Choosing the right skateboard for your child can be tricky. With so many options available, it’s essential to find one that’s safe, reliable, and fun. This guide, based on extensive testing and real-world experience, will help you navigate the world of kids’ skateboards, ensuring you make an informed decision. We’ll cover everything from safety considerations to the best beginner-friendly boards on the market.
First, let’s address a critical point: quality. Many low-cost skateboards available online are simply not safe or reliable. We won’t be recommending those. Our focus is on durable, well-made boards designed to provide a positive and secure experience for young riders. We’ve personally tested each board and can confidently recommend them.
Kids having fun skateboarding
What to Consider When Buying a Kids’ Skateboard
Before diving into our recommendations, it’s important to understand what makes a good skateboard for kids. Here are key factors to consider:
Safety First: Protective Gear and Proper Footwear
Safety should always be the top priority. A quality helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads are essential for protecting your child from injuries. Additionally, proper skate shoes with flat outsoles, like Vans, provide the grip and stability needed for control. Avoid sneakers with thick outsoles as they can make it difficult to feel and control the board.
Terrain and Wheel Selection
The type of surface where your child will be skateboarding plays a significant role in wheel selection. Softer, larger wheels are ideal for rough surfaces, such as asphalt or sidewalks, providing a smoother, more stable ride and absorbing impacts from small pebbles and cracks. For skate parks with smooth concrete surfaces, harder wheels are preferred for tricks.
Here’s a simplified guide to wheel hardness (durometer):
| Wheel Hardness | Purpose |
|—————–|——————————————————-|
| 80A to 90A | Learning to ride & cruising on rough surfaces |
| 90A to 95A | Learning to ride, fewer issues with small pebbles |
| 96A to 101A | Ideal for concrete and skate parks |
Choosing the Right Skateboard Size
The correct skateboard size is crucial for comfort and control. It’s not just about length; the width of the board is most important. Here is a general guideline for skateboard sizes for kids:
| Age | Kid Height | Skateboard Width |
|---|---|---|
| 5 and under | 3’4″ and under | 6.5″ to 7.0″ |
| 6 to 8 | 3’5″ to 4’4″ | 7.0″ to 8.0″ |
| 9 to 12 | 4’5″ to 5’2″ | 7.5″ to 8.0″ |
| 13 and over | 5’3″ and over | 8.0″ and wider |
Understanding Skateboard Parts
Familiarizing yourself with the basic parts of a skateboard can help in making a better purchase. Key components include:
- Deck: The wooden platform, typically made of 7 plies of hard rock maple.
- Trucks: The T-shaped metal pieces that connect the wheels to the deck.
- Bushings: Plastic parts within the trucks that affect turning sensitivity.
- Wheels: Available in various sizes and hardness ratings for different purposes.
- Bearings: Small metal rings inside the wheels that allow them to spin smoothly.
Skateboard Parts Diagram
Motivation Through Graphics
A visually appealing graphic can be a huge motivator for kids. It can spark interest and encourage them to get out and skate.
Types of Skateboards: Popsicle vs. Cruiser
- Popsicle Skateboards: These are the classic skateboards with symmetrical shapes, great for skate parks and learning tricks. They often have smaller, harder wheels.
- Cruiser Skateboards: Designed for comfortable riding, they feature softer, larger wheels and are ideal for learning to ride and navigating various surfaces.
Complete Skateboards vs. Custom Builds
Most beginners start with a complete, pre-assembled skateboard. While custom builds can be superior, they require more research and are often more expensive. If choosing a complete, opt for reputable brands to ensure quality.
Quality and Brand Considerations
It’s important to avoid low-quality, unknown brands. Stick with well-known brands such as SkateXS, Enjoi, Santa Cruz, and Powell Peralta. These brands prioritize safety and performance.
Our Top Picks for Kids’ Skateboards
Based on our rigorous testing, here are our recommended skateboards for beginner kids:
SkateXS Complete: The Highest Quality Option
The SkateXS Beginner Complete is our top recommendation. These boards are made in the USA and specifically designed for children aged 6 to 12. They offer durable components, soft beginner-friendly wheels, and reliable performance. SkateXS also provides excellent customer service and options for helmets and pads.
SkateXS kids Skateboards
The SkateXS board features a durable deck made of a mix of maple wood and bamboo, high-quality trucks, SkateXS branded bearings, and colorful wheels. It’s a versatile option that excels on sidewalks, asphalt, and skate parks.
SkateXS Skateboard Components
SkateXS Skateboard Wheels
SkateXS Skateboard Trucks
Key features of the SkateXS:
- Custom designed for kids
- Handles pebbles and cracks well
- High quality parts
- Excellent customer support
- One of the safest skateboards we tested
Magneto Mini Cruiser: Best for Beginners
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is an excellent choice for kids who want a comfortable riding experience at an affordable price. While not meant for tricks, its soft wheels and smooth ride make it ideal for learning to navigate various surfaces. It’s lightweight and easy to carry around.
Magneto Mini Cruiser Skateboard
The Magneto Mini Cruiser is designed with a medium concave deck for quick foot adjustments, and a kicktail for added control. Its 60mm wheels effortlessly roll over rough terrains.
Magneto Cruiser Parts
Magneto Cruiser DeckBuy on Amazon
Santa Cruz Classic Dot: A Versatile Option
Santa Cruz offers a range of skateboards for kids with varying sizes and softer wheels. The Classic Dot model, with 52mm OJ wheels at 92A hardness, is well-suited for both tricks and casual rides on rougher surfaces.
Santa Cruz Complete Skateboard
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot is available in various sizes: Super micro, Micro, Mini and Mid to fit different age groups. The board is made from birch which isn’t the best material, but it provides a decent ride.
Santa Cruz Skateboard Details
Santa Cruz Skateboard Side ViewCheck Price on Amazon
Penny Cruiser: Durable and Fun
Penny boards are popular for their durability and smooth ride. The Penny Cruiser is a great option for kids who are learning to ride. It features large, soft wheels and a durable construction, making it a safe and enjoyable choice for a wide range of ages.
Penny Board Close Up
The Penny Board is known for its classic look, great performance, and reliability. The waffle pattern offers grip and the trucks can be adjusted for beginners.
Penny Board Details
Penny Board BottomCheck Price on Amazon
Powell-Peralta Golden Dragon: A Budget-Friendly Pick
The Powell-Peralta Golden Dragon is a solid choice for a more affordable skateboard. While it may not have the top-tier components of other boards, it’s still a reliable and safe option for kids aged 8 to 12.
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon Skateboard
The Golden Dragon features a deck made from birch, mini logo trucks, and softer wheels. It offers smooth turns and is forgiving for beginners.
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon Details
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon BottomBuy on Amazon
Other Great Brands
Other brands to consider include Enjoi, Meow, and Blind, which offer a range of kid-friendly skateboards with appealing graphics and quality components.
Enjoi Cruiser Skateboard
Meow Skateboard
Blind SkateboardCheck Enjoi Skateboards on Amazon
Maintaining Your Skateboard
Proper care extends the life of your skateboard. Keep it away from water and store it in a dry place. If it gets wet, dry it immediately. Avoid sand and dust which can damage the bearings.
Tips for Teaching Kids to Skateboard
- Check that the board is in good condition before use.
- Always use protective gear, especially a helmet.
- Start by having them get a feel for the board on grass.
- Practice mounting, dismounting, and balancing before moving.
- Find out if they are regular or goofy (left or right foot forward).
- Begin with slow pushes and maintain a centered stance.
- Patience is key, allow them to learn at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right skateboard for your child is an important decision. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed choice that prioritizes safety and fun. Remember to always prioritize quality and avoid low-cost, unsafe options. Investing in a reliable skateboard will set the stage for a positive experience and potentially a lifelong love of skateboarding. And remember: it’s all about having fun.
Ruben vee
By Ruben Vee
An aged skateboarder, gear geek, and tester.
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