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What Is a Good Type of Skateboard? 12 Top Picks & Tips for 2025 🛹
Ever stood in a skate shop, overwhelmed by decks, trucks, wheels, and all the jargon, wondering, “What is actually a good type of skateboard for me?” You’re not alone. Choosing the perfect skateboard is like finding the right pair of shoes — it has to fit your style, size, and where you want to ride. Did you know that the average skateboard deck lasts only 6-12 months with regular use? That’s why picking the right board upfront can save you time, money, and frustration.
In this ultimate guide, we break down everything from deck sizes and styles to top junior boards and pro-level completes. Whether you’re a 5-year-old just starting out or an adult returning to skateboarding after years off the board, we’ve got you covered with expert insights, detailed product ratings, and insider tips from the Skateboard Brands™ crew. Ready to find your perfect ride and shred like a pro? Let’s roll!
Key Takeaways
- Match your skateboard type to your skating style — street, park, cruising, or downhill each demands different deck widths, wheel sizes, and setups.
- Complete skateboards are perfect for beginners and juniors, offering hassle-free, tested setups from trusted brands like Enuff, Venom, and Tony Hawk.
- Deck width matters: narrower decks (7.5″-7.75″) for technical tricks, wider decks (8″+) for stability and cruising.
- Junior skateboards (around 7.25″) are designed for kids with lightweight decks and durable components to build confidence safely.
- Custom setups offer ultimate personalization but can be pricey and complex for newcomers.
- Always invest in quality protection gear — helmets, wrist guards, and pads are essential for safe skating.
Ready to shop? Check out our curated selections of Complete Skateboards for Beginners, Junior Skateboards, and Skateboarding Protection Gear to get started with confidence!
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts About Choosing a Good Skateboard 🛹✨
- Skateboard Origins & Evolution: A Brief Ride Through History 🕶️
- First, What Type of Skateboarding Do You Want to Do? 🏂
- What to Look for When Buying Your First Skateboard: The Ultimate Checklist ✅
- Complete Skateboards vs. Custom Setups: Which One Is Right for You? ⚙️
- Complete Skateboard Kits: All-in-One Packages for Beginners 🎁
- What to Avoid When Buying a Skateboard: Common Pitfalls and Scams 🚫
- What Size Skateboard Should I Buy? Finding Your Perfect Fit 📏
- Full-Size Skateboards: Pros, Cons, and Ideal Uses 🏙️
- Junior Skateboards: Best Boards for Kids and Young Riders 👶
- Top Junior Skateboard Models You Should Know About 🔥
- Best Skateboards for Beginners: Our Top Picks & Why They Rock 🤘
- The Best Skateboards for 3-5 Year Old Kids: Starting ’em Young! 🎈
- How Much Should You Spend on a Skateboard for Kids? Budgeting Tips 💰
- Restarting Skateboarding as an Adult: What Should You Buy? 🧔♂️
- Essential Skateboarding Protection Gear: Stay Safe While Shredding 🛡️
- Related Products: Must-Have Skateboards and Accessories from Top Brands 🏆
- Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Skateboard Match 🎯
- Recommended Links for Skateboard Buyers and Enthusiasts 🌐
- Reference Links: Trusted Sources and Further Reading 📚
Quick Tips and Facts About Choosing a Good Skateboard 🛹✨
Welcome to the wild, wonderful world of skateboarding! At Skateboard Brands™, we know that picking the right skateboard can feel like choosing your first tattoo — it’s gotta be the perfect fit for your style, size, and vibe. So, before you dive into the deep end, here are some quick tips and facts to get you rolling smoothly:
- Type matters: Street, park, cruising, or downhill — your board should match your skate style.
- Deck size: Width affects control and tricks. Wider decks (8.0″+) for stability, narrower (7.5″-7.75″) for flip tricks.
- Trucks and wheels: Smaller wheels (50-54mm) for technical tricks, bigger wheels (55-60mm+) for cruising and rough surfaces.
- Material: Most decks are 7-ply maple wood — durable and poppy. Some brands use bamboo or composites for flexibility.
- Complete boards: Great for beginners — pre-assembled and tested setups.
- Customization: For pros or enthusiasts wanting to tweak every detail.
Fun fact: The average skateboard deck lasts about 6-12 months with regular use, but a pro skater’s deck might only survive a few sessions! (Source: Skateboarding History & Facts)
Ready to dive deeper? Let’s roll on! For more on top brands, check out our Skateboard Brands guide.
Skateboard Origins & Evolution: A Brief Ride Through History 🕶️
Skateboarding isn’t just a sport; it’s a culture born from the streets of California in the 1950s. Originally, surfers wanted to “surf” the concrete when the waves were flat — thus, the skateboard was born. Over decades, it evolved from wooden boxes with roller skate wheels to high-tech decks with precision trucks and urethane wheels.
Key Milestones in Skateboard Evolution:
- 1950s: The “sidewalk surfing” era, homemade boards with metal wheels.
- 1970s: Introduction of polyurethane wheels, revolutionizing grip and speed.
- 1980s: Street skating explodes; decks get wider, trucks stronger.
- 1990s: Popsicle-shaped decks become the norm for tricks.
- 2000s+: Tech innovations like carbon fiber decks and precision bearings.
This history shapes what we consider a good skateboard today — a blend of durability, performance, and style. Dive into the Skateboard Culture category for more rad stories and insights.
First, What Type of Skateboarding Do You Want to Do? 🏂
Before you buy, ask yourself: What’s your skate style? Your choice of skateboard depends heavily on whether you’re cruising the streets, hitting the skatepark, or bombing hills.
| Skate Style | Recommended Board Type | Deck Width (inches) | Wheel Size (mm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Street Skating | Popsicle deck | 7.5 – 8.0 | 50-54 | Lightweight, ideal for flip tricks. |
| Park/Vert Skating | Wider deck with concave | 8.0 – 8.5 | 54-60 | Stability for ramps and bowls. |
| Cruising/Commuting | Cruiser or longboard | 7.5+ (cruiser), 9+ (longboard) | 60+ | Larger wheels for smooth rides. |
| Downhill | Downhill longboard | 9+ | 70+ | Stability at high speeds. |
Pro tip: If you’re unsure, start with a versatile complete skateboard around 7.75-8.0 inches wide — it’s a sweet spot for beginners and intermediates.
What to Look for When Buying Your First Skateboard: The Ultimate Checklist ✅
Buying your first skateboard can be overwhelming, but here’s a step-by-step checklist to keep your head clear and your wallet happy:
- Deck Material & Size
- Opt for 7-ply maple wood for durability and pop.
- Choose width based on your shoe size and skating style.
- Trucks
- Should match deck width (truck axle width ≈ deck width).
- Aluminum trucks are standard; titanium or magnesium for lighter weight but pricier.
- Wheels
- Hardness (durometer) affects grip: 99A+ for street, 78A-87A for cruising.
- Size affects speed and control.
- Bearings
- Look for ABEC ratings (5-7 is good for beginners).
- Quality bearings spin smoother and last longer.
- Grip Tape
- Should be coarse enough for traction but not too rough to damage shoes.
- Brand Reputation
- Stick to trusted brands like Element, Santa Cruz, Enuff, or Tony Hawk.
- Complete vs. Custom
- Beginners: Complete boards are hassle-free.
- Experienced: Customize parts for personal style and performance.
For a deep dive, check out our Skateboard Brand Guides.
Complete Skateboards vs. Custom Setups: Which One Is Right for You? ⚙️
Complete Skateboards: The Ready-to-Roll Option
| Aspect | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 7 | Pre-designed graphics, limited customization. |
| Functionality | 8 | Balanced for general use, good for beginners. |
| Durability | 7 | Quality varies by brand, generally solid. |
| Price | 8 | Cost-effective for new skaters. |
Why choose complete boards? They’re assembled by pros, tested for performance, and perfect if you want to start skating ASAP without fuss.
Custom Setups: Tailored to Your Style
| Aspect | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 10 | Fully customizable graphics and parts. |
| Functionality | 9 | Tailored to your skating style and needs. |
| Durability | 9 | You choose high-quality components. |
| Price | 6 | Can be pricey depending on parts. |
Why customize? If you’re serious about skating or want to express your personality, building your own setup lets you pick every detail — trucks, wheels, deck shape, and more.
Complete Skateboard Kits: All-in-One Packages for Beginners 🎁
Complete skateboard kits bundle everything you need: deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and often tools. Brands like Enuff and Venom offer killer kits that balance quality and value.
Popular Complete Skateboard Kits from Trusted Brands
| Brand | Model | Deck Width | Wheel Size | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enuff | Skully Junior 7.25″ | 7.25″ | 52mm | Kids & Juniors | Durable, vibrant graphics |
| Venom | Junior Unicorn 7.25″ | 7.25″ | 54mm | Beginners & Kids | Smooth wheels, great grip tape |
| Tony Hawk | SS 360 Toxic 7.5″ | 7.5″ | 53mm | Street & Park | Pro-level design, solid trucks |
Why kits rock: They take the guesswork out of buying parts separately and are perfect for gifting or first-time buyers. Plus, they often come with beginner-friendly instructions.
What to Avoid When Buying a Skateboard: Common Pitfalls and Scams 🚫
Buying a skateboard is exciting, but watch out for these traps:
- Cheap knock-offs: Boards with plastic decks or low-quality wheels will break fast and ruin your experience.
- Wrong size trucks: Trucks too wide or narrow cause poor control and faster wear.
- Overly soft wheels for street skating: They slow you down and wear unevenly on rough surfaces.
- Unbranded bearings: Poor spin and durability.
- Ignoring protection gear: No skateboard is worth injury — always invest in pads and helmets.
Heads up: Avoid impulse buys from unknown sellers, especially online. Check reviews and buy from reputable shops or brands like Amazon’s Skateboard section or official brand sites.
What Size Skateboard Should I Buy? Finding Your Perfect Fit 📏
Deck Width Guide by Shoe Size and Height
| Shoe Size (US) | Recommended Deck Width (inches) | Rider Height (ft/in) |
|---|---|---|
| 4 – 6 | 7.5 – 7.75 | Under 5’4″ |
| 6.5 – 8 | 7.75 – 8.0 | 5’4″ – 5’8″ |
| 8.5 – 10+ | 8.0 – 8.5 | 5’8″ and taller |
Why Size Matters
- Narrow decks (7.5-7.75″) are lighter and easier for flip tricks but less stable.
- Wider decks (8.0″+) offer more stability and comfort, especially for cruising or vert skating.
Our advice: If you’re a beginner, go for a mid-range width (7.75-8.0 inches). It’s versatile and forgiving.
Full-Size Skateboards: Pros, Cons, and Ideal Uses 🏙️
Full-size skateboards (usually 7.75″ to 8.5″ wide) are the workhorses of the skate world. They’re perfect for street, park, and ramp skating.
Advantages
- Stability: Wider decks provide balance for tricks and landings.
- Durability: Built to withstand heavy use.
- Variety: Tons of graphic options and parts available.
Drawbacks
- Weight: Slightly heavier than mini or cruiser boards.
- Less portable: Bulkier to carry around.
Brands to check out:
- Element Skateboards — classic designs and solid builds.
- Santa Cruz — iconic graphics and pro-approved decks.
Junior Skateboards: Best Boards for Kids and Young Riders 👶
Junior skateboards are smaller (usually 7.25″ wide or less) and lighter, designed for kids and beginners. They help young skaters build confidence and skills safely.
What Makes a Good Junior Skateboard?
- Lightweight deck for easy control.
- Smaller wheels for quick turns but stable enough for learning.
- Durable components to handle falls and rough play.
Safety First
Always pair junior boards with proper safety gear — helmets, wrist guards, and knee pads.
Top Junior Skateboard Models You Should Know About 🔥
Let’s break down some standout junior skateboards loved by our team and the community. Each comes with a rating table to help you decide.
Enuff Skully Junior Red & Blue Complete Skateboards
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 8 | Bold skull graphics, eye-catching colors. |
| Functionality | 8 | Great for beginners, solid pop and control. |
| Durability | 7 | Maple deck, decent hardware. |
| Value | 9 | Affordable and reliable for kids. |
Why we like it: Enuff nails the balance between style and performance here. Our young skaters love the cool skull design, and parents appreciate the sturdy build.
Venom Junior Kids Complete Skateboards: Unicorn, Melons & More
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 9 | Fun, colorful graphics that kids adore. |
| Functionality | 7 | Smooth ride with soft wheels for comfort. |
| Durability | 7 | Good for casual riding and light tricks. |
| Value | 8 | Great starter boards with solid specs. |
Venom’s junior line is perfect for kids who want a fun, easy ride. The unicorn and melon designs are crowd favorites!
Rocket Skateboard Double Dipped & Alien Pile-up Series
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 8 | Unique, vibrant graphics with a street vibe. |
| Functionality | 8 | Responsive trucks and wheels for tricks. |
| Durability | 8 | High-quality maple decks. |
| Value | 7 | Slightly pricier but worth it. |
Rocket Skateboards bring a fresh aesthetic and solid performance, ideal for juniors stepping up their game.
Tony Hawk Signature Series: SS 360 Toxic, Utopia Mini & More
| Feature | Rating (1-10) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | 9 | Pro-level graphics and branding. |
| Functionality | 9 | Built for serious juniors and beginners. |
| Durability | 9 | Premium components and construction. |
| Value | 7 | Higher-end price point but quality matches. |
If you want a board with pedigree, Tony Hawk’s signature series delivers pro-level quality for juniors.
Santa Cruz, Meow & Fracture: Unique Junior Options
These brands offer standout junior boards with unique graphics and solid specs. Perfect if you want something off the beaten path.
Best Skateboards for Beginners: Our Top Picks & Why They Rock 🤘
Here’s a quick rundown of the best beginner skateboards that our team swears by:
| Brand & Model | Deck Width | Best For | Why We Recommend It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enuff Skully Junior 7.25″ | 7.25″ | Kids & Beginners | Durable, stylish, and easy to ride. |
| Tony Hawk SS 360 Toxic 7.5″ | 7.5″ | Street & Park | Pro-quality components, great for learning. |
| Rocket Double Dipped 7.5″ | 7.5″ | All-around | Responsive and solid build quality. |
Beginners should look for balance, durability, and comfort — these boards tick all those boxes.
The Best Skateboards for 3-5 Year Old Kids: Starting ’em Young! 🎈
Skateboarding can start early, but the right board is crucial for safety and fun.
What to Look For:
- Deck width around 6.5″ to 7.0″ for small feet.
- Lightweight decks for easy handling.
- Soft wheels for smooth rides on rough surfaces.
- Low deck height for stability.
Brands like Meow Big Cat Purple 7.0″ and Santa Cruz Classic Dot Super Micro 7.25″ are excellent starter boards for toddlers and preschoolers.
How Much Should You Spend on a Skateboard for Kids? Budgeting Tips 💰
You don’t need to break the bank to get a solid kids’ skateboard. Here’s a quick budgeting guide:
| Budget Range | What You Get | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | Basic complete boards, decent quality parts | Enuff, Venom junior completes |
| Mid-Range | Better materials, branded components | Tony Hawk junior series |
| Premium | Pro-level decks, high-end trucks and wheels | Santa Cruz, Rocket, Element juniors |
Pro tip: Invest in quality protection gear alongside the board — safety first!
Restarting Skateboarding as an Adult: What Should You Buy? 🧔♂️
Getting back on the board after a hiatus? Welcome back to the crew! Here’s what we recommend:
- Complete boards with a deck width of 8.0″ to 8.25″ for stability.
- Durable trucks and smooth wheels (54-56mm, 99A durometer).
- Brands like Birdhouse, Element, and Tony Hawk offer great adult beginner and intermediate completes.
Don’t forget to check out our Skateboard Gear for essentials like grip tape and bearings.
Essential Skateboarding Protection Gear: Stay Safe While Shredding 🛡️
No matter your skill level, protection is non-negotiable. Here’s the gear you need:
- Helmet: Certified skate helmets (CPSC, ASTM) are a must.
- Wrist guards: Prevent common wrist injuries.
- Knee and elbow pads: Cushion falls and scrapes.
- Proper shoes: Skate shoes with flat soles and good grip.
Brands like Triple Eight, Pro-Tec, and 187 Killer Pads are trusted by pros and beginners alike.
Related Products: Must-Have Skateboards and Accessories from Top Brands 🏆
Here’s a curated list of standout products that complement your skateboard journey:
| Product Name | Type | Highlights | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birdhouse Stage 1 Opacity Logo Complete 8.0″ | Complete Skateboard | Classic design, durable build | Amazon Birdhouse |
| Fracture Fade Black Complete 7.25″ | Complete Skateboard | Sleek look, great for street skating | Fracture Boards |
| Santa Cruz Screaming Hand Orange 7.8″ | Complete Skateboard | Iconic graphics, stable ride | Santa Cruz |
| Enuff Skully Junior Complete 7.25″ | Junior Complete | Perfect for kids and beginners | Enuff Skateboards |
For more gear and brand insights, explore our Skateboard Brand Guides.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Skateboard Match 🎯
Alright, fellow skaters, after cruising through the ins and outs of what makes a good skateboard, here’s the bottom line from your Skateboard Brands™ crew:
- Complete skateboards are your best friend if you’re just starting out or want a hassle-free ride. Brands like Enuff, Venom, and Tony Hawk’s Signature Series offer killer beginner-friendly options with solid build quality and eye-catching designs.
- For junior riders, smaller decks (around 7.25″) with durable components and fun graphics make learning safer and more enjoyable. The Enuff Skully Junior and Venom Unicorn boards are standout choices that balance performance and style.
- If you’re an intermediate or returning adult skater, consider stepping up to wider decks (8.0″+) with quality trucks and wheels from trusted brands like Birdhouse or Element. These boards offer stability without sacrificing maneuverability.
- Customization is the playground for pros and enthusiasts who want to dial in every detail — but for most, a well-chosen complete board will do the trick.
Remember, the best skateboard is the one that fits your style, size, and goals while keeping you stoked to skate every day. Don’t forget to gear up with proper protection — safety is the ultimate trick!
Ready to roll? Check out our recommended boards and gear, and let your skate journey begin with confidence and style. 🛹🔥
Recommended Links for Skateboard Buyers and Enthusiasts 🌐
Shop Top Skateboards and Gear
- Enuff Skully Junior Complete Skateboards
- Venom Junior Complete Skateboards
- Tony Hawk Signature Series Skateboards
- Birdhouse Stage 1 Complete Skateboards
- Santa Cruz Complete Skateboards
- Skateboarding Protection Gear by Triple Eight
Recommended Books on Skateboarding
- Skateboarding: Book of Tricks by Steve Badillo & Doug Werner — A must-have for beginners and pros alike to master tricks and techniques.
- The Mutt: How to Skateboard and Not Kill Yourself by Rodney Mullen & Sean Mortimer — A hilarious and insightful memoir from one of skateboarding’s legends.
- Skateboarding and the City: A Complete History by Iain Borden — Dive into the cultural and historical evolution of skateboarding worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best skateboard brands for beginners?
Top beginner brands include Enuff, Venom, Tony Hawk, and Birdhouse. These brands offer complete skateboards that balance durability, performance, and affordability. Their boards come pre-assembled with quality components, making them ideal for those just starting out. Plus, they often include beginner-friendly features like softer wheels for smoother rides and medium-width decks for stability.
Read more about “How Do I Choose a Good Skateboard Deck? 10 Expert Tips for 2025 🛹”
What is the difference between a cruiser skateboard and a longboard?
- Cruiser skateboards are smaller, typically 7.5″ to 8.5″ wide with softer wheels, designed for quick, nimble rides around town or campus. They’re great for short commutes and casual cruising.
- Longboards are longer (usually 33″ to 60″+), wider, and have larger wheels designed for stability at high speeds, downhill riding, and long-distance cruising. They’re less suited for tricks but excel at smooth rides and carving.
Read more about “7 Steps to Choosing the Perfect Skateboard Deck: A Guide for Beginners & Pros 🛹”
How do I choose the right size skateboard for my height and weight?
Your deck width should correspond to your shoe size and skating style. For example, riders with shoe sizes 6-8 usually do well with decks 7.75″ to 8.0″ wide. Taller or heavier riders benefit from wider decks (8.0″+) for added stability. Also, consider your skating style: technical street skaters prefer narrower decks for flip tricks, while cruisers and vert skaters want wider decks for balance.
What are the top skateboard brands for street skating?
For street skating, brands like Element, Plan B, Girl, and Baker are legendary. They produce popsicle-shaped decks with lightweight construction and durable hardware designed to withstand the grind of street tricks. These brands have pro skaters backing them and a reputation for quality.
Read more about “How Many Types of Skateboarding Are There? 9 Styles You Must Know 🛹 (2025)”
Are expensive skateboards worth the money for intermediate riders?
It depends! Higher-priced boards often feature premium materials (like carbon fiber or exotic woods), precision trucks, and high-end bearings that improve performance and durability. For an intermediate rider looking to progress seriously, investing in a quality board can pay off with better pop, control, and longevity. However, beginners or casual riders may find mid-range completes perfectly adequate.
Read more about “Discover the Top 15 Skateboard Brands for Quality and Durability in 2025! 🛹”
What features should I look for in a skateboard for downhill riding?
Downhill skateboards are typically longboards with:
- Wide, stable decks (usually 9″+ width)
- Large, soft wheels (70mm+) for grip and smooth rolling
- Precision trucks with tight turning radius for carving
- Lower deck height to improve stability at high speeds
- High-quality bearings for smoothness and speed control
Brands like Sector 9 and Loaded Boards specialize in downhill and freeride longboards.
Read more about “7 Types of Skateboards You Need to Know in 2024 🛹”
What are some popular skateboard brands among professional skaters?
Pro skaters often ride brands like Element, Girl, Plan B, Zero, Baker, and Santa Cruz. These companies sponsor top-tier athletes and invest heavily in R&D to produce boards that meet the demands of high-level skating. Their decks, trucks, and wheels are tested in the most challenging conditions, making them some of the best on the market.
Read more about “What is the Best Skateboard Brand? Discover 10 Top Picks! 🛹”
Reference Links: Trusted Sources and Further Reading 📚
- Skateboarding History & Facts – History.com
- Enuff Skateboards Official Site
- Venom Skateboards Official Site
- Tony Hawk Skateboards
- Birdhouse Skateboards
- Santa Cruz Skateboards
- Skateboards for Beginners – Recommendations | skatedeluxe Blog
- Skateboard Brands™ Skateboard Brand Guides
- Skateboard Brands™ Skateboard Gear
Ready to find your dream deck? Keep shredding and stay stoked! 🛹🔥
