Req 2d — Skateboarding Overview

Option D is the Skating merit badge’s most knowledge-intensive and skill-diverse option. It covers history, benefits, safety, equipment anatomy, board assembly, maintenance, riding fundamentals, and trick demonstrations across five trick categories. Work through all 14 subrequirements in order with your counselor.

What You’ll Complete

• Req 2d1 — History of Skateboarding: Explain the history and evolution of skateboarding from its origins to today.
• Req 2d2 — Benefits of Skateboarding: Describe the physical and personal development benefits of skateboarding.
• Req 2d3 — Safety Rules & Courtesy: Explain safety rules, courtesy guidelines, right-of-way, and communication signals at skate parks.
• Req 2d4 — Protective Gear: Explain required protective gear and show how to wear it correctly.
• Req 2d5 — Street vs. Vert Styles: Describe the two main styles and common skate park features.
• Req 2d6 — Skateboard Anatomy: Explain all the parts of a skateboard.
• Req 2d7 — Build a Board: Build a complete skateboard from components.
• Req 2d8 — Skateboard Maintenance: Explain ongoing maintenance for cleaning, adjusting, and replacing parts.
• Req 2d9 — Stance: Explain regular vs. goofy stance and demonstrate your preferred stance.
• Req 2d10 — Push, Cruise & Carve: Demonstrate pushing, cruising, and carving on flat ground.
• Req 2d11 — Braking Techniques: Show at least two braking and stopping techniques.
• Req 2d12 — Ollie: Do a basic ollie and at least one variation.
• Req 2d13 — Drop-In from Coping: Show how to drop-in from coping.
• Req 2d14 — Three Trick Types: Demonstrate THREE skateboarding tricks from five available categories.

Before You Begin

Access to a skate park or large smooth paved area is needed for the skill requirements. A complete skateboard that fits you (deck size appropriate for your shoe size) and full protective gear are required for all skateboarding requirements. If you do not own a board, many skate parks offer board rentals or beginner sessions.

Official Resources