Embarking on your skateboarding journey is an exhilarating adventure, and choosing the right equipment is paramount to a smooth and enjoyable start. The sheer volume of options can be overwhelming, from deck sizes and truck types to wheel hardness and grip tape. This guide is designed to cut through the noise and illuminate the path to finding the best beginners skateboards. We’ve meticulously reviewed popular models, focusing on factors crucial for new riders, ensuring you’ll be cruising with confidence in no time.
Whether you’re dreaming of street tricks, cruising the boardwalk, or simply want to experience the freedom of rolling, the foundation of your success lies in the perfect beginner board. We understand the unique needs of newcomers, prioritizing stability, ease of control, and durability without sacrificing style. Prepare to discover which boards offer the ideal balance for learning fundamental skills, building muscle memory, and ultimately, falling in love with the sport.
Before we get to our review of the best beginners skateboards, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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The Ideal Starting Point: Understanding Beginners Skateboards
So, you’re looking to hit the pavement and embark on the exciting journey of skateboarding? Fantastic! The first crucial step is choosing the right equipment, and for newcomers, this means understanding what makes a beginners skateboards the perfect entry point. These boards are designed with stability, ease of control, and durability in mind, allowing you to focus on learning the fundamentals without being held back by overly complex or sensitive equipment.
Beginners skateboards typically feature a wider deck compared to more advanced models. This increased width offers a larger surface area for your feet, providing greater balance and confidence as you get your bearings. The concave shape of the deck, the gentle curve from edge to edge, also plays a vital role. It helps you keep your feet locked in place and provides leverage for turning and maneuvering, making those initial attempts at steering feel more intuitive and less wobbly.
When considering the best beginners skateboards, you’ll also notice a focus on the truck and wheel setup. Trucks, the metal T-shaped components that attach the wheels to the deck, are usually set up for a smoother, more stable ride. The wheels themselves are often larger and softer than those found on trick-oriented skateboards. This combination absorbs more vibrations from rough surfaces, leading to a more comfortable and forgiving experience, which is essential when you’re still finding your balance.
Ultimately, a good beginners skateboard is about fostering a positive and encouraging learning environment. It’s about providing a stable platform that allows you to build fundamental skills, from pushing and balancing to carving and stopping. By selecting a board tailored to these needs, you’ll set yourself up for a more enjoyable and successful introduction to the world of skateboarding, making those first few weeks and months of practice significantly more rewarding.
Best Beginners Skateboards – Reviews
Penny Skateboards 22″ Nickel Complete Skateboard (PNYCOMP2201)
Penny Skateboards are legendary for a reason, and their 22-inch Nickel complete is an absolute classic for beginners. The compact size and flexible deck make it incredibly maneuverable and easy to control, perfect for navigating sidewalks and learning basic cruising. The bright, fun colors are a great bonus, and the quality of the trucks and wheels ensures a smooth ride right out of the box. It’s incredibly lightweight, making it a breeze to carry around to your favorite skating spots.
While the small size is fantastic for learning, some taller or heavier beginners might find it a little cramped after a while. However, for those just starting out and wanting a reliable, fun, and easy-to-handle skateboard, the Penny Nickel is an unbeatable choice. It’s built to last and offers a truly enjoyable introduction to the world of skateboarding.
Sector 9 “The Lookout” Complete Skateboard (SSSLOOK100)
Sector 9 has a reputation for producing high-quality longboards, and “The Lookout” complete is a perfect entry point into the longer board experience for beginners. The 39-inch length provides a stable platform that’s much easier to balance on than a traditional skateboard, making it ideal for learning to push and ride comfortably. The soft wheels absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, leading to a smoother and more forgiving ride, which is crucial for building confidence.
This board offers a fantastic cruising experience and is great for getting around town or simply enjoying a relaxed ride. The drop-through truck mounting contributes to the board’s stability and lower center of gravity, further enhancing its beginner-friendliness. If you’re looking for a board that emphasizes stability and comfort while still offering a responsive feel, “The Lookout” is an excellent option.
Landyachtz “Dinghy” Complete Skateboard (LDGN3000)
The Landyachtz Dinghy is a fantastic mini-cruiser that strikes an excellent balance between portability and rideability for beginners. Its compact 28.5-inch deck is small enough to easily tuck under your arm and take anywhere, yet it offers enough width and wheelbase to feel stable and controlled. The combination of quality bearings and soft, grippy wheels makes for an incredibly smooth and effortless roll.
This board is perfect for getting from point A to point B with style and ease. It excels at carving tight turns and navigating urban environments, making it a joy to ride. While it might not be the ideal choice for learning complex tricks, its ease of use and solid construction make it a superb beginner skateboard for anyone wanting to cruise and enjoy the feeling of riding.
Globe “Gemini” Complete Skateboard (GLOBGM400)
The Globe Gemini is a well-rounded beginner skateboard that offers a great blend of quality components and classic styling. The 31-inch deck provides a good amount of space for foot placement, which can be very comforting for those new to balancing. The board comes with durable trucks and smooth-rolling wheels that are forgiving enough for beginners but also capable of providing a satisfying ride as your skills develop.
This is a solid all-around skateboard that’s versatile enough for casual cruising and even trying out some basic street tricks. The graphics are usually appealing, and the overall construction feels robust, suggesting it can withstand the inevitable tumbles that come with learning. For a beginner seeking a reliable, no-nonsense skateboard that looks good and rides well, the Globe Gemini is a strong contender.
Element “Seal” Complete Skateboard (ELMSL5000)
Element is a brand synonymous with quality skateboarding, and their “Seal” complete is a fantastic entry-level option. The standard 31-inch deck size is a familiar and comfortable choice for many beginners, offering a good balance of stability and maneuverability. The deck itself is made from durable materials, and the trucks and wheels are well-matched, providing a consistent and predictable ride from the moment you step on.
This board is a classic popsicle shape, which is excellent for learning the fundamentals of skateboarding, including pushing, turning, and eventually, attempting ollies and other tricks. It’s a robust and well-built skateboard that can handle the rigors of learning and provide a rewarding experience. For those who want to dive into the more traditional aspects of street skateboarding, the Element Seal is an exceptional starting point.
Why Beginner Skateboards Are Essential
Starting any new hobby can be intimidating, and skateboarding is no exception. For individuals eager to learn the fundamentals of riding, cruising, and perhaps even their first tricks, a specialized beginner skateboard is not just a recommendation, it’s a necessity. These boards are designed with the novice rider in mind, offering features that prioritize stability, ease of control, and a forgiving learning curve. Without the right equipment, beginners are more likely to encounter frustration, potential injury, and a diminished enjoyment of the sport, potentially leading them to abandon their aspirations before they truly begin.
Beginner skateboards are typically wider and have a mellower concave, meaning the board isn’t as dramatically curved from edge to edge. This increased width provides a larger surface area for the rider’s feet, fostering a greater sense of balance and confidence. The softer concave makes it easier to keep one’s feet planted firmly on the deck, preventing them from slipping off unexpectedly. Furthermore, the trucks (the metal parts that attach the wheels to the board) on beginner boards are often looser, allowing for easier turning and maneuverability, which is crucial for navigating obstacles and learning to steer.
Beyond the physical design, the components of a beginner skateboard are also chosen to optimize the learning experience. The wheels are typically larger and softer than those found on more advanced setups. Larger wheels roll over cracks and rough surfaces more smoothly, providing a more comfortable ride and reducing the jarring impact that can unnerve new skaters. Softer wheels offer more grip, helping to prevent accidental slips and slides, which are common pitfalls for those just starting out. Finding the best beginners skateboards often involves looking for these specific characteristics.
Ultimately, investing in a beginner skateboard is an investment in a positive and successful introduction to skateboarding. It allows individuals to focus on developing their balance, coordination, and basic riding skills without the added challenge of wrestling with equipment that is not suited to their skill level. By providing a stable, controllable, and forgiving platform, these boards empower new skaters to build confidence, experience early successes, and develop a genuine passion for the art of skateboarding.
Types of Skateboards for Beginners
Choosing the right type of skateboard is crucial for a positive beginner experience. For those just starting out, a standard skateboard, often referred to as a “trick board,” is a popular and versatile choice. These boards typically have a symmetrical, double-kicktail shape, allowing for ollies and other fundamental tricks. Their smaller size and lighter weight make them more manageable for learning balance and basic maneuvers.
Another excellent option for beginners is a longboard. As the name suggests, longboards are longer and wider than standard skateboards, offering greater stability and a smoother ride. This increased surface area and wheelbase make them ideal for cruising, downhill riding, and simply getting around. The softer wheels on most longboards also absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, providing a more comfortable experience.
For younger or smaller beginners, mini cruisers can be an excellent entry point. These are essentially scaled-down versions of longboards, often featuring a pintail shape and soft wheels. Their compact size makes them easy to handle and control, and their inherent stability allows beginners to build confidence quickly. They are perfect for short-distance commuting or simply rolling around the neighborhood.
Key Features to Look for in a Beginner Skateboard
When selecting a skateboard for a beginner, several key features should be prioritized. The deck’s size is paramount; it should be proportionate to the rider’s shoe size and height. Too large a deck can be cumbersome, while too small can feel unstable. Beginners generally benefit from slightly wider decks (around 7.5 to 8.25 inches) for better foot placement and balance.
The trucks, the metal components that attach the wheels to the deck, also play a vital role. For beginners, medium-weight trucks with a stable feel are ideal. They shouldn’t be too loose, which can lead to wobbling, or too tight, which can make turning difficult. The height of the trucks can also influence the ride; mid-height trucks offer a good balance between stability and the ability to turn.
Wheel size and durometer (hardness) are equally important. Softer wheels (lower durometer, typically 78a-90a) are preferable for beginners as they provide better grip and absorb shock from rough surfaces, leading to a smoother and more forgiving ride. Larger wheels (around 54-60mm) also contribute to this by rolling over cracks and pebbles more easily.
Learning to Skate: Essential Safety Gear and Tips
Safety should always be the top priority for any beginner skateboarder. Investing in a quality helmet that fits properly is non-negotiable. Look for helmets that meet safety standards like ASTM or CPSC. Beyond a helmet, protective pads for knees, elbows, and wrists are highly recommended. These will cushion falls and prevent common skateboarding injuries, allowing you to learn without fear of serious harm.
Before even stepping on a board, familiarizing yourself with basic stances and balance is beneficial. Spend time simply standing on the board on a soft surface like grass or carpet to get a feel for its movement and how to maintain your equilibrium. Once you feel comfortable, progress to a smooth, flat, and open paved area away from traffic and pedestrians.
Practice pushing off and balancing with one foot on the ground. Gradually transition to placing both feet on the board while it’s moving slowly. Learn to push with both your front and back foot, as this will improve your agility and ability to navigate. Don’t be afraid to fall; it’s an inherent part of the learning process. Focus on bending your knees to absorb impact and try to roll rather than catching yourself with your hands.
Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is choosing a board that is too advanced or not suited for their initial learning phase. Opting for a complex “trick board” with stiff wheels or a small deck can make learning balance and basic maneuvers unnecessarily difficult. It’s far better to start with a stable, forgiving setup that allows you to build confidence and muscle memory.
Another frequent error is neglecting safety gear. The allure of looking “cool” can sometimes overshadow the importance of helmets and pads. However, a minor fall without protection can lead to a significant injury that sets back your progress considerably. Always wear your protective gear, even for short practice sessions. It’s an investment in your ability to continue learning and enjoying skateboarding.
Rushing the learning process is also a common pitfall. Beginners often want to land tricks or ride at high speeds immediately. However, skateboarding requires patience and consistent practice. Focus on mastering the fundamentals like pushing, turning, and stopping before attempting more complex maneuvers. Breaking down the learning process into smaller, achievable goals will foster a more positive and sustainable progression.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Beginners Skateboards
Embarking on your skateboarding journey is an exciting adventure, and selecting the right equipment is crucial for a positive and safe learning experience. For newcomers, the sheer variety of skateboards available can be overwhelming. This guide is designed to demystify the process and help you find the best beginners skateboards that will set you up for success on your skateboarding quest.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Beginners Skateboards
Skateboard Type
When you’re just starting out, the most common and recommended type of skateboard is a “complete” skateboard. These come pre-assembled with all the necessary components: the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. Complete skateboards are generally more affordable and designed for ease of use, making them ideal for beginners. They are also a great way to get a feel for different setups without needing to understand the intricacies of individual parts. For most beginners, a standard “popsicle stick” shaped board is the way to go, offering versatility for learning fundamental tricks and cruising.
While there are other types of skateboards like longboards, cruisers, and electric skateboards, these are typically geared towards different riding styles or levels of experience. Longboards are longer and more stable, excellent for downhill riding and transportation. Cruisers are often shorter and designed for smooth, quick rides around town. Electric skateboards offer powered assistance. For the absolute beginner looking to learn the basics of ollies, kickflips, and grinds, a standard popsicle-style complete is the most appropriate starting point.
Deck Size and Shape
The size of your skateboard deck is paramount for comfort and control. Deck width is the most critical measurement for beginners, and it’s often correlated with shoe size. Generally, smaller individuals or those with smaller feet (US shoe size 7 and below) will find decks between 7.5 and 8 inches wide most comfortable. Intermediate riders or those with larger feet (US shoe size 8 and above) might prefer decks ranging from 8 to 8.25 inches wide.
For beginners, a standard “popsicle stick” shape is highly recommended. This symmetrical shape, with a rounded nose and tail of roughly equal size and concavity, allows for easy switching between regular and switch stances, which is essential for learning. Avoid decks with unusual shapes or overly aggressive concaves when starting. The length of the deck is also a factor, but width generally has a more immediate impact on how the board feels underfoot.
Trucks
Skateboard trucks are the T-shaped metal parts mounted underneath the deck that attach to the wheels. For beginners, it’s important to have trucks that are appropriately sized for the deck width. A general rule of thumb is that the width of the truck’s axle should match the width of the deck. For instance, an 8-inch wide deck typically pairs well with trucks that have an 8-inch axle width. Proper truck sizing ensures stability and proper turning.
The height of the trucks is another consideration. “Mid-height” trucks are a good all-around choice for beginners, offering a balance between stability and the ability to perform tricks. Lower trucks can be more stable but may limit the size of wheels you can use without “wheel bite” (when the wheel rubs against the deck during turns). Higher trucks offer more clearance for larger wheels and easier turning but can be less stable for beginners learning to balance.
Wheels
Skateboard wheels come in various sizes (diameter) and hardness (durometer). For beginners, a good starting point is wheels with a diameter between 50mm and 54mm. These smaller to medium-sized wheels are lighter and more responsive, making them easier to maneuver and accelerate. They are also well-suited for learning tricks on various surfaces.
The hardness of wheels is measured on the Durometer scale, usually starting with “A.” For beginners, wheels with a durometer rating between 95A and 99A are ideal. This range offers a good balance of grip and slide. Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (higher durometer) are faster and easier to slide on smooth surfaces like skateparks. A moderate hardness will allow you to gain confidence and learn to control your slides as you progress.
Bearings
Skateboard bearings are small, circular metal parts that sit inside the wheels and allow them to spin freely. They are rated using the ABEC scale (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee), which indicates precision and tolerance. While higher ABEC ratings (like ABEC-5 or ABEC-7) generally mean smoother and faster spinning, for beginners, the ABEC rating is not as critical as the quality and maintenance of the bearings.
Most complete skateboards come with decent quality bearings that are perfectly adequate for learning. Look for bearings that are sealed to protect them from dirt and debris, which can significantly reduce their lifespan and performance. If you notice your wheels aren’t spinning as smoothly as they used to, cleaning and lubricating your bearings can often restore their functionality. For the absolute beginner, focusing on the other components will have a more immediate impact on your learning experience.
Grip Tape
Grip tape is the sandpaper-like material applied to the top of the skateboard deck, providing traction and preventing your feet from slipping off. Most complete skateboards come with pre-applied grip tape, and for beginners, this is usually perfectly suitable. The standard black grip tape offers excellent grip for most riding conditions.
While you can choose different patterns or colors of grip tape, the primary function is to keep your feet secure on the board. As you progress, you might experiment with different grip tape grits for more or less grip, but for your first board, the standard grip tape will serve you well. Ensure the grip tape is applied smoothly without too many air bubbles, as this can affect your foot placement and control.
FAQ
What is the most important factor when choosing a beginner skateboard?
The most crucial factor for a beginner skateboard is stability and ease of use. This generally translates to a wider deck, which offers more surface area for your feet, making it easier to balance and control. A longer wheelbase also contributes to stability, providing a smoother ride and reducing wobbliness.
Avoid overly narrow or short boards, as these are typically designed for experienced riders performing tricks and can be much harder to manage for someone just starting out. Prioritize a comfortable and confidence-inspiring setup that will encourage practice and progression.
How do I know if a skateboard is the right size for me?
Skateboard sizing is primarily determined by the width of the deck, which should generally correspond to your shoe size. For beginners, it’s usually recommended to opt for a slightly wider deck than you might think. A common guideline is to choose a deck that’s around 7.75 to 8.25 inches wide.
This wider stance provides greater stability and comfort, allowing you to get a feel for balancing and riding without feeling like your feet are hanging off the edges. While personal preference plays a role, a slightly wider board is almost always a safer bet for a smooth and enjoyable introduction to skateboarding.
What’s the difference between a complete skateboard and custom-built?
A complete skateboard comes pre-assembled with all the necessary components: deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. These are typically purchased as a package and are designed to work well together, making them an excellent and convenient option for beginners. They offer a straightforward way to get riding without needing to understand the intricacies of each part.
Custom-built skateboards, on the other hand, involve selecting each component individually – the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape – and then assembling them yourself or having them assembled at a skate shop. This allows for more personalization and optimization for specific riding styles, but it requires a greater understanding of the parts and can be more expensive for a beginner who isn’t sure of their preferences yet.
How important are the wheels for a beginner skateboard?
Wheel size and hardness (durometer) are important considerations for a beginner skateboard, as they significantly impact the ride quality. For learning and cruising on varied surfaces, slightly larger and softer wheels are generally preferred. Larger wheels tend to roll over cracks and rough patches more smoothly, providing a more stable and forgiving ride.
Softer wheels (lower durometer number, typically in the 80a-90a range) offer more grip and absorb vibrations better, making them ideal for beginners who are still developing their balance and control on different terrains. Harder wheels are faster and better for smooth surfaces and tricks, but can be more jarring and less forgiving for new skaters.
Do I need to break in my new skateboard?
While skateboards don’t require a formal “break-in” period in the same way a new pair of shoes might, some components will perform better after a bit of use. The bearings, which allow the wheels to spin, might feel a little stiff initially. Riding them around, even just cruising, will help them loosen up and spin more freely.
Similarly, the grip tape might feel a bit less abrasive on your shoes at first. As you ride and your shoes make contact with it, it will conform slightly to your foot placement. The trucks can also be adjusted slightly after a few rides as the bushings settle in, allowing for finer tuning of turning.
How do I maintain my beginner skateboard?
Basic maintenance for your beginner skateboard will ensure its longevity and optimal performance. The most important aspect is keeping the bearings clean and dry. If they get wet or dirty, they can rust and become sluggish. You can periodically wipe down the wheels and trucks with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris.
Periodically checking that your truck bolts and wheel nuts are secure is also a good practice. Over time, vibrations from riding can loosen them. If you notice your board feels wobbly or unstable, a quick tightening of these components can make a significant difference. Keeping the deck dry will also prevent delamination of the wood.
What are trucks and why are they important for beginners?
Trucks are the metal T-shaped parts that attach to the underside of your skateboard deck and house the wheels. They are crucial for steering and provide the pivot point that allows you to lean and turn. For beginners, properly sized and adjusted trucks are essential for learning to balance and maneuver effectively.
The width of the trucks should generally match the width of your deck to ensure a stable and balanced ride. The tightness of the kingpin nut on the trucks controls how easily the board turns. Beginners usually benefit from slightly tighter trucks, which offer more stability and make it easier to control turns without accidental wobbling. As you progress, you can adjust them to be looser for more responsive turning.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of skateboarding can seem daunting, but by equipping yourself with the knowledge from this comprehensive guide, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect ride. We’ve delved into what makes a skateboard ideal for newcomers, from deck size and truck stability to the importance of quality components that ensure a smooth and forgiving learning curve. Remember, the best beginners skateboards are those that instill confidence, encourage practice, and ultimately, foster a lifelong passion for skating. Don’t let indecision hold you back; take the leap and embrace the journey.
Ultimately, the most effective way to discover your ideal skateboard is through thoughtful consideration of your personal needs and preferences, coupled with the insights provided here. Whether you’re drawn to the versatility of a standard deck or the ease of a complete package, investing in a quality beginner board will significantly enhance your progression and enjoyment. So, grab your helmet, lace up your shoes, and prepare to experience the thrill of rolling – your skateboarding adventure begins now.