Getting your child into skateboarding can be an exciting adventure, but with so many options out there, how do you pick the best skateboards for kids? You want something safe, durable, fun, and easy for them to learn on. It’s not just about flashy graphics; it’s about the right size, quality components, and features that match their skill level.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the top picks, making sure your young rider gets the perfect set of wheels to kickstart their shredding journey. Whether they’re just starting out or looking to master new tricks, we’ve got options that’ll make them smile. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose a Kid-Specific Skateboard?
Kids’ skateboards aren’t just smaller versions of adult boards. They’re often designed with features like softer wheels for a smoother ride, more stable trucks, and appropriate deck sizes to help maintain balance and control. Investing in a good quality beginner skateboard can make all the difference in building confidence and fostering a love for the sport.
Our Top 10 Best Skateboards for Kids
Here are our hand-picked selections, reviewed to help you find that ideal ride!
WhiteFang Skateboards for Beginners, Complete Skateboard 31…
This WhiteFang complete skateboard is a fantastic all-rounder, designed to give beginners a solid foundation while also being robust enough for experienced young riders to practice new tricks. Its double kick concave design isn’t just for aesthetics; it truly helps with control and learning to maneuver, making it a standout choice for those eager to progress. The sturdy Canadian maple deck ensures it can take a beating, which is exactly what you need when kids are figuring things out!
Key Features:
- Durable 7-layer Canadian maple deck (31.75″x7.88″) with double kick concave.
- High-speed 95A PU wheels with ABEC9 bearings and 95A high rebound PU bushing.
- Waterproof and non-slip emery griptape.
- Comes fully assembled with 5″ tough magnalium alloy trucks.
- Max load up to 220 lbs.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and sturdy, suitable for learning tricks.
- High-quality components offer a smooth and controlled ride.
- No assembly required – ready to roll right out of the box.
- Versatile for both beginners and more experienced kids.
Cons:
- The size might be a bit large for very young children (under 6).
- 95A wheels, while good for tricks, might feel a little harder on rougher surfaces compared to softer cruiser wheels.
User Impressions: Parents love how robust this board is, often remarking on its excellent value for the quality. Kids find it easy to get started with, and many appreciate the smooth ride and ability to handle various surfaces. It’s a real confidence booster!
See it on Amazon here
Skateboards Complete Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard for Kids…
For kids who prioritize portability and smooth cruising, this Meketec mini cruiser is a brilliant choice. Its compact size makes it super easy to carry to the park or school, and the vibrant design options truly make it unique. It’s built for fun, offering a stable and smooth ride with its PU wheels and reliable bearings, making it an ideal first skateboard for younger children or those who want to zip around casually.
Key Features:
- Compact 22.5″x6″ deck, max load 200 lb.
- 3.25-inch trucks with distinct color options.
- Smooth 60mm*45 PU wheels and high-speed ABEC-7 bearings.
- CE certified for safety.
- High-value performance, great as a holiday gift.
Pros:
- Excellent portability due to its mini cruiser size.
- Smooth ride, great for cruising around town or school.
- Visually appealing with unique color truck options.
- CE certified, ensuring safety standards are met.
Cons:
- Not ideal for advanced trick skateboarding due to its smaller deck.
- Smaller deck might feel less stable for older or taller kids initially.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the smooth ride and vibrant colors. Many mention it’s a perfect gift for kids who are new to skateboarding, providing a comfortable and fun experience for casual riding and getting around.
See it on Amazon here
CAPARK Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids…
The CAPARK skateboard stands out with its eye-catching graphics and robust construction, making it a fantastic option for beginners across a wider age range. Its double kick symmetric concave design provides excellent control for learning turns and tricks, while the super smooth wheels handle different terrains with ease. This board is built to last and look good doing it, ensuring your child will love showing it off.
Key Features:
- 31″x8.0″ deck with double kick symmetric concave design.
- Super smooth 50mm anti-shock PU wheels with ABEC-7 bearings.
- High-quality thick aluminum trucks and steel axle.
- Waterproof emery non-slip grip tape.
- Comes fully assembled with heat transfer printed graphics.
Pros:
- Great stability and control for beginners thanks to the deck design.
- Smooth ride on various surfaces due to high-quality wheels and bearings.
- Durable construction with strong trucks and axle.
- Visually appealing graphics that are long-lasting.
Cons:
- At 4.7 pounds, it’s not the absolute lightest for very small children to carry long distances.
- While versatile, some highly specialized trick riders might seek different wheel hardness.
User Impressions: Reviewers often praise the attractive designs and the smooth ride this skateboard offers. They note its sturdiness and suitability for both younger teens and even adults starting out, making it a truly versatile choice.
See it on Amazon here
Magneto 27.5″ x 7.5″ Complete Skateboard – 7-Ply Canadian…
Hailing from sunny Southern California, Magneto brings a board inspired by surf culture, offering a unique blend of style and function. This mini cruiser is designed for ultimate portability without sacrificing performance. Its versatile double kicktails mean your child can not only cruise comfortably but also start experimenting with basic tricks like ollies and mannies. The durable Canadian maple deck with a sand grit finish provides excellent grip and a distinct aesthetic.
Key Features:
- 27.5″x7.5″ 7-ply Canadian maple deck with sand grit finish.
- Ultimate portability with an 18.5″ wheelbase.
- Versatile double kicktails for cruising and tricks.
- Reliable gravity-cast aluminum trucks (5-inch hanger, 55-degree kingpin).
- High-quality SHR polyurethane wheels and bushings.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of portability and versatility for tricks.
- Durable maple deck offers great foot grip and stylish bamboo graphics.
- High-quality components for a smooth and sturdy ride.
- Skater-designed with a cool, unique surf-inspired aesthetic.
Cons:
- The sand grit finish, while grippy, might feel different than traditional emery tape for some.
- Mid-size might be slightly too big for the absolute youngest learners, but perfect for growing kids.
User Impressions: Users love the board’s aesthetic and how easy it is to carry around. Many note that it’s a fantastic all-around board for kids to cruise and learn some foundational tricks, appreciating its quality construction and smooth performance.
See it on Amazon here
Easy_Way Complete Skateboards- Standard Skateboards for…
This Easy_Way skateboard truly puts safety and fun first, especially when riding in low light conditions, thanks to its super cool PU flashing wheels. Not only do these light-up wheels add a fun element, but they also significantly increase visibility. The durable maple deck and quality components make it a robust choice, while the inclusion of a carry bag and tools makes it an excellent value package for any young aspiring skater.
Key Features:
- 31″x8″ 7-ply maple wood deck with non-slip dull polish.
- PU flashing wheels (light up when in use) with ABEC-11 bearings.
- Alloy trucks for stability, heat transfer printed pattern.
- Max load up to 224 lbs.
- Includes carry bag, tool, backup bearings, DIY sticker pack.
Pros:
- Flashing LED wheels enhance safety and fun during evening rides.
- Very stable and secure with a wide, non-slip deck.
- High-quality ABEC-11 bearings provide an extremely smooth and fast glide.
- Great value package with useful accessories included.
Cons:
- The flashing wheels are a novelty that some might find unnecessary.
- While durable, the deck design might be less advanced for serious tricksters compared to specialized boards.
User Impressions: Families are thrilled with the light-up wheels, calling them a “game-changer” for visibility and excitement. The board is frequently praised for its sturdiness and smooth ride, making it a popular choice for kids who want a reliable and visually engaging skateboard.
See it on Amazon here
Magneto Kids Complete Skateboard for Girls – 27.5″ x…
Specifically designed with young girls in mind, this Magneto skateboard combines vibrant aesthetics with solid performance. Its “Ice Cream” design is sure to be a hit, while the quality 7-ply hard maple deck and double kicktails ensure it’s not just pretty, but functional for both cruising and learning tricks. It’s super portable, making it easy for kids to take their fun wherever they go, embodying the cool, surf-inspired vibe Magneto is known for.
Key Features:
- 27.5″x7.75″ 7-ply hard maple deck with 80-grit grip and “Ice Cream” design.
- Super portable with a 11″ wheelbase.
- Double kicktails for versatility in tricks.
- 51mm 95A urethane wheels, ABEC-5 bearings, and 5” aluminum trucks.
- Skater-designed in Southern California.
Pros:
- Adorable and unique “Ice Cream” design specifically for girls.
- Portable and lightweight, easy for kids to carry.
- Double kicktails allow for a good range of basic tricks.
- Durable construction with quality components for a reliable ride.
Cons:
- ABEC-5 bearings are good, but not as fast as ABEC-7 or ABEC-9.
- The specific design might not appeal to all children.
User Impressions: Parents love the themed design and the quality build, often noting how much their daughters adore the board. It’s described as perfect for young riders to gain confidence, offering a smooth ride and a good balance for beginner tricks.
See it on Amazon here
KO-ON Skateboard Complete Skateboards 22 Inch Mini Cruiser…
The KO-ON mini cruiser is a powerhouse of fun packed into a compact design. Its 6-layer Canadian maple deck combined with tough magnalium alloy trucks offers incredible durability and support for riders up to 220 lbs, which is impressive for a 22-inch board. The cartoon patterns are incredibly appealing to younger children, making it a fantastic first skateboard that’s both robust and visually exciting. Plus, it’s ready to ride right out of the box!
Key Features:
- 22.05″x6″ 6-layer Canadian maple deck with cartoon patterns.
- High speed 90A PU wheels with ABEC9 bearings and 95A high rebound PU bushing.
- 3.25″ tough magnalium alloy trucks.
- Waterproof and high-density non-slip emery griptape.
- Fully assembled, weighs only 3.5 pounds.
Pros:
- Extremely sturdy and solid for its compact size, supporting higher weights.
- Smooth and fast ride, suitable for various surfaces.
- Lightweight and highly portable, easy for kids to carry.
- Attractive cartoon patterns that kids absolutely adore.
Cons:
- Mini cruiser size means it’s not designed for advanced trick performance.
- The smaller deck might take some getting used to for kids transitioning from larger boards.
User Impressions: Customers frequently highlight the cuteness of the cartoon designs and the board’s surprising durability for its size. It’s often recommended as a perfect “first board” for younger kids, providing a stable and enjoyable ride for cruising around.
See it on Amazon here
Five Nights at Freddy’s Skateboard with Printed Graphic…
For the child who loves gaming as much as they love to skate, the Five Nights at Freddy’s skateboard is an absolute winner! This board isn’t just about the cool graphics; it also boasts high-quality components like polished aluminum trucks and ABEC5 bearings, ensuring a smooth and fun ride. It strikes a great balance between being an awesome collector’s item and a perfectly functional skateboard for beginners and even more experienced young riders who want to show off their fandom.
Key Features:
- Five Nights at Freddy’s themed artwork on both sides of the deck.
- 5” polished aluminum trucks for a smooth experience.
- ABEC5 bearings for smooth wheel spin.
- High-quality grip tape to keep feet firmly planted.
- High-quality wooden deck and durable parts.
Pros:
- Unique and highly appealing Five Nights at Freddy’s graphics.
- Smooth riding experience due to quality trucks and bearings.
- Durable construction with high-quality materials.
- Suitable for a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to pros.
Cons:
- ABEC5 bearings are good, but not top-tier speed compared to higher ABEC ratings.
- The specific theme might only appeal to fans of the game.
User Impressions: Fans of FNAF absolutely adore this board, often calling it the “best gift ever.” Parents are pleased with the board’s quality and durability, noting that it’s a legitimate skateboard and not just a toy, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride.
See it on Amazon here
Kqpoinw Kids Skateboard, 22″ Complete Skateboard for Kids,…
Another fantastic option for the younger crowd, the Kqpoinw Kids Skateboard is a vibrant mini cruiser packed with features to ensure fun and safety. Its thicker PP deck and soft PU wheels provide excellent shock absorption and grip, making for a smooth ride. The star attraction here, however, is the colorful light-up LED wheels that flash without batteries, adding a magical element to evening rides and significantly boosting visibility – a huge plus for peace of mind.
Key Features:
- 22″x6″ thicker PP deck (15mm) with soft 60mm PU wheels.
- ABEC-7 bearings and extreme sensitive brake featured shock absorption.
- Colorful LED light-up wheels (rotary powered, no batteries).
- Durable, strong construction to withstand riders up to 220 lbs.
- Includes free skateboard tool.
Pros:
- No assembly required, ready to ride instantly.
- Battery-free light-up wheels enhance fun and night-time safety.
- Thicker deck and soft wheels provide a very smooth and comfortable ride.
- Excellent shock absorption and grip for stability.
Cons:
- Made from PP (polypropylene) plastic, which is durable but different from traditional maple wood.
- The smaller size limits advanced trick capabilities.
User Impressions: Customers rave about the light-up wheels and how much joy they bring to kids. The board is frequently praised for its smooth ride, durability, and the peace of mind it offers parents due to the added visibility. It’s often cited as an ideal first skateboard gift.
See it on Amazon here
Flybar 3 in-1 Learn to Skate – Complete Skateboard for…
The Flybar 3-in-1 Learn to Skate isn’t just a skateboard; it’s a comprehensive training system designed to build fundamental skills from the ground up. With its innovative balance roller and focus on skill progression, this board is perfect for teaching precision balance and core strength before even moving. It allows kids to master skateboarding techniques and even practice advanced tricks in a controlled environment, both indoors and outdoors, making the learning journey incredibly fun and rewarding.
Key Features:
- Innovative design for precision balance development with a dedicated balance roller.
- Simplified path to skate mastery and honing techniques.
- Ideal platform for practicing and refining advanced skateboard tricks.
- Combines effective skill-building with fun.
- Versatile for seamless transition between indoor and outdoor use.
Pros:
- Excellent for developing core balance and stability from scratch.
- Allows safe practice of tricks and techniques in a controlled setting.
- Can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering great flexibility.
- Makes the learning process engaging and fun.
Cons:
- More of a training tool than a traditional “ready to ride” skateboard from the start.
- Might require an additional, standard skateboard once foundational skills are mastered.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the unique training capabilities, noting that it effectively helps kids build confidence and skills without the immediate risk of falling on the street. It’s seen as a valuable investment for serious learners who want to master skateboarding fundamentals.
See it on Amazon here
Choosing the Right Skateboard for Your Child: A Quick Guide
When looking for the best skateboards for kids, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Size Matters:
- Mini Skateboard (27-29 inches long, 6.75-7.25 inches wide): Great for kids aged 5-8 or those under 4 feet tall.
- Mid-Size (29-31 inches long, 7.3-7.5 inches wide): Ideal for kids aged 9-12 or those between 4-5 feet tall.
- Full-Size (31+ inches long, 7.5+ inches wide): Suitable for teens and kids over 13, or those over 5 feet tall.
- Mini Cruisers (22-27 inches long): Excellent for casual cruising and portability, especially for younger kids.
Deck Material: Most quality skateboards, especially for beginners, will use 7-ply Canadian maple wood. It offers durability and a good flex. Some mini cruisers use durable plastic (PP), which is fine for lighter use and cruising.
Wheels:
- Softer Wheels (78A-90A Durometer): Great for cruising, absorbing bumps, and provide more grip. Often found on mini cruisers.
- Harder Wheels (95A-100A Durometer): Faster and better for tricks, sliding, and skate parks.
- Wheel Size (Diameter): Larger wheels (around 60mm) are good for cruising and speed, while smaller wheels (50-54mm) are better for tricks.
Bearings: Look for ABEC-rated bearings (e.g., ABEC-5, ABEC-7, ABEC-9). Higher numbers generally mean less friction and a faster, smoother ride.
Safety First: Always pair a new skateboard with appropriate safety gear!
FAQ Section
Q1: What size skateboard should I get for my child?
A1: The right size depends on your child’s age, height, and shoe size. Generally, mini skateboards (around 27-29 inches long) are good for ages 5-8, while mid-size boards (29-31 inches) suit ages 9-12. For teens or taller kids, a full-size board (31+ inches) is appropriate. A good rule of thumb is that the board shouldn’t be wider than your child’s foot.
Q2: Are mini cruisers good for kids?
A2: Yes, mini cruisers are excellent for kids, especially younger ones or those just starting out. They’re typically shorter and lighter, making them easier to carry and maneuver. They’re fantastic for casual cruising, getting around, and developing basic balance, though not ideal for advanced tricks.
Q3: What safety gear do kids need for skateboarding?
A3: Safety is paramount! Your child should always wear a helmet specifically designed for skateboarding (CPSC certified), knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. Padded shorts are also a good idea for protecting hips and tailbones.
Q4: How long does it take for a child to learn to skateboard?
A4: Learning to skateboard varies greatly by child, but most kids can learn basic riding, pushing, and turning within a few weeks with consistent practice. Mastering more advanced skills like ollies or grinds can take months or even years. Patience and persistence are key!
Q5: What’s the difference between ABEC bearings?
A5: ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) ratings indicate the precision and tolerance of the bearings. Higher numbers (like ABEC-7 or ABEC-9) mean tighter tolerances and a smoother, faster ride with less friction. For kids, ABEC-5 or ABEC-7 are perfectly fine and offer a good balance of speed and durability.
Q6: Should I get a complete skateboard or build one for my kid?
A6: For kids, especially beginners, a complete skateboard is almost always the best choice. They come pre-assembled with matched components, saving you time and ensuring everything works together correctly. Building a custom board is usually for experienced skaters who know exactly what specifications they need.
Q7: Can my child use an adult skateboard?
A7: While they can, it’s generally not recommended for beginners. Adult skateboards are often heavier, wider, and have harder wheels, making them more difficult for a child to control and push. Kid-specific boards are designed to be more forgiving and easier to learn on.
Ready to Roll?
Finding the best skateboards for kids means finding a balance between safety, durability, and pure fun. We hope this guide has made your decision a little easier, giving you the confidence to choose the perfect board for your young rider. Get them geared up, find a safe spot, and watch them roll into a new world of adventure!