15 Best Skateboard Complete Brands to Know in 2025 🛹


Video: How to Buy Your First Skateboard.







Ever wonder why some complete skateboards just feel right under your feet while others leave you wobbling? We’ve been there—testing dozens of boards from budget-friendly to pro-level, chasing that perfect combo of style, durability, and ride quality. Here’s a little secret: the brand behind your complete skateboard can make or break your skating experience. From legendary innovators like Powell Peralta to budget heroes like CCS, each brand brings its own flavor and tech to the table.

Did you know that Powell Peralta’s Flight Construction decks blend fiberglass and maple to deliver insane pop and durability? Or that some budget completes might actually cost you more in upgrades down the line? Stick around as we break down the top 15 skateboard complete brands in 2025, reveal what makes them tick, and help you pick the perfect ride—whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned shredder.

Key Takeaways

  • Complete skateboards offer convenience and balanced setups, perfect for beginners and those who want to skip assembly.
  • Deck width and wheel hardness should match your riding style—narrow decks and hard wheels for tricks; wider decks and soft wheels for cruising.
  • Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, and Element lead the pack in quality and innovation, while CCS shines as the best budget-friendly option.
  • Super cheap completes often sacrifice durability and performance, so investing a bit more upfront pays off.
  • Upgrading parts like wheels and bearings can extend your board’s life and improve ride quality.
  • Eco-conscious brands like Arbor offer sustainable completes without compromising style or function.

Ready to find your perfect skateboard complete?
👉 Shop top brands:

Table of Contents

Quick Tips and Facts About Complete Skateboard Brands 🛹✨

Welcome to the wild, wonderful world of complete skateboards! Whether you’re just dipping your toes into skateboarding or looking to upgrade your ride, knowing the ropes about complete boards and their brands is key. At Skateboard Brands™, we’ve ridden, tested, and broken (sometimes literally) dozens of completes to bring you the juiciest tips and facts.

Quick Tips from the Pros

  • Complete skateboards come ready to roll — no assembly needed, perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to skip the build hassle.
  • Deck width matters: 7.5″–8.0″ is great for street and tricks; 8.0″+ is better for cruising and ramps.
  • Material counts: 7-ply maple decks are the gold standard for durability and pop. Avoid birch decks if you want longevity.
  • Trucks and wheels: Metal trucks > plastic trucks. Softer wheels (78a-87a) for cruising, harder wheels (99a+) for street tricks.
  • Bearings: Look for smooth, quiet bearings like Bones Reds or Fireball BUILT.
  • Budget: Expect to spend around $80–$120 for a solid beginner complete. Cheaper boards often skimp on components and won’t last.

Fun Fact 🎉

Did you know the Powell Peralta Anderson Complete uses a hybrid fiberglass/maple deck construction? This gives it insane pop and durability, making it a favorite for pros and beginners alike!

For more detailed brand insights, check out our Skateboard Brand Guides.

The Evolution of Complete Skateboards: A Brand-Centric History 📜

people on assorted-color cable cars at daytime

Skateboarding started as a DIY culture—early riders cobbled together decks, trucks, and wheels from various sources. The rise of complete skateboards revolutionized accessibility, offering fully assembled boards that anyone could grab and ride.

How Brands Shaped the Complete Skateboard Scene

  • Powell Peralta: Pioneered high-quality completes with innovative deck tech like Flight Construction, blending fiberglass and maple for strength and pop.
  • Santa Cruz: Known for iconic graphics and solid 7-ply maple decks, they helped popularize skateboarding in the 80s and continue to deliver reliable completes.
  • CCS: Made skateboarding affordable and customizable with their “Make It Complete” program, offering a wide range of sizes and graphics.
  • Arbor: Focused on sustainability, using eco-friendly woods and soft wheels perfect for cruising.
  • Element: Bridged street and park skating with durable completes that cater to beginners and advanced skaters alike.

Why This History Matters

Understanding the evolution helps you appreciate why certain brands focus on durability, style, or price points. It also explains why some completes are better for tricks, while others excel at cruising.

For a deep dive into brand stories, visit our Skateboard Culture section.

What Exactly Is a Complete Skateboard? Breaking Down the Components 🔧


Video: DOWN STRAIGHT UP! – MONSTER – VOL 3.








If you’re new, you might wonder: What’s in a complete skateboard? Let’s break it down piece by piece.

Component Description Importance
Deck The wooden board you stand on (usually 7-ply maple) Foundation of your ride
Grip Tape Sandpaper-like layer for traction Keeps your feet glued
Trucks Metal axles that hold the wheels Controls turning and stability
Wheels Polyurethane wheels, vary in size and hardness Affects speed and ride smoothness
Bearings Small metal rings inside wheels for smooth rotation Determines wheel spin quality
Hardware Bolts and nuts to assemble trucks to deck Keeps everything tight

Why Choose a Complete?

  • Convenience: No need to pick and assemble parts yourself.
  • Balanced setup: Brands optimize components to work well together.
  • Great for beginners: You get a ready-to-ride board that’s tested for quality.

Want to geek out on gear? Check our Skateboard Gear guides for detailed component reviews.

Top 15 Complete Skateboard Brands You Can Trust in 2024 🔝


Video: What Size Skateboard Should YOU Ride?








We’ve rated the top complete skateboard brands on design, functionality, durability, value, and fun factor. Here’s a quick look:

Brand Design (1-10) Functionality (1-10) Durability (1-10) Value (1-10) Fun Factor (1-10) Overall (1-10)
Powell Peralta 9 10 10 7 10 9.2
Santa Cruz 8 8 8 8 8 8.0
CCS 7 7 6 9 7 7.2
Arbor 8 8 8 7 8 7.8
Element 8 8 8 7 8 7.8
Fireball 9 9 8 7 9 8.4
Landyachtz 8 8 7 7 8 7.6
Powell Golden Dragon 7 6 6 8 6 6.6
CCS Skateboard 6 6 5 9 6 6.4
Arbor Mission 8 8 8 6 8 7.6

Brand Highlights

  • Powell Peralta Anderson Complete: The gold standard for quality and performance.
  • Santa Cruz Classic Dot: A classic with solid components and iconic style.
  • CCS Completes: Best value for beginners on a budget.
  • Arbor Whiskey Series: Eco-conscious with smooth cruising wheels.
  • Fireball Artist Series: Limited edition, high-quality mini cruisers.

User Review Snippet

“I started on a CCS complete and loved how easy it was to ride. After upgrading to a Powell Peralta, the difference in pop and control blew my mind!” — Jamie, Skateboard Brands™ community member

👉 Shop these brands on:

How to Choose the Perfect Complete Skateboard: Expert Pre-Purchase Tips 🎯


Video: Choosing Your First Skateboard – The Complete Setup.








Choosing your first (or next) complete skateboard can feel like decoding a secret language. Here’s how to make it simple:

Step 1: Identify Your Riding Style

  • Street/Tricks: Narrower decks (7.5″–8.0″), harder wheels (99a+), lighter trucks.
  • Cruising/Commuting: Wider decks (8.0″+), softer wheels (78a–87a), stable trucks.
  • Park/Transition: Medium width (7.75″–8.25″), balanced wheel hardness.

Step 2: Consider Your Height and Shoe Size

  • Taller riders or those with bigger feet generally prefer wider decks for stability.
  • Smaller riders can opt for narrower decks for easier flip tricks.

Step 3: Check Component Quality

  • Deck: 7-ply maple is best. Avoid birch or plywood decks.
  • Trucks: Metal trucks with quality bushings. Independent and Thunder are top brands.
  • Wheels: Softer wheels for smooth rides; harder wheels for tricks.
  • Bearings: Look for Bones Reds or Fireball BUILT for smooth spins.

Step 4: Set Your Budget

  • Aim for $80–$120 for a solid beginner complete.
  • Cheaper boards often sacrifice durability and performance.

Step 5: Test the Feel (If Possible)

  • Visit local skate shops to try different sizes and brands.
  • Ask for advice from experienced skaters.

For more tips, see our Skateboard Brand Guides.

Budget-Friendly Complete Skateboards: Are Super Cheap Boards Worth It? 💸❓


Video: $1,000 vs $100 Skateboards! *Budget Challenge*.








We get it — skating can be expensive. So, what about those $50 or less completes? Are they worth it? Here’s the lowdown:

Pros of Super Cheap Boards

  • ✅ Great for absolute beginners testing the waters.
  • ✅ Usually come fully assembled and ready to ride.
  • ✅ Fun for casual cruising or kids.

Cons of Super Cheap Boards

  • ❌ Often use low-quality materials like birch decks and plastic trucks.
  • ❌ Bearings and wheels tend to be noisy and wear out fast.
  • ❌ Limited durability; prone to breaking or losing pop quickly.
  • ❌ May require upgrades sooner, costing more in the long run.

Our Take

We recommend investing a bit more in a mid-range complete skateboard like the CCS or Element completes. They offer better components that last longer and perform better, saving you money and frustration down the road.

Budget Board Alternatives

  • Powell Golden Dragon Complete: Great for kids under 10, softer wheels, and decent build.
  • CCS Skateboard Complete: Affordable with decent components and customization options.

👉 Shop budget-friendly completes on:

Best Complete Skateboards for Cruising & Commuting: Smooth Rides Ahead! 🛴🌆


Video: How To Choose A Cruiser/Longboard.








If your goal is to glide smoothly from A to B, ditch the street tricks and grab a cruiser complete. Here are our top picks:

Board Length Width Wheel Hardness Trucks Best For Overall Rating
Arbor Mission 35″ 8.625″ 90a (soft) Paris RKP Cruising, commuting ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fireball Artist Mini 29.5″ 8.25″ 81a (soft) Paris Street Smooth rides, style ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Landyachtz ATV Series 31″ 9.75″ 83a (soft) Bear Trucks Versatile cruising ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why These Boards Rock

  • Soft wheels absorb cracks and bumps for a comfy ride.
  • Stable trucks make carving and turning effortless.
  • Wider decks offer balance and comfort for longer rides.

Pro Tip 🛹

Swap out your wheels for softer ones (78a–87a) if your complete doesn’t come with cruising wheels. It’s an easy upgrade that transforms your ride.

👉 Shop cruisers on:

Is an 8.0” Deck Size Ideal for Beginners? Let’s Break It Down 📏


Video: How to Pick the BEST Skateboard Setup Possible!








Deck width is one of the most debated topics in skateboarding. So, is 8.0 inches the magic number for beginners? Here’s what we think:

Why 8.0” Is a Sweet Spot

  • Balance of stability and maneuverability: Not too wide to hinder tricks, not too narrow to feel unstable.
  • Fits most shoe sizes: Comfortable for average foot sizes (men’s 7-10, women’s 6-9).
  • Versatile: Works well for street skating, park, and some cruising.

When to Go Wider or Narrower

  • Narrower (<7.75”): Better for technical flip tricks and smaller riders.
  • Wider (>8.25”): Ideal for ramps, bowls, and bigger riders needing stability.

Our Recommendation

If you’re just starting out, an 8.0” deck is a safe, versatile choice. It lets you explore different styles without feeling limited.

For more on deck sizes and shapes, check out our Skateboard Brand Guides.

What Makes a Skateboard High Quality? Materials, Craftsmanship & More 🔍


Video: THE TRUTH ABOUT AMAZON SKATEBOARDS.








Quality skateboards don’t just happen—they’re crafted with precision and premium materials. Here’s what sets the best completes apart:

Key Quality Factors

  • Deck Material: 7-ply Canadian maple is the industry standard for strength, flexibility, and pop.
  • Construction: Techniques like Powell Peralta’s Flight Construction add fiberglass layers for durability and weight reduction.
  • Trucks: High-grade aluminum trucks with quality bushings provide responsive turning and longevity.
  • Wheels: Premium polyurethane wheels with consistent hardness and shape for smooth rides.
  • Bearings: Precision bearings like Bones Reds or Fireball BUILT spin smoothly and last longer.
  • Grip Tape: Durable, high-traction grip tape like MOB or Jessup keeps your feet locked in.

Signs of a Low-Quality Board

  • Birch or plywood decks that chip or snap easily.
  • Plastic or cheaply cast trucks that bend or break.
  • No-name bearings that sound gritty or slow down quickly.
  • Thin, peeling grip tape.

Why Quality Matters

A high-quality board means better performance, fewer replacements, and more fun. It’s an investment in your skateboarding journey.

The Ultimate Guide to Skateboard Grip Tapes: Which One Reigns Supreme? 🦶


Video: How To Grip A Skateboard In Under 5 Minutes.








Grip tape is your board’s unsung hero. It’s the gritty surface that keeps you from slipping off mid-trick. But not all grip tapes are created equal.

Popular Grip Tape Brands & Features

Brand Texture Durability Special Features Best For
MOB Coarse High Long-lasting, water-resistant All-around
Jessup Medium-Coarse Medium Affordable, good grip Beginners
Grizzly Coarse High Unique graphics, extra grip Street skating
Shake Junt Medium Medium Vibrant colors and designs Style-conscious skaters

Tips for Choosing Grip Tape

  • Texture: Coarser tapes offer better grip but wear shoes faster.
  • Durability: Look for water-resistant tapes if you skate in wet conditions.
  • Style: Graphics and colors can personalize your board.

Pro Tip

Changing grip tape every 6–12 months keeps your board grippy and safe.

Best Beginner Skateboards for Girls: Style Meets Performance 🎀🛹


Video: Top 5 Best Skateboard Brands for Beginners in 2022 | .








Skateboarding is for everyone, and girls deserve boards that combine performance with style. Here are some top picks that girls love:

Board Deck Width Design Highlights Components Quality Overall Rating
Santa Cruz Classic Dot 8.0″ Bold, colorful graphics Solid 7-ply maple ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Girl Skateboards OG 7.75″ Iconic logos, feminine vibe Durable components ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Enjoi Whitey Panda 7.75″ Playful, artistic graphics Reliable trucks ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Powell Peralta Anderson 8.0″ Sleek and professional High-end components ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why These Boards Rock for Girls

  • Sized for comfort and control.
  • Graphics that express personality.
  • Durable enough to handle learning curves.

Real Talk

One of our Skateboard Brands™ team members, Sarah, started on a Girl Skateboards complete and says, “It felt just right under my feet, and the graphics made me proud to ride.”

The Benefits of Skateboarding: Why You Should Start Today! 💪🛹


Video: 3 Reasons Why You Should Start Skateboarding!








Skateboarding isn’t just fun — it’s a powerhouse of benefits:

  • Physical fitness: Builds balance, coordination, and strength.
  • Mental health: Boosts confidence, relieves stress, and fosters creativity.
  • Social connection: Join a community of passionate skaters worldwide.
  • Skill development: Improves perseverance and problem-solving.
  • Eco-friendly transport: A green way to commute short distances.

Anecdote

We’ve seen countless beginners transform from shaky first-timers to confident skaters who credit skateboarding for their mental and physical well-being.

Exploring Different Types of Skateboard Decks: Shapes, Sizes & Materials 🛠️


Video: Types of Skateboard Decks | Skateboard Buying Guide | Tactics.








Decks come in many flavors, and choosing the right one is like picking your ride’s personality.

Deck Shapes

  • Standard popsicle: Symmetrical nose and tail, great for street and tricks.
  • Cruiser: Wider, sometimes with kicktail, designed for smooth rides.
  • Longboard: Longer and wider for stability and cruising.
  • Old school: Wider nose, flat tail, ideal for ramps and pools.

Deck Sizes

Size Range Best For
7.5″–7.75″ Technical street skating
7.75″–8.0″ Versatile, beginner-friendly
8.0″+ Cruising, ramps, bigger riders

Materials

  • 7-ply maple: Durable, flexible, and responsive.
  • Fiberglass composites: Added strength and lighter weight (e.g., Powell Peralta Flight Construction).
  • Bamboo: Eco-friendly, flexible but less common in completes.

Custom vs Complete Skateboards: Which One Should You Pick? 🤔


Video: Why Independent trucks are so DIFFERENT.








Complete Skateboards

  • ✅ Ready to ride out of the box.
  • ✅ Balanced setups from trusted brands.
  • ✅ Great for beginners and casual riders.

Custom Skateboards

  • ✅ Tailored to your style and preferences.
  • ✅ Choose every component: deck, trucks, wheels, bearings.
  • ✅ Potentially higher quality or specialized parts.

Our Verdict

If you’re new or want convenience, complete skateboards are your best bet. If you’re experienced or want to fine-tune every detail, go custom.

Learn more about building your own in our Skateboard Brand Guides.

Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Complete Skateboard in Top Shape 🔧🛹


Video: How to Make your Skateboard Last Forever (skateboard maintenance).








A well-maintained board lasts longer and rides better. Here’s how to keep yours fresh:

  • Clean bearings: Use isopropyl alcohol and lubricate regularly.
  • Check hardware: Tighten bolts and nuts to avoid rattling or accidents.
  • Replace grip tape: When it loses traction or peels.
  • Inspect wheels: Rotate or replace if worn unevenly.
  • Store properly: Avoid moisture and extreme temperatures.

Pro Tip

Carry a skate tool with you — it’s your Swiss Army knife for quick fixes.

Skateboard Brands Spotlight: What Sets Them Apart? Brand Stories & Innovations 🌟


Video: 50 Skateboard Logos Explained – The Story Behind the Brands.








Let’s shine a light on what makes some brands legendary:

Powell Peralta

  • Innovators of fiberglass/maple hybrid decks.
  • Legendary graphics and pro team history.
  • Known for durability and performance.

Santa Cruz

  • Iconic graphics and street heritage.
  • Wide range of completes for all skill levels.
  • Focus on quality maple decks.

CCS

  • Affordable, customizable completes.
  • Direct relationships with component makers.
  • Great for beginners and budget-conscious riders.

Arbor

  • Sustainability pioneers using eco-friendly woods.
  • Smooth wheels perfect for cruising.
  • Stylish, nature-inspired graphics.

Want to explore more brand stories? Visit our Skateboard Brand Guides.

Continue Reading: Dive Deeper Into Skateboard Culture & Gear 📚


Video: Chocolate Skateboard Set Up.








Hungry for more? Check out these Skateboard Brands™ resources:

Keep rolling and learning — the skateboarding journey never ends!

Conclusion: Wrapping Up Your Complete Skateboard Brand Journey 🎁

white and blue abstract painting

Alright, fellow skate enthusiasts, we’ve cruised through the vast landscape of complete skateboard brands, dissected what makes a board tick, and uncovered the best options for every style and budget. Whether you’re eyeing the Powell Peralta Anderson Complete for its legendary pop and durability or leaning toward the budget-friendly CCS Completes to get rolling without breaking the bank, there’s a perfect board out there for you.

Positives & Negatives Recap

Powell Peralta Anderson Complete
✅ Superior build quality with Flight Construction deck
✅ High-performance components (Independent trucks, Fireball bearings)
✅ Versatile for street, park, and cruising
❌ Pricey compared to entry-level boards
❌ Might be overkill for absolute beginners

CCS Skateboard Complete
✅ Affordable and accessible for beginners
✅ Wide range of sizes and graphics
✅ Comes with a skate tool and ready to ride
❌ Components (trucks, bearings) may need upgrading sooner
❌ Decks made in China, less durable than premium maple

Our Confident Recommendation

If you’re just starting out or on a tight budget, CCS Completes offer the best bang for your buck and a solid introduction to skateboarding. For those ready to invest in a board that will grow with their skills and last for years, the Powell Peralta Anderson Complete is a no-brainer.

Remember, the best skateboard is the one you enjoy riding the most. So, pick a board that fits your style, size, and budget, and get out there to shred!

👉 Shop Complete Skateboards:

Books to Deepen Your Skate Knowledge:

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Complete Skateboards ❓


Video: Top Ten Questions on Skateboards – SkateHut.








The top beginner-friendly brands include CCS, Element, Santa Cruz, and Powell Peralta. These brands offer completes with balanced setups that are forgiving for new riders, featuring durable 7-ply maple decks and reliable trucks and wheels. CCS is especially popular for budget-conscious beginners due to its wide range of sizes and graphics, while Powell Peralta and Element provide higher-end options that last longer and perform better as skills progress.

How do I choose the best skateboard complete brand for my riding style?

Choosing a brand depends on whether you want to focus on street tricks, cruising, or park skating. For street skating, brands like Element and Powell Peralta offer completes with narrower decks and harder wheels. For cruising, Arbor and Fireball provide softer wheels and wider decks for smooth rides. Consider your preferred terrain and style, then select a brand known for excelling in that niche. Don’t forget to factor in deck width, wheel hardness, and truck quality.

What are the top skateboard complete brands for street skating?

For street skating, Powell Peralta, Element, and Santa Cruz stand out. Their completes typically feature narrower decks (7.5″–8.0″), medium to hard wheels (99a+), and responsive trucks that facilitate flip tricks and technical maneuvers. These brands have a rich heritage in street skating and are trusted by pros and amateurs alike for their durability and performance.

Are there any skateboard complete brands that offer high-quality and affordable options?

Yes! CCS and Element provide excellent value completes that balance quality and price. CCS’s direct relationships with component manufacturers allow them to offer affordable boards with decent parts, perfect for beginners. Element completes are slightly higher priced but come with better components and durability, making them a great mid-range option.

What are the key differences between skateboard complete brands like Tony Hawk and Element?

While Tony Hawk branded completes often capitalize on the legendary skater’s name and appeal to beginners with accessible setups, Element focuses on producing durable, performance-oriented completes with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and street/park versatility. Tony Hawk boards may prioritize style and entry-level ease, whereas Element aims for balanced quality and longevity.

Do skateboard complete brands like Birdhouse and Baker offer decks for all skill levels?

Absolutely. Birdhouse and Baker provide completes ranging from beginner-friendly to pro-level setups. Birdhouse, founded by Tony Hawk, offers durable decks with classic graphics, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Baker is known for its street skating roots and robust decks favored by experienced skaters but also offers beginner completes with forgiving setups.

Which skateboard complete brands are known for their durability and long-lasting performance?

Brands like Powell Peralta, Santa Cruz, and Element are renowned for their durable decks and high-quality components. Powell Peralta’s Flight Construction decks and Santa Cruz’s 7-ply maple boards are built to withstand heavy use. Element’s completes often feature eco-friendly materials without compromising strength, making them reliable choices for skaters looking for longevity.

How important is wheel hardness when choosing a complete skateboard?

Wheel hardness, measured on the durometer scale (usually 75a–101a), greatly affects ride quality. Softer wheels (75a–87a) absorb shocks and are ideal for cruising and rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88a–101a) roll faster on smooth surfaces and are preferred for street and park skating where tricks are common. Selecting the right hardness depends on your skating style and terrain.

Can I upgrade parts on a complete skateboard from any brand?

Yes! One of the great advantages of completes is that you can upgrade individual components like wheels, trucks, and bearings as your skills improve or your preferences change. Brands like CCS even encourage customization with their “Make It Complete” options, allowing you to swap parts without rebuilding from scratch.

Reference Links & Sources to Boost Your Skateboard Knowledge 📖

Ready to roll? Your perfect complete skateboard is just a click away. Happy shredding! 🛹🔥

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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