Gator 32 Blanks - Customizable and Quality Skateboard Decks | 50 characters

An Introduction to Gator 32 Blanks

Gator 32 blanks refer to the 32-inch blank decks produced by Gator Skateboards, a popular skateboard company based out of California. These high-quality blank decks have become a favorite among skaters for their versatility and affordability. In the skateboarding world, a "blank" deck refers to a board without any graphics or branding - just a raw, blank canvas ready for customization. Brands like Gator offer blank decks as a lower-priced alternative to pro models, making these boards accessible for skaters on a budget.

Gator Skateboards History

Gator Skateboards was founded in 1994 by professional skateboarders John Lucero and Steve Olson in Huntington Beach, CA. Lucero and Olson set out to create their own skateboard brand after years spent riding for other companies. They wanted to give back to skateboarding culture by producing quality boards without outrageous prices. The Gator name was chosen as a reference to Lucero's childhood nickname, "The Gator", earned for his aggressive skating style.

From the beginning, Gator Skateboards focused on manufacturing boards in the USA from quality maple wood sourced from sustainable forests. Over the years, the brand has gone on to sponsor renowned pros like Eric Koston, Jerry Hsu, and Guy Mariano. However, Gator has always stayed true to its roots by continuing to offer a range of blank decks known for their durability and performance.

Gator 32 Blanks Specs

The Gator 32 blank deck measures 32 inches long by 8 inches wide, making it a versatile size suitable for skaters of different heights and skill levels. These decks feature a mild concave and a kicktail shape that is functional without being too aggressive. Gator blanks are constructed from 7 ply maple and come with 5” lightweight aluminum trucks, along with 52mm wheels. Skaters can choose from a variety of widths between 7.5” to 8.38”.

Overall, the Gator 32 provides a well-balanced feel and pops nicely when ollieing. The blank canvas gives skaters a stiff, sturdy deck to work with when customizing their graphics and grip tape. Plus, the quality materials and construction allow the boards to withstand hardcore skating. Gator offers their 32 blanks in a range of natural wood stains to appeal to different styles.

Customizing Gator 32 Blanks

One of the best things about blank skateboards is that they provide the perfect foundation for customization. Skaters can let their creativity run wild by designing their own graphics to grip the deck exactly how they want. There are endless possibilities for making a Gator blank your own.

Many skaters choose to spray paint or hand paint original artwork onto their Gator blanks. Using stencils, splatter techniques, and imagination you can create graphics that match your personality. Once the paint dries, apply your chosen grip tape to finish it off. Other easy customization options include using skateboard stickers or even mod podging photos and fabric onto the deck.

For those less artistically inclined, you can also order custom prints online that adhere directly to blank decks. With this method, you can upload your design or image to be printed onto large format sticker paper made specifically for skateboards. The high-quality print can then be applied to a blank Gator 32 for an easy DIY graphic.

Why Gator 32 Blanks Are Popular

There are several key reasons why Gator 32 blank decks have become popular go-to choices in the skate community:

• Cost - Blank decks provide the same quality construction as pro models at a fraction of the price. Gator 32s retail for around $50, making them budget friendly.
• Customization - A blank canvas invites creativity and self-expression when designing your own graphics.
• Versatility - The 32 inch size and medium concave work well for various skating abilities from beginners to experts.
• Durability - Gator blanks are manufactured from quality maple that withstands hardcore skating sessions.
• Pop - The sturdy Gator construction allows for great pop when ollieing and performing tricks.

Ultimately, the combination of affordability, customization and proven performance make the Gator 32 one of the most popular blank decks among skaters today.

Caring for Your Gator 32 Blank

Like any skateboard, some care and maintenance will help keep your Gator 32 skating like new. Here are some tips for caring for your blank deck:

• Avoid water damage by skating when dry and storing inside when not in use
• Check hardware regularly and tighten/replace as needed
• Clean griptape with gum eraser or grip gum cleaner when dusty
• Remove grip and clean deck with mild soap if board gets dirty
• Avoid extreme heat like hot car trunks that can damage the wood
• Consider a deck wall mount to display your artwork when not riding

By taking care of your blank Gator deck, you'll keep it in top shape both structurally and aesthetically. Your artistic creation will maintain its vibrancy and stand out every time you ride.

Wrapping Up

For skaters looking for a quality deck that can be personalized on a budget, the Gator 32 blank is a top choice. With its versatile size, durable maple construction, and raw finish, this blank canvas provides everything needed to create a one-of-a-kind skateboard. Let your creativity run wild designing your own graphics or prints. Then get out and enjoy the smooth ride of this skating icon backed by the long-running Gator Skateboards brand.

FAQs

What sizes do Gator 32 blanks come in?

Gator 32 blanks are available in widths ranging from 7.5” to 8.38”, so you can choose the width that fits your skating style and foot size. The length remains consistent at 32 inches.

What types of paint work best when customizing Gator blanks?

Enamel spray paint or acrylic craft paints are recommended for painting original graphics onto Gator 32 blanks. Make sure to properly prep and prime the deck first for best adhesion.

What kind of concave do Gator 32s have?

Gator 32 blanks feature a medium concave, meaning the curve across the width of the deck is moderately angled. This provides a balanced feel between control and stability.

Can you buy complete Gator 32 blanks with wheels and trucks?

Yes, many retailers sell customizable complete Gator 32 blank sets that come with trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware so you can bolt it together and start skating.

What grip tape works best with Gator blanks?

Jessup and Mob grip tape are popular choices that provide great grip and are easy to cut and apply to the Gator 32's blank canvas.