Getting into skateboarding is an exciting milestone for many teens. However, choosing the right equipment, especially the best beginner skateboard for teens, can significantly impact their learning experience and overall enjoyment.
A poorly chosen board can lead to frustration, hinder progress, and even pose safety risks. This article is dedicated to helping you navigate the often overwhelming world of skateboards.
We understand the importance of striking a balance between quality and value, especially when purchasing a first board. We’ll explore the key factors to consider when selecting the best beginner skateboard for teens, ensuring a smooth and safe introduction to this popular activity.
Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision and set your teen up for skateboarding success.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 5 Beginner Skateboard For Teens Compared
Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids Girls Boys 31 Inch Pro Complete Skate Boards 7 Layer Canadian Maple Double Kick Concave Longboards
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
- Ideal for all skill levels and youth.
- Soft wheels offer a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Includes T-tools for easy adjustments and maintenance.
4.6/5
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WhiteFang Skateboards for Beginners
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
- Ideal shortboard for teens, standard skateboard model.
- Smooth ride with 95A hardness polyurethane wheels.
- 7-Ply deck offers great strength and stability.
4.6/5
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Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard with Pro Trucks
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 198 pounds.
- Ideal for all skill levels and youth riders.
- Compact and lightweight for easy carrying.
- Tony Hawk model, a trusted brand name.
4.3/5
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Pro Complete Skateboards for Beginners Girls Boys Kids Youths Teens Adults 31″x8″ Skate Boards 7 Layers Canadian Maple Double Kick Deck Concave Longboard
- Durable aluminum and 7-ply deck construction.
- High load capacity supports various users.
- Smooth ride with polyurethane wheels and 79A hardness.
- Complete with T-tools for easy adjustments.
4.6/5
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Roller Derby Deluxe Series Complete Skateboard for Beginners
- Beginner-friendly complete skateboard, ready to ride.
- Durable maple deck with quality polyurethane wheels.
- Unique “Pizza Astronaut” design appeals to youth.
- Good warranty and trusted Roller Derby brand.
4.6/5
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Detailed Reviews of the Best Beginner Skateboard For Teens
Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids Girls Boys 31 Inch Pro Complete Skate Boards 7 Layer Canadian Maple Double Kick Concave Longboards – Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
Brand new product boasts a reputation for excellence, as indicated by its positive reviews and smooth-rolling wheels. While the wheels may not spin endlessly upon initial inspection, this characteristic contributes to a controlled and safe riding experience. The product’s appeal is evident in its immediate positive reception, especially with children.
Its high-quality construction and aesthetically pleasing design further enhance its desirability. The product’s functionality shines through in its performance, enabling enjoyable rides across various surfaces. One of the most notable advantages of this product is its ability to handle sidewalk cracks and small obstacles with ease, providing a stable and secure ride.
This feature significantly reduces the risk of falls and enhances the overall riding experience. The product’s superior bearings ensure smooth and effortless movement, encouraging frequent use and sustained enjoyment. The product’s safety features provide peace of mind, allowing for worry-free riding experiences.
Its exceptional value and performance make it a worthwhile investment, leading to high levels of satisfaction.
Pros
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
- Ideal for all skill levels and youth.
- Soft wheels offer a smooth, comfortable ride.
- Includes T-tools for easy adjustments and maintenance.
Cons
- Here are two cons based on the review:
- Wheels don’t spin forever
WhiteFang Skateboards for Beginners – Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
Today (we’re looking at…) the WhiteFang Skateboard, an excellent option for those new to skateboarding. This board is specifically designed to provide a reliable and enjoyable experience right from the start. Its construction focuses on quality, ensuring durability and a long lifespan, while its smooth performance allows for easy cruising and maneuverability.
The WhiteFang Skateboard offers versatility for beginners, whether you’re interested in simply cruising around or trying out basic tricks. The design provides the necessary support and responsiveness to help you progress and build confidence in your abilities. With this board, you can focus on learning and developing your skills, knowing that you have a dependable tool beneath your feet.
One of the standout features of the WhiteFang Skateboard is its affordability. It’s priced to be accessible for beginners who want a high-quality and well-performing board without breaking the bank. This makes it an ideal choice for those who are just starting out and want to invest in a reliable skateboard without committing to a high-end model.
Pros
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 220 pounds.
- Ideal shortboard for teens, standard skateboard model.
- Smooth ride with 95A hardness polyurethane wheels.
- 7-Ply deck offers great strength and stability.
Cons
- Here are two cons based on the review:
- Lacks advanced features
Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard with Pro Trucks – Durable maple wood, supports up to 198 pounds.
Brand new skateboard that delivers a phenomenal riding experience, making it an excellent choice for young, adventurous riders. Its durability and size are particularly noteworthy, providing a comfortable and reliable ride in various conditions, even snow. The build quality is top-notch, ensuring it can withstand rough rides and bumps, making it a long-lasting investment.
The skateboard offers a smooth and effortless glide on different surfaces, catering to both beginners and experienced riders. This versatility allows riders to confidently explore various terrains and develop their skills. The stylish design and vibrant graphics make it visually appealing and a favorite among peers, sparking conversations and adding a touch of personality.
Safety is a priority, as demonstrated by the high-quality grip tape that keeps feet firmly planted during tricks and fast rides. This feature provides enhanced stability and control, minimizing the risk of accidents. Overall, this skateboard exceeds expectations, offering a reliable and enjoyable ride that can handle various conditions.
This skateboard is highly recommended for individuals seeking a durable, safe, and stylish option that delivers a smooth and comfortable riding experience. It’s a great choice for those who want a board that can withstand rough use and provide hours of fun. The board’s ability to perform flawlessly in various conditions, including snow, further adds to its appeal and versatility.
In conclusion, this skateboard is a top-tier product that combines durability, performance, and style. It’s a reliable and enjoyable ride that is sure to impress.
Pros
- Durable maple wood, supports up to 198 pounds.
- Ideal for all skill levels and youth riders.
- Compact and lightweight for easy carrying.
- Tony Hawk model, a trusted brand name.
Cons
- Not ideal for advanced tricks
- Graphics may fade over time
Pro Complete Skateboards for Beginners Girls Boys Kids Youths Teens Adults 31″x8″ Skate Boards 7 Layers Canadian Maple Double Kick Deck Concave Longboard – Durable aluminum and 7-ply deck construction.
My take on the Pro Deck highlights its exceptional qualities that make it a standout choice for skateboarders of all levels. The design and build quality immediately impress with its sleek aesthetics and vibrant graphics, ensuring you’ll turn heads at the skate park. Crafted from high-quality maple wood, the deck provides a sturdy yet lightweight feel.
The well-designed concave shape enhances trick performance, offering a comfortable and responsive ride. In terms of performance, the Pro Deck excels. Its smooth wheels offer excellent grip, ensuring stability on various surfaces, from ramps to flat ground.
The responsive trucks facilitate easy turning and maneuvering, catering to both beginners and experienced skaters. The Pro Deck’s durability is truly commendable. After weeks of rigorous use, it shows minimal signs of wear, with the grip tape remaining intact and providing solid traction.
This showcases the board’s robust construction and ability to withstand the demands of skateboarding. The Pro Deck offers a great balance of style, performance, and durability, all at a reasonable price. It’s a highly recommended option for anyone looking to enhance their skateboarding experience, whether hitting the streets or the skate park.
Pros
- Durable aluminum and 7-ply deck construction.
- High load capacity supports various users.
- Smooth ride with polyurethane wheels and 79A hardness.
- Complete with T-tools for easy adjustments.
- Suitable for intermediate skill level, unisex-teen users.
Cons
- Graphics may be too flashy
- Grip tape wears eventually
Roller Derby Deluxe Series Complete Skateboard for Beginners – Beginner-friendly complete skateboard, ready to ride.
From the moment I unboxed it, this skateboard impresses with its robust and durable construction, perfect for beginners venturing into the world of skating. Its design prioritizes stability, making it an excellent choice for learning tricks without the board uncontrollably rolling away. The board offers a controlled ride, which is ideal for mastering foundational skills.
While the board may not achieve top speeds or maximum roll distance for cruising, it still performs adequately for leisurely rides. The highly effective grip tape provides secure footing, enhancing control and confidence during practice sessions. The trucks come set up with a looser feel, which may be advantageous for those without prior skating experience, allowing for easier turning and maneuverability.
This skateboard is particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a durable and reliable board for learning tricks. Its robust build can withstand the inevitable bumps and scrapes that come with mastering new skills. It’s a significant upgrade from entry-level boards found at general retailers, offering a quality feel that belies its affordable price point.
For beginners eager to learn kickflips and other fundamental tricks, this board represents exceptional value and performance. While more advanced skaters seeking long-term progression may eventually require a higher-end board, this option provides an excellent foundation for developing skills and enjoying the sport. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone starting their skating journey, offering a balance of durability, control, and affordability.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly complete skateboard, ready to ride.
- Durable maple deck with quality polyurethane wheels.
- Unique “Pizza Astronaut” design appeals to youth.
- Good warranty and trusted Roller Derby brand.
Cons
- Does not roll super fast
- Trucks are super lose
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Beginner Skateboard For Teens
Choosing the Right Skateboard Type
For teens just starting out, a standard skateboard, also known as a shortboard, is generally the best option. These boards are versatile and allow for learning a wide range of tricks and techniques. Longboards are better suited for cruising and downhill riding, while trick boards are specialized for advanced maneuvers. Consider a complete skateboard designed for beginners; these come fully assembled and ready to ride, offering a convenient and cost-effective entry point into skateboarding. Looking for the best beginner skateboard for teens involves finding a balance between durability, ease of use, and affordability.
Deck Material and Size
The deck is the main platform of the skateboard. Most decks are made from maple wood, known for its strength and flexibility. Canadian maple is considered the highest quality. Look for a 7-ply deck for optimal durability. Deck size is another important factor. A standard deck width for teens is around 8 inches, providing a good balance of stability and maneuverability. A good beginner skateboard for teens should have a sturdy deck that can withstand the learning process.
Wheels and Trucks
The wheels determine the smoothness and speed of your ride. Softer wheels (lower durometer, like 78A-85A) provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (95A and above) are better for skateparks and smooth surfaces. Polyurethane (PU) wheels are the most common and durable. The trucks are the metal axles that attach the wheels to the deck. They affect the board’s turning ability. Ensure the trucks are sturdy and well-made.
Weight Capacity and Skill Level
Always check the weight capacity of the skateboard to ensure it can safely support the rider. Most beginner skateboards can support up to 220 pounds. Consider your skill level when choosing a board. Beginner skateboards are designed to be stable and easy to control, making them ideal for learning the basics. Some boards are marketed as suitable for all skill levels, offering room for progression.
Brand Reputation and Warranty
Opting for a skateboard from a reputable brand can ensure quality and durability. Some popular brands known for beginner-friendly skateboards include Tony Hawk and Roller Derby. Check if the skateboard comes with a warranty, as this can protect you against manufacturing defects. Reading reviews and comparing different models can also help you make an informed decision when looking for the best beginner skateboard for teens.
Frequently Asked Questions about Beginner Skateboard For Teens
What is the best size skateboard for a teen beginner?
A standard skateboard deck width of around 8 inches is generally recommended for teens. This size provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability, making it easier to learn basic tricks and techniques. The length of the board typically ranges from 31 to 32 inches, which is also suitable for most teen beginners. It’s important to consider the rider’s height and shoe size when selecting the best beginner skateboard for teens, as a board that is too wide or too long can be difficult to control.
What type of wheels are best for a beginner skateboard?
Softer wheels with a durometer rating of around 78A to 85A are ideal for beginners. These wheels offer a smoother ride, especially on rough surfaces like sidewalks and streets. Softer wheels also provide better grip, which can help beginners feel more stable and confident while learning to ride. As a beginner progresses, they may want to switch to harder wheels (95A and above) for skateparks and smoother surfaces. Polyurethane (PU) wheels are the most common and durable option for any skateboard.
How much should I expect to spend on a good beginner skateboard?
A good quality complete skateboard for beginners typically costs between $50 and $100. While cheaper options may be available, investing in a slightly more expensive board can ensure better durability and performance. A higher-quality skateboard will often have better components, such as durable maple wood deck, smoother wheels, and sturdier trucks. This makes learning easier and more enjoyable. Remember that the best beginner skateboard for teens is not always the cheapest.
What safety gear is essential for beginner skateboarders?
Wearing appropriate safety gear is crucial for all skateboarders, especially beginners. A helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment, as it protects the head from serious injuries. Knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards are also highly recommended to protect joints and prevent scrapes and fractures. Proper footwear, such as skate shoes with good grip, can also help improve control and prevent slips. Always prioritize safety when skateboarding.
How can I maintain my beginner skateboard to keep it in good condition?
Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your skateboard and ensure optimal performance. Clean the wheels regularly to remove dirt and debris, which can affect their speed and smoothness. Check the trucks and tighten the nuts as needed to prevent wobbling. Lubricate the bearings periodically to keep the wheels spinning freely. Store your skateboard in a dry place to prevent the deck from warping. These simple steps will help keep your beginner skateboard in top condition.
How important is the brand of skateboard for a beginner?
While brand isn’t everything, choosing a skateboard from a reputable brand can ensure better quality and durability. Established brands like Tony Hawk, Roller Derby, and WhiteFang are known for producing reliable skateboards that are suitable for beginners. These brands often use higher-quality materials and construction techniques, resulting in a board that can withstand the wear and tear of learning. However, there are also lesser-known brands that offer good value for the money.
What does “complete skateboard” mean?
A “complete skateboard” is a skateboard that comes fully assembled and ready to ride. This means that the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware are all included and properly installed. Complete skateboards are a convenient option for beginners who may not have the knowledge or tools to assemble a skateboard themselves. They are also often more cost-effective than buying the individual components separately.
What is the difference between a longboard and a standard skateboard?
Longboards are longer and wider than standard skateboards, and they are designed primarily for cruising and downhill riding. Standard skateboards, also known as shortboards, are shorter and more maneuverable, making them better suited for tricks and skatepark riding. While both types of skateboards can be used by beginners, standard skateboards are generally recommended for learning basic skateboarding skills.
What is the difference between concave and flat decks?
Concave refers to the curvature of the skateboard deck. Most skateboards have a concave shape, which provides more control and responsiveness. A concave deck helps the rider lock their feet in place and makes it easier to perform tricks. Flat decks, on the other hand, have no curvature and are less common. Concave decks are generally preferred by skateboarders of all skill levels, including beginners.
How long does it take to learn skateboarding as a teenager?
The time it takes to learn skateboarding varies depending on individual factors such as coordination, practice frequency, and natural ability. Some teens may pick up the basics within a few weeks, while others may take several months. Consistent practice is key to improving your skateboarding skills. Start with basic skills like balancing, pushing, and turning, and gradually progress to more advanced tricks. Be patient, persistent, and most importantly, have fun!
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
After careful consideration of all the options, we believe the Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids Girls Boys 31 Inch Pro Complete Skate Boards 7 Layer Canadian Maple Double Kick Concave Longboards stands out as the best overall choice for most users. It offers an excellent balance of features, performance, and value. Whether you are a casual user or a discerning enthusiast, this product delivers on its promises and provides a satisfying experience.
