Are you looking for the top skateboard decks? It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or you’re a pro. The right skateboard deck is key to a better skateboarding experience. This guide helps skateboarders of every skill level. We focus on features, durability, and how well they perform, helping you find the perfect deck.
Skateboard decks come in many styles, each with its own advantages. Woodsen X Series decks are made from strong Canadian maple wood. For a lighter, more bendable deck, try bamboo. It gives you a smooth ride and absorbs shocks well. Also, there are decks made from materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber. These are very versatile. Check out these skateboards for beginners.
Choosing a skateboard deck takes thought. You have to think about size, width, length, and the shape of the concave. Your riding style matters too, as well as the brand’s reputation. The Real Team Oval Classic, for example, rates highly overall. Then there’s the CCS Blooming Streets Complete. It’s budget-friendly but still performs well, making it good for skaters at any level.
No matter your skating style or how experienced you are, this guide is here to help. We aim to help you find a skateboard deck that fits your needs and makes your skateboarding better.
Why Choosing the Right Skateboard Deck Matters
The quality of your skateboard deck greatly affects how well you skate. High skateboard deck quality is essential for good balance, long-lasting use, and control. Materials like Canadian maple and bamboo are top choices because they are strong and flexible.
The Role of Quality in Skateboarding
Quality in a skateboard deck really matters. These decks often have seven layers of wood which makes them strong and stiff. This means they last longer and perform better. Brands like Woodsen lead the market with decks that suit different styles of riding.
Skateboard decks come in various widths, affecting how you skate. Widths range from 7.5″ for street skating to over 10″ for ramp skating. The right width, along with the deck’s curve, affects how easily you maneuver and perform tricks.
Impact on Performance and Safety
For great skateboarding, you need a deck that lets you control your moves precisely, especially for complex tricks. The deck’s shape and the ends, or kicktails, help with this. Kicktails enable moves like ollies and kickflips.
Safety is key in skateboarding. A well-made deck reduces the risk of accidents due to material or design failures. Choose trustworthy brands for a safe ride. Beginners can learn a lot from the Starter Skateboards Guide.
Knowing your deck’s specs, like its length, width, and wheelbase helps make skating safer and more fun. Standard decks are usually 31 to 32.5 inches long. They come in different sizes to match how you skate.
Here is a detailed comparison of some common skateboard deck specifications by style:
| Skateboarding Style | Deck Width | Deck Length | Concave Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Street Skating | 7.5″ – 8.25″ | 31″ – 32.5″ | Medium to Steep |
| Ramp Skating | 8″ – 10″ | 31″ – 33″ | Mellow |
| Transition Skating | 8.5″ – 10″ | 32″ – 33″ | Mellow |
| Technical Tricks | 7.5″ – 8″ | 28″ – 32″ | Steep |
Best Skateboard Decks for Street Skating
If you love street skating, choosing the right skateboard deck is key. Knowing the top brands and what to look for can greatly improve how you skate and have fun.
Top Brands to Consider
There are a few top skateboard brands known for their street decks. Powell Peralta leads with their quality Flight boards. Santa Cruz is third, loved for its unique graphics and shapes.
Jart, from the Basque Country, brings competitive boards and ranks fourth. Creature is in sixth place with their durable decks. Madrid, known for classic decks made in the US, is also in the top nine.
Key Features for Street Skaters
Choosing the right skateboard deck features is vital. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Deck Width: Match it with your skill level. Opt for a width of 7.75″ to 8.25″ for both control and stability.
- Concavity: Medium to deep concave is best for a good grip and easy tricks.
- Construction: Choose decks made of strong, lightweight materials like 7-Ply Maple or Powell Peralta’s Flight technology.
| Brand | Model | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Creature | Logo Outline 8.25″ Complete | 9.8 |
| Santa Cruz | Classic Dot Full Sk8 Complete, Black 8.00″x31.25″ | 9.6 |
| Powell Peralta | Golden Dragon Complete Skateboard, Flying Dragon (7.625″x31.625″) | 9.6 |
| Enjoi | WHITEY PANDA Complete Skateboard | 9.5 |
| Element | Section Complete Skateboard, 8″x32″ | 9.5 |
| Blind | Reaper Glitch Red Complete Skateboard, 7.75″ | 9.7 |
Exploring Skateboard Deck Materials
Choosing the right skateboard deck matters. Different materials affect how it rides and lasts. Maple skateboard decks are very popular. This is because North American maple is strong and dense. It’s perfect for skaters who want their boards to last a long time.
Maple Wood Decks
Maple decks have been key in skateboarding for years. They are strong yet flexible, ideal for serious riders. These decks are made with 7 layers. This makes them tough enough to handle lots of use. Maple also gives great pop and control for all skate styles.
Bamboo and Composite Decks
Bamboo skate decks and composite construction are becoming more common. Bamboo is light and green. It also absorbs shock well, making rides smoother. Composite decks mix materials like fiberglass. They are strong and light. Perfect for skaters wanting a durable yet airy board.
| Material | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Maple Wood | Durable, high density, excellent pop | Heavier than bamboo and composites |
| Bamboo | Lightweight, eco-friendly, good shock absorption | May not be as durable as maple |
| Composite | Strong yet flexible, lightweight | Can be more expensive |
The Importance of Deck Size and Shape
Choosing the right skateboard deck is vital. Deck width and shape greatly affect your performance. They impact your balance and how you do tricks.
Choosing the Right Width
Deck width influences your skate experience. Lengths usually fall between 28”-33”, and widths change based on the type:
- 7.00″ to 7.50″: Ideal for young riders.
- 7.50″ to 8.00″: Good for teens and adults on street or technical skating.
- 8.00″ to 8.50″: Works well on streets, parks, pools, rails, and stairs.
- 8.50″ and up: Best for big tricks, pools, or cruising.
Consider shoe size, body size, and weight when picking a width. Wider boards are stable at high speeds. Narrow boards are better for flips and technical tricks.
Understanding Concave Shapes
Your feet’s grip and your control during tricks depend on concave shapes. Skateboard decks come with low, medium, or high concavity. This affects steering and flipping:
- Low concave: Offers stability, great for beginners.
- Medium concave: Provides balance, favored by street and park skaters.
- High concave: Enhances grip and control for advanced tricks.
Decks are shaped for specific skating styles. Popsicle Shapes suit street skating. Old School Decks are for transition. Modern Shaped Decks work on various terrains.
| Deck Width | Length | Wheel Base | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.00″ – 7.50″ | 29.50″ | 12.50″ | Youth, more technical tricks |
| 7.50″ – 8.00″ | 31.12″ | 14.00″ | Street terrain, technical tricks |
| 8.00″ – 8.50″ | 31.38″ | 14.00″ | Street and transition terrains |
| 8.50″ and up | 32.00″ | 14.38″ | Transition skating, bigger street tricks |
Choosing a skateboard deck requires thought on width and concave shapes. Brands like Woodsen offer varied options. They ensure each skater finds the right fit, enhancing their skateboarding journey.
Top Brands for Durable Skateboard Decks
Several brands stand out for durable skateboard decks. They offer reliability and quality for avid skaters. Choosing a trusted brand means you get durable materials, excellent craftsmanship, and innovative designs.
Element Skateboards is known for its sustainability and durability. Founded in 1992, it uses thriftwood construction. This results in reliable decks made from quality Canadian maple wood.
Powell Peralta was started by George Powell and Stacy Peralta in 1978. It’s known for top-notch skateboard construction, cool graphics, and partnership with leading skateboarders. Their famous Powell-Peralta Flight Deck uses two layers of fiberglass and ten layers of maple wood for unbeatable durability.
Zero Skateboards offers decks famous for their durability and pop. These decks are a top pick among skaters globally. They provide the strength and performance needed for intense skateboarding.
Baker Skateboards, created by pro skateboarder Andrew Reynolds in 2000, offers quality decks. Options like the Baker Brand Logo Deck and the Baker Reynolds Pro Deck are made of high-quality maple wood. They are great for those looking for dependable decks.
Santa Cruz Skateboards has been impressive since 1973 with its fun graphics and sturdy materials. Their deck sizes, like the SANTA CRUZ Skateboard Deck 8.25″ x 31.83″, suit many skating styles. They offer both durability and flair.
| Brand | Notable Models | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Element Skateboards | Thriftwood series | Sustainability and durability |
| Powell Peralta | Flight Deck | High-quality skateboard construction and innovative design |
| Zero Skateboards | Zero decks | Durability and performance |
| Baker Skateboards | Baker Brand Logo Deck, Baker OG Shape Deck | High-quality maple wood construction |
| Santa Cruz Skateboards | SANTA CRUZ 8.25″ x 31.83″ | Solid construction and versatile design |
Professional Skateboard Decks: What the Pros Ride
Professional skateboard decks are made to match the tough standards of elite skateboarders. They blend toughness with light materials. This mix lets them endure big impacts. Top skaters share their knowledge to shape these decks. This ensures they can stand up to pro-level challenges.
Insights from Top Skaters
Top skateboarders always talk about how important deck build and materials are. For example, Real Skateboards’ X-Band construction is super durable but still light. This makes it perfect for big jumps and tackling 15-stair sets. Pros need decks that are both strong and quick to respond. This helps with complex tricks and big jumps.
Deck Recommendations from the Pros
Pros often suggest decks from well-known brands that offer great performance and reliability. Powell Peralta decks are known for lasting a long time and being great for tricky moves. Blank Skateboards let you customize their decks made from 7-ply North American maple wood. Many pros favor these for their durability and strength.
| Brand | Material | Price Range | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real Skateboards | Maple with X-Band Construction | $60 – $100 | Enhanced Durability, Lightweight |
| Powell Peralta | 7-ply Maple | $40 – $95 | Technical Tricks, Durability |
| Blank Skateboards | 7-ply North American Maple | $34.95 – $60 | Customizable, Standard Strength |
Lightweight Skateboard Decks for Tricks
Choosing the right deck is crucial for trick skateboarding. Lightweight decks help you do ollies and flips better. They allow for more agility and precision.
Pro skaters look for light decks with new materials. The Powell Peralta Flight Deck uses carbon fiber and epoxy. This makes it strong yet light. It’s perfect for tough tricks.
The Plan B Team OG Classic Deck is made of 7-ply maple. It’s both durable and light, great for learning new tricks. The Element Nyjah Huston Stained Glass Featherlight Pro Deck also uses 7-ply maple. It gives good control for street skateboarding.
Most pros choose decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide. These decks are easy to control. They help land difficult moves while keeping stable.
Here are some top-rated lightweight skateboard decks for trick skateboarding:
| Deck Name | Rating |
|---|---|
| Creature Logo Outline 8.25″ | 9.8 |
| Santa Cruz Classic Dot | 9.6 |
| Powell Golden Dragon Complete Skateboard | 9.6 |
| Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard | 9.5 |
| Element Skateboards Section Complete Skateboard | 9.5 |
| Blind Reaper Attack Complete Skateboard | 9.7 |
Choosing a high-quality, agile skateboard deck is key. It helps you do tricks with ease, precision, and confidence. Such decks are crucial for skaters looking to improve their skills.
Affordable Skateboard Decks: Best Options Under $50
Finding good, affordable skateboard decks benefits new and experienced riders alike. These cost-friendly boards mean your budget won’t stop you from skating. Many brands offer decks that are both affordable and good quality, featuring durability and great performance.
Top Affordable Picks
A wide range of affordable blank skateboard decks is available. Prices vary from $28.99 to $41.99. They offer a good mix of affordability and dependability, which is important for budget-conscious skaters. According to the makers, these decks range in width from 7.75″ to 9.87″.
For skaters 13 years or older who are at least 5’3″ tall and wear size 9 shoes, wider decks are recommended. For the youngest skaters, under five, micro decks measuring 6.75″ or smaller are perfect.
Here are some suggestions based on a skater’s age, height, and shoe size:
| Deck Type | Width | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Micro Deck | 6.75” | Ages: 5 years & under, Height: 3’4″ & under, Shoe Size: 3 & smaller |
| Mini Deck | 7.0” | Ages: 6-8 years, Height: 3’5″ – 4’4″, Shoe Size: 4-6 |
| Mid Deck | 7.3” – 7.6” | Ages: 9-14 years, Height: 4’5″ – 5’2″, Shoe Size: 7-8 |
| Full Deck | 7.6” & above | Ages: 13 years & older, Height: 5’3″ & taller, Shoe Size: 9 & larger |
Balancing Cost and Quality
It’s important to find a balance when looking for affordable skateboard decks. Focus on how the deck is made and what materials are used. Most budget decks are made from strong maple wood. Canadian maple and Hard Rock Maple are top choices for their durability.
Decks usually have 7 to 9 layers of wood, with 7 being most common. Features like double-kicktails are standard even in cheaper options. They help skaters do tricks better and have more control. When picking a budget deck, starting with a size between 7.75 to 8 inches is a good choice. It works well for different skating styles and ages.
For a closer look at budget-friendly skateboard options, check out Stoked Ride Shop. You can also compare them with Doctor Skate reviews. Make a wise choice to get the most value for your money!
Custom Skateboard Decks for Personalization
For those who love to show off their style, custom skateboard decks are perfect. You can create a board that really shows who you are. This makes skateboarding an even more personal experience.
At companies like Blank Skateboards, you can put your own designs on strong 7-ply maple decks. This mix of style and performance is great for skateboarders who see their board as a part of them. It turns every ride into a showcase of your creativity.
“Embrace your creativity with our custom skateboards made from 100% Canadian Maple, pressed right at the source,” suggests BoardPusher. They have many shapes to customize, like Fish Tail and Longboard, at good prices starting from $54.99.
The decks’ vibrant colors and top quality come from hand-printed graphics in Denver, Colorado. They use top-notch inks. Plus, they have cool options like glow-in-the-dark skateboards for night rides.
| Deck Shape | Price |
|---|---|
| Fish Tail | $59.99 |
| 8-1/4 Skateboard Deck | $54.99 |
| Old School Shape | $59.99 |
| Longboard Shape | $69.99 |
| Egg Shape | $59.99 |
You can fully customize your skateboard, not just the deck but also the griptape. This makes your skateboarding gear truly your own. Each unique design, like Space Teal or Ripper, costs $59.99, which is a fair price for many.
There are also deals to look out for. CanvasChamp cuts 50% off the price of custom decks. Plus, use the code E5OFFSW for an extra 5% discount. With options for different materials and even wall art, you’re sure to find your perfect board.
To share your designs, you can use social media like Facebook or Instagram, or even TikTok and email. If you’re buying a lot, they offer wholesale discounts too. This is great for those planning to create multiple decks.
Choosing a custom deck means riding a board that truly reflects your style. It’s a great mix of art and utility. These boards are perfect for personal use or as unique gifts. They make your skateboarding dreams come true.
Evaluating the Best Skateboard Decks for Versatile Use
For skaters who love different styles, choosing a skateboard deck that performs well in various settings is crucial. These decks usually have a balanced width and a moderate concave. This design offers stability in skate parks and agility on the streets. An adaptable skateboard ensures smooth transitions between skating environments, enhancing your overall experience.
Decks Suitable for Multiple Styles
Decks for various skating styles, from street to park to transition, need to be versatile. Decks that are between 8.0” and 8.25” wide are perfect. They offer a good mix of stability and maneuverability. For example, they work well for street skating’s technical aspects and provide control for ramp and bowl skating. Brands like Woodsen offer high-quality, handcrafted decks that meet these requirements.
Features to Look For
When looking for skateboard decks for different styles, consider several key features. Durability and the quality of construction are critical. Materials like 7-ply Canadian maple wood provide strength and flexibility. The deck’s shape and concave should support many tricks, from flatground flips to ramp skating. Woodsen decks also feature unique designs and artist collaborations. This allows skaters to show their style while performing well. For more information on deck materials, visit this comprehensive guide.
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!