Best First Skateboard: Your Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Skating Journey

For aspiring young skaters embarking on their skateboarding journey, finding the best first skateboard is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. With a myriad of options available in the market, choosing the ideal skateboard can be overwhelming. Our comprehensive reviews and buying guide are designed to assist beginners in selecting the best first skateboard that aligns with their skill level and preferences. Whether you are a novice eager to learn the basics or a parent searching for the perfect skateboard for your child, our expert recommendations and insights will help you make an informed decision.

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Introduction to First Skateboard

The history of skateboarding can be traced back to the 1950s when surfers in California sought a way to ride the waves when the surf was flat. Inspired by the idea of “sidewalk surfing,” the first skateboard was born. Made from wooden planks and roller-skate wheels, these early skateboards were simple in design but laid the foundation for the sport we know today.

In the 1960s, the first commercial skateboards were introduced, featuring improved designs and materials. Skateboarding gained popularity amongst the youth as a way to express creativity and individuality. Skate parks began to pop up across the country, providing skaters with designated spaces to practice their tricks and maneuvers.

Throughout the decades, skateboarding has evolved into a global phenomenon, with professional skaters achieving fame and recognition for their skills. The sport has spawned various styles and disciplines, from street skating to vert ramp riding, attracting diverse participants from all walks of life.

Today, skateboarding continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, with innovative technology and progressive attitudes driving the sport forward. From simple beginnings to mainstream recognition, the first skateboard laid the groundwork for a vibrant subculture that continues to thrive and inspire new generations of skaters around the world.

5 Best First Skateboard

01. Powell Golden Dragon Flying Dragon Complete Skateboard

With its vibrant artwork and durable construction, the Powell Golden Dragon Flying Dragon Complete Skateboard is a fantastic choice for skaters of all skill levels. The deck’s 7-ply maple construction provides a solid and stable platform for mastering tricks and cruising around the park. The medium concave shape offers a good balance of control and comfort, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced riders.

Equipped with smooth-rolling wheels and high-quality trucks, this complete skateboard delivers a smooth and responsive ride. The eye-catching dragon graphic adds a touch of flair to the board, making it stand out at the skate park. Overall, the Powell Golden Dragon Flying Dragon Complete Skateboard is a great value for those looking for a reliable and fun board to hit the streets with.

02. Minority 32 Inch Maple Skateboard

With its sturdy maple deck and smooth wheels, the Minority 32 Inch Maple Skateboard is a reliable choice for skaters of all levels. The deck provides a stable platform for cruising and tricks, while the wheels offer a smooth and responsive ride. The board’s classic design and quality construction make it a stylish and durable option for both beginners and more experienced skaters.

The compact size of the 32-inch deck makes it easy to maneuver and transport, ideal for navigating city streets or skating at the park. Overall, the Minority Maple Skateboard is a versatile and well-built board that delivers on performance and style at an affordable price point.

03. KPC Pro Skateboard Complete

With the KPC Pro Skateboard Complete, you get great value for your money. The sturdy 7-ply maple deck provides excellent durability and control, making it perfect for both new riders and experienced skaters. The wheels roll smoothly, and the trucks offer a stable ride for tricks and street cruising.

The design is sleek and stylish, with a wide range of graphic options to choose from. The ABEC-7 bearings ensure a smooth glide, while the grip tape keeps your feet securely in place. Overall, the KPC Pro Skateboard Complete is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable skateboard that delivers on performance and aesthetics.

04. ENJOI Skateboards Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard

The ENJOI Skateboards Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard is a solid choice for both beginner and intermediate skaters. Its sturdy 7-ply maple deck offers optimal stability and durability for performing tricks and cruising the streets. The charming Whitey Panda graphic adds a touch of style to your ride.

Equipped with quality components such as Enjoi trucks and wheels, this complete skateboard provides a smooth and responsive riding experience. Whether you’re hitting the skate park or commuting around town, the ENJOI Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard delivers reliable performance and a fun, carefree skating experience.

05. Cal 7 Complete Skateboard

Ideal for beginners and intermediate skaters, the Cal 7 Complete Skateboard offers a sturdy 7-ply maple deck and smooth 52mm wheels for a reliable ride. With ABEC-7 bearings and durable trucks, this board provides excellent control and maneuverability for skating in parks or streets. The vibrant graphics on the underside add a stylish flair to your tricks and turns, making it both functional and visually appealing. Overall, the Cal 7 Complete Skateboard is a budget-friendly option that delivers on performance and design for skaters of all levels.

Whether you’re cruising around the neighborhood or perfecting your Ollies, this skateboard is a solid choice with its quality construction and eye-catching graphics. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport, making it convenient for skaters on the go. With a smooth ride and sturdy build, the Cal 7 Complete Skateboard is fantastic value for money and a fun addition to anyone’s skating arsenal.

Reasons to Invest in Your First Skateboard

Buying the best first skateboard is essential for individuals looking to embark on their skateboarding journey for several reasons. Firstly, a quality skateboard ensures a safe and comfortable learning experience for beginners. Investing in a well-constructed board with durable components can help prevent accidents and injuries, providing a stable platform for honing basic skills.

Moreover, purchasing the best first skateboard can significantly impact one’s progress and enjoyment in skateboarding. High-quality materials and a suitable design tailored for beginners can facilitate faster skill development and foster confidence in riders. This, in turn, encourages continued practice and growth in the sport.

Additionally, a reliable first skateboard can offer better maneuverability and responsiveness, allowing novices to master fundamental techniques effectively. As beginners strive to improve their balance, control, and coordination, having a well-made board can enhance their overall learning curve and contribute to a more fulfilling skateboarding experience.

In conclusion, choosing the best first skateboard is crucial for anyone starting their skateboarding journey. By prioritizing quality and suitability, individuals can set a solid foundation for their skills, safety, and enjoyment in this dynamic and exhilarating sport.

Choosing the Perfect First Skateboard: A Buying Guide

Selecting the ideal first skateboard involves several critical factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable skating experience. From considering the correct board size and shape to selecting suitable trucks and wheels, the process can seem overwhelming to beginners. However, with the right guidance and knowledge of essential features, finding the perfect first skateboard becomes a more straightforward task.

Deck Size And Shape

Choosing the right deck size and shape is crucial when selecting a first skateboard. The deck size primarily determines the stability and maneuverability of the board, with larger decks offering more stability for beginners while smaller decks provide easier maneuvering for tricks. The shape of the deck also affects the skateboarder’s comfort and performance, as different shapes cater to various styles of skating such as street, vert, or cruising. Considering these factors ensures that beginners can ride comfortably and efficiently, leading to a better learning experience and overall enjoyment of skateboarding.

Quality Of The Trucks

Choosing a skateboard with high-quality trucks is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. The trucks, which are the metal T-shaped components underneath the deck, determine how well the board turns and maneuvers. Investing in durable, well-constructed trucks ensures stability, control, and longevity for the skateboard. Poor-quality trucks can lead to an unresponsive ride, difficulty in steering, and even safety risks. By prioritizing the quality of the trucks when selecting a first skateboard, riders can enhance their overall performance, feel more comfortable on the board, and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.

Type And Hardness Of The Wheels

Choosing the right type and hardness of wheels is crucial when selecting a first skateboard. Wheels play a significant role in determining the speed, stability, and overall performance of the skateboard. Depending on personal preferences and intended use, individuals may opt for softer wheels for smoother rides over rough terrain or harder wheels for better control and faster speeds on smooth surfaces. It is essential to consider the type and hardness of the wheels to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable skateboarding experience for beginners, helping them gain confidence and improve their skills with the appropriate setup.

Bearings Quality

When choosing a skateboard for the first time, it is important to consider the quality of the bearings. Bearings are crucial components that determine how smooth and fast the wheels will spin, impacting overall performance and ride quality. High-quality bearings made from durable materials can provide a smoother and faster ride, making it easier for beginners to control the board and gain confidence. Poor quality bearings may not roll smoothly, making it harder to balance and maneuver properly. Investing in good bearings can enhance the skateboarding experience and ensure a more enjoyable and successful learning process.

Brand Reputation And Reviews

Brand Reputation and reviews are essential considerations when choosing a first skateboard as they provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of the product. A well-established brand with a positive reputation is more likely to offer durable and reliable skateboards that cater to beginners. By reading reviews from other skateboarders, you can gauge customer satisfaction and make an informed decision based on their experiences. Trusting in a reputable brand and positive reviews can enhance your skateboarding experience, ensuring that you invest in a high-quality skateboard that meets your needs and helps you progress confidently in the sport.

Skateboard Deck Materials

When it comes to choosing the best first skateboard, understanding the different skateboard deck materials is crucial. Skateboard decks are typically made from either maple wood, bamboo, or a combination of both. Maple wood is the most common material, known for its durability and pop, making it suitable for beginners. Bamboo decks offer a lighter and more eco-friendly option, providing flexibility and strength for a smooth ride.

The number of layers in a skateboard deck also impacts its performance. A standard skateboard deck usually consists of 7-ply maple wood, which strikes a balance between weight and durability. For beginner skateboarders, a 7-ply deck is recommended as it offers stability and control while learning tricks and maneuvers.

Aside from the material and number of plies, skateboard deck shape and concave are essential factors to consider. The shape affects the board’s stability and response, while the concave helps with flip tricks and board control. Beginners may prefer a medium concave and a slightly wider deck for better foot placement and balance.

Ultimately, choosing the right skateboard deck material that suits your riding style and preferences is key to enjoying your skateboarding experience. Whether you opt for maple or bamboo, selecting a deck with the right balance of durability, flexibility, and performance will set you up for success as you start your skateboarding journey.

Choosing The Right Trucks And Wheels

When it comes to selecting the right trucks and wheels for your first skateboard, it’s important to consider your riding style and preferences. Trucks are the metal T-shaped parts underneath the deck that hold the wheels in place. They come in different sizes, with wider trucks providing more stability for beginners and narrower trucks offering greater maneuverability for tricks and street skating.

Choosing the right wheels is equally crucial as they impact your board’s performance on different surfaces. Softer wheels provide better grip and are ideal for cruising and street skating, while harder wheels are better suited for smooth surfaces like skate parks and ramps. The size of the wheels also affects how your board rides, with larger wheels rolling faster and smoother over cracks and pebbles, while smaller wheels offer more control for tricks.

Consider the durometer of the wheels, which refers to their hardness. A durometer rating between 78A-87A is suitable for beginners as they offer a good balance of grip and slide. Additionally, wheel shape plays a role – rounded edges are more forgiving for beginners, while square edges provide more surface area for tricks. Ultimately, choosing the right trucks and wheels that match your riding style and skill level will enhance your overall skateboarding experience.

Proper Maintenance And Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and performance of your first skateboard. Regularly inspect your skateboard for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose bolts, cracks in the deck, or worn-out wheels. Tighten any loose components and replace any damaged parts promptly to prevent accidents and maintain optimal performance.

Keeping your skateboard clean is also crucial for its lifespan. Regularly wipe down the deck and trucks with a damp cloth to remove dirt, grime, and debris. Avoid exposing your skateboard to moisture for extended periods as it can cause warping or rusting of the components. Store your skateboard in a cool, dry place when not in use to maintain its structural integrity.

Properly maintaining your skateboard includes regularly lubricating the bearings to ensure smooth and efficient wheel rotation. Use a skateboard-specific bearing lubricant and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for application. Additionally, periodically check the grip tape for wear and tear, and replace it if it has lost its grip to prevent slipping while riding.

By practicing proper maintenance and care routines for your first skateboard, you can extend its lifespan, enhance its performance, and ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience. Remember that a well-maintained skateboard not only performs better but also reduces the risk of accidents due to faulty components.

FAQs

What Size Skateboard Is Best For Beginners?

For beginners, it is recommended to choose a skateboard size that ranges from 7.5 to 8 inches in width. A smaller size board (7.5 inches) provides better control and maneuverability for beginners learning basic tricks and techniques. On the other hand, an 8-inch board offers more stability, making it easier for beginners to balance while gaining confidence in riding. Ultimately, selecting a skateboard size that suits the individual’s height, shoe size, and skating style is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable learning experience.

Are There Specific Features To Look For In A Beginner Skateboard?

For beginners, it is important to look for a skateboard with a wide and stable deck to facilitate balance while learning how to ride. A smaller deck width, around 7.5-8 inches, is recommended for easier maneuverability. Additionally, softer wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip on various surfaces, making it easier for beginners to maintain control.

Furthermore, trucks with medium tension are ideal for beginners as they offer a good balance between stability and turning ability. It is also advisable to choose a skateboard with quality bearings for a smoother and faster ride, which can enhance the overall experience for novice skaters.

How Do I Choose The Right Type Of Wheels For My First Skateboard?

When choosing wheels for your first skateboard, consider the size and hardness of the wheels. Larger wheels (around 54-60mm) are better for cruising and provide a smoother ride, while smaller wheels (around 50-53mm) are more suitable for tricks and street skating.

For beginners, wheels with a hardness rating of 78a-87a are recommended as they offer a good balance of grip and slide. Softer wheels (78a-87a) are better for cruising and rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88a-101a) are more suitable for tricks and smooth surfaces. Ultimately, choose wheels that match your skating style and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on.

What Safety Gear Is Essential For Beginners Learning To Skateboard?

For beginners learning to skateboard, essential safety gear includes a helmet to protect the head from impact injuries, knee pads to prevent scrapes and bruises, elbow pads to cushion falls, and wrist guards to protect against wrist injuries. These items are crucial for beginners as they learn to balance, turn, and perform tricks on a skateboard. Proper safety gear not only reduces the risk of injuries but also boosts the confidence of new skaters to practice and improve their skills without fear of getting hurt.

Are There Any Recommended Brands Or Models For First-Time Skateboarders?

For first-time skateboarders, some recommended brands include Santa Cruz, Element, and Powell Peralta for their quality and durability. Popular models for beginners are the Santa Cruz Classic Dot, Element Featherlight, and Powell Peralta Cab Dragon. These boards are known for their stability, smooth ride, and overall performance, making them great choices for those just starting out in skateboarding.

Conclusion

As you navigate the world of skateboarding for the first time, finding the best first skateboard is crucial for a safe and fulfilling experience. Through our detailed reviews and comprehensive buying guide, you now have the tools to make an informed choice. Remember that the best first skateboard will not only aid in your skill development but also ensure maximum enjoyment on your rides. Choose wisely and start your skateboarding journey with confidence.