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
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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.