In the dynamic world of skateboarding, selecting the perfect board is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your experience and performance.
This guide is meticulously crafted to navigate you through the complexities of finding the best skateboards, addressing common concerns and offering expert insights. From understanding the nuances of deck sizes to choosing the right wheels for your skating style, we've got you covered.
Whether you're stepping on a skateboard for the first time or seeking to upgrade your current setup, our aim is to empower you with knowledge, ensuring your next ride is smooth, exhilarating, and uniquely yours.
Join us as we delve into the essential factors to consider, backed by frequently asked questions and answers, to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your skateboarding goals and aspirations.
Overall Pick
Tony Hawk Signature Series 360 Toxic
- Durable construction
- Versatile design suitable for all
- High-quality trucks and wheels
- Endorsed by Tony Hawk.
- May be pricey
- Specific design
- 7.5" width may be narrow
- Limited color options
Photo by skatehut.co.uk
The Tony Hawk Signature Series SS 360 Toxic Complete Skateboard is a well-regarded choice for skateboard enthusiasts, particularly those who are just beginning or are at an intermediate level. This board comes from a series that carries the name of one of the most iconic figures in skateboarding, Tony Hawk. It's a high-production board but you can clearly feel the quality when riding it.
The SS 360 Toxic model is designed with a 7.5" width, offering a balanced platform for various skate disciplines. Street and park skateboarding are both suited to this type of board.
Constructed from 7-Ply 100% Hard Rock Maple as a base, the board is durable and feels solid when riding. The use of heavy-duty aluminum trucks with PU 90a bushing contributes to the skateboard's responsiveness and smooth ride, while the 54mm, 99a PU wheels are hard enough for pop and speed, yet still offer grip when you need it.
In the wheels you'll find ABEC 5 bearings, which provide a decent balance between speed and precision without compromising too much on either.
A notable aspect of this skateboard is its readiness "out of the box". The full OS780 grip tape ensures a secure footing, crucial for executing tricks and maintaining control. The maximum rider weight is approximately 100kg, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
Specifications:
- Width: 7.25” - 8”
- Length: 28.2” - 31”
- Trucks: 5" Heavy Duty Aluminium Truck w/ PU 90a Bushing
- Wheels: 54mm, 99a PU
- Bearings: ABEC 5
- Grip Tape: Full OS780
- Max Rider Weight: ~100kg
- Material: 7-Ply 100% Hard Rock Maple
Arbor Street Skateboard
- Eco-friendly materials
- High-quality construction
- Suitable for all skill levels
- Aesthetic design options
- Good maneuverability and stability
- Premium price point
- Limited size options
- Specific models may not suit all styles
- Graphics may wear with heavy use
- Availability can vary
Photo by skates.co.uk
The Arbor Street Complete Skateboard series, including the 8.25" Whiskey Experience, 7.75", and 8.0" Street Logo models, are well-regarded options for both beginners and seasoned skaters. I thoroughly enjoyed cruising on this board while testing.
Crafted with sustainability in mind, Arbor skateboards are notable for their use of eco-friendly materials without compromising on performance. These complete setups are designed to offer a smooth and responsive ride, suitable for various skateboarding styles, from street to park skating.
The 8.25" Whiskey Experience model stands out for its unique graphic and wider deck, providing a stable platform for tricks and cruising alike. Its construction ensures durability and a comfortable ride, making it a great choice for skaters looking to progress their skills.
The 7.75" and 8.0" Street Logo models, on the other hand, cater to those preferring a slightly narrower board, offering excellent maneuverability and control.
Specifications:
- Deck Width: 8.25"
- Deck Length: 31.5"
- Deck Material: 7 ply Maple
- Trucks: Ace 33 Classic 8"
- Wheel Diameter: 54mm
- Wheel Hardness: 90A
- Bearings: ABEC 7
Upgrade Pick
Santa Cruz Classic Dot Super Micro SK8
- Lightweight and strong 7-ply birch
- Easy turning with 85a cushions
- Smooth and durable 83a wheels
- High-quality grip tape
- Abec 3 bearings
- Primarily designed for beginners
- Smaller size may not suit all
- Limited flexibility for advanced tricks
- Bearings may require upgrading
Photo by skatehut.co.uk
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot Super Micro Complete Skateboard, sized at 7.25" x 27.00", is a well-crafted entry-level board designed for beginners of any age or gender. I must also mention how long that name is. This is a great small board, but the name is a handful.
It features a lightweight, super strong 7-ply birch construction, making it a durable board that feels easily maneuverable. This board comes equipped with strong, lightweight cast aluminum trucks with 85a cushions for easy turning, and smooth-riding, durable wheels with 83a hardness high-rebound urethane for a smooth experience on various surfaces.
Additionally, high-quality professional-grade grip tape is included for reliable foot grip. Abec 3 durable high-speed precision steel bearings with oil lubricant for easy rolling under the board.
The board's medium concave and short wheelbase facilitate easy foot placement and turning, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to get into skateboarding with a reliable and stylish board.
SMALLEST BOARD WE MAKE! SUPER MICRO SK8 COMPLETE Product Challenge | Santa Cruz Skateboards
Globe Goodstock Skateboard
- Durable 7-ply maple construction
- Suitable for a wide range of skaters
- Equipped with quality Tensor Alloy trucks
- Available in multiple colors
- Simplicity in graphics
- Slightly softer wheels
Photo by globebrand.com
After riding the Goodstock board and discussing it with other owners, it clearly stands out as a solid choice for anyone looking at a new board. This series is celebrated for its quality construction, affordability, and performance, making it a popular option in the skateboarding community.
The Globe Goodstock skateboards are built with a 7-ply maple construction, ensuring durability and strength. This deck is pressed with Globe's epoxy resin, which not only makes it lighter but also stronger and more long-lasting than decks made with traditional water-based glues.
The series features Tensor Alloy trucks and 52mm or 53mm wheels in 99A hardness, which is slightly softer than what you might find on more expensive models, but still perfect for beginners or those who primarily skate in skateparks.
The skateboards come in various sizes, catering to a wide range of skaters, from children to adults, and offer a selection that spans from narrower widths for younger or smaller skaters to wider options for those seeking more stability or have larger feet. The inclusion of ABEC 7 bearings ensures a smooth ride, which is a key factor for those looking to perform tricks or enjoy a seamless skateboarding experience.
One of the defining characteristics of the Goodstock series is its focus on the essentials without elaborate graphics, which some may see as a downside. However, this simplicity allows for a better price point and focuses on performance and durability. The range is designed to offer a great balance between quality and affordability, with boards that provide good pop and are responsive for tricks and general skating.
Parts of a Skateboard
Deck
The deck is the flat, long board where the skater stands. It's usually made of multiple layers of wood (often maple) pressed together, providing strength and flexibility. The size and shape of the deck vary depending on the skating style, with wider decks offering more stability for tricks and narrower ones being better for street skating.
Trucks
Attached to the underside of the deck are the trucks, which function as the skateboard's axles. They are critical for steering and control. The trucks' tightness can be adjusted for more stability or greater maneuverability, and they're made from durable materials like aluminum to withstand the impact of jumps and tricks.
Wheels
Skateboard wheels are made from polyurethane and come in various sizes and hardness levels. Softer wheels are better for cruising on rough surfaces, offering a smoother ride, while harder wheels are ideal for street and park skating, providing more speed and less grip.
Bearings
Bearings fit inside the wheels and sit on the axle of the truck, allowing the wheels to spin. They are rated by the ABEC system, where higher ratings indicate greater precision and efficiency in spinning. Quality bearings are essential for a smooth, fast ride.
Grip Tape
The top surface of the deck is covered with grip tape, a granular, sandpaper-like material that provides traction for the skater's feet. This ensures the skater can perform tricks and maintain control without slipping off the deck.
Hardware
This includes the nuts, bolts, and screws used to assemble the skateboard. It's important to ensure that the hardware is made from durable materials and is properly tightened to prevent parts from loosening during use.
What to Look for When Buying a Skateboard
Deck
Size and Shape
Match the deck size to your shoe size for comfort. Wider decks (8 inches or more) offer more stability, ideal for beginners, while narrower decks provide better maneuverability for tricks.
Material
Most decks are made of maple wood for durability, but bamboo and carbon fiber options exist for lighter or more flexible rides.
Trucks
Width
Ensure the truck width matches your deck width for optimal control.
Height
High trucks are suitable for bigger wheels and carving, while low trucks are better for street skating and tricks.
Wheels
Diameter
Larger wheels (55mm and up) roll faster and are more suitable for cruising and vert skating, while smaller wheels (under 55mm) offer better control for street skating and tricks.
Durometer
A higher durometer means harder wheels, which are faster and better for smooth surfaces. Softer wheels provide more grip and absorb shocks on rough surfaces.
Bearings
Bearings are rated by the ABEC system, where a higher rating indicates higher precision and efficiency. However, for skateboarding, ABEC 7 or 9 is typically sufficient as durability and impact resistance are also crucial.
Style
Graphics and Brand: Choose a design that you like from a reputable brand. It's a reflection of your personal style and the skateboarding culture you identify with.
Skill Level
Beginner to Advanced: If you're a beginner, look for a complete skateboard that's ready to ride. Advanced skaters might prefer customizing their setup by selecting individual components.
Other Skateboards we Considered
- Enjoi Pilz Classic
- Magneto Complete
- Renner Pro
- Santa Cruz Screaming Hand
- Verb Script
- Zoo York Logo
Frequently Asked Questions
What skateboard brand is best for beginners?
Brands like Element, Enjoi, and Santa Cruz offer high-quality complete skateboards ideal for beginners, providing the right balance between durability, performance, and price.
How long does a good skateboard last?
A good skateboard can last anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the frequency of use, skating style, and maintenance. Regular skaters might need to replace their deck every 3-6 months.
Is it better to buy a complete skateboard or build one?
For beginners, a complete skateboard is recommended for convenience and cost-effectiveness. Advanced skaters may prefer building a custom setup to tailor each component to their specific needs.
What size skateboard should I get?
Choose a skateboard width that matches your shoe size for the best control. Beginners might find wider boards (around 8 inches) more stable, while more experienced skaters may prefer narrower or wider based on their skating style.
Can skateboards be used for commuting?
Yes, skateboards can be used for commuting, especially cruiser boards or longboards, which are designed for longer distances and smoother rides on various terrains.
How much should I spend on a skateboard?
A quality complete skateboard typically costs between $60 to $160. Investing in a slightly more expensive board can provide a better skating experience and longevity.
What is the difference between soft and hard skateboard wheels?
Soft wheels (78A to 87A durometer) are better for rough surfaces and offer a smoother ride, while hard wheels (88A to 101A+ durometer) are faster and more suitable for smooth surfaces and performing tricks.
How do I maintain my skateboard?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning and lubricating bearings, checking and tightening trucks, and inspecting the deck and wheels for wear and tear. Proper care can significantly extend the life of your skateboard.
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