The ideal skateboard for performing tricks typically features a deck width between 7.75 and 8.25 inches. For wheels, look for a durometer between 99A and 100A, ensuring high rebound. Conical-shaped wheels with a narrow contact patch, ideally around 52-54mm in diameter, are also recommended. The trucks should match the width of your board to maintain optimal balance and control.
Before diving in, it’s important to note that this isn’t about listing and selling specific skateboards. Instead, we’ll explore the critical factors that influence a skateboard’s performance when doing tricks. To achieve peak performance, assembling a skateboard yourself by selecting the right parts is the best route. We’ll provide a few suggestions towards the end, but let’s first delve into what makes a skateboard truly suitable for tricks.
Various skateboard decks and components laid out on a wooden surface
Understanding Trick Skateboards
For personalized recommendations, consider visiting your local skate shop. The staff there can offer invaluable assistance, helping you choose components that align with your budget and preferences. Use the information here to guide your questions—most skate shop employees are passionate about skateboarding and eager to share their knowledge.
Be cautious of articles that simply list a few boards as the “best for tricks.” These pieces often lack practical insight, written by individuals who might not have ever stepped on a skateboard.
If you prefer a ready-made setup, there are a number of good options available. You can find a decent complete skateboard for under $100, which is ideal for beginners. While they might not excel in specific areas, they offer excellent value for the money. These completes are a good starting point, allowing you to upgrade gradually as your skills develop. Alternatively, you can assemble a custom setup.
If you’re short on time and prefer not to assemble a skateboard yourself, here are two recommendations that are both affordable and great for tricks:
Please note: The following include affiliate links. This means that we may receive a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. We’ve rigorously tested these boards and would never recommend products that we don’t truly believe in.
CCS Complete Skateboard
The CCS complete skateboard offers exceptional value. It features small 52mm/100A wheels, durable trucks, and a responsive deck. The bushings are initially quite stiff, requiring some time to break in. It’s suitable for both street skating and skate parks, though the harder wheels might feel less comfortable on rough asphalt. Its affordability makes it an excellent budget-friendly option, and it has been a popular beginner choice for many years. An 8.0″ or 8.25″ size is a safe bet, providing a good balance between width and maneuverability. Check its current price on Amazon.
Birdhouse Complete Skateboard
A Birdhouse complete skateboard is positioned on a flat surface
The Birdhouse complete skateboard is constructed with higher-quality components than the CCS model, but comes at a slightly higher price point. It includes more durable trucks and wheels that provide a smoother ride. This complete setup is a great option for under $100. Taller skaters should opt for an 8.25″, while an 8.0″ is perfect for younger skaters. This skateboard is capable of handling any trick and is designed to last. Check its availability on Amazon.
Trick Skateboard Buying Guide
Generally, any popsicle-shaped skateboard can be used for tricks. However, building your own custom skateboard allows for maximum performance. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components and how they impact trick performance:
Wheel Quality
The quality of your skateboard wheels significantly impacts performance. Skateboard wheels are made from polyurethane, a type of plastic. Premium wheels are made from carefully formulated mixtures, refined over decades. Brands like Bones and Spitfire have mastered their formulas, offering some of the best wheels for tricks.
While cheaper wheels might be appealing, they can have issues with the polyurethane mixture, which can affect durability and performance. For a more budget-friendly option, consider Mini Logo wheels.
Several factors determine a wheel’s suitability for tricks. These include:
- Diameter
- Hardness
- Rebound
- Shape
Wheel Diameter
Smaller wheels enhance responsiveness, making them ideal for tricks. While larger wheels are better suited for bowls and vert ramps, smaller wheels are better for street and park skating. A 52mm wheel is a great starting point. Here’s why smaller wheels are preferable for tricks:
- Faster acceleration
- Enhanced responsiveness
- Reduced mass for easier flips and pops (though technique plays a bigger role)
- Easier grinding
A diagram illustrating the relationship between skateboard wheel size, speed, and acceleration
Wheel Rebound
Harder wheels, while less comfortable on rough surfaces, are ideal for tricks due to their lower rebound. Rebound refers to how much a wheel deforms and returns to its original shape. Softer wheels have more friction and a higher rebound, which can make it more challenging to land tricks cleanly. Landing primo, where you land on the side of the board, is more likely with high-rebound wheels. You can test this by dropping a skateboard on the ground and observing its bounce and sound.
Wheel Shape
Wheel shape affects performance. Rounded wheels have less surface friction, while square wheels make full contact with the ground. For tricks, choose radial, conical, or classic-shaped wheels. Conical and full conical wheels are excellent for skate parks and rails, providing a secure lock and easy release. Classic-shaped wheels are also responsive and have a smaller contact area. Avoid wide wheels, which don’t respond as quickly.
Contact Patch
The contact patch is the area where the wheel touches the ground. For tricks, you need wheels with a narrower contact patch. This increases responsiveness but reduces grip.
Skateboard Trucks and Performance
Choosing the right skateboard trucks often sparks debate, with preferences for either Thunder or Independent trucks. Both are excellent options, and preference often comes down to personal choice. From an economic standpoint, Independent trucks are often preferred for their durability.
Thunder trucks are lower and are commonly chosen for technical skating. Many skaters prefer them for their responsiveness and grinding capabilities. Some argue that changing bushings can influence a truck’s responsiveness. The responsiveness is crucial for making quick corrections. If you prioritize precision for trick performance, Thunder trucks are the top choice. However, Independent trucks are the go-to choice for skaters who prioritize longevity and mainly skate transitions.
For technical skating, many prefer low trucks. Low trucks sit closer to the board and ground, lowering the center of gravity. This can make flip tricks and popping your board easier.
The most important thing is not to skimp on the quality of trucks. Save money on wheels or bearings instead.
Bushings and Hardness
Bushings are made from polyurethane, and the ideal hardness depends on your weight. They come with the trucks, often requiring some breaking in. Many street skaters use Bones Hardcore bushings for their responsiveness. A durometer around 92A is generally suitable, though your weight and preferences might require adjustments. Tightening or loosening bushings affects responsiveness. For a detailed understanding, refer to a comprehensive guide on skateboard bushings.
Skateboard Trick Decks and Shapes
The deck’s width, size, pop, and stiffness play a role. Narrower decks are more responsive, while wider ones offer more stability. An 8.0″ deck is standard for technical skating, while 7.75″ is still a solid choice. An 8.25″ deck is ideal if you plan to skate transition. Ensure your deck is made from quality maple wood.
Single Pressed Decks
Choose a single-pressed deck. The mold and quality of the wood are critical, with cheaper decks being prone to warping. Some manufacturers press multiple decks at once, which can lead to deformations. Also consider where your deck was shipped from and how, as exposure to moisture during shipping can ruin the deck. A single pressed deck, sourced from a reputable manufacturer, is always preferred. When unsure, ask your local skate shop for advice.
Nose and Tail
The shape and height of the nose and tail are also factors in popping and flipping the deck. The nose is typically higher and pointier than the tail. Your preferred shape is something you develop as you gain experience.
Concave
Concave refers to the curvature across the deck and how it responds to your movements. Concave varies, with some brands offering mellow concave and others offering steep concave. Mellow concave provides more stability, making it easier to find your footing, while steep concave can make flip tricks easier.
Wrapping Up
Skateboarding requires dedication and time. Don’t get discouraged by bad equipment or a few minor injuries. Always wear protective gear, especially when attempting tricks beyond your current ability. Skate within your skill level and prioritize your technique and practice over everything else. With proper practice you will progress.
With 20 years of skateboarding experience, I have learned that skateboarding stays with you for life and will help you make friends.
Also, be sure to check out these related resources:
- Setups for Heavy Riders
- Setups for Beginners
- Setups for Street
- Setups for Parks
- Setups for Transition
- Setups for Mini Ramps
- Setups for Pools & Bowls
- Setups for Cruising
A headshot of Ruben Vee, the author of this article
Ruben Vee
I’m a lifelong skateboarder who started riding 25 years ago. I love exploring and sharing my passion for skateboarding gear.
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