When you're on the hunt for the perfect skateboard for an 8-year-old, you'll want to focus on options that balance safety with fun. Consider lightweight boards like the KO-ON Mini Cruiser for easy handling or the colorful Fortnite Cruiser to captivate young skaters. But don't just look at design; non-slip grip tape and sturdy materials are essential for a safe ride. Curious about the best choices out there? Let's explore the top picks.
key Takeaways
- Choose skateboards with wider decks (7.5 to 8 inches) for better stability and balance for young skaters.
- Opt for lightweight boards (2 to 5 lbs) for easy handling and maneuverability for 8-year-olds.
- Select boards with high-rebound polyurethane wheels for smoother rides on various surfaces.
- Ensure skateboards have non-slip grip tape to improve traction and control for safety during rides.
- Consider boards with vibrant graphics and designs to engage and motivate young skaters.
Fortnite 31 Cruiser Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape
The Fortnite 31 Cruiser Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape is perfect for young skaters who adore vibrant designs and popular game themes. Its 31-inch maple wood deck, paired with eye-catching artwork of beloved Fortnite characters, appeals to kids enthusiastic to show off their style. Equipped with 52 mm polyurethane wheels and ABEC-5 bearings, you'll enjoy a smooth ride. The 5-inch plastic trucks enhance durability, making it a reliable choice for both beginners and more experienced skaters. With a solid 4.6-star rating, parents can trust its quality. Plus, the bonus Nite Life Wrap download code adds extra excitement for Fortnite fans.
Best For: Young skaters and Fortnite enthusiasts who appreciate vibrant designs and enjoy smooth rides.
Pros:
- Eye-catching Fortnite-themed artwork for style-conscious skaters.
- Durable 8-ply maple wood deck that provides stability.
- Smooth riding experience with 52 mm polyurethane wheels and ABEC-5 bearings.
Cons:
- Some users reported concerns about wheel alignment.
- Stiffness of bushings might require adjustments for optimal performance.
- Limited color options with the 'Group Blasters' design.
Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Beginners (22 Inch)
Looking for the perfect skateboard for your 8-year-old beginner? The KO-ON 22-inch Mini Cruiser is a fantastic choice. It's lightweight at just 3.4 pounds, making it easy for your child to carry. Built with 6 layers of Canadian maple, it's durable and supports up to 220 lbs. The non-slip deck guarantees safety, while the smooth 90A PU wheels and ABEC9 bearings provide a comfortable ride. This skateboard comes fully assembled and ready to roll, featuring a sturdy 3.25-inch magnalium truck. With fun designs and a high customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it's a top pick for kids.
Best For: Beginners, especially kids and young skaters, who are looking for a lightweight and durable skateboard with a smooth ride and fun design.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy for kids to carry.
- Durable construction with 6 layers of Canadian maple for enhanced stability and safety.
- Fully assembled with smooth 90A PU wheels and ABEC9 bearings for a comfortable ride.
Cons:
- Some concerns about the wheel lighting functionality not working as expected.
- Occasional feedback on production quality issues.
- Limited design options for older or more advanced users.
WhiteFang Complete Skateboard for Beginners (31 x 7.88)
Choosing the right skateboard for an 8-year-old can be challenging, but the WhiteFang Complete Skateboard for Beginners stands out as an excellent choice. Its 31 x 7.88-inch deck, crafted from 7 layers of Canadian maple, guarantees durability and a weight capacity of up to 220 pounds. This skateboard, weighing 5.06 pounds, features 52mm high rebound PU wheels and ABEC-9 precision bearings for a smooth ride. The double kick asymmetric concave design enhances trick performance. It arrives fully assembled, ready for skate parks or streets. With a 4.6-star rating, it's praised for stability and beginner-friendly design, though wheel durability is noted.
Best For: Beginners aged 6 and up who are looking for a durable and stylish skateboard suitable for both smooth and rough surfaces.
Pros:
- Durable 7-layer Canadian maple deck with a weight capacity of up to 220 pounds.
- Comes fully assembled, ready to use out of the box.
- High-density emery non-slip surface for better grip and control.
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with wheel performance on rough terrain.
- Durability concerns after extensive use.
- Not suitable for children under 6 years without adult supervision.
Anime Skateboards for Girls, Pink Complete Standard Skateboard
Anime Skateboards for Girls in a delightful pink hue make an excellent choice for young skaters, particularly 8-year-olds just starting their skateboarding journey. With its cute cat pattern, this 31 x 8-inch board is perfect for beginners, providing stability and control thanks to its full-size double kick concave design. The 7-ply maple wood deck guarantees durability, while the high-density, waterproof non-slip surface offers a secure grip. Fully assembled and ready to ride, it supports up to 220 lbs. The 58mm high resilience PU wheels and chrome steel bearings handle various terrains, making it versatile and fun for budding skaters.
Best For: Young skaters, particularly beginners aged 6-12, looking for a sturdy and visually appealing skateboard to start their skateboarding journey.
Pros:
- Cute cat pattern and vibrant pink design appeal to young skaters.
- Fully assembled and comes with a repair tool for easy maintenance.
- High-density waterproof non-slip surface ensures a secure grip for safety.
Cons:
- The bearings might need upgrading for experienced skaters seeking faster speed.
- Limited for advanced tricks due to its beginner-friendly design.
- The wheels may not be ideal for rough terrains, limiting versatility.
SKITCH Skateboard Gift Set for Beginners and Pros
The SKITCH Skateboard Gift Set stands out as an exceptional choice for 8-year-olds due to its adaptable design and superior safety features. It includes a mini cruiser board, skateboard backpack, and a video course, making it perfect for beginners and pros alike. The 22-inch board, inspired by 1970s Santa Cruz cruisers, offers balance and stability with its premium ABEC 9 bearings and polyurethane wheels. Weighing just 4 pounds, it's easy to carry. Its adjustable speed control guarantees a safe learning experience, and with a satisfaction guarantee, you'll feel confident gifting this highly rated, stylish Purple Galaxy LED+ skateboard.
Best For: 8-year-olds who are beginners or experienced skaters seeking a stylish, safe, and adaptable skateboard gift set that includes everything they need for a smooth learning experience.
Pros:
- Comes with a skateboard backpack and video course for easy learning and transport.
- Adjustable speed control for safe, gradual skill development.
- Lightweight and portable design ideal for kids.
Cons:
- Limited load capacity of 200 pounds may not suit heavier users.
- Plastic material may not be as durable as wooden decks for rough use.
- The 22-inch size might be too small for older or taller skaters looking for more space.
SKITCH Skateboards Gift Set (Complete with Mini Cruiser Board & Backpack)
Parents looking for the perfect skateboard gift for their 8-year-old will find the SKITCH Skateboards Gift Set a standout choice. This premium set includes a mini cruiser board with a 22-inch deck, skateboard backpack, and video course, making it ideal for beginners and pros. Weighing just 4 pounds, it's easy to carry and features adjustable speed control, ensuring a safe learning experience. The Purple Galaxy LED+ design and top-quality parts enhance traction and stability. With a 4.7-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, it's perfect for young skaters enthusiastic to learn and enjoy a smooth, retro-inspired ride.
Best For: Parents seeking a high-quality, beginner-friendly skateboard gift for their young children, particularly those around 8 years old, who are eager to learn skateboarding with a stylish and safe option.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for children.
- Comes with adjustable speed controls for a safer learning experience.
- Highly rated with a cool retro-inspired design that appeals to young skaters.
Cons:
- Limited color options may not suit everyone's taste.
- 22-inch deck size might not be suitable for taller or older users.
- Plastic material may not be as durable as wood for advanced tricks.
22 Inch Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard for Beginners
For young beginners enthusiastic to embrace skateboarding, the Meketec 22 Inch Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard presents an ideal choice. Weighing just 3.8 lbs, this lightweight board is easy to handle, making it perfect for kids. Crafted with a durable polypropylene deck and aluminum trucks, it supports up to 200 lbs. The 60mm urethane wheels and high-speed ABEC-7 bearings guarantee a smooth, stable ride on various terrains. Arriving fully assembled, it's ready for immediate use. Parents and young skaters will appreciate its excellent safety certification and versatility for commuting or recreational fun. With rave reviews, it's a valuable investment for budding skaters.
Best For: Young beginners and kids eager to start skateboarding with a lightweight, easy-to-handle board.
Pros:
- Lightweight design at 3.8 lbs for easy handling.
- Fully assembled and ready to use out of the box.
- High-quality materials ensure durability and stability.
Cons:
- Limited to users under 200 lbs due to load capacity.
- Smaller deck size may not be suitable for older teenagers or adults.
- Limited color and design options compared to other skateboards.
BELEEV Complete Skateboard for Beginners
Looking for a skateboard that's perfect for your child? The BELEEV Complete Skateboard for Beginners might just be the one. It measures 31 x 8 inches, making it a great fit for kids, teens, and even adults. Crafted from 7-layer Canadian Maple, this board is durable and can support up to 220 lbs. The double kick deck enhances control, while the non-slip grip tape guarantees safety. High-rebound PU wheels and ABEC-7 bearings promise smooth rides, even over bumps. With creative graphics and a high rating from thousands of users, it's a solid choice for young skaters seeking fun and reliability.
Best For: Beginners, including kids, teens, and adults, looking for a reliable and stylish skateboard to learn and enjoy skating.
Pros:
- Durable 7-layer Canadian Maple construction supports up to 220 lbs.
- High-rebound PU wheels and ABEC-7 bearings for smooth rides.
- Eye-catching graphics with heat transfer technology for long-lasting appeal.
Cons:
- Some users report wheel issues after extended use.
- Requires occasional adjustments for optimal performance.
- Limited to styles available in current designs.
Magneto Complete Cruiser Starter Skateboard for Beginners, Teens & Adults
The Magneto Complete Cruiser Starter Skateboard stands out as an excellent choice for young skateboarders, particularly those around 8 years old, thanks to its durable yet lightweight construction. Made from sturdy maple wood, it features aluminum trucks and polyurethane wheels, ensuring a smooth ride. The 31-inch deck with a popsicle shape offers stability, making it perfect for beginners. With quality components like ABEC-5 bearings and SHR formula wheels, this skateboard promises a great cruising experience. Designed by skaters in Southern California, it reflects surf culture vibes. Customers appreciate its size, durability, and functionality, making it ideal for young skaters.
Best For: Young skateboarders, especially beginners around 8 years old, looking for a durable and stable skateboard to start their skating journey.
Pros:
- Durable maple wood construction with lightweight design.
- Quality components like ABEC-5 bearings and SHR formula wheels ensure a smooth ride.
- Stable popsicle-shaped deck makes it ideal for beginners.
Cons:
- Some issues reported with wheels and trucks by users.
- No warranty provided.
- Limited to beginner skill levels, may not suit advanced skaters.
Barbie Skateboard with Printed Graphic Grip Tape
Perfect for young enthusiasts, the Barbie Skateboard with Printed Graphic Grip Tape offers a delightful blend of style and function, making it an excellent choice for 8-year-olds. Crafted by Voyager, this cruiser skateboard features vibrant Barbie artwork and a non-slip grip tape, ensuring your child rides in style and safety. With a 31" x 5" maple wood deck and 54 mm alloy steel wheels, it's built for stability and smooth rides. Designed for beginners, it boasts a 7-ply construction for durability and ABEC 5 bearings for easy maneuvering. Parents praise its quality and design, making it a top choice for young skaters.
Best For: Young skaters, especially beginners, who are fans of Barbie and looking for a stylish and safe skateboard to learn and perform tricks.
Pros:
- Vibrant Barbie artwork and non-slip grip tape for safety and style.
- Durable 7-ply maple wood deck with 54 mm alloy steel wheels for stability.
- ABEC 5 bearings provide smooth wheel spin and easy maneuvering.
Cons:
- Concerns about the truck material, which may be plastic instead of aluminum.
- Weight capacity might be limiting for older or heavier users.
- Some users might find the deck width of 5" too narrow for comfort.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Skateboard for 8 Year Old
When choosing a skateboard for an 8-year-old, you'll want to focus on factors like safety and stability to guarantee a smooth ride. Consider the size and weight of the skateboard, as well as the deck material and wheel performance, to match your child's comfort and skill level. These elements will help you find a skateboard that's both fun and appropriate for your young skater.
Safety and Stability
Selecting a skateboard for an 8-year-old requires careful attention to safety and stability features. Start with a wider deck, at least 7.5 inches, to enhance stability and help prevent falls. This wider base promotes balance, making it easier for your child to ride confidently. A skateboard with a double kick concave design provides better foot lock, making tricks and turns more stable. Opt for a board supporting around 220 lbs, guaranteeing it remains lightweight and manageable. High-rebound polyurethane wheels, around 95A hardness, offer smoother rides over various surfaces, increasing safety. Finally, make sure the board has a non-slip grip tape surface for improved traction. This helps your young skater maintain control while learning to balance and maneuver safely.
Size and Weight
Choosing the right skateboard size and weight for an 8-year-old is crucial for their comfort and performance. Go for a deck width of 7.5 to 8 inches. It's stable yet maneuverable for young skaters. A deck length of 28 to 31 inches guarantees they can control the board comfortably. Lightweight boards, weighing between 2 to 5 pounds, make it easy for kids to manage and carry. Always check the skateboard's load capacity; it should support around 200 to 220 pounds to accommodate your child's weight safely. Opt for a wider wheelbase to enhance stability, making it easier for them to balance while learning. Selecting the right size and weight will help your child enjoy a safe and fun skating experience.
Deck Material
After considering size and weight, it's time to focus on the deck material, which plays an essential role in a skateboard's durability and performance. For 8-year-olds, maple wood is a popular choice due to its strength and flexibility. Most decks use a 7-ply or 8-ply construction, where layers of wood are glued together. This provides a good balance between weight and sturdiness, making it ideal for young riders. Higher ply ratings generally mean a stronger, more resilient deck, perfect for withstanding tricks and rough rides. Alternatively, decks made from polypropylene are lightweight, making them easier for younger skaters to handle. Choosing the right deck material affects the overall weight, vital for ensuring your child can comfortably control their skateboard.
Wheel Performance
When you're picking a skateboard for an 8-year-old, wheel performance is an essential factor to contemplate. The wheel size matters; smaller wheels (50-54mm) give better control for tricks, while larger ones (55mm and up) offer smoother rides on rough surfaces. Consider the wheel hardness too—softer wheels (78A-87A) grip better and cushion on uneven terrain, whereas harder wheels (88A-101A) are great for tricks on smooth surfaces.
Don't overlook the quality of bearings like ABEC-5 or higher, ensuring smoother, faster rides. Opt for wheels made of durable polyurethane for longevity and shock absorption. Proper alignment and stiffness of wheels and bushings enhance stability, preventing wobbling and improving control, making the ride safe and enjoyable for young skaters.
Skill Level Suitability
While wheel performance plays a significant role in a skateboard's overall feel, focusing on skill level suitability is equally important when selecting the right board for an 8-year-old. For beginners, opt for a skateboard with a wider deck, around 7.5 to 8 inches, to provide better stability and balance. Softer wheels, with a durometer of 78A to 90A, offer smoother rides on rough surfaces, making practice sessions more comfortable. A lower weight capacity, about 220 lbs, guarantees the board's manageability for young skaters. A double kicktail design boosts versatility, helping them learn tricks as they progress. Prioritize safety with non-slip grip tape and reliable trucks, ensuring the skateboard withstands wear and tear while providing secure footing.
Design and Appeal
A skateboard's design can captivate an 8-year-old, sparking their interest and enthusiasm for skating. Vibrant colors and appealing graphics attract young skaters, making the board not just a tool but a canvas of creativity. When selecting a skateboard, consider themes or characters your child loves, like popular animated figures or eye-catching patterns. This personal touch can boost their excitement and encourage regular use. A fun design on non-slip grip tape enhances visual appeal while ensuring essential traction for safety. Don't overlook the importance of size and shape; they should match your child's height and skill level for a comfortable stance and control. Lightweight materials and compact designs make boards easier to handle, fostering independence and enjoyment in their skating adventure.
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!