How Do I Choose the Right Skateboard for Beginners? Expert Tips

Choosing the right skateboard as a beginner can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you know which one is right for you?

Imagine cruising down the street with confidence, feeling the smooth glide under your feet. That’s the experience you deserve, and it starts with picking the perfect skateboard. Whether you’re a complete novice or just getting back into the groove, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to look for, ensuring you get the best start on your skateboarding adventure. Ready to roll? Let’s dive in and find the skateboard that’s just right for you.

Types Of Skateboards

Choosing the right skateboard is important for beginners. Different types of skateboards serve different needs and styles.

Understanding the main types helps you pick a board that fits your skills and goals.

Standard Skateboards

Standard skateboards are the most common type. They have a flat deck with upturned ends called kicktails.

This type is good for tricks, ramps, and street skating. They are usually 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide.

• Best for learning basic tricks
• Good for skate parks and street skating
• Light and easy to control

Cruiser Boards

Cruiser boards are smaller and lighter than standard skateboards. They often have softer wheels for smooth rides.

They are perfect for riding around town and commuting short distances. The shape is more rounded and compact.

• Easy to carry and maneuver
• Good for beginners who want to cruise
• Soft wheels make rides smoother on rough surfaces

Longboards

Longboards are longer and wider than other boards. They offer more stability at higher speeds.

They are great for downhill riding, long-distance travel, and beginners who want a stable ride.

• Provide balance and smooth rides
• Good for beginners learning to ride comfortably
• Usually have bigger and softer wheels

Key Skateboard Components

Choosing the right skateboard starts with knowing its main parts. Each part affects how the board feels and rides.

Understanding skateboard components helps beginners pick a board that suits their style and skill level.

Deck Size And Shape

The deck is the flat board you stand on. Its size and shape matter a lot for beginners.

Smaller decks are easier to control. Wider decks give more balance and comfort.

• Deck width: 7.5 to 8 inches is good for beginners
• Shorter decks help with tricks and turning
• Longer decks offer stability and space for feet
• Shape affects how the board turns and feels

Trucks And Wheels

Trucks are the metal parts that connect wheels to the deck. They help turn the skateboard.

Wheels come in different sizes and hardness. They change how smooth or fast the ride is.

• Trucks should match the deck width for balance
• Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better for rough surfaces
• Harder wheels (88A-101A) work well on smooth skateparks
• Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are good for tricks
• Larger wheels (55-60mm) are better for cruising

Bearings

Bearings are inside the wheels. They help the wheels spin smoothly and fast.

Good bearings make skating easier and more fun for beginners.

• Look for bearings rated ABEC 3 to ABEC 7 for beginners
• Higher ABEC numbers mean smoother, faster rides
• Keep bearings clean and oiled for best performance

Choosing The Right Deck Size

Choosing the right skateboard deck size is key for beginners. The deck size affects balance and control.

A deck that fits your style and body helps you learn faster and skate safely.

Width Considerations

The width of a skateboard deck matters most for your foot size and skating style. Wider decks offer more stability. Narrow decks allow easier tricks.

For beginners, a deck width between 7.5 and 8.0 inches is a good start. This range suits most foot sizes and helps with balance.

• 7.5″ to 8.0″ decks are good for street skating and tricks
• 8.0″ to 8.5″ decks offer more stability for cruising and ramps
• Choose wider decks if you have bigger feet

Length And Wheelbase

Deck length affects how the board feels when you ride. A longer deck gives more space for your feet. A shorter deck is easier to turn.

The wheelbase is the distance between the trucks. It affects the skateboard’s stability and turning radius.

• Length usually ranges from 28 to 33 inches
• Longer decks help with balance and comfort
• Shorter decks are lighter and better for tricks
• Longer wheelbases provide more stability
• Shorter wheelbases allow sharper turns

Selecting Suitable Wheels

Choosing the right wheels helps beginners control their skateboard better. Wheels affect speed, grip, and ride smoothness.

Understanding wheel size and hardness can improve your skateboarding experience.

Wheel Diameter

Wheel diameter means the size of the wheels in millimeters. Smaller wheels are easier to control and good for tricks.

Bigger wheels roll faster and work well on rough surfaces. Beginners should pick medium-sized wheels for balance.

• 50-54 mm: Best for street skating and tricks
• 55-59 mm: Good for beginners and all-around skating
• 60 mm and above: Suitable for cruising and rough surfaces

Wheel Hardness

Wheel hardness measures how soft or hard the wheels are. It uses a number called “durometer.”

Softer wheels offer better grip and a smooth ride on rough ground. Hard wheels slide easier and are better for smooth surfaces.

• 78A-87A: Soft wheels for rough roads and cruising
• 88A-95A: Medium hardness, good for beginners
• 96A and above: Hard wheels for tricks and skateparks

Trucks And Their Impact

Trucks are the metal parts under the skateboard. They hold the wheels and let you turn. Picking the right trucks helps beginners skate safely and easily.

Trucks come in different sizes and heights. These affect how the skateboard feels and moves. Understanding truck width and height helps you find the best fit.

Truck Width

Truck width should match the skateboard deck width. If trucks are too wide or narrow, the board feels unstable. Proper width helps with balance and control.

Beginner decks usually range from 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide. Choose trucks that fit this range. This makes skating easier and safer.

• Match truck width with deck width
• Wider trucks offer more stability
• Narrow trucks allow quicker turns

Truck Height

Truck height affects how high the skateboard sits from the ground. This changes how the board turns and how big the wheels can be.

Low trucks are good for tricks and stability. High trucks let you use bigger wheels, which helps on rough surfaces. Choose truck height based on your skating style.

• Low trucks give better balance for tricks
• Mid trucks fit most styles and wheels
• High trucks allow bigger wheels for smooth rides

Materials And Build Quality

Choosing a skateboard for beginners means looking at the materials and how it is made. Good materials make the skateboard last longer and feel better to ride.

Knowing about deck materials and hardware helps you pick a skateboard that is safe and strong. This guide explains these two key parts.

Deck Materials

The deck is the flat board you stand on. It needs to be strong but light. Most decks are made from wood or composite materials.

Maple wood is common because it is tough and lasts long. Some decks use bamboo or fiberglass for extra lightness and flexibility.

• Maple wood: strong and durable
• Bamboo: light and flexible
• Fiberglass: adds strength and reduces weight

Hardware Durability

Hardware means the trucks, wheels, and bearings. These parts must be tough to handle tricks and rough ground.

Look for trucks made from strong metals like aluminum. Wheels should be made of durable polyurethane to roll smoothly and last long.

• Aluminum trucks: strong and light
• Polyurethane wheels: durable and smooth
• Quality bearings: ensure fast, smooth rides

Skateboard Setup For Beginners

Choosing the right skateboard is important for beginners. The right setup helps you learn faster and have more fun.

There are different ways to set up a skateboard. You can buy one pre-assembled or build your own custom setup.

Pre-assembled Vs Custom Setup

Pre-assembled skateboards come ready to ride. They are good for beginners who want a simple start.

Custom setups let you pick each part. This option suits riders who want more control over their board.

• Pre-assembled boards save time and effort
• Custom setups allow personal style and performance
• Pre-assembled boards usually cost less
• Custom setups need some knowledge or help to build

Adjusting Trucks And Wheels

Trucks control how the skateboard turns. Beginners should start with medium tight trucks for balance.

Wheels affect speed and grip. Softer wheels grip well and are good for smooth rides on rough surfaces.

• Tight trucks offer stability but less turning
• Loose trucks turn easily but can feel wobbly
• Hard wheels slide easily on smooth surfaces
• Soft wheels absorb bumps and give better control

Safety Gear And Accessories

Choosing the right skateboard is just the start. Beginners also need safety gear and helpful accessories. These protect you and make learning easier.

Wearing the right gear reduces injuries. Accessories can improve balance and comfort. Let’s look at what you need for safe skateboarding.

Essential Protective Gear

Protective gear helps keep you safe if you fall. It covers your head, knees, elbows, and wrists. These spots often get hurt first.

Always wear a helmet made for skateboarding. Pads should fit snug but not be too tight. This gear gives beginners confidence to try new moves.

• Helmet: Protects your head from serious injury.
• Knee pads: Cushion your knees during falls.
• Elbow pads: Guard your elbows against scrapes and bruises.
• Wrist guards: Support your wrists and reduce sprains.
• Skate shoes: Provide grip and ankle support.

Helpful Accessories For Beginners

Accessories help beginners feel more comfortable and improve skills. Some tools keep your skateboard in good shape. Others help with safety or control.

Using these accessories can make your first rides smoother and safer. They help you focus on learning without distractions.

• Skate tool: Adjusts trucks and wheels easily.
• Grip tape: Keeps your feet from slipping off the board.
• Skateboard wax: Smooths rough surfaces for better slides.
• Backpack: Carries your board and gear comfortably.
• Water bottle: Keeps you hydrated during practice.

Budgeting Your First Skateboard

Choosing the right skateboard means thinking about your budget first. Knowing how much to spend helps you find the best board for your needs.

Skateboards come in many prices. Setting a clear budget keeps your options simple and focused.

Price Ranges

Skateboards for beginners usually fall into three price groups. Each group offers different features and quality levels.

• Low Budget ($30-$60):Basic boards, good for very light use.
• Mid Range ($60-$120):Better parts and durability for regular practice.
• High End ($120+):Professional quality, lasts longer and performs well.

Balancing Cost And Quality

Spending more does not always mean better skateboarding. You need a board that lasts and feels right.

Look for good materials and solid construction within your budget. A well-built board helps you learn faster and stay safe.

• Check the deck wood type; maple is common and strong.
• Look at trucks and wheels for smooth riding.
• Read reviews about durability and performance.
• Try to test a board before buying if possible.

Testing And Trying Before Buying

Choosing the right skateboard can be tricky for beginners. Testing and trying skateboards helps you find the best fit.

Trying boards lets you feel the size, weight, and control. It helps avoid buying something uncomfortable or hard to use.

Where To Test Skateboards

Many places let you try skateboards before buying. Skate shops often have boards for testing. They may have small ramps or flat space to try riding.

Skate parks are great for testing too. You can try different boards on real ramps and surfaces. Some stores host demo days where brands bring boards to test.

• Local skate shops with demo boards
• Skate parks with rental or demo options
• Special events or demo days by brands
• Friends who own skateboards and let you try

What To Look For During A Test

Pay attention to how the skateboard feels under your feet. Check if the size fits your height and shoe size. The board should feel balanced and stable.

Test how easy it is to turn and control the board. Notice if the wheels roll smoothly and the trucks respond well. Also, check the board’s weight; it should not feel too heavy.

• Board size matches your height and shoe size
• Board feels stable and balanced
• Trucks turn smoothly but not too loose
• Wheels roll easily on flat surfaces
• Weight feels comfortable to carry and ride

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Skateboard Is Best For Beginners?

A 7. 5 to 8. 0-inch deck width suits most beginners. It offers stability and control, making learning easier. Smaller decks are better for younger riders, while wider ones help with balance.

Which Skateboard Type Is Ideal For New Riders?

A traditional street or park skateboard is best. It provides versatility for tricks and cruising. Avoid longboards or cruisers initially, as they have different handling and purpose.

How Important Is Deck Material For Beginners?

Decks made from 7-ply maple wood are durable and flexible. This material offers good grip and shock absorption. It ensures safety and comfort while learning to skateboard.

Should Beginners Focus On Skateboard Trucks And Wheels?

Yes, trucks should match deck width for balance. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better for smooth rides on rough surfaces. Hard wheels suit skateparks but can be slippery outdoors.

Conclusion

Choosing the right skateboard starts with knowing your needs and style. Focus on size, shape, and wheel type that suit beginners. Test different boards to find comfort and control. Remember, safety gear is just as important as the skateboard. Take your time, practice often, and enjoy the ride.

This approach helps build confidence and skill steadily. Keep it simple, stay patient, and have fun learning to skate.