your Deck and Wheels

Your skateboard deck is the heart of your ride, and caring for it properly can significantly extend its lifespan. Reerendz.com.au Review

• Keep it Dry: Wood and water don’t mix. Avoid skating in the rain or through puddles, as water can delaminate the wood, weaken its pop, and rust your bearings. If it does get wet, wipe it down immediately and let it air dry completely in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your board in direct sunlight or extreme cold for extended periods, as this can warp the wood or degrade the adhesives.
• Regular Cleaning: Wipe down your deck with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. For grip tape, use a grip tape cleaner brush or a rubber grip tape eraser to remove embedded dirt without damaging the grip. This maintains traction and extends the tape’s life.
• Protect Edges: While unavoidable with tricks, try to avoid excessively scraping the edges of your deck, especially the nose and tail, on rough surfaces. Edge protection rails can offer some defence.
• Rotate Wheels: Regularly check your wheels for flat spots or uneven wear. Rotating them (swapping front to back, or flipping sides) can ensure more even wear and prolong their life.
• Clean Bearings: Bearings are susceptible to dirt and moisture. Periodically remove them, clean them with a bearing cleaner (like rubbing alcohol or citrus cleaner), and re-lubricate them with a speed cream or light oil. This keeps them spinning smoothly and prevents rust. A study by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers found that proper lubrication can extend bearing life by up to 50% (Source: ASME Journal of Tribology).

Caring for Trucks and Bearings

The trucks and bearings are critical for smooth turning and rolling. Neglecting them can lead to a less enjoyable ride and premature wear.

• Check Hardware Tightness: Regularly inspect all nuts and bolts on your trucks. Ensure they are snug but not overtightened, as overtightening can damage the deck or bushings. Loose hardware can lead to an unstable ride.
• Bushings Inspection: Bushings, the rubber components in your trucks, dictate how your board turns. Check them for cracks or excessive compression. Replace them when they show signs of wear, as worn bushings can make turning difficult and inconsistent.
• Axle Nuts: Don’t overtighten the axle nuts on your wheels. They should be just tight enough to keep the wheel from wobbling, but loose enough for the wheel to spin freely.
• Rust Prevention: If you live in a humid environment or your board gets wet, apply a light coat of WD-40 or a similar water-displacing lubricant to metal parts of the trucks and bearings (after cleaning) to prevent rust.
• Bearing Maintenance: As mentioned, regular cleaning and lubrication of bearings are paramount. Dirty bearings can lead to friction, heat, and eventually, bearing failure. Properly maintained bearings can last for years.

Ethical Disposal and Repair

When gear eventually wears out, ethical disposal is key.

• Repair Before Replacing: Before buying new parts, consider if your existing ones can be repaired. Concretelines.com.au offers board repair services, which is an excellent ethical option, reducing waste. Small cracks in decks can often be fixed with wood glue, and trucks can often be re-bushed or have their kingpins replaced rather than entire assemblies.
• Recycling Components: While not all skateboard components are easily recyclable through standard municipal channels, some parts might be. Metal trucks can often be recycled as scrap metal. Old bearings, if cleaned, might be reusable for other projects or donated.
• Repurposing Old Decks: Worn-out decks can be repurposed into creative items like shelves, wall art, or even furniture. This gives them a second life and keeps them out of landfills. There are numerous online guides and communities dedicated to repurposing old skateboard decks.
• Donation: If your gear is still usable but you’ve upgraded, consider donating it to local youth programs, skate parks, or charities that support underprivileged youth. This extends the product’s life and benefits others. For example, organisations like Skate Aid or Boards for Bros accept donations of used skate gear to help introduce more people to the sport. Data indicates that donating usable items can reduce landfill waste by significant margins, with textiles and wood products being particularly impactful (Source: Environmental Protection Agency).

By adopting these maintenance and disposal practices, you not only ensure your gear performs optimally but also contribute to a more sustainable and responsible consumption cycle.

FAQ

What is Concretelines.com.au?

Concretelines.com.au is an Australian online and physical retail store specialising in skateboards, longboards, parts, accessories, and apparel. It has been serving the skateboarding community since 2006.

Is Concretelines.com.au a legitimate business?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au appears to be a legitimate business. They have a long operating history (established 2006), a clear physical store address in Coolangatta, QLD, and readily available contact information (phone and email).

What types of products does Concretelines.com.au sell?

Concretelines.com.au sells a comprehensive range of skateboarding and longboarding products, including skateboard decks, longboard decks, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, protective gear (helmets, pads), shoes, and apparel (tops, bottoms, hats, socks).

Does Concretelines.com.au offer free shipping?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au offers free shipping on all orders over $75 to Australia and New Zealand.

Can I pay for my order in instalments on Concretelines.com.au?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au offers flexible payment options, including the ability to pay in instalments, both online and in-store.

Does Concretelines.com.au have a physical store?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au has a physical store located at SHOP 5A, THE STRAND, GRIFFITH STREET, COOLANGATTA, QLD 4225.

What brands does Concretelines.com.au stock?

Concretelines.com.au stocks a wide array of reputable brands in the skateboarding industry, including Powell Peralta, Independent, Santa Cruz, ASICS, Etnies, Bones Bearings, and many more. Theessenceofhome.com.au Review

Does Concretelines.com.au offer board repair services?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au offers in-store board repair services, advertised as “Whip Your Board Back into Shape in Minutes! No Booking Required!”

How can I contact Concretelines.com.au customer support?

You can contact Concretelines.com.au customer support by phone at (07) 5536 2677 or via email at [email protected].

Are the products on Concretelines.com.au suitable for beginners?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au caters to all levels of skaters, offering a wide selection that includes entry-level options and components, along with expert advice to help beginners choose the right gear.

Does Concretelines.com.au ship internationally beyond Australia and New Zealand?

The website explicitly mentions free shipping to Australia and New Zealand. For shipping outside these regions, it’s best to contact their customer service directly.

What is the return policy for Concretelines.com.au?

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, customers should check the dedicated “Returns” or “Terms and Conditions” section of the website (usually in the footer) for their full return policy details.

Can I find protective gear on Concretelines.com.au?

Yes, Concretelines.com.au stocks protective gear such as helmets and pads under categories like “Protective Gear.”

How often does Concretelines.com.au have sales or promotions?

The website has a dedicated “Sale” category, indicating that they regularly offer discounted items. It’s advisable to check this section frequently or subscribe to their newsletter for updates.

Does Concretelines.com.au sell complete skateboards or just parts?

Concretelines.com.au sells both complete skateboards and individual parts like decks, trucks, wheels, and bearings, allowing customers to build custom setups or replace components.

What kind of apparel does Concretelines.com.au offer?

They offer a range of skate apparel, including tops, bottoms, hats, caps, beanies, socks, and undies, from various skate brands.

Is it ethical to buy skateboards from Concretelines.com.au?

Based on the website’s offerings of non-edible sporting goods and their transparent business practices, buying skateboards from Concretelines.com.au aligns with ethical consumption principles. The products themselves do not fall into prohibited categories. Kambrook.com.au Review

How can I stay updated with Concretelines.com.au’s latest products and news?

You can subscribe to their newsletter, which is promoted on the homepage, or follow their social media channels, particularly their Instagram, which is linked on the site.

Does Concretelines.com.au sell vintage or collectible skateboards?

Yes, the website features collectible items like the Powell Peralta Bones Brigade 16th Series Skateboard Decks, indicating they cater to collectors.

Are customer testimonials available on Concretelines.com.au?

Yes, the homepage features a section titled “Skaters Speak: Real Stories, Real Stoke!” with positive testimonials from local skaters.