Ready to jump into the thrilling world of skateboarding? Picking the best first skateboard is key for newbies. Whether you aim to cruise streets, nail tricks at the skate park, or enjoy a smooth glide, the right skateboard for beginners will start you off correctly.
Choosing a skateboard that fits your desired style is essential. Many beginners go for pre-assembled starter skateboards. They’re ready to use right away, saving you assembly time. They’re often cheaper, with some stores offering discounts up to 40%.
Starting your skate journey? Pay attention to the deck shape. The popsicle shape is best for beginners for street and park use. Deck width is also crucial. If you wear a US size 7 shoe, choose a deck width between 7.875″ and 8.125″. If your feet are bigger, a wider deck will give you more stability.
Key Takeaways
- Pre-assembled skateboards offer a hassle-free start for beginners.
- The popsicle-shaped deck is popular for street and park skating.
- Deck width should correspond with shoe size for better balance.
- Starter skateboards can be more affordable compared to custom setups.
- Proper gear, including helmets and pads, ensures safety for new skateboarders.
Understanding Different Skateboard Types
Knowing the different types of skateboards can really help you pick the one that’s right for you. There are mainly four kinds: street skateboards, park skateboards, cruiser skateboards, and longboards.
| Type of Skateboard | Features | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Street Skateboards | Deck width: 7.75″ to 8.25″ Length: Around 32″ Hard wheels: 98A-101A | Street skating, tricks |
| Park Skateboards | Standard skateboard design Width: 7.5″ to 8.5″ Optimized for skate parks | Skate parks, tricks |
| Cruiser Skateboards | Lighter than longboards Taller than standard skateboards Soft wheels for a smooth ride | Commuting, relaxed riding |
| Longboards | Decks longer than 32″ Large and soft wheels High speeds, downhill stability | Long-distance travel, downhill rides |
Street skateboards and park skateboards are great for doing cool tricks and flips. They have a popsicle-shaped deck that’s easy to move around with. Park skateboards are really good for places like skate parks. They’re for those who want to get really good at tricks and stunts.
If you’re looking for a smooth ride, cruiser skateboards are the way to go. They have soft wheels perfect for cruising around the city. They’re a bit taller than normal skateboards and made for riding comfortably over longer distances.
Longboards are ideal if you want a stable, comfortable ride. They’re known for their long decks and are best for going downhill or travelling long distances. They’re stable but not the best choice if you’re into doing tricks.
Understanding these types of skateboards will help you choose the right board. It depends on whether you want to do quick tricks or enjoy a calm ride around the city.
Key Characteristics of Beginner Skateboards
Choosing the right skateboard when starting is very important. The top beginner skateboard features include wider and longer decks. These make it easier for beginners to keep their balance. For example, deck widths should match the user’s age and shoe size. They range from 6.5″ for little kids to 8″ and above for teenagers and adults.
It’s also important to pick the right wheel hardness. Kids should use wheels with a hardness of 92A or less. Adults are better off with wheels that are 97A or less. This ensures a smooth ride. Easy-to-ride skateboards have bushings that match the rider’s weight. Kids under 65 kg should use softer bushings, while those over 80 kg need harder ones.
Complete skateboards, or “completes,” are great for beginners. They come fully built with everything needed, making them a cost-effective choice. They’re perfect for anyone new to skateboarding.
Cruiser boards offer great control in tight spots, ideal for younger or smaller riders. Meanwhile, street and park skateboards are flexible. With softer wheels, they can also be great for cruising.
The table below shows the best skateboard sizes based on shoe size. This helps in choosing the right skateboard:
| Age Range | Deck Width | Shoe Size |
|---|---|---|
| Ages 3-5 | 6.5″ | 6C – 11C |
| Ages 3-5 | 6.75″ | 7C – 11C |
| Ages 4-6 | 6.825″ | 9C – 12C |
| Ages 5-7 | 7.0″ | 10C – 1 |
| Ages 6-8 | 7.125″ | 11C – 2 |
| Ages 7-9 | 7.25″ | 12C – 3 |
| Ages 8-10 | 7.375″ | 13C – 4 |
| Ages 9-11 | 7.5″ | 1 – 6 |
| Ages 10-12 | 7.625″ | 2 – 7 |
| Ages 12-14 | 7.75″ | 4 – 9 |
| Ages 12-14 | 7.875″ | 4 – 9 |
| Ages 14 & Up | 8″ & Up | 9 & Up |
When picking out a skateboard, remember these beginner skateboard features. They’ll help ensure a fun, safe start in skateboarding.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Size
When looking at choosing skateboard dimensions, the skateboard’s size is very important. This is especially true for those just starting out. The width of the skateboard deck affects how you learn and skate.
If you’re younger, choosing a deck width between 7.00″ to 7.50″ is best. These sizes are easier to control and move around. For street skating, teens and adults should look at widths from 7.50″ to 8.00″. These provide a good mix of stability and flexibility for technical moves.
Wider decks, ranging from 8.00″ to 8.50″, work well for various terrains. Think parks, pools, rails, and stairs. For big moves in street skating or transitions, go for decks over 8.50″. They offer more stability. Considering choosing skateboard dimensions for ramp skating? A wide deck is key for control and backing.
Here’s a fast guide to match skateboard width with the right board length and wheelbase:
| Deck Width | Length | Wheelbase |
|---|---|---|
| 7.25″ | 29.50″ | 12.50″ |
| 7.50″ | 31.12″ | 14.00″ |
| 7.75″ | 31.12″ | 14.00″ |
| 8.00″ | 31.38″ | 14.00″ |
| 8.25″ | 32.00″ | 14.38″ |
Your shoe size also plays a role in choosing the right board. It’s important for doing tricks and turns just right. For those taller than 5ft 6in or over 153lbs, widths from 8.00″ to 8.50″ are ideal.
Every guide on skateboard sizes should link board dimensions to your height, weight, and skate style. Following these tips makes for a safer, more fun skateboarding experience.
Essential Tips for New Skateboarders
When you start skateboarding, there are important tips to follow. Always wear protective gear like helmets and pads. It keeps you safe and helps you feel more confident as you learn.
First, learn basic skateboarding techniques such as balancing and turning. Practice often in safe places like skate parks. Start with easy cruising, then try simple tricks to get better and more confident.
Understanding skatepark manners is crucial too. Wait for your turn, watch out for others, and give them space. This keeps everyone safe and helps build a respectful skating community.
Looking after your skateboard is essential. Check and replace any old parts to keep it working well. Choose boards with polyurethane wheels, rated between 90A to 100A, for better grip and durability.
For tips on picking the right skateboard and gear, visit this detailed guide.
| Skateboarding Styles | Board Types | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Street | Street Skateboard | Smaller wheels, versatile deck |
| Park | Park Skateboard | Wider deck, medium-soft wheels |
| Cruiser | Cruiser | Compact, ideal for commuting |
Skateboarding takes time and practice to master. Keep these beginner tips in mind for a safer and more enjoyable journey through skateboarding.
Recommended Brands for Beginner Skateboards
Starting with the right skateboard brand is crucial for beginners. The market is full of options that blend quality with affordability. Santa Cruz, Enjoi, Element, Magneto, and Penny Australia are among the top brands recommended for newbies.
The Santa Cruz Classic Black Dot Complete skateboard, priced at $100, has an 8.25-inch wide and 31.83-inch long deck. This skateboard’s wheels measure 52mm in diameter and have a 99A hardness, offering a good balance for starters. The Enjoi Skateboard Complete Pilz Classic, cheaper at $80, sports similar size wheels but brings affordability to the mix.
On sale, Element Skateboards’ Section Complete is $80, now with a 20% off. Its wheels are 52mm and 99A, which meets beginners’ standards for a good skateboard. For a more wallet-friendly option, try the Magneto Complete Skateboard for Beginners at $35. It has a shorter deck and softer wheels for easier rides.
Lastly, Penny Australia’s Cactus Wanderlust Penny Board costs $130. It is designed with a 32-inch by 6-inch deck, perfect for younger riders. Its 59mm wheels with an 83A hardness are great for beginners and cruiser skateboarding. Choose a brand that matches your needs, check reviews, and prioritize quality for a great start in skateboarding.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!