Ever watched a skateboarder glide effortlessly down the street and thought, “I want to do that!”? That feeling of freedom and fun is what draws so many people to skateboarding. But then comes the big question: what skateboard should I even get?
For beginners, the world of skateboards can feel overwhelming. There are so many shapes, sizes, and confusing terms! You worry about picking the wrong one, wasting money, or maybe even getting hurt because your board isn’t right. It’s tough to know where to even begin your search for the perfect starter setup.
Don’t worry! This guide is here to clear up the confusion. We will break down everything you need to know about choosing your very first skateboard. You will learn about the essential parts and what features matter most for a beginner. By the end, you will feel confident picking out a board that fits you perfectly.
Let’s roll into the basics and get you set up for success on four wheels!
Top Skateboards For Starters Recommendations
- Perfect for beginners: This 31 inch skateboard is a versatile choice for both beginners and pros that want just the right balance of convenience, safety, and stability; it's the perfect choice for anyone that wants to ease into skateboarding
- Portable and lightweight: Thanks to a sturdy wooden build coupled with the lightweight, our skateboard for cruising makes the perfect companion for your outdoor trips and travels; it's easy to carry around making it ideal for anyone that wants to skate anywhere they want
- Sturdy and stable build: The complete skateboard deck is made using durable and sturdy maple wood to add strength and stiffness while also gives it a stylish flair; it offers more traction for your feet and gives better control when skating
- The skateboard is suitable for all skill levels. The skateboard provides just the right fit for Cruising, Carving, Free-Style, Downhill, and more while staying stylish the super cool graphics; it's designed with aluminum alloy trucks to offer more control and stability when riding
- Thoughtful gift idea: If you're looking for a gift for family and friends that like to skate then our wooden cruising skateboard has you covered; it makes the perfect gift for Christmas, Birthdays, New Year's, Thanksgiving, and any other occasion you have in mind
- Perfect for beginners: This 31 inch skateboard is a versatile choice for both beginners and pros that want just the right balance of convenience, safety, and stability; it's the perfect choice for anyone that wants to ease into skateboarding!
- Portable and lightweight: Thanks to a sturdy wooden build coupled with the lightweight, our skateboard for cruising makes the perfect companion for your outdoor trips and travels; it's easy to carry around making it ideal for anyone that wants to skate anywhere they want.
- Sturdy and stable build: The complete skateboard deck is made using durable and sturdy maple wood to add strength and stiffness while also gives it a stylish flair; it offers more traction for your feet and gives better control when skating.
- Smooth and Speedy: 82A high rebound PVC wheels with ABEC-7 bearings give you better balance control, shock absorption effect and a better skateboard experience. It’s suitable for commuting, skate parks, ramps, pools and other smooth surfaces or even rough ground.
- Durable and High Quality: High density 9 layers Canadian maple deck and high-performance engineering plastic truck offers perfect balance between toughness and weight. Max supporting weight 220 lbs.
- Magneto Skateboards: Dive into skateboarding with the Magneto Complete Skateboard Cruiser, a teen skateboard that blends a laid-back California surf vibe with compact portability. Perfect for kids and teens, this beginner skateboard is a dream for cruising and tricks
- Trick-Ready Deck: Featuring a double kicktail, this youth skateboard is a game-changer for ollies, flips, and more. Its asymmetric design adds a unique surf-style vibe, ideal for young skaters ready to explore their trick skateboard potential
- Built Tough: Crafted from premium 7-ply maple wood, this durable deck handles all your skate adventures. The 80-grit grip ensures a secure ride, while the wooden skateboard's Rocket graphics make it a standout choice for big kids and teens alike
- Smooth Ride Components: With SHR formula 51mm 95A urethane wheels, ABEC-5 bearings, and sturdy 5”aluminum trucks, this is not your average kid skateboard. It's built to provide an ultra-smooth ride whether you're cruising sidewalks or mastering tricks
- Inclusive Fun: Perfect for kids 4+ and teens, this skateboard is a hit with everyone from young beginners to seasoned riders. The complete package includes a sticker pack and skate lessons, making the Magneto skateboard a fun choice for all ages
- Ideal for All Levels: Professional Complete Skateboard for Beginners & Pros. Whether you are a 6-year-old taking your first step or an adult mastering advanced tricks, this 31"x8" standard double-kick skateboard provides the perfect balance. Designed for versatility, it excels in skate parks, on the street, or even for campus cruising, making it the go-to board for any skill level
- Premium Material: 7 Layers Canadian Maple with 330 lbs Capacity Crafted from 7 layers of high-quality Canadian maple wood, this deck offers superior flexibility and impact resistance. With a heavy-duty load capacity of up to 330 lbs (150kg), it remains stable and durable even during high-impact landings, ensuring a safe and reliable ride for kids, teens, and adults
- Smooth Ride: High-Performance ABEC-11 Bearings & 95A PU Wheels. Experience a silent and smooth glide on various surfaces. Equipped with 95A high-resilience PU wheels and precision ABEC-11 mute bearings, this board absorbs street bumps and provides long-lasting speed. Combined with 5-inch reinforced aluminum alloy trucks, you get professional-grade stability and steering control
- Ready to Ride: Fully Assembled with Bonus T-Tool Included. Skip the complicated setup and start skating immediately. This skateboard comes fully assembled right out of the box. We also include a complimentary multi-functional T-Tool, allowing you to easily adjust truck tightness or change wheels according to your personal riding style—perfect for those new to the sport
- Style & Safety: Classic Checkerboard Design & Non-Slip Grip Tape. Safety meets street style. The high-density, waterproof, and non-slip diamond emery paper provides an extra-strong grip for your sneakers, ensuring you stay secure while performing tricks. The heat-transfer printed checkerboard pattern is vibrant and wear-resistant, making it a stylish and impressive gift for birthdays or holidays
- 🛹 Durable & Sturdy: 31.75" long×7.88" wide full size double kick concave design with 7 layers hard Canadian maple deck, withstand the impact of skateboarding and learning new tricks. The max load is up to 220 lbs, durable and sturdy.
- 🛹 Take You a Better Experience: High speed 95A PU wheels work with ABEC9 bearings and 95A High rebound PU bushing. Give you better balance control and shock absorption effect, bring you a better skateboard experience.
- 🛹 We Don't Skimp on Materials: Our skateboard made of waterproof and fastness heat transfer printing pattern design, it can keep luster long time. High density non-slip emery griptape makes you safer during skateboarding.
- 🛹 No Assembly Required: You'll receive a complete skateboard comes with 5" tough magnalium alloy truck which helps save your time and hassle of assembling. Ready to play out of the box!
- 🛹 Suitable for All Level Skaters: Our skateboard is suitable for any level skaters to enjoy outdoor entertainment time, no matter whether you're a beginner or experienced skater. Buy Now - Your Kids Are Waiting!
- Professional-Grade Durable Construction for Solid Support
- Multiple Stylish Graphics to Match Your Unique Vibe
- Smooth-Rolling Bearings & High-Rebound Wheels for Effortless Control
- Versatile Double-Kick Design for Tricks and Cruising
- Includes a T-Tool for Easy Adjustments On the Go
- Catch the Vibe: Cruise in style with the Magneto Beginner Skateboard, an epic board inspired by California's surf scene. Perfect for both a mini skateboard and a skateboard cruiser, it’s your go-to for a cool and relaxed ride
- Compact Thrills: This 27.5" x 7.75" skateboard is ideal for young riders and adults alike, making it an awesome skateboard adult option. With its junior complete skateboard size, it's easy to carry and perfect for on-the-go fun
- Tricks Made Easy: Featuring double kicktails, this beginner skateboard is all about versatility for those epic trick skateboard moves. Whether you're learning ollies or flips, this board adds a surfy vibe to any move you master
- Durable and Stylish: Crafted from tough 9-ply maple, the deck is built to last while showcasing rad Astronaut graphics. With an 80-grit grip, it's perfect for kids beginner skateboard adventures and teen skateboard enthusiasts
- Smooth Ride Essentials: Equipped with 51mm 95A urethane wheels and ABEC-5 bearings, this skateboard complete ensures a smooth cruise every time. It’s a skateboard learner friendly board that includes a sticker pack and skate lessons to get you started
- [Maple deck]7 layers Canadian maple wood deck,31’’*8’’ skateboard,It’s very durable and can bear 220lbs weight.Multiple colors to choose from.
- [PU wheels]High elastic PU wheel, effective shock absorption, prolong the service life of skateboard. The thickened truck has been tested for safety and collision. In the process of using, it can give beginners a good experience.
- [Simple design]Classic is permanent. Simple but not boring design, your skateboard in the crowd is not necessarily the most eye-catching, but the most durable. Add more confidence to your sports.
- [Smooth and Speedy] The cruiser skateboard has super smooth 55 x 40 mm 85A PU wheels with ABEC-7 precision bearings and PU bushings. Suitable for skater street, skate parks, ramps, pools and other smooth surfaces or even rough ground.Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions
- [Perfect for Beginners]Very suitable for all stages of the players, especially beginners, it is very easy to operate, this is a complete skateboard, no need to assemble, convenient to use directly after receiving the product.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing Your First Skateboard
Starting to skateboard is exciting! A good first board makes learning easier and safer. This guide helps you pick the perfect starter skateboard.
Key Features to Look For
Several parts define a good beginner board. Focus on these features first:
Deck Size and Shape
- Width: Beginners usually need a wider deck. A 7.75-inch to 8.25-inch width offers better balance. Bigger feet fit better on wider boards.
- Shape: Look for a “popsicle” shape. This standard shape has a curved nose (front) and tail (back). This shape helps you learn tricks later.
Trucks
Trucks are the metal axles that hold the wheels. They need to be strong and match your deck width.
- Material: Aluminum trucks are standard and durable.
- Height: Mid-height trucks work well for most beginners.
Wheels and Bearings
Wheels control how smoothly you roll. Bearings determine your speed.
- Wheel Hardness (Durometer): Look for softer wheels (around 78A to 85A). Softer wheels absorb bumps better, making rough sidewalks feel smoother.
- Wheel Size: Smaller wheels (50mm to 54mm) are good for street skating and learning tricks.
- Bearings: Bearings are rated using the ABEC scale (1, 3, 5, 7, 9). ABEC 5 or 7 bearings offer a good balance of speed and durability for beginners.
Important Materials
The quality of the materials greatly affects how long your board lasts.
Deck Construction
Most quality decks use layers of maple wood glued together. Look for “7-ply Canadian Maple.” This construction provides the necessary strength without being too heavy. Cheaper boards might use fewer layers or softer wood, which breaks easily.
Grip Tape
Grip tape sticks to the top of the deck. It keeps your feet from slipping. Good grip tape feels rough and sticks well. Ensure it covers the entire top surface.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality means your board handles bumps and lasts longer. Poor quality means frustration and quick replacement.
What Improves Quality?
- Solid Trucks: Trucks made from quality aluminum resist bending when you land jumps.
- Strong Glue: Strong glue between the maple plies prevents the deck from delaminating (layers separating) after it gets wet.
- Sealed Bearings: Bearings that resist dirt and water roll faster for longer periods.
What Reduces Quality?
- Plastic Components: Avoid boards where trucks or wheels are made of cheap plastic. These parts fail very quickly.
- Thin Decks: Decks made with less than seven maple plies often snap under pressure.
- No-Name Brands: Boards sold in general toy stores often use the cheapest parts available. Stick to reputable skate brands.
User Experience and Use Cases
Where you skate matters when choosing your board.
Cruising and Transportation
If you plan to ride mainly on smooth sidewalks or paths to get around, prioritize softer wheels (around 78A). Softer wheels provide a much more comfortable ride. A slightly wider deck (8.0 inches) also helps with stability while cruising.
Learning Basic Tricks (Ollies, Shuvits)
If your goal is to learn tricks at the skatepark, you need a standard setup. Look for a medium-sized deck (around 8.0 inches) with medium-hard wheels (around 99A). This setup is versatile for both riding and light trick practice.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Starter Skateboards
Q: How much should a good beginner skateboard cost?
A: Expect to pay between $70 and $120 for a quality complete skateboard built by a recognized skate brand. Avoid anything significantly cheaper.
Q: Should I buy a complete board or build one piece by piece?
A: Beginners should absolutely buy a “complete” board. These come pre-assembled with compatible parts, saving you time and ensuring the components fit together correctly.
Q: What is the best deck size for an adult beginner?
A: Most adult beginners do well with a deck between 8.0 inches and 8.25 inches wide. This offers good stability without feeling too cumbersome.
Q: Do I need riser pads?
A: Riser pads sit between the truck and the deck. Beginners usually do not need them unless they buy very large wheels (over 56mm) to prevent “wheel bite” (when the wheel rubs the deck during turns).
Q: How do I adjust the trucks?
A: Tight trucks make turning harder but increase stability. Loose trucks make turning easier but can cause wobbles at speed. Use the skate tool to tighten or loosen the large kingpin nut in the center of the truck.
Q: What is the difference between a cruiser and a street deck?
A: Cruisers often have softer wheels and sometimes a kicktail but lack the defined nose/tail needed for flip tricks. Street decks have the symmetrical nose and tail essential for learning advanced maneuvers.
Q: Will a heavy board make learning harder?
A: Yes. Lighter boards are easier to lift and maneuver when learning tricks. Quality maple decks are light but strong.
Q: How often should I replace my wheels?
A: Wheels wear down slowly. If you skate often, you might replace them every 6 to 12 months. Look for flat spots on the wheel as a sign they need changing.
Q: Are pre-assembled boards always lower quality?
A: Not necessarily. Many reputable skate companies sell pre-assembled boards using their standard, high-quality parts. The lower quality boards come from generic, unbranded manufacturers.
Q: What is the most important safety gear?
A: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Wrist guards and knee pads are also highly recommended, especially while you are still learning to balance.