How to Know a Good Skateboard: 10 Expert Signs You Can’t Miss 🛹 (2025)

Choosing the perfect skateboard can feel like decoding a secret language—wood types, truck sizes, wheel hardness, ABEC ratings… the list goes on! But what truly makes a skateboard good? Is it the brand, the pop, or the smooth roll? As seasoned skaters at Skateboard Brands™, we’ve tested countless boards, from beginner setups to pro-level rigs, and we’re here to spill the secrets.

Did you know that many beginners pick boards that don’t fit their style or size, leading to frustration and early burnout? Stick around, because we’ll walk you through 10 clear signs of a high-quality skateboard, how to pick the right deck width, and why some “industry standards” like ABEC ratings might just be myths. Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your ride, this guide will help you roll with confidence and style.

Key Takeaways

  • A good skateboard is a balanced combination of quality components: 7-ply Canadian maple deck, metal alloy trucks, polyurethane wheels, and reliable bearings.
  • Deck size and shape matter: Match your deck width to your shoe size and skating style for optimal control and comfort.
  • Brand reputation counts: Trusted brands like Baker, Element, and Plan B often deliver better durability and performance.
  • Don’t be fooled by ABEC ratings: Skate-specific bearings like Bones Reds outperform higher ABEC-rated generic bearings.
  • Local skate shops offer invaluable expert advice and hands-on experience, especially for beginners.

Ready to find your perfect board? Check out top-rated gear from trusted brands here:

Table of Contents

Here is the main body content for your blog post, crafted by the expert team at “Skateboard Brands™”.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Alright, let’s cut to the chase! If you’re in a hurry to figure out what separates a sweet ride from a piece of “sad-wood,” here’s the lowdown. We’ve seen it all, from pristine pro setups to department store disasters, and these are the golden nuggets of wisdom we live by.

  • ✅ Quality Over Cost: A cheap board from a big-box store is a recipe for frustration. As the folks at Longboards USA wisely state, “Invest in a good quality skateboard from the start”. It’s not about breaking the bank, but about getting a board that won’t break on you.
  • ✅ The 7-Ply Standard: A solid skateboard deck is almost always made of 7-ply Canadian Maple. Anything less is likely a toy, not a tool for shredding.
  • ✅ Metal Trucks are a Must: If the trucks (the metal axle things) are plastic, walk away! Good trucks are made of a metal alloy and allow you to lean and turn.
  • ✅ Wheels with a Purpose: Skateboard wheels aren’t just plastic circles; they’re polyurethane, engineered for performance. Harder wheels are for tricks, while softer wheels give a smoother ride for cruising.
  • ✅ Size Matters: Your board width should match your shoe size and height. A board that’s too wide or too narrow is like trying to run a marathon in clown shoes – you just can’t perform your best. We’ll dive deep into sizing later!
  • ✅ Don’t Obsess Over ABEC: The ABEC rating on bearings isn’t the be-all and end-all of speed. Good bearings from a reputable skate brand will always outperform cheap ones, regardless of the number.

🛹 The Evolution of the Skateboard: From Roller Derby to Street Art Icon


Video: 10 Things To Learn Your FIRST WEEK Skateboarding 🛹.








Ever wonder how this plank of wood with wheels became a global phenomenon and a cornerstone of Skateboard Culture? It’s a wild story! Back in the 1950s, some bored surfers in California decided to “surf” the streets when the waves were flat. They took the wheels off roller skates and bolted them to wooden planks. Boom! The first skateboards were born.

From those humble beginnings, skateboarding has morphed and evolved. The 70s saw the invention of the urethane wheel, which revolutionized grip and speed, giving birth to the legendary Z-Boys of Dogtown. The 80s brought us the “ollie,” the fundamental trick that launched skateboarding into the stratosphere, and iconic brands like Powell-Peralta and Santa Cruz started defining the look and feel of the sport. Today, skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s an art form, a mode of transportation, and a multi-billion dollar industry that has influenced everything from music to Skateboard Fashion. It’s a testament to creativity and pushing boundaries!

🔍 What Makes a Skateboard “Good”? Unpacking the Core Components

So, what’s the secret sauce? What makes one board a dream and another a dud? It’s not one single thing, but the symphony of all its parts working together. As SkateXS puts it, “A good skateboard is a balanced combination of quality components that work together.” Let’s break down the anatomy of a great skateboard.

Deck: The Soul of Your Shred Sled

The deck is your stage, your canvas, your trusty steed. It’s where all the magic happens. Getting the right one is crucial.

Material Matters: Maple, Bamboo, and Beyond the Basics

The gold standard is, without a doubt, 7-ply Canadian Maple. Why? It’s the perfect blend of flexibility, rigidity, and durability, giving you that crisp “pop” you need to get airborne. Cheaper boards might use lower-quality maple or other woods that feel dead and can snap easily.

“The deck of a skateboard is most often made out of hard rock maple and has 5-9 plies of wood.”

While 7-ply is standard, some brands experiment with bamboo for a lighter, more eco-friendly option, or even composite materials for extra strength. For most skaters, though, sticking with good old Canadian Maple is the way to go.

Shape and Concave: Finding Your Footing and Flow

Concave is the subtle side-to-side curve of the deck. It’s what helps lock your feet in place, giving you control for slides, turns, and flip tricks.

  • Low Concave: A flatter board, great for a stable ride and cruising.
  • Medium Concave: The most common shape, offering a great balance for all types of skating.
  • High Concave: Deeper curves for a more secure foothold, ideal for aggressive flip tricks and technical skating.

The shape also plays a huge role. The classic “popsicle” shape is symmetrical and the most versatile for street and park skating. You’ll also see “shaped decks” with unique outlines, which are awesome for cruising or a more retro vibe.

Size and Width: The Perfect Fit for Your Feet and Style

This is a big one, especially for beginners. Skateboard width is the key measurement, not length. A wider board offers more stability and landing space, while a narrower board is lighter and easier to flip.

Here’s a general guide to get you started, based on recommendations from experts:

Rider Height Shoe Size (US Men’s) Recommended Deck Width
Under 5′ 6 and under 7.25″ – 7.75″
5′ to 5’10” 7 – 9 7.75″ – 8.25″
Over 5’10” 10 and up 8.25″ and up

Trucks: The Steering System and Your Turning Powerhouse

If the deck is the soul, the trucks are the brains of the operation. They are the metal T-shaped pieces that mount to your deck and allow you to turn. Never, ever buy a board with plastic trucks. They are a safety hazard and simply don’t work.

Material and Construction: Strength, Stability, and Snappy Turns

Quality trucks are made from durable aluminum alloy. Top-tier brands like Independent, Thunder, and Venture have spent decades perfecting their formulas for strength and turning geometry. The key is to match your truck width to your deck width for a stable ride.

Bushings: The Heartbeat of Your Turns and Carves

Inside every truck are two urethane bushings. These little rubbery rings control how your board turns and feels. They come in different hardness levels (durometers).

  • Softer Bushings: Easier to turn, great for lighter riders and cruising.
  • Harder Bushings: More stable at high speeds, better for heavier riders and aggressive skating.

Most complete skateboards come with medium-hardness bushings, which are a great starting point.

Truck Height: Balancing Stability with Maneuverability

Trucks also come in different heights (low, mid, high). This affects your board’s center of gravity.

  • Low Trucks: Best with smaller wheels (50-53mm), very stable for flip tricks.
  • Mid Trucks: A great all-around option for park and street.
  • High Trucks: Better for larger wheels (54mm+), ideal for cruising and carving to avoid “wheel bite” (when your wheel rubs against the deck on a hard turn).

Wheels: Rolling Smoothly and Sticking the Landing

Your wheels are your connection to the ground. Their size and hardness will completely change how your board feels and performs. Quality wheels from brands like Spitfire or Bones Wheels are made from high-quality polyurethane that resists flat spots and provides a consistent ride.

Durometer: The Hardness Scale for Every Terrain

Wheel hardness is measured by a durometer “A” scale.

  • 78a-90a (Soft): Perfect for cruising and longboarding. They absorb vibrations from rough surfaces and offer tons of grip. Think of them as the monster truck tires of skateboarding.
  • 95a-99a (Medium-Hard): A fantastic middle ground. Great for skating on varied terrain like rougher streets and smooth skateparks.
  • 100a+ (Hard): The choice for technical street and park skaters. They are fast, slide easily, and are perfect for smooth surfaces.

Diameter: Speed, Obstacle Clearance, and Grinding Glory

Wheel diameter is measured in millimeters (mm).

  • 50-53mm: Smaller, lighter, and closer to the ground. They accelerate quickly and are the standard for street and technical skating.
  • 54-56mm: A great all-around size for beginners, parks, and vert ramps.
  • 58mm+: Larger wheels that hold their speed better and roll over cracks and rocks more easily. Ideal for cruisers and vert skating.

Wheel Shape and Lip: Grip, Slide, and Everything In Between

The shape of the wheel also matters. A sharp, square lip provides maximum grip, while a rounded lip makes it easier to slide. Many modern wheels have a conical shape that offers a great balance of both.

Bearings: The Spin Cycle and Your Need for Speed

These are the small metal rings that sit inside your wheels and make them spin. Without them, you’re not going anywhere!

ABEC Rating: A Misunderstood Metric or a True Indicator?

You’ll see ABEC ratings (1, 3, 5, 7, 9) on many bearings. This is an industrial manufacturing tolerance rating, not a “skate speed” rating. While a higher number means a tighter tolerance, it doesn’t account for the stresses of skateboarding.

The truth? A quality bearing from a dedicated skate brand like Bones Bearings will always be better than a cheap, no-name ABEC 9 bearing. Bones Bearings are so confident in this that they created their own “Skate Rated™” system.

Materials and Shields: Durability, Maintenance, and Longevity

Bearings are typically made of steel, but you can find high-end ceramic versions that are lighter, faster, and don’t rust. They also have shields to protect the inner workings from dirt. Removable rubber shields make cleaning your bearings a breeze, while fixed metal shields are more durable but harder to service.

Hardware: Keeping Your Skateboard Together, Literally!

Last but not least, hardware is the set of nuts and bolts that mounts your trucks to your deck. They come in different lengths, and you just need to make sure they’re long enough to go through your deck and truck baseplate. Simple, but essential!

✅ 10 Signs of a High-Quality Skateboard: What to Look For and Why It Matters


Video: HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SKATEBOARD SIZE.








Okay, team, now you know the parts. But how do you spot quality in the wild? Here’s our ultimate checklist. If you’re looking for a board, check for these 10 signs.

1. Reputable Skateboard Brand Recognition: Trust the Pros!

Brands build reputations for a reason. If you see a board from a well-known Skateboard Brand Guides company like Baker, Element, Plan B, or Almost, you’re on the right track. They sponsor pro skaters and have years of research and development behind their products.

2. Superior Deck Construction: The Foundation of Your Ride

Feel the deck. It should feel solid and have a nice, concave shape. Look at the side; you should be able to see the distinct layers of the 7-ply maple. It should have a good “pop” when you tap the tail on the ground.

3. Responsive and Durable Trucks: Independent, Thunder, and Beyond

Look for metal alloy trucks from established brands. They should feel solid, not flimsy. The bushings shouldn’t be cracked or squished out of shape. When you lean on the board, it should turn smoothly and snap back to center.

4. Smooth-Rolling Wheels: The Right Durometer for Your Style

The wheels should be made of polyurethane, not hard, shiny plastic. Check for a brand name and markings indicating the size and durometer. Give them a spin; they should roll smoothly and quietly.

5. Fast and Reliable Bearings: Bones Reds and Other Speed Demons

You can’t always see the bearings, but a good complete will often advertise what it comes with. Look for brands like Bones, Bronson Speed Co., or Spitfire. A good test is to spin the wheel. It should spin freely for a long time.

6. Proper Hardware Fit and Finish: No Rattles, Just Rolls

Check the bolts holding the trucks on. They should be flush with the top of the grip tape and tight. Nothing on the board should rattle or feel loose. It should feel like a single, solid unit.

7. Excellent Pop and Rebound: Catching Air with Confidence

If you can, stand on the board and give a little hop. A good deck will feel springy and responsive under your feet. This “pop” is what helps you get off the ground for tricks.

8. Consistent Concave and Shape: Predictable Performance Every Time

Look down the length of the board. The concave should be even and symmetrical. There shouldn’t be any weird warps or twists in the wood. A consistent shape means a predictable ride.

9. Good Grip Tape Adhesion: Sticking with Your Board, Literally

The grip tape should be applied smoothly with no air bubbles. It should cover the entire top surface and have clean, trimmed edges. Quality grip tape from brands like Jessup or Mob Grip provides excellent traction.

10. Overall Balance and Feel: The “Just Right” Factor

Finally, just pick it up. A quality skateboard has a certain feel to it. It feels balanced and solid, not like a flimsy toy. It feels like a piece of high-performance Skateboard Gear.

🤔 Choosing Your First Skateboard: A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Rolling


Video: What size board? How to choose a skateboard.








Welcome to the club! Choosing your first board is an awesome rite of passage. But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. The most important first step is understanding how do I buy a good skateboard?, and we’ve got a whole guide on that.

For your very first board, we almost always recommend a complete skateboard. As Skate Warehouse UK points out, they are “cost-effective and convenient for beginners.” This means the board comes pre-assembled with all the parts chosen by the manufacturer to work well together. It takes the guesswork out of it and gets you rolling faster.

The video we’ve embedded above, titled “How to Buy Your First Skateboard” (#featured-video), is a fantastic visual guide that walks you through all the components and what to look for at a skate shop. It’s a great resource to watch before you buy!

The main decision you’ll need to make is about size. Here’s a simple breakdown based on age and height:

Age / Height Recommended Board Type Why It Works
3-5 years old Junior-sized complete Focus is on balance and fun, not tricks. A smaller board is manageable.
6-10 years old / Under 5ft Junior or Mid-sized complete (7.25″ – 7.5″) Easier for smaller feet to control and learn the basics of turning and ollies.
10+ years old / Over 5ft Full-sized complete (7.75″ – 8.25″) A great starting point for learning all types of skating. 8.0″ is a popular choice.

🛠️ Advanced Skateboard Setups: Customizing Your Ride for Peak Performance


Video: HOW TO PICK YOUR FIRST SKATEBOARD THE EASIEST WAY TUTORIAL.








Once you’ve got the basics down, you’ll enter the wonderful world of customization. This is where you can fine-tune your setup to perfectly match your style. It’s a journey of discovery, and as SkateXS says, “Don’t be afraid to experiment with different setups to find what works best for you.”

  • For the Street Tech Wizard: You might go with a narrower deck (7.75″-8.0″), low trucks for stability, and small, hard wheels (50-52mm, 101a) for quick pop and easy sliding.
  • For the Transition Flow Master: A wider deck (8.25″-8.5″) provides stability on ramps, paired with higher trucks and larger, slightly softer wheels (55-58mm, 99a) for speed and grip in the bowl.
  • For the All-Around Ripper: An 8.125″ deck with mid-trucks and 54mm 99a wheels is a classic “do-it-all” setup that feels great in the park, on the street, and everywhere in between.

Building a custom complete allows you to hand-pick every single component, from the graphic on your deck to the color of your hardware. It’s your board, your way.

🧼 Skateboard Maintenance: Keeping Your Board in Top Shredding Shape


Video: 15 Things That Make You Look Like A Beginner Skater (And How Not To).








A good skateboard is an investment in fun, so you’ve got to take care of it! A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your ride smooth and safe.

  • Keep it Dry: This is rule number one. Water is the enemy. It warps your deck, rusts your bearings and hardware, and ruins your day. Avoid skating in the rain or through puddles whenever possible.
  • Bearing Care: If your wheels start sounding crunchy or don’t spin freely, it’s time to clean your bearings. Pop off the shields, soak them in a bearing cleaning solution or isopropyl alcohol, let them dry, add a drop of skate bearing lubricant, and you’re back in business.
  • Grip Tape Refresh: When your grip tape loses its grit, you can use a wire brush or “grip gum” to clean it. If it’s too far gone, you can peel it off (a hairdryer helps loosen the adhesive) and apply a fresh sheet.
  • Hardware Check: Before every session, give your board a quick once-over. Make sure your truck nuts (the “kingpin” nut) and your hardware bolts are snug. Don’t overtighten, but make sure nothing is rattling.

🚫 Common Skateboard Myths Debunked! Separating Fact from Fiction


Video: 10 Electric Skateboard Tips Every Beginner Should Know.








We’ve heard some real whoppers over the years. Let’s set the record straight on a few common myths.

  • Myth 1: Higher ABEC Rating = Faster Board.
    • The Truth: We’ve touched on this, but it bears repeating. The ABEC scale measures precision, not durability or speed under the lateral stress of skateboarding. A quality, skate-specific bearing like Bones Reds will outperform a generic ABEC 9 bearing every time.
  • Myth 2: You Have to Be a “Skater Punk” to Ride.
    • The Truth: This is so outdated! Skateboarding is for everyone. All ages, all genders, all backgrounds. The only requirement is a desire to have fun and challenge yourself. The Skateboard Culture is more diverse and welcoming than ever.
  • Myth 3: Tightening Your Trucks Helps You Learn Faster.
    • The Truth: This is a common crutch for beginners who are afraid of turning. In reality, learning to balance on properly adjusted, turnable trucks is a fundamental skill. Keeping them super tight will only hinder your progress and make it harder to learn how to carve and control your board.
  • Myth 4: All Skateboards Are Basically the Same.
    • The Truth: If you’ve read this far, you know this is completely false! Every single component, from the wood ply to the wheel urethane, makes a difference. A quality complete is a finely tuned piece of equipment, not a toy.

🛒 Where to Buy a Good Skateboard: Online vs. Local Skate Shops


Video: How to Pick the BEST Skateboard Setup Possible!








So, you’re ready to pull the trigger. You have two main options: your local skate shop (LSS) or a major online retailer. Here at Skateboard Brands™, we have a soft spot for the LSS, but both have their pros and cons.

The Local Skate Shop (LSS) Experience

  • Pros:
    • Expert Advice: You get to talk to real skaters who can give you personalized recommendations.
    • Hands-On: You can see, feel, and stand on the boards before you buy.
    • Community Hub: You’re supporting a local business that is the heart of the local skate scene.
    • Instant Gratification: You walk out with your new board, ready to roll!
  • Cons:
    • Selection might be more limited than online giants.
    • Prices may be slightly higher.

The Online Retailer Route

  • Pros:
    • Massive Selection: Virtually endless options for decks, components, and completes.
    • Competitive Pricing: Easy to compare prices and find deals.
    • Convenience: Shop from your couch and have it delivered to your door.
  • Cons:
    • You can’t physically inspect the board before buying.
    • No expert to guide you through the purchase in real-time.
    • You miss out on the community aspect of the LSS.

Our Recommendation? If you’re a beginner, we highly recommend visiting your local skate shop. The guidance you’ll receive is invaluable. If you’re an experienced skater who knows exactly what you want, online retailers are a fantastic option.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Ride Awaits!

a person standing on a skateboard with their feet on the board

There you have it — the ultimate guide to knowing a good skateboard from the pros at Skateboard Brands™! From the heart and soul of the deck to the tiny bearings that keep you rolling smooth, every component matters. A good skateboard is a harmonious blend of quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and the right fit for your style and size. Remember, it’s not just about flashy graphics or brand names, but how the parts work together to give you confidence, control, and that sweet pop that makes skateboarding pure joy.

If you’re a beginner, don’t stress about building the perfect custom setup right away. Start with a reputable complete skateboard from trusted brands like Baker, Element, or Plan B — these boards come dialed in for performance and durability. As you progress, you’ll learn what tweaks make your ride truly yours.

And about those lingering questions — yes, the ABEC rating isn’t the magic speed number, and no, you don’t have to be a “skater punk” to shred. Skateboarding is for everyone, and your perfect board is out there waiting to be ridden. So get out there, pick a board that feels right, and start carving your own path. Your perfect ride awaits! 🛹✨

Ready to gear up? Here are some top picks and trusted brands to get you rolling:

Books for Deeper Skateboarding Knowledge

  • Skateboarding: Book of Tricks by Steve Badillo & Doug Werner — Amazon Link
  • The Mutt: How to Skateboard and Not Kill Yourself by Rodney Mullen & Sean Mortimer — Amazon Link

FAQ

a person standing on top of a skateboard

What features should I look for when buying a skateboard for beginners?

When buying a skateboard for beginners, focus on durability, ease of use, and safety. Look for:

  • A 7-ply Canadian Maple deck with medium concave for a balance of control and comfort.
  • Complete skateboards from reputable brands that come pre-assembled with matched components.
  • Trucks sized to the deck width (usually mid-height for versatility).
  • Wheels sized 54-56mm with a durometer around 90a-99a for a smooth yet responsive ride.
  • Reliable bearings like Bones Reds for smooth rolling.
  • Proper grip tape adhesion to keep feet locked in place.
  • And don’t forget to invest in protective gear — helmet, knee and elbow pads are essential.

This setup ensures beginners can learn safely and progress quickly without equipment-related frustrations.

Read more about “What Size Board Did Tony Hawk Use? 🛹 The Definitive 2025 Guide”

How do I choose the right skateboard deck size for my height and skating style?

Deck size is primarily about width, which should match your shoe size and skating style:

  • Narrow decks (7.25″–7.75″) are lighter and better for technical street tricks but offer less foot space.
  • Mid-width decks (7.75″–8.25″) are versatile, great for beginners and all-around skating.
  • Wider decks (8.25″+) provide stability and comfort, ideal for vert, cruising, or taller riders.

Height and shoe size guidelines:

Rider Height Shoe Size (US Men’s) Deck Width Recommendation
Under 5′ 6 and under 7.25″ – 7.75″
5′ to 5’10” 7 – 9 7.75″ – 8.25″
Over 5’10” 10 and up 8.25″ and up

Also, consider your skating style. If you’re into technical street tricks, lean narrower; for cruising or park skating, wider is better.

What are the best skateboard brands for beginners and experienced riders?

For beginners, brands like Element, Baker, Plan B, Enuff, and Enjoi offer excellent complete skateboards that balance quality and affordability. These brands provide reliable components and durable decks that help new skaters learn faster.

Experienced riders often prefer brands like Almost, Girl, Santa Cruz, and Flip for their pro-level decks and customizable setups. For trucks and wheels, Independent, Thunder, Bones, and Spitfire are industry favorites trusted by pros worldwide.

Choosing a brand with a strong reputation ensures you get quality gear backed by years of innovation and rider feedback.

Read more about “Tony Hawk Skateboard Review: 12 Reasons They Still Rule in 2025 🛹”

How can I determine the quality and durability of a skateboard before making a purchase?

Here’s how to assess skateboard quality before buying:

  • Inspect the deck: Look for 7-ply Canadian Maple layers, consistent concave, and no warping or cracks.
  • Check trucks: They should be metal alloy, with smooth turning and intact bushings.
  • Examine wheels: Polyurethane wheels with clear durometer and size markings indicate quality.
  • Spin the wheels: Smooth, quiet spinning suggests good bearings.
  • Look for reputable brands: Trusted names usually mean better quality control.
  • Read reviews: Customer feedback on sites like Amazon or skate forums can reveal real-world durability.
  • Feel the board: It should feel solid and balanced, not flimsy or rattly.

If possible, buy from a local skate shop where you can physically inspect the board and get expert advice.

Ready to roll? Your perfect skateboard is waiting — now it’s time to hit the streets, parks, and ramps with confidence! 🛹🔥

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.

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