Choosing the right skateboard for an 8-year-old is essential. It’s not only about fun but also about safety and learning skills. This guide helps you pick the perfect skateboard by considering age, size, and skill level. It offers expert advice to make your choice easy and successful. This way, your child gets a board that’s just right for them.
A skateboard that fits a child well makes learning easier and safer. Custom skateboards that match a kid’s needs boost their confidence. They also make skateboarding more fun.
There are many styles and brands of skateboards out there. Knowing what makes a skateboard stable and high-performing is important. This guide highlights beginner skateboards that provide a safe and enjoyable start. It aims to spark a love for skateboarding in your child that lasts a lifetime.
Introduction to Choosing Kids Skateboards
Choosing the right skateboard is key for your child’s growth in the sport. A good beginner’s skateboard blends a challenge with manageability. This helps with fun and skill building.
Why It’s Important to Pick the Right Skateboard
Choosing correctly contributes to a child’s physical and mental development. A fitting skateboard reduces injuries, making skating both safer and more fun. Kids boards recommended are usually 30″ or shorter, perfect for their size and weight.
Boards with softer bushings make turning simpler, boosting control. This is crucial for young skaters. Additionally, skateboards with metal alloy trucks turn better than those with plastic. The right wheels are also vital; look for ones with a 90a to 100a durometer for the best grip and durability.
While adult skateboards range from 7.75″ to 8.5″ in width, junior skaters should look for 7.25″ to 7.5″. These boards are usually about 29″ long, fitting their smaller stature perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s crucial to avoid common mistakes when picking skate gear for kids. Don’t choose the wrong size; boards for juniors are best for skaters under 10 or shorter than 5ft. Also, prefer plywood decks over plastic ones for greater durability and suitability for tricks.
Knowing the right type of skateboard for your child matters. Longboards are great for stable cruising in flat areas. Cruiser boards mix skate and longboard elements, offering smooth rides and better maneuverability. Skateboards with a full nose and tail are built for tricks and park fun. And for those keen on surfing, surfskates allow tight turns but offer less stability.
| Skateboard Type | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| Longboard | Stable cruising, flat areas |
| Cruiser Board | Smooth roll, maneuverability |
| Surfskate | Surfing enthusiasts, tight turns |
| Full Nose and Tail Skateboard | Tricks, park riding |
Benefits of Skateboarding for Kids
Skateboarding offers many benefits for kids, both big and small. It helps them grow in many ways. Let’s dive into the perks of this exciting sport.
Physical Development
Skateboarding provides great physical growth. It builds strength, especially in the core and legs. It also improves balance and coordination.
It boosts cardiovascular health too. This makes for a complete workout that keeps them fit.
Choosing the right skateboard size is key for safety and learning. For tiny tots aged 3-5, mini-cruisers ranging 22-27 inches are best. Bigger kids, 5-8 years old, should go for 28-32 inch standard decks. The right board means better stability and room to grow their skills.
Mental Health Benefits
Skateboarding is great for the mind. It reduces stress, lifts mood, and increases self-esteem. Kids learn to bounce back from falls, building their resilience.
It also sparks creativity. Kids develop their own skate styles, enhancing problem-solving and spatial awareness in the process.
Social Skills and Community
Skateboarding also teaches kids how to be social. Skate parks are where they can make new friends. It teaches them teamwork and to follow the rules.
Riding with friends and family strengthens bonds. It creates fun, shared memories. It’s especially great for kids with special needs. They get better at balancing, coordination, and socializing.
In summary, skateboarding is loaded with benefits for kids. It supports their physical, mental, and social development. This sport helps them grow up strong and confident.
Understanding Skateboard Sizes and Styles
Finding the right size skateboard for kids is key for their safety and how well they perform. The size of the deck, wheelbase, and width are important. They help young riders stay balanced, control the board, and do advanced tricks.
Importance of Size for Safety and Performance
The size of a skateboard affects how stable and easy to move it is. For instance, a board that’s 7.25″ wide by 29″ long is usually best for an 8-year-old. It balances stability with ease of doing tricks. Picking the right size boosts a child’s confidence and lowers injury risk.
| Age Group | Recommended Skateboard Size |
|---|---|
| 5-Year-Old | 7″ wide by 28″ long |
| 6-Year-Old | 7″ wide by 28″ long |
| 7-Year-Old | 7″ wide by 28″ long |
| 8-Year-Old | 7.25″ wide by 29″ long |
| 9-Year-Old | 7.25″ wide by 29″ long |
| 10-Year-Old | 7.25″ wide by 29″ long |
| 11-Year-Old | 7.4″ wide by 30″ long |
| 12-Year-Old | 7.4″ wide by 30″ long |
Different Styles of Skateboards for Kids
There are many skateboard styles for kids, each matching different needs and skill levels. Popsicle decks are great for tricks and stunts, while cruisers offer a smooth ride for longer trips. Every style gives your child a customized skateboarding experience.
Top Recommendations for 8 Year Olds
Finding the perfect skateboard for an 8-year-old can be tough. We’ve picked four top brands to make it simple. These brands focus on safety, durability, and fun. They suit different tastes and skill levels, so your kid can have a great time skateboarding.
SkateXS Complete
The SkateXS Complete is excellent for young skaters. It comes with a 7-inch wide deck, good for small feet. The board is sturdy, with bamboo decks and strong wheels, ideal for beginners.
SkateXS is known for its safety and versatility, perfect for new skaters.
Magneto Mini Cruiser
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is pocket-friendly. It’s 27.5 inches long, making it easy for young kids to handle. It’s great for learning skateboarding basics.
Magneto’s flexible deck and responsive trucks make it a hit with parents. They trust it for kids learning to skateboard.
Santa Cruz Classic Dot
For kids ready for tricks, the Santa Cruz Classic Dot is ideal. It’s about 30 inches long, offering stability and flexibility. Santa Cruz is known for its quality and performance.
The Classic Dot design looks cool, which kids love.
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon
The Powell Peralta Golden Dragon suits kids 7 to 12 years old. It’s built sturdy, with trucks and wheels that are easy to control. This reduces fall risks. The deck is about 31 inches long, fitting kids in this age group well.
Powell Peralta is a reliable brand, with the Golden Dragon being a great pick for 8-year-olds.
In conclusion, these skateboard brands offer something for every young skater. Whether they like cruising or doing tricks, there’s a good option for them. Check the comparison below to help you choose:
| Brand | Model | Deck Width | Deck Length | Recommended Age | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SkateXS | Complete | 7 inches | 28-30 inches | 5-10 | $150+ |
| Magneto | Mini Cruiser | 6.5 inches | 27.5 inches | 3-8 | Under $100 |
| Santa Cruz | Classic Dot | 7.75 inches | 30 inches | 8+ | $80-$120 |
| Powell Peralta | Golden Dragon | 7.75 inches | 31 inches | 7-12 | $100+ |
Best Skateboard for 8 Year Old: Comprehensive Guide
Finding the best skateboard for an 8 year means looking at safety, how it performs, and if it’s fun. This guide talks about what’s important and top options, with advice from skate experts and tests.
To pick the right skateboard, consider deck size first. For 8-year-olds, widths from 6.5 to 7.5 inches are good, fitting their feet. The deck should be 28-32 inches long, giving them space to learn and stay balanced.
Different skateboards suit different ages. For younger kids, 3-5, mini-cruisers work great. They’re short, 22-27 inches, and easy to handle. But for 8-year-olds, go for standard popsicle decks that are 30-33 inches long. They’re better for tricks and moving around easily.
| Skateboard | Width (inches) | Length (inches) | Price (£) | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tony Hawk 7.75 SS 180 Diving Hawk Complete Skateboard | 7.75 | 31 | 34.99 | 0% |
| Tony Hawk 8.0 SS 180+ Stacked Complete Skateboard Black | 8.0 | 32 | 39.99 | 0% |
| Welcome 7.75 Teddy Complete Skateboard Teal | 7.75 | 30 | 109.99 | 36% |
| Real 8.0 Stealth Oval Complete Skateboard | 8.0 | 31 | 79.17 | 10% |
When picking skateboards for youth, both size and style matter. Kids 12 and up do well with 31-33 inch decks. For 8 to 12-year-olds, 30-33 inches is the sweet spot for control and learning.
Letting kids try out different sizes helps find what feels right. This means they’ll have more fun skateboarding and get better at it with confidence.
Safety Gear for Young Skaters
Making sure your kid has the right skate safety gear is key for a fun skating time. Helmets, pads, and other equipment are very important for keeping them safe from harm. We’ll talk about the important safety stuff your young skater needs and how to make sure it fits right.
Key Protective Equipment
Choosing the right skate safety gear is a must. Let’s look at the must-have items:
- Helmets: Pick helmets that meet ASTM standards for many low-force hits, or those with CPSC certification for one strong hit. S1 Helmets offer great protection, being five times stronger than soft foam helmets.
- Pads: It’s important to have knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. 187 Killerpads is a top choice for these items.
- Proper Skateboards: The right size of skateboard is crucial. For kids under 3’5″ ft tall, boards should be 27.2” – 27.6” long and 6.5” – 6.75” wide. Kids between 3’5″ and 4’4″ ft tall should use a skateboard that’s 28” long and 7” wide.
How to Ensure Proper Fit
For skate gear to work well, it must fit your child correctly. Here’s what to check:
- Helmets: The helmet should sit flat on the head and cover the forehead. It shouldn’t slide around when it’s securely fastened. The straps should make a ‘V’ under the ears and be tight.
- Pads: Pads need to be tight without stopping blood flow. They shouldn’t move much and must cover the elbows, knees, and wrists well.
- Footwear: Skateboarding shoes should grip well and have flat soles for more board control.
Always watch kids under 10 years old while they’re skateboarding. Teach them to fall on soft ground to prevent getting hurt. By focusing on these points, you’ll make your child’s skating much safer and more enjoyable.
Where to Buy Quality Kids Skateboards
Finding where to buy quality kids’ skateboards is crucial. You can shop both online and in local stores. Each option offers different benefits. Here are tips to help you make the right choice.
Reputable Online Retailers
Shopping online is easy and gives you lots of choices. Good online stores offer many skateboards, from cheap to high-end. For new skaters, boards cost between $43 and $139. But you don’t need to spend more than $80 for a good starter skateboard. Check out sizes here.
Local Skate Shops
Local shops let your kid try the skateboard first. They give expert advice and have skateboards for kids 3 to 10 years old. These boards often use top materials, like durable 7-ply maple. You’ll find well-known brands like Zoo York and Tony Hawk. Prices vary, but expect to spend around £34.99 to £109.99 on average.
| Brand | Price Range (£) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Enuff | £44.95 – £64.95 | Character-inspired graphics, 7.75″ deck sizes |
| Tony Hawk | £34.95 – £79.99 | Signature series, youth-friendly designs |
| Zoo York | £79.99 – £109.99 | Durable materials, skateboarding expertise |
Choose between online stores or local skate shops carefully. Picking a trustworthy seller ensures a safe and enjoyable skateboarding start for your child.
Tips for Teaching Kids to Skateboard
Start teaching skateboarding with the basics. Be patient and encouraging. Use fundamental movements to build kids’ confidence and skills. Local skate parks are great for practicing and meeting supportive friends.
Starting with Basic Movements
Begin teaching kids how to balance, stand correctly, and push off. Use a standard popsicle deck for 5 to 8-year-olds. Decks should be 28 to 32 inches long. This helps young riders get started on a stable platform.
Learning the basics at local skate parks is fun and helpful. It offers a safe place to start learning this awesome sport.
Encouraging Practice and Patience
Practice is key for kids to get better. Tell your child to keep practicing and be patient. Skills like pushing and balancing get better with time.
Run Wild My Child is a good source for tips and motivation.
Finding Local Skate Parks and Groups
Local skate parks are safe places for kids to skate and make friends. Kids will meet local groups there too. These groups offer help and friendship.
Becoming part of a skateboarding community improves skills and friendships. Going to skate parks regularly is also a fun way to stay active and excited about skateboarding.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Child’s Skateboard
Taking care of your child’s skateboard makes it safer and more fun to use. By doing a few simple things, you can make the skateboard last longer and stay in good shape.
Start by checking the skateboard often. Look at the deck, trucks, and wheels for damage. Small cracks or chips can make a big difference in how safe and smooth the ride is. If the grip tape is dirty, you can clean it with an eraser or a slightly wet toothbrush. Be careful not to make a mess. Sometimes, you’ll need to replace the grip tape, which takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
Keep the bearings clean for a smooth wheel spin. Using Mini-Logo or Bones bearings? They work best when cleaned and oiled often. You can find how to clean them on the Bones website.
Also, make sure to tighten all parts of the skateboard. You’ll need a few tools:
- 9/16″, 1/2″, & 3/8″ Crescent or Socket Wrenches
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Skate Tool
To adjust the trucks, use a 9/16″ nut. Secure each wheel with a 1/2″ nut. The 3/8″ nuts are for the truck mounting bolts. It’s important to keep everything tight to avoid accidents.
Keep your skateboard away from water and extreme hot or cold. These conditions can hurt the deck and shorten its life. Bamboo decks are strong and last longer than others. Still, expect some scratches and dents as part of normal wear and tear.
| Age Group | Recommended Deck Width |
|---|---|
| Under 5 years | 6.5″ to 7.0″ |
| 6 to 8 years | 7.0″ to 8.0″ |
| 9 to 12 years | 7.5″ to 8.0″ |
| 13 years and older | 8.0″ or larger |
As your child gets better at skateboarding, updating parts can boost their experience. Bigger, softer wheels are great for smooth rides. Smaller, harder wheels work well for doing tricks. Always choose skateboards that are well made. Stay away from those that look like toys to keep safe.
Conclusion
Finding the best youth skateboards is a journey. This guide is made for 8-year-olds. It covers the benefits of skateboarding and helps you choose the right size and style.
It’s important to look at brands like SkateXS, Magneto, Santa Cruz, and Powell Peralta. Each brand has something special to offer. They have options for different skills and likes. Quality and safety are key for young skaters.
Don’t forget about safety gear, how to teach skateboarding, and keeping the skateboard in good shape. Follow these tips and choose trusted brands to keep your young skater safe and excited. For more advice, check out this expert guide. With the right info and gear, skateboarding is a fun world to enter.
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!