Over the years, I’ve personally tested around 40 skateboards and nearly 20 cruiser skateboards. Many complete skateboards on the market are essentially the same, often with noticeable flaws. If you prefer not to assemble a skateboard yourself, there are definitely some decent pre-assembled options available. However, determining a quality complete skateboard can be tricky. A complete skateboard is a great starting point for learning, but only if you choose the right one. After extensive testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best complete skateboards currently available:
- CCS Complete Skateboard
- Birdhouse Skateboards
- Santa Cruz Classic Dot
- SkateXS Kids Board
- Arbor Pilsner (cruiser)
10 Recommended Skateboards
The following brands (Arbor, CCS, Santa Cruz, Birdhouse, etc.) all offer a range of skateboards, from high-end to budget-friendly. However, a few particular models stand out. The most affordable option we recommend is the CCS complete, which serves as an excellent starter board for skate parks. Birdhouse provides high-quality parts, while Santa Cruz strikes a balance between quality and price. We’ve also included the Tony Hawk Signature Series, a very budget-friendly board that, while not exceptional, is still a viable option. Finally, for those who prioritize cruising, we’ve included the Arbor Pilsner.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission.
SkateXS Beginner Skateboard (Best for Kids)
SkateXS Skateboards
SkateXS offers a premium setup perfectly tailored for beginner kids aged 5 to 12. We’ve tested this board extensively, and it continues to perform exceptionally well. It features top-quality trucks, vibrant wheels, kid-friendly graphics, and a durable maple/bamboo deck.
Key features:
- High-quality bamboo/maple deck
- SkateXS Trucks
- Standard Hardware
- SkateXS Bearings
- 52mm/90A soft wheels
- Customizable griptape
The SkateXS is a safe choice, requiring no truck adjustments upon arrival. The bushings are specifically designed for children, ensuring excellent control and stability.
skateXS advanced trucks advanced trucks
skatexs skateboard graphics various graphics on SkateXS boards
Girl riding skateXS skateboard a young girl learning on a SkateXS board
SkateXS skateboard wheels colorful SkateXS wheels
skatexs colored grip tape and custom name customized SkateXS griptape with a name
SkateXS skateboard up close close up of a SkateXS deck
No other brand offers this level of quality and combination of components for kids at a comparable price point. The basic version is available in many colors, and you can even personalize it with a name.
Birdhouse Complete: Best Under $120
Birdhouse skateboard trucks
The Birdhouse complete offers a great balance of durability and performance, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Key features:
- Durable maple deck, medium concave, excellent pop
- Birdhouse trucks with a lifetime guarantee
- Great for technical skating
- Proven to last over two years with minor wear.
Initially skeptical, I decided to test this board after seeing positive reviews. While reviews are often from gift-givers, I wanted to evaluate it myself. The Birdhouse complete is not designed for hardcore skaters but is perfect for kids and beginners. A local skater has been riding this board for almost a year, and it’s still in great condition, with only a small chip near the nose, which is normal.
birdhouse skateboard trucks and wheels close-up of Birdhouse trucks and wheels
birdhouse skateboard bottom graphic on the bottom of a Birdhouse deck
birdhouse skateboard top full view of a Birdhouse skateboard
The 100a wheels are versatile for both street and park use, and the trucks can handle a lot of abuse. We’ve even upgraded the wheels to enhance the overall performance. Make sure to adjust the trucks, as they may arrive a bit loose. This is a highly recommended, quality skateboard at an affordable price.
Specifications:
- Length: 31.75 inches
- Width: 8.0 inches
- 52mm/100a wheels
- Truck Width: 8.0
- 7-ply maple deck
- Standard bearings
Santa Cruz Classic Dot
Santa Cruz Complete skateboard classic dot
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot is a reliable complete skateboard known for its smooth ride and durable components, making it great for beginner and intermediate skaters.
Key Features:
- Softer wheels suitable for beginners
- Durable trucks
- Birch skateboard deck
- Comfortable ride, handles pebbles and cracks well
- Functional, but standard bearings
Santa Cruz skateboard side view side view of a Santa Cruz skateboard
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Santa Cruz Complete skateboard classic dot
santa cruz child skateboard trucks closeup of Santa Cruz trucks
Santa Cruz kids skateboard OJ wheels close up OJ wheels on a Santa Cruz board
Santa Cruz trucks and OJ wheels close up Santa Cruz trucks and OJ wheels
Santa Cruz kids skateboard Santa Cruz skateboard with different graphics
The slightly softer wheels provide added grip and stability on uneven surfaces. This board is suitable for both adults and kids, provided you select the right size. The trucks are stable, not too loose, and easy to upgrade.
CCS Complete (Best Quality Budget)
CCS complete skateboard in a park
The CCS complete skateboard is an excellent entry-level option, offering great value at an affordable price (approximately $70 USD). It’s not a top-of-the-line board but is well-suited for beginners. We were impressed by its performance during testing. For a more detailed look, check out our CCS skateboard review.
While the trucks may not be as durable as more expensive options, they are sufficient for basic tricks, curbs, and stairs. This complete is ideal for skate parks due to the 52mm/100a wheels, which are hard and small. It’s not ideal for cruising on rough streets, but excellent on smooth surfaces. The bearings are functional and should last for some time.
Available in sizes from 7.0″ to 8.5″ wide. Boards up to 7.5″ are ideal for kids under 10, and 7.75″ to 8.25″ are great for technical skaters. Wider boards offer more stability. The bushings are firm and require a break-in period, but loosening the trucks can help.
This board is a fantastic value, being the most budget-friendly option on this list. It’s a great choice for those seeking a decent skateboard without a hefty price tag.
Specifications:
- Deck width between 7.0″ and 8.5″
- 7-ply maple wood deck
- CCS trucks
- 52mm 100a wheels
- Standard bearings
CCS wheels small, hard CCS wheels
CCS skateboard trucks close-up of CCS trucks
CCS complete deck side view side view of the CCS deck
CCS skateboard deck top view of CCS maple deck
CCS complete full view of CCS complete
CCS skateboard wheels and bearings CCS wheels and bearings
The CCS complete is the most affordable quality skateboard available. It can endure heavy use, but the hard wheels might not be comfortable on rough surfaces. The deck is beginner-friendly, offering more stability. Many designs are available.
Arbor Pilsner Cruiser
Arbor Pilsner deck top view
The Arbor Pilsner is a top-tier cruiser skateboard that’s a personal favorite, offering a fantastic riding experience.
Key features:
- Ideal for commuting or aggressive riding
- High-quality, well-matched components
- Responsive, but may be less suitable for beginners
The amber-colored wheels are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, perfectly complementing the deck and trucks. The concave design enhances performance for more aggressive rides.
The Paris trucks are far superior to those found on other complete cruisers, and the bearings are exceptionally smooth and fast. The Pilsner is an outstanding mini-cruiser and is well worth considering for those who prioritize comfortable cruising and basic tricks.
The Arbor Pilsner outperforms many comparable models, such as the Landyachtz Dinghy.
Arbor Pilsner Features:
- 129mm Paris street trucks, top-mounted
- 7 Ply Canadian Maple with a Premium Palisander Wood Finish
- Wheels: 61mm/78A, 36mm contact patch
- ABEC 5 Bearings with Spacers
- 1/8″ Hard Risers
- Glass Re-Grit grip tape (recycled)
Arbor Pilsner trucks Arbor Pilsner trucks
Arbor Pilsner wheels Arbor Pilsner wheels
A more affordable alternative is the Magneto Mini cruiser. While not as high-performing as the Pilsner, it is a great starter cruiser. See our Magneto Cruiser review for more information.
Element Complete
element skateboard
Element offers a great value complete skateboard suitable for beginners and is favored by many skateboarders. It includes almost all parts from Element.
Key Features:
- Solid components and forgiving ride
- Mellow concave for balance
- Softer 90A wheels for extra grip
- Suitable for tricks and comfortable riding
The soft 90A wheels and mellow concave make this board easy to handle, great for beginners. The bushings, however, may be too soft. Tightening the kingpin nut after a few hours of riding will fix this. The deck is durable and great for learning ollies.
Check for availability on Amazon
Specifications:
- Deck width: 7.75″ to 8.0″
- Deck length: 31.75″
- Wheelbase: varies
- Element 7-ply maple deck
- Element 5.0 Polished Trucks
- Element wheels (hardness varies)
- Soft 90a bushings
- Allen hardware
- Shielded bearings
Santa Cruz Flame Dot
Santa Cruz flame dot skateboard
The Santa Cruz Flame Dot complete is a solid choice with forgiving wheels, a responsive deck, and medium-hard bushings. It’s perfect for beginners learning to ride and perform ollies. The 95A OJ wheels are excellent for beginners, offering a balance of grip and stability.
The 90A bushings are also great for turns and can be adjusted to personal preference. The Bullet trucks are decent and will hold up well for beginner tricks. The decks are made of birch these days and may not have the same pop as maple decks.
Consider a 7.75″ or 8.0″ deck for technical tricks or an 8.25″ for more stability.
Features:
- Deck width: varies
- Deck length: varies
- Wheelbase: varies
- Bullet Trucks with 90A bushings
- 7-ply maple birch deck (graphics vary)
- 54mm 95A wheels
- Shielded bearings
Globe Complete Skateboard
Globe Skateboard
Globe is a reputable brand known for their durable decks. The Globe complete includes Tensor trucks, (Rodney Mullen’s company), and 99a-52mm wheels. This makes it a good choice for riders interested in technical tricks.
This complete is suitable for tricks but less ideal for commuting due to the harder 99a wheels. You can customize it by upgrading to Bones or Spitfire wheels. The Tensor trucks come with a lifetime guarantee.
The Globe G1 skateboard is available on Amazon and is the same board we tested but with different graphics.
Specifications:
- Deck width: 7.75, 8.0, 8.125, and 8.25
- Tensor trucks
- Standard ABEC 7 bearings
- 99a-52mm wheels
- Deck average length: 31.6″
- Wheelbase: 14
Arbor Whiskey Recruit (Great Beginner Skateboard)
Arbor skateboard
The Arbor Whiskey Recruit is a great option for beginners and experienced riders alike. The 54mm 90A wheels offer a smooth ride on various surfaces.
The Ace trucks are very responsive and perfect for grinding and ollies. The 7-ply maple deck and decent setup make it a reliable choice. The softer wheels offer more stability and reduce noise. The low/medium concave is great for beginners.
The bushings might require tightening before your first ride. An 8.25″ is an ideal size for most riders over 14.
Features:
- Width: 8.25″
- Length: 31.75″
- Wheelbase: – varies
- 7-ply maple deck
- Ace Classic Trucks
- 90a/54mm wheels
- Shielded standard bearings
Enjoi Skateboard
enjoi skateboard
This Enjoi complete features Tensor trucks and 53mm 92A street wheels suitable for both street and park skating. The wheels provide a smooth ride on rougher terrains, making it a good option for beginners.
The deck has a medium concave for balance. While the standard bearings are not the best, they are fine for beginners and can be lubricated to improve performance.
The 8.0″ version is great for kids and teens 12 years and older. Be sure to check out our article on best kids skateboards.
The Enjoi is a solid starter skateboard for the price.
Specifications:
- Deck width: 7.625″ to 8.25″
- Deck length: varies
- Wheelbase: varies
- Enjoi 7-ply maple deck
- Tensor Trucks
- 52mm Enjoi street wheels
Tony Hawk Signature 540 Series
tony hawk skateboard
The Tony Hawk Signature Series is surprisingly decent and affordable. The 540 Series is the highest quality in the range and suitable for early intermediate skaters.
While not top-of-the-line, this series offers good value. The deck is made of maple and comes with decent trucks and wheels with spacers. The 54mm wheels make the board faster, but the trucks can be heavy, which can cause a sluggish feel.
The Tony Hawk Signature Series is designed for beginners and not for high-impact skateboarding.
Alien Workshop Full Spectrum
Alien workshop skateboard
The Alien Workshop Full Spectrum is a high-quality skateboard for street and park use, but it is more suitable for kids up to 14 years old. The 97A/52mm wheels are smooth and grippy, forgiving on rough surfaces.
The Xenia trucks are fine for beginners but require tightening due to the soft bushings.
This board is available in sizes 7.75″ and 8.0″.
Specifications:
- Width: 7.75″, 8.0″, 8.25″
- Length: 31.5″.
- Wheelbase: 14.25″
- 52mm/97A wheels
- Basic bearings
- Xenia Trucks
What Makes a Good Skateboard?
The most critical aspects of a good skateboard are performance and durability. It should withstand impact, roll smoothly, offer sufficient balance, and fit your skating style. A quality skateboard consists of a stiff 7-ply hard rock maple deck, smooth bearings, durable wheels, and robust trucks.
Many complete skateboards meet some of these criteria, but some only have a good deck with low-quality components. An appealing graphic is a great motivator for skaters.
The skateboards below offer the best value, durability, and performance.
| Cheapest High Quality | Most Durable Skateboard | |
 Birdhouse Skateboard Complete Tony Hawk Icon Red 8.0 Birdhouse Skateboard Complete Tony Hawk Icon Red 8.0 |
||
| CCS Flames Skateboard 8.0″ | Birdhouse Skateboard Complete Tony Hawk Icon Red 8.0″ | |
| – Best value- Only for tricks and skate parks- Available in all sizes.- Not comfortable to cruise. | – Most durable beginner skateboard we tested- Great for skate parks and street skateboarding- Not suitable for rough surfaces | |
| Check Price | Check Price | |
| Cheap Reliable Cruiser | ||
 Magneto Mini Cruiser Magneto Mini Cruiser |
||
| Magneto Mini Cruiser | ||
| – Not the best cruiser, but it works!- Suitable for all ages.- Very affordable.- Not for tricks, great for cruising. | ||
| Check Price |
Beginners will hardly notice the difference between a professional and a decent complete skateboard. Avoid skateboards in the $30 to $50 price range. These are often low-quality, unsafe, and prone to breaking easily.
low-quality skateboard wrapped in plastic
What Does a Decent Skateboard Cost?
A quality skateboard costs between $70 and $250 USD. Assembling a skateboard yourself is usually more expensive. Budget boards start at about $30, but are not recommended as they are unsafe and break quickly. Additional costs such as gear should also be considered. See our detailed guide on skateboarding costs for more information.
What Size Skateboard Should I Get?
Use your shoe size as a starting point when choosing a skateboard. If you have a shoe size between 6 and 9, consider a 7.75″ to 8″ wide board. This prevents your feet from sticking out and making it difficult to control the board. An 8.0″ is the industry standard, but smaller riders might prefer a 7″ – 7.5″ board. Riders with a shoe size of 9.5+ should consider boards in the 8″ – 8.5″ range, and skaters with a size around 12 or larger should look at boards between 8.5″ to 9″. Skateboard size is ultimately a matter of personal preference and skating style. See our recommendations for kid sized skateboards if you need more guidance.
| Shoe Size | Skateboard Size |
|---|---|
| 6 – 9 | 7.75″ – 8″ |
| 9.5+ | 8″ – 8.5″ |
| 12 | 8.5″ – 9″ |
The length of a skateboard is proportional to its width. Wider boards are longer, and narrower boards are shorter, so don’t worry about length when choosing.
Skateboard, Cruiser, or Longboard?
There are three main types of skateboards: traditional skateboards, cruisers, and longboards. See our guide on the differences between skateboards, cruisers, and longboards for more information.
Traditional Skateboards
- Size: Approximately 31-33 inches long, with widths ranging from 6.5-7.5 inches for kids and 7.6-8.5 for those aged 12+. Wheels: Small and hard for smooth surfaces.
- Purpose: Designed for tricks in the streets and skate parks. Features a nose and kicktail.
Cruiser Skateboards
- Size: Similar in length to traditional boards but with unique shapes and widths between 7-10 inches. Wheels: larger and softer for comfort on rough terrain.
- Purpose: Designed for short commutes and quick turns. Usually only has a kicktail.
Longboards
- Size: Longer boards, typically between 34-60 inches, and widths between 9-10 inches. Wheels: Larger and softer for comfort and rougher surfaces.
- Purpose: Designed for long-distance cruising, downhill racing, and carving. Often doesn’t have a kicktail.
Wider boards are generally more stable, which is ideal for beginners and for cruising.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Complete Skateboard
Buying a complete skateboard is a good option for beginners. However, they often have medium-quality components that may not perform well over time.
- Deck: Often high-quality.
- Wheels: Quality varies, and they may wear out quickly.
- Bearings: Often made of cheap materials and can cause issues with wheel spinning.
- Bushings: Can be too soft or too hard, affecting the board’s turning speed.
Wheels are often made of low-quality polyurethane and can develop flat spots quickly. Higher quality wheels can last much longer. Bearings are often the cause of most complaints, and bushings may be too soft or too hard for some riders.
Do not buy a complete skateboard if you are serious about skateboarding long term. You will need to upgrade parts which can end up costing more in the long run.
Skateboard Parts Explained
skateboard parts explained
Here’s a brief overview of the key skateboard parts. A detailed guide is included later in this article.
- Deck: The flat platform on which you stand.
- Trucks: Metal components that connect the wheels to the deck.
- Wheels: Polyurethane components that enable movement.
- Bearings: Small devices that allow smooth wheel rotation.
- Grip Tape: A gritty surface on the top of the deck for traction.
- Hardware: Nuts and bolts that hold the skateboard together.
- Bushings: Rubber or urethane parts within the trucks that control turning.
- Riser Pads: Optional cushions between the deck and trucks for added height.
- Nose and Tail: The front and rear ends of the deck.
How to Pick the Right Skateboard Parts
Choosing your own skateboard parts usually leads to higher quality but can also be more expensive. It also requires some assembly, but many shops offer assembly as an option. Your local skate shop can provide advice based on your budget and style.
If you don’t have a local skate shop, buying online is also a good option.
Step 1. Pick a Style
Determine your preferred style of riding before choosing parts. There are different setups available for different styles. You can visit one of these articles for more details:
- Setups for Heavy Riders
- Setups for skateparks
- Setups for Cruising
- Setups for Beginners
- Setups for Street
- Setups for Transition
- [Setups for Mini Ramps](https://www.skateboardershq.com/best
