Ever tossed around in a heated chat about whether to kickflip on a sleek street deck or a sturdy vert plank? Choosing the right gear—like the boards in our street skateboarding showdown—can make or break your shred session. Picking the best skateboard for beginners is more than a casual choice.
In this post, we’ll cover all the essentials to get you rolling with confidence.
Key takeaways
- A solid all-rounder board is ideal for new skaters to find their footing.
- Choose a light but durable skateboard to make learning tricks easier.
- Seek out a street-smart setup for agility and precision on urban terrain.
- A board with transitional capabilities is key for those looking to skate different environments.
Which skateboards kickstart a newbie’s street skating journey?
Picking out your first board isn’t just about the cool graphics on the bottom or matching it to your kicks. It’s about finding a deck that won’t let you down when you’re learning to ollie or attempting your first lines. A great beginner skateboard combines quality with forgiveness as you bail and slam—inevitable parts of the learning curve.
Let’s dive into our top picks that promise a smooth ride into the skateboarding scene.
1. The solid all-rounder
This board is the trusty sidekick you need, with enough flex to forgive those rough landings and a sturdy build that’ll survive the inevitable thrashing. It’s got stability that helps with balance yet doesn’t compromise on the pop needed for nailing new tricks. For specifics on what makes a deck reliable, check out what constitutes a good skateboard.
When you’re just starting, it pays to go with an all-around performer to find your footing—literally and figuratively!
2. The light but durable choice
Your board’s weight matters big time when you’re new to the park. A lighter deck can make all the difference in getting those first few inches of air. Plus, durable boards mean you’ll get more skate time before you need a replacement.
Trust me, you’ll want to get into the specifics of deck construction and material by referring to the ultimate rundown on best skateboard decks for street skating. Light and durable is a combo you can’t ignore, ensuring those first few slams don’t end in splinters.
3. The street-smart selection
Street skating demands agility and precision. Choose a board that caters to quick flips and tight maneuvers without balking at rough surfaces. It’s vital to have a sturdy set of trucks too, so don’t overlook trustworthy recommendations for the best trucks for new street shredders.
A street-smart setup is your ticket to conquering the concrete jungle, one trick at a time.
4. The transition trainer
As you edge into vert and transitions, a transitional style board comes in handy. It balances between the responsiveness needed for street skating and the sturdiness for ramps and bowls. It’s wise to browse through options specifically designed as the best skateboard trucks for bowls, perfectly pairing with your deck for an optimal riding experience.
Starting with a board that understands transitions could have you flowing through bowls in no time.
5. The customizable canvas
Unique among boards is one that evolves with your style. Look for a skateboard that allows you to switch out components as your skills and preferences change. It’s a board that grows with you, becoming a personalized ride over time.
Spend time at your local skatepark to absorb the vibe and learn from more experienced skaters.The energy and tricks that go down there are nothing short of amazing and provide a living classroom for honing your skills.
Can’t find what you’re looking for off-the-shelf? Design your own setup using our guide for a custom skateboard design, and build a board that’s as individual as your skate style.
Each of these boards serves as a stepping stone in your skating journey, offering the building blocks for becoming a versatile skater. Hit up these choices, and you’ll find your sweet spot on wheels before you know it.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
More skateboarding tips
Embarking on the skateboarding adventure is exhilarating, but there’s more to it than just picking out the perfect board. To really shred the streets and ramps, immerse yourself in the culture and practice consistently. Here’s a rundown of extra tips to ensure your journey is epic from start to finish.
- Spend time at your local skatepark to absorb the vibe and learn from more experienced skaters.
- Always strap on protective gear—helmet, pads, and wrist guards can save your skin and bones.
- Get to grips with the basics in an open area free from traffic and too many eyeballs.
- Experiment with different skateboarding styles early on to find what feels right for you.
- Engage with the skate community online and offline for tips, support, and friendship.
- Keep your skateboard maintenance on point to extend the life of your board.
As much as it’s about having the right gear, there’s a lot do’s and don’ts in skateboarding to help you start off on the right foot—or the left if you’re goofy-footed. Here’s a handy guide to keep you in check:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Wear appropriate skate shoes for better grip. | Skate in hazardous weather that can damage your board. |
| Practice falling safely to minimize injuries. | Rush into advanced tricks without mastering the basics. |
| Use a skate tool for regular board check-ups. | Neglect deck maintenance—like overlooking the grip tape. |
| Balance skateboarding with cross-training. | Skimp on stretching which can lead to injuries. |
| Learn the etiquette of the skatepark. | Hog a spot or snake others’ runs at the skatepark. |
Making these do’s and don’ts second nature will keep you cruising and progressing smoothly while earning respect in the skate community.
Keep these guidelines in mind to skate smart and enjoy the ride.
Advantages and disadvantages of skateboarding
There’s a ton of chatter about what’s epic and what’s tough when you cruise on four wheels. Skateboarding, like any sport, brings its own set of highs and lows. Let’s roll through the pros and cons to give you a balanced view of what you’re pushing into.
Advantages
- Skateboarding boosts your physical fitness, dexterity, and coordination.
- It fosters creativity and self-expression through an array of styles and tricks.
- The sport promotes community and friendship among skaters.
- It offers a sense of freedom and is a fun way to travel short distances.
- Achieving new tricks offers a great sense of accomplishment and confidence.
Disadvantages
- Risk of injuries is higher, especially without proper safety gear.
- Can be perceived negatively due to the rebellious image of skaters.
- Skateboarding can be time-consuming as learning tricks takes practice.
- Limited access to skate parks in some areas restricts where you can skate.
- It can be an expensive hobby with the cost of boards, parts, and gear.
In my humble opinion, as someone who’s spent countless hours pushing wood and wheels around New York’s sidewalks, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the best skateboard for starters. Every new rider’s journey is unique, and while some may dig a lightweight board for its ease of popping tricks, others might find a heftier deck reassuring under their feet. Personally, I think it all comes down to experimentation.
You might stack slams with a particular setup before you strike that perfect balance. Just know that it’s totally cool to mix it up. For insights into picking stellar gear that might not break the bank, take a glance at how much a good skateboard cost, ’cause budget matters too when you’re first starting out!
If you are a visual learner, check out this video titled ‘Top 5 Beginner Skateboards for 2023 – SkateHut’
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the ideal wheel size for a beginner skateboarder?
The sweet spot for beginner skateboard wheels generally falls between 52mm to 54mm. This size offers a good balance between speed and control, making it easier for new skaters to learn the ropes without feeling overwhelmed. Larger wheels may provide more speed but can make precise tricks more challenging.
On the other hand, smaller wheels accelerate slower but can help with trick execution.
How usually should I replace my skateboard as a beginner?
The lifespan of a skateboard depends on how frequently it’s ridden and the types of surfaces it encounters. As a beginner, you won’t need to replace your skateboard too usually unless it shows significant wear and tear, like severe cracks or snapped parts. It’s a good practice to inspect your board before and after sessions.
And if it feels less responsive or shows visible damage, it might be time for a new one.
Can I learn to skateboard without going to a skatepark?
Absolutely, you can learn to skateboard on any flat, smooth surface. A quiet parking lot, a basement, or even your driveway can serve as fine training grounds. Skateparks do offer varied terrain and community support, which can be beneficial, but they’re not a mandatory start point.
Start where you’re comfortable and progress at your own pace; the street, ramps, and bowls can wait until you’re ready.
Final thoughts
Wrapping up, the journey into skateboarding is as thrilling as it is personal. Each beginner will find their path and style through trial and a good amount of error. Remember, the best skateboard for a beginner is one that matches their ambitions but also respects their learning curve.
Stay patient, persistent, and most importantly, have a blast on your new set of wheels. Here’s to many rad sessions ahead!
Have you picked out your first board yet? Did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below — I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading and keep pushing those boundaries!
