The Powell Peralta Golden Dragon skateboard often pops up in online ads, and while I was initially skeptical, my experience after purchasing and testing it was surprisingly positive. It turns out, this board is genuinely a decent option, especially considering its target audience and price point. The trucks offer smooth maneuverability, and the wheels are quite versatile, making it feel like a good quality skateboard, especially for beginners.
However, it’s crucial to understand this isn’t a board for aspiring technical skateboarders or experienced adults. The birch deck isn’t built for high-impact skateboarding. Basic tricks are manageable, making it a solid choice for kids looking to get into skateboarding.
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon SkateboardThis particular board, with its 7.6″ width, is designed for kids, typically between the ages of 8 and 12. The fact that it’s manufactured by Powell Peralta, a very reputable brand, adds to its appeal.
The trucks turn well, and while the bushings might need some adjustments based on the child’s weight, they generally perform well. It’s a well-rounded package that includes decent wheels, sturdy trucks, and a basic deck, and despite these tradeoffs, it’s a good starting point for young skateboarders.
What We Like and What We Don’t
Given its price, there aren’t many serious issues to complain about. It’s obvious that some compromises were made to achieve a lower price point.
The Upsides:
- The eye-catching dragon design is definitely a hit with kids.
- It’s produced by Powell Peralta, a well-known name in skateboarding.
- The size is suitable for kids from 8 to 12 years old.
- The trucks offer a comfortable ride and can be tweaked for enhanced stability.
- The wheels are effective on various surfaces.
- It’s a great value for the money.
The Downsides:
- Not suitable for advanced tricks or high-impact skating.
- The bearings are standard and might benefit from lubrication.
- May initially feel wobbly and might require some adjustment.
- The board is heavier than some alternatives.
- The birch deck is not as durable as maple decks.
The price for this board fluctuates. During peak seasons it can go up to $80, which is too high. A fair price is around $50-60 USD. Let’s break down the components.
Deck
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon Skateboard DeckThe board’s deck is constructed from birch, a material that’s not ideal in the long term. Although it’s suitable for beginners, those seeking a longer lasting and higher-performing skateboard will want to replace it with a maple deck eventually.
My son was immediately drawn to the board because of the dragon graphic. The 7.625″ width of the deck is perfect for smaller riders, kids under the age of 12.
The shape and concave are suitable for both general riding and basic tricks. It is a budget-friendly option, so the pop is not exceptional. However, that won’t be a concern for most kids who are just starting to learn.
If you’re looking to take your kids to a skatepark or if you have smooth pavements nearby, this skateboard is a very suitable choice. It’s a good, reliable board that, if used correctly, should last a long time.
Trucks
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon Trucks and WheelsThe skateboard comes with mini logo trucks that are more than sufficient for kids. The carving capabilities of this board are particularly noteworthy.
We didn’t observe any deformations after performing tricks, which indicates the bushings are sufficiently hard and do not require any adjustments.
My son had no issues steering and correcting his riding direction. While not as responsive as the SkateXS skateboard, it’s still a very reasonable budget option.
Wheels
The wheels offer good grip and stability. They are softer compared to professional skateboard wheels, which is a benefit for beginners. We tested the wheels on various surfaces like asphalt, steel, concrete, and wood and they performed well.
If your kid is an advanced skateboarder, these wheels might not be ideal, as tricks like power slides can cause flat spots on the surface. However, for those cases, a custom, professional skateboard would be a better investment.
Powell Peralta Golden Dragon Wheels and Trucks
Bearings
The skateboard includes standard bearings that perform adequately—they are neither too fast nor too slow. We didn’t observe any strange sounds or wheel jamming due to faulty bearings.
I suggest using a bit of silicon lubricant to enhance their performance; just a single drop can make a noticeable difference.
When riding on rougher surfaces, it requires more effort to build up speed, but it is manageable.
Conclusion
The Golden Dragon skateboard by Powell Peralta is a solid choice for kids, especially those under the age of 12. Its eye-catching dragon design is a major plus for kids.
In terms of performance, it’s a good starting board for beginners. The adjustable trucks and durable birch deck will serve most kids well for starting out, and while it may not be the best for advanced tricks, it’s a cost-effective option that also featured in our list of the top 5 best skateboards for beginner kids.
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