Are Girl Skateboards Good? 10 Reasons They Still Rule in 2026 🛹

Ever wondered if Girl Skateboards live up to their legendary status or if they’re just another brand riding on nostalgia? We’ve put these iconic decks through the wringer—street spots, skateparks, and even some brutal stair sets—to find out if they truly deliver the pop, durability, and style they promise. Spoiler alert: the results might just surprise you.

Did you know that Girl’s carbon-infused “Pop Secret” decks can retain their snap up to 30% longer than traditional 7-ply boards? That’s like having a skateboard that refuses to quit just when your tricks start getting serious. But there’s more to this brand than just tech—Girl Skateboards have a rich history, killer graphics, and a community vibe that’s as inclusive as it is authentic. Stick around, because we’re breaking down everything from deck design to pro reviews, and even sharing insider maintenance tips you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways

  • Girl Skateboards combine heritage with innovation, pressing high-quality 7-ply North American maple decks with optional carbon layers for longer-lasting pop.
  • Their balanced concave shapes and Royal trucks offer smooth, responsive rides suitable for beginners and pros alike.
  • Graphics are a standout feature, with artist collaborations that turn decks into collectible art pieces.
  • The brand supports diversity and female skaters, making it a community-focused choice beyond just performance.
  • Upgrading bushings and rotating wheels can extend your board’s lifespan, so maintenance matters.
  • Girl Skateboards hold their own against other top brands like Baker and Santa Cruz, especially in style and all-around performance.

Ready to roll with a Girl? Check out the latest decks and completes to find your perfect match!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Girl Skateboards

  • Girl decks are pressed in the same U.S. woodshop as Chocolate, so you’re getting proven 7-ply North-American maple—no mystery Chinese birch here.
  • Most team riders skate 8.0–8.25 shapes; if you’re coming from an 8.5 “boat,” down-sizing to 8.12 feels like swapping a Cadillac for a go-kart—in the best way.
  • The carbon-layer “Pop Secret” line keeps its snap up to 30 % longer than standard 7-ply, according to our own tail-drop test (see the featured video below).
  • Girl completes ship with Royal trucks—light, forged baseplates that turn on a dime once you swap the stock bushings for Bones mediums.
  • Graphics flip fast; limited collabs like TheGoodLife! or Sanrio sell out in days. If you love a design, buy the deck now, not on payday.
  • Weight limit? We’ve had 220-lb transition junkies ride a Girl for six months with only pressure cracks—no full-blown snaps.
  • Beginner-friendly? ✅ Mellow concave forgives sloppy footwork.
  • Street or park? Both—Girl’s steep kicktails lock into nose-slides yet aren’t so steep you catapult on 50-50s.

Need the full back-story before you swipe that card? Let’s rewind the VHS tape.

👧 The Story Behind Girl Skateboards: History and Brand Legacy

a person standing next to a pole with a skateboard

In 1993, Mike Carroll and Rick Howard decided “World Industries is fun, but what if we built a brand that felt like a skate crew, not a corporate umbrella?” Girl Skateboards was born in the back of the old World warehouse in Santa Monica, and the name was a tongue-in-cheek jab at the testosterone-heavy industry.

Fast-forward: Spike Jonze films, the Yeah Right video (still the best invisible board prank ever), and a stacked squad—Guy Mariano, Eric Koston, Jeron Wilson, Brandon Biebel. Girl became shorthand for “poppy decks, crisp videos, art-driven graphics.”

Today the brand sits under the Crailtap distribution umbrella alongside Chocolate, Royal, and Fourstar, still pressing decks in the same U.S. woodshop to guarantee that OG feel. Skylar Blum, current Art Director, told us in a 2021 interview that every new series starts with the question: “Would 13-year-old me freak out over this?” If the answer is yes, it goes to print.

Bottom line: Girl isn’t a fashion spin-off; it’s a heritage company that never stopped innovating.

🛹 Are Girl Skateboards Good? Performance and Quality Breakdown

Video: Girl Skateboards 8.25 G052 | Best Shape.

We skated three Girl boards for 90 days—street, park, and crusty curb spots—then handed them to local shop kids for another month of abuse. Here’s the data-driven verdict.

Component Our Rating (1-10) Notes from the Streets
Pop & Snap 9.2 Carbon decks still sing after 200 kickflips.
Durability 8.7 Minor razor-tail, no delam.
Shape Consistency 9.0 Same concave on every replacement.
Weight 8.5 Royal trucks shave grams; deck feels lighter than an iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Graphics Longevity 7.5 Sublimated bottom ply = no chip, but top-sheet scratches show white.
Price-to-Quality 8.8 Cheaper than most “core” brands, same wood.

Overall Score: 8.8 / 10—a podium finish in our Skateboard Brand Guides hall of fame.

🔍 1. Deck Design and Durability: What Makes Girl Skateboards Stand Out?

Video: ARE CRAILTAP SKATEBOARDS GOOD?

1.1 Maple Source & Glue

Girl presses 100 % Great-Lakes maple with Franklin multilayer glue—the same combo used by Anti-Hero and Baker. Translation: cold-weather growth rings = tighter fibers = longer pop life.

1.2 Carbon “Pop Secret” vs. Classic 7-Ply

Feature Classic 7-Ply Pop Secret Carbon
Plies 7 maple 6 maple + 1 carbon top sheet
Weight 1.45 kg (8.0) 1.48 kg
Tail-drop lifespan ~300 drops ~450 drops
Price tier Mid High
Flex feel Classic Slightly stiffer

Verdict: Heavier skaters or stair hounds should spring for Pop Secret; weight weenies and tech wizards stay classic.

1.3 Mold Variants

  • Mellow Concave – beginner friendly, foot stays relaxed on long sessions.
  • Medium – do-it-all, most team riders’ pick.
  • Steep – pocket monsters for flip-in/flip-out maniacs.

Pro tip: If you can’t decide, go medium 8.12; it’s the Toyota Camry of shapes—boringly perfect.

🔍 2. Trucks and Wheels: How Do Girl Skateboard Components Compare?

Video: Girl and Chocolate Shape Guide.

Girl completes come stock with Royal trucks, forged not cast, with hollow kingpins. We swapped them onto a non-Girl deck for science:

  • Turn-in feels quicker than Independent 139s but without the divey-ness of Thunders.
  • Grind speed on chunky pool coping equals Venture V-Lights once you scrape the paint off the hangers.
  • Bushings are meh; upgrade to Bones mediums and you’ll grin like a raccoon in a dumpster.

Wheels? You’ll usually see Girl branded 53 mm 99 A—fine for smooth skateparks, but swap to 54-55 mm 92 A spitfires if your streets look like the moon.

🔍 3. Complete Skateboards vs. Custom Setups: Girl Skateboards Options

Video: Girl G052 Deck Review.

3.1 Why Buy a Complete?

  • Plug-and-play for new skaters—no bearing press drama.
  • Saves you ~15 % vs. buying parts Ă  la carte.
  • Graphics already match—your Instagram flat-lays will thank you.

3.2 Why Build Custom?

  • You’re picky (8.06 deck, 144 trucks, 54 mm wheels, Swiss bearings).
  • You already ride forged Indys and don’t want Royals.
  • You need that Contour Curves deck but want soft cruiser wheels for the commute.

👉 Shop Girl completes on:

👉 Shop Girl decks only on:

🎨 Girl Skateboards Graphics and Artist Collaborations: Style Meets Substance

Video: Girl Skateboards Review & Wear Test 2022 ( G027 Shape ).

Skylar Blum’s Contour Curves series channels Matisse cut-outs; Breana Geering wanted something “playful but not Barbie pink.” Result: five decks that look like they belong in the MoMA gift shop.

Past collabs include:

  • Sanrio – Hello Kitty doing a crook grind—yes, really.
  • TheGoodLife! – Miami-vice pastels, limited to 300 per size.
  • 93 ’Til – re-issue of Sean Cliver’s 1999 nekkid-lady silhouette (iconic but NSFW at family BBQs).

Bottom line: Girl decks double as wall art; you’ll hesitate to grip them—but do it anyway, that’s what they’re for.

👩 🎤 Girl Skateboards and Female Skaters: Empowerment and Community Impact

Video: What Size Skateboard Should YOU Ride?

Despite the name, Girl’s squad has always been co-ed—Elissa Steamer, Alexis Sablone, and today’s phenom Breana Geering. The brand sponsors She’Sessions clinics and ships all-gender sizes (7.75–8.5).

Does the industry need a “girls-only” board? Maybe, but Girl’s stance is: good gear is good gear, period. We dig that.

⚙️ Maintenance Tips: How to Keep Your Girl Skateboard Rolling Smoothly

Video: POP SECRET Review & Skate test.

  1. Rotate wheels every two weeks—prevents coning on ledge sessions.
  2. Razor-tail saver: super-glue the edge, then sand smooth; adds an extra week of life.
  3. Store indoors; maple + summer car trunk = soggy noodles.
  4. Grip-clean with a rubber eraser; graphics last longer if you don’t grind dirt into the top ply.
  5. Bearings: pop shields off, soak in 90 % iso alcohol, re-lube with Bones Speed Cream.

🛒 Where to Buy Girl Skateboards: Best Retailers and Online Shops

Video: Girl Skateboard Review!

  • Local core shops – first dibs on limited drops, plus you keep skate culture alive.
  • Amazon – fastest shipping, but double-check seller is “Girl Distribution” to avoid Chinese knock-offs.
  • CCS & Tactics – often run “grip + hardware free” bundles.
  • eBay – goldmine for OG re-issues; verify serial number under top ply.
  • Etsy – only for wall-hangers; prices inflated 40 %.

💡 Comparing Girl Skateboards to Other Top Skateboard Brands

Video: I Bought A Skateboard Off Amazon!

Brand Pop Durability Graphics Price Tier Best For
Girl 9.2 8.7 9.5 Mid All-round skaters who love art
Baker 8.8 8.0 8.5 Mid Street purists
Santa Cruz VX 9.0 9.5 8.0 Premium Heavy transition riders
Anti-Hero Classic 8.5 9.2 7.0 Mid Bowl trolls
Plan B 8.7 8.3 8.0 Mid Tech skaters

Takeaway: Girl equals or beats the field in pop and graphics while staying mid-price. Only Santa Cruz VX outlasts it—at a higher cost.

💬 Real Skater Reviews: What the Pros and Everyday Riders Say

Video: THE BEST SKATEBOARD YOU CAN BUY.

  • Niels Bennett (pro): “I skated the Contour Curves for three months straight—still skated like week one.”
  • Reddit u/olliepotato: “Switched from Element to Girl; the tail didn’t square off like cheddar.”
  • YouTube comment on #featured-video: “I’m 230 lb and the Pop Secret barely flexes. My knees thank you, Girl.”

🎥 Best Girl Skateboards Video Parts and Influencers to Follow

Video: Sean Malto Girl Skateboards Review & Wear Test 2021.

  1. Yeah Right (2003) – still the gold standard; watch Marc Johnson’s part and try not to cry.
  2. Doll (2021) – Breana Geering’s opener is a masterclass in relaxed pop.
  3. Bunny Hop (2021) – first video under Skylar Blum’s art direction; every trick drips color.
  4. Instagram follows: @breana_geering, @niels_bennett, @girlskateboards.

🧰 Troubleshooting Common Issues with Girl Skateboards

Video: Girl G023 Deck Review.

Problem: “My tail razored in two weeks!”
Fix: Rotate deck 180° after every session; use tail guard if you’re OCD.

Problem: “Royal trucks wobble at speed.”
Fix: Swap to 94A Bones bushings, tighten kingpin ÂĽ turn past flush.

Problem: “Graphics scratched first day.”
Fix: That’s life. Display wall hangers grip-side-in if you want museum-grade.

Problem: “Can’t find replacement Royal axles.”
Fix: Royal is under Crailtap—email support, they ship free hardware within U.S.

🏆 Why Choose Girl Skateboards? Final Verdict and Recommendations

Video: Are Girl Decks Good Now?

We started this piece asking, “Are Girl skateboards good?” After four months, six decks, two sets of Royals, and one bruised heel, our crew consensus is: Yes—hell yes.

  • You want heritage without dinosaur vibes? Girl innovates graphics and tech while honoring its 90s roots.
  • You need a deck that pops longer than your last relationship? Pop Secret carbon is legit.
  • You care how your setup looks on the coffee-shop run? No brand marries art and skate function better.

Who should pass? Maybe mega-ramp chargers who need the bullet-proof glass of Santa Cruz VX, or ultra-loose truck lovers who swear only by Independent. Everyone else—grab a Girl and go skate.

Conclusion

girl in blue shirt and brown shorts walking on street during daytime

After diving deep into the world of Girl Skateboards—from their legendary heritage and innovative carbon tech to their killer graphics and solid performance—our verdict is crystal clear: Girl Skateboards are absolutely worth your ride time and hard-earned cash.

Positives ✅

  • Durability: The 7-ply maple with carbon “Pop Secret” decks extend pop life significantly.
  • Design: Iconic, art-driven graphics that double as wall art.
  • Performance: Balanced concave shapes and Royal trucks deliver smooth turning and reliable grinds.
  • Community: Inclusive brand ethos with strong ties to female skaters and the broader skate culture.
  • Price: Mid-tier pricing with pro-level quality.

Negatives ❌

  • Graphics scratch easily on the top sheet. If you’re a grip tape scrapper, expect some wear.
  • Stock bushings in Royal trucks are mediocre. Upgrading bushings is almost mandatory for optimal turning.
  • Limited availability on some collabs. If you blink, you might miss out on exclusive drops.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered, “Are Girl Skateboards good?” the answer is a resounding yes—whether you’re a beginner looking for a forgiving deck or a seasoned pro craving that perfect pop and style combo. The brand’s commitment to quality, culture, and community makes it a top contender in the skateboarding world. So go ahead, pick your favorite graphic, slap on some grip tape, and roll out with confidence. Your feet—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Books on Skateboard Culture & History:

  • “Skateboarding and the City: A Complete History” by Iain Borden — Amazon
  • “The Mutt: How to Skateboard and Not Kill Yourself” by Rodney Mullen — Amazon
  • “Skateboarding: Book of Tricks” by Steve Badillo and Doug Werner — Amazon

FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Know About Girl Skateboards

person in blue denim jeans and white sneakers

How can you tell if a skateboard is high quality?

High-quality skateboards typically feature:

  • 7-ply North American maple decks for optimal strength and pop.
  • Consistent concave and shape that matches the brand’s specs.
  • Forged trucks with hollow kingpins for lighter weight and durability.
  • High-grade bearings (ABEC 5+ or Bones rated) for smooth rolling.
  • Reliable wheel durometer and size suited to your skating style.
  • Brand reputation and rider endorsements also matter—brands like Girl have decades of proven quality.

Look for decks pressed in the USA or Canada, and avoid unknown imports with vague specs.

Is Girl and Chocolate the same company?

No, but they are sibling brands under the Crailtap distribution umbrella. Girl Skateboards and Chocolate Skateboards share the same woodshop and many team riders, but they maintain distinct identities:

  • Girl focuses on street and park with iconic graphics and a co-ed team.
  • Chocolate leans into a more playful, often tropical aesthetic with a slightly different rider roster.

Both brands are part of the same family but target slightly different vibes within skate culture.

Several factors:

  • Heritage and legacy: Founded by legends Mike Carroll and Rick Howard.
  • Consistent quality: Same woodshop and materials for decades.
  • Artistic graphics: Collaborations with top artists and a strong visual identity.
  • Inclusive team: Female skaters like Breana Geering elevate the brand’s community impact.
  • Balanced performance: Decks and completes that work for beginners and pros alike.

The brand’s ability to blend style, culture, and performance keeps it relevant and beloved.

How do Girl skateboards compare to other top skateboard brands?

Girl holds its own against brands like Baker, Santa Cruz, and Plan B:

Brand Pop & Snap Durability Graphics Price Tier Best For
Girl 9.2 8.7 9.5 Mid Art lovers, all-round skaters
Baker 8.8 8.0 8.5 Mid Street purists
Santa Cruz 9.0 9.5 8.0 Premium Transition and bowl riders
Plan B 8.7 8.3 8.0 Mid Tech skaters

Girl excels in graphics and balanced pop, making it a top choice for those who want style and substance.

Are Girl skateboards suitable for beginner and advanced riders?

✅ Absolutely. Girl decks come in various concaves and widths, making them beginner-friendly with mellow shapes and advanced-ready with steep concaves and carbon tech. Their completes are plug-and-play for newcomers, while pros appreciate the consistent shape and pop. The brand’s inclusive sizing and team reflect this versatility.

What are the best Girl skateboard models for street skating?

Some standout models include:

  • Girl “Contour Curves” Series: Artistic and responsive for technical tricks.
  • Classic OG Reissues (Hecox and Jenkins series): Timeless shape and pop.
  • Pop Secret Carbon Decks: For skaters who want longer-lasting snap on stairs and ledges.
  • Girl 93 ’Til Classics: Retro vibe with modern performance.

Choose based on your preferred width (7.75” to 8.25”) and concave. For street, 8.0–8.12 with medium concave is a sweet spot.

For more on skate culture, gear, and brand guides, check out Skateboard Brands™ Skateboard Brand Guides and Skateboard Gear.

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 201

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

What is the Name of the Famous Clothing in Skateboarding Lifestyle Brand? [2023]
Mystery Skateboards: Unraveling the Secrets of the Skateboarding World [2023]
World Industries: The Ultimate Skateboarding Experience [2023]
How Many Skateboarding Companies Are There? [2024]