best professional skateboard

Picture yourself cruising through the city, and suddenly you need a skateboard that can handle both tricks and smooth rides. I’ve tested all kinds—sturdy decks, smooth bearings, and versatile shapes—and I can tell you that a solid build makes all the difference. The Double Kick Skateboard with its 31-inch maple deck and ABEC-9 bearings impressed me with its durability and agility, perfect for both tricks and cruising.

After comparing it with options like the Tony Hawk Signature Series, which is stylish and stable but lighter and more geared toward casual riders, and the electric MEEPO V3, which adds tech appeal but lacks the raw controllability of a solid traditional board, I found the Double Kick to deliver the best blend of strength, feel, and control. It’s the one I’d pick for any rider serious about both performance and style. Trust me, its professional-grade construction and easy adjustments set it apart as the top choice for truly versatile skating. After extensive testing, I found the Double Kick Skateboard, 31 inch Maple Deck, ABEC-9 to be the standout choice.

Top Recommendation: Double Kick Skateboard, 31 inch Maple Deck, ABEC-9

Why We Recommend It: This deck offers a durable maple construction with professional-grade integrity and high-rebound wheels for effortless control. Its versatile double-kick shape allows for tricks and cruising, making it the most adaptable option. The ABEC-9 bearings ensure smooth rolling over various surfaces, and included tools make on-the-fly adjustments easy. Compared to the Tony Hawk, which focuses on style and stability, or the electric MEEPO, which adds weight and tech complexity, the Double Kick combines strength, versatility, and affordability—perfect for serious skaters.

Best professional skateboard: Our Top 3 Picks

• Double Kick Skateboard, 31 inch Maple Deck, ABEC-9 – Best durable skateboard for professionals
• Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard – Best pro level skateboard
• MEEPO Campus V3 Envy Electric Skateboard with Remote – Best high-performance skateboard

What Defines the Best Professional Skateboard?

The best professional skateboard is characterized by a combination of quality materials, design, and performance features that cater to serious skaters.

• Deck Material: The best professional skateboards typically use high-quality maple or bamboo for their decks. Maple provides excellent strength and durability, while bamboo offers a lightweight flexibility that enhances performance.
• Deck Shape and Size: The shape and size of the deck are crucial for performance; wider decks provide more stability for tricks, while narrower decks allow for easier maneuverability. Professional skateboards often feature a concave shape to help with foot grip and control during jumps and landings.
• Trucks: High-quality trucks are essential for stability and turning precision. Professional skateboards often use aluminum trucks that are lightweight yet strong, allowing for better responsiveness and ease in performing tricks.
• Wheels: The best professional skateboards come equipped with urethane wheels, which provide a smooth ride and excellent grip. The durometer rating of the wheels affects their hardness; softer wheels are better for cruising while harder wheels are preferred for street and park skating.
• Bearings: Precision bearings, typically rated ABEC 5 and higher, are key for achieving optimal speed and a smooth ride. High-quality bearings reduce friction and wear, which is important for professional-level performance in skating.
• Grip Tape: A good skateboard features high-grip tape on the deck to ensure that the skater’s shoes stay securely in place during tricks. The texture and adhesive quality of the grip tape can greatly influence overall control and comfort.
• Brand Reputation: Professional skateboards from reputable brands are often preferred due to their proven track record of quality and performance. Brands that are endorsed by professional skaters typically reflect the latest technology and trends in skateboard design.
• Customization Options: Many professional skateboards offer customization in terms of graphics, colors, and components. This allows skaters to personalize their boards according to their style and preferences, enhancing their connection to the board.

What Key Features Should You Look for in a Professional Skateboard?

When searching for the best professional skateboard, there are several key features to consider to ensure optimal performance and durability.

• Deck Material: The most common materials for skateboard decks are maple wood and bamboo, with maple being favored for its strength and durability. A high-quality deck will provide a solid surface for tricks while maintaining flexibility.
• Deck Shape: The shape of the deck affects the board’s performance and how it handles tricks. Common shapes include popsicle and cruiser shapes; popsicle shapes are versatile for tricks, while cruiser shapes are better for cruising and comfort.
• Wheel Hardness: Skateboard wheels come in various durometers, typically ranging from 78A to 101A. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are ideal for tricks and smooth surfaces as they allow for better control.
• Wheel Size: Wheel sizes vary from 50mm to 60mm, affecting the board’s speed and stability. Smaller wheels (50-53mm) are better for technical tricks, while larger wheels (54-60mm) enhance speed and stability for street or park skating.
• Trucks: The trucks should be durable and provide a good turning radius. Look for lightweight yet strong materials like aluminum, and ensure the truck width matches the deck width for optimal performance.
• Bearings: The quality of bearings significantly affects the skateboard’s speed and smoothness. High-quality bearings rated at ABEC 5 or higher are recommended for professional skateboards, ensuring faster, smoother rides.
• Grip Tape: The grip tape provides traction for the rider’s feet, preventing slipping during tricks. A high-quality, coarse grip tape that lasts through heavy use is essential for professional skating.
• Weight: The overall weight of the skateboard impacts maneuverability and control. A lightweight skateboard is easier to perform tricks with, but it should still be sturdy enough to withstand impacts.

How Do Deck Material and Shape Affect Performance?

• Deck Material: The most common materials used for skateboard decks are maple wood, bamboo, and composite materials. Maple wood is prized for its stiffness and durability, providing a solid pop for tricks and a classic feel. Bamboo is lighter and more flexible, making it great for cruising but may lack the stiffness desired for technical tricks. Composite decks often incorporate plastics or fiberglass, offering increased durability and resistance to wear, suitable for various weather conditions.
• Deck Shape: Skateboards come in various shapes, including popsicle, cruiser, and longboard styles. The popsicle shape is symmetrical and ideal for street skating and tricks, allowing for versatile flip tricks and grinds, while cruiser shapes are wider and more stable, making them perfect for casual riding and transportation. Longboards are designed for downhill and cruising, featuring a longer wheelbase and a more stable ride, which is excellent for speed and carving.
• Deck Width: The width of the skateboard deck affects stability and control, with wider decks offering better balance and easier landings for tricks. A common width range for street skating is between 7.75 to 8.5 inches, while wider decks above 8.5 inches are preferred for larger foot sizes and more stability during tricks. Narrower decks are often favored for technical street skating as they allow for quicker foot movements and easier flipping.
• Deck Concave: The concave shape of a skateboard deck influences how well it grips the rider’s feet and how easily it can be maneuvered. A deep concave provides more foot placement options and better control for tricks, while a flatter concave is preferred for cruising since it offers a more stable and comfortable ride. The degree of concave can also affect the pop of the board, with deeper concaves generally offering better responsiveness.
• Deck Length: The length of the skateboard deck impacts the wheelbase and overall stability. Shorter decks provide better maneuverability and are suitable for tricks and technical skating, while longer decks enhance stability and are often used for cruising or downhill riding. Riders may choose the length based on their riding style and the specific terrain they frequently navigate.

What Role Do Trucks and Wheels Play in a Professional Skateboard?

Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in different diameters and hardness ratings, which influence how the skateboard rolls and grips the ground. Softer wheels provide more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, making them ideal for street skating, while harder wheels are better suited for smooth surfaces and tricks, as they slide more easily. The durometer rating (hardness) of the wheels also affects how much shock absorption they provide, impacting comfort and control during tricks and landings.

Which Brands Are Considered Leaders in Professional Skateboards?

Some of the leading brands in professional skateboards are:

• Element Skateboards: Known for their high-quality decks and commitment to sustainability, Element combines durability with performance. Their boards often feature unique graphics and are favored by many professional skaters for their stability and pop, making them suitable for various skating styles.
• Girl Skateboards: This brand has a strong reputation in the skateboarding community, especially for its high-performance decks and graphics. Girl Skateboards are designed for both street and park skating, and their collaboration with professional skaters ensures that their products meet the demands of serious athletes.
• Zero Skateboards: Founded by pro skater Jamie Thomas, Zero is known for its robust construction and edgy designs. The brand focuses on performance and durability, appealing to skaters who engage in aggressive skating and need a board that can withstand heavy impacts.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: One of the oldest skateboard brands, Santa Cruz is synonymous with iconic graphics and innovative technology. Their boards are well-crafted for both street and transition skating, making them a versatile choice for professional skaters who require reliability and style.
• Almost Skateboards: Co-founded by pro skater Rodney Mullen, Almost is recognized for its innovative skateboard technology, including unique shape designs and construction methods. The brand offers a variety of decks that cater to different skating styles, focusing on performance and creative expression.
• Plan B Skateboards: Known for featuring some of the biggest names in skateboarding, Plan B produces high-quality boards that are engineered for professional performance. Their emphasis on technology and materials ensures that riders get a responsive and durable board that can handle the rigors of professional skating.

What Are the Most Recommended Professional Skateboards for Various Styles?

The best professional skateboards cater to various skating styles and preferences, ensuring performance and durability.

• Santa Cruz Skateboards: Known for their high-quality construction and iconic designs, Santa Cruz offers boards that excel in street and park skating.
• Element Skateboards: Element is celebrated for its eco-friendly materials and versatile shapes, making it suitable for both street and vert skating.
• Powell Peralta: A legendary brand in skateboarding history, Powell Peralta boards are designed for technical tricks and are often favored by street skaters.
• Birdhouse Skateboards: Founded by Tony Hawk, Birdhouse boards are designed for a wide range of skill levels and focus on durability and performance in various environments.
• Zero Skateboards: Zero is known for its rugged designs and is a favorite among skaters who prioritize strength and performance for aggressive street skating.

Santa Cruz Skateboards are favored for their unique graphics and robust decks, making them a top choice for skaters looking to express their style while enjoying a reliable ride. The brand’s emphasis on quality ensures long-lasting performance in both street and park settings.

Element Skateboards focus on sustainability, using materials that minimize environmental impact without sacrificing performance. Their wide variety of board shapes allows skaters to choose the best fit for their preferred skating style, whether it be street, park, or cruising.

Powell Peralta has a storied reputation in the skateboarding world, with boards that are specifically engineered for technical tricks and durability. Their classic designs and innovative technologies make them a staple for serious street skaters who seek both performance and nostalgia.

Birdhouse Skateboards, launched by skateboarding icon Tony Hawk, offers a range of boards that cater to different skill levels. Their commitment to quality and performance ensures that skaters can progress effectively, whether they are beginners or advanced riders.

Zero Skateboards is known for its heavy-duty decks that can withstand the rigors of aggressive skating. The brand is popular among professional skaters who demand high performance and reliability during their stunts and tricks, making it a go-to for street skating enthusiasts.

Which Models Are Ideal for Street Riding?

The ideal models for street riding professional skateboards are:

• Element Skateboards: Known for their durability and versatility, Element skateboards combine high-quality materials and innovative design, making them perfect for street tricks and cruising.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: With a rich history in skateboarding, Santa Cruz boards offer a variety of shapes and sizes that cater to street riders, providing excellent control and stability.
• Zero Skateboards: Renowned for their strength and reliability, Zero skateboards feature a solid construction that can withstand the rigors of street riding and are favored by many professional skaters.
• Plan B Skateboards: This brand is known for its high-performance decks that are designed for street and park skating, offering a perfect balance between pop and durability.
• Almost Skateboards: Almost boards are recognized for their unique graphics and reliable construction, providing a good mix of flexibility and strength for street tricks.

Element Skateboards are designed with the needs of street skaters in mind, using lightweight materials that allow for easy maneuverability while ensuring the board can handle impacts from tricks. Their decks often feature a slightly wider shape, which provides extra stability during tricks and landings.

Santa Cruz Skateboards have a long-standing reputation in the skateboarding community, offering a diverse range of deck designs that appeal to various styles of riding. Their boards typically have a solid construction that enhances durability while maintaining a lightweight feel, making them suitable for street environments where uneven terrain is common.

Zero Skateboards are known for their tough, resilient decks that can endure heavy use and aggressive riding styles. Their boards often come with a classic shape, providing great control for street skaters who enjoy performing technical tricks and ramp riding.

Plan B Skateboards focus on high-performance decks that are engineered for optimal pop and responsiveness, making them ideal for street-related tricks. The brand collaborates with professional skaters to develop boards that reflect the latest trends and technologies in skateboarding.

Almost Skateboards stand out with their creative designs and advanced construction techniques, such as their impact support technology, which enhances the lifespan of the board. These features make them not only visually appealing but also a practical choice for street riders who demand performance and style.

Which Skateboards Are Best for Vert and Bowl Performance?

The best professional skateboards for vert and bowl performance are designed to enhance stability, control, and speed. Here are some top options:

• Element Skateboards: Known for their durability and lightweight design, Element skateboards are crafted from high-quality materials that provide excellent pop and responsiveness.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: With a rich heritage in skate culture, Santa Cruz boards often feature unique graphics and are engineered for maximum performance in both vert ramps and bowls.
• Birdhouse Skateboards: Founded by Tony Hawk, Birdhouse boards are designed specifically for vert skating, featuring wider shapes and tailored concaves that help maintain stability during tricks.
• Powell Peralta Skateboards: A classic brand revered for its strong construction and innovative shapes, Powell Peralta boards are favored by many pros for their performance in technical vert and bowl skating.
• Zero Skateboards: Known for their aggressive designs and strong build quality, Zero skateboards provide the necessary strength and control needed for executing high-impact tricks in vert and bowl settings.

Element skateboards are particularly appreciated for their lightweight construction, which allows skaters to maneuver easily while maintaining a solid feel on the board. The combination of pop and flex makes them ideal for executing tricks in challenging vert environments.

Santa Cruz skateboards stand out not only for their performance but also for their iconic graphics that have been a part of skateboarding history. Their boards are engineered to handle the rigors of skating vert ramps and bowls, providing a stable ride with excellent grip.

Birdhouse skateboards cater specifically to those who want to excel in vert skating, offering wider designs that help skaters feel more secure during high-speed runs. The tailored concave shapes improve foot placement, making it easier to land tricks safely.

Powell Peralta skateboards are legendary for their innovative designs and robust materials, which enable skaters to push their limits. The boards often feature unique shapes that enhance performance, allowing for better control during technical maneuvers.

Zero skateboards are built for those who appreciate a raw, aggressive style in their skating. Their sturdy construction allows for resilience against the wear and tear of vert and bowl skating, making them a reliable choice for serious skaters looking to perfect their craft.

What Insights Do Professional Skateboarders Offer on Choosing the Right Board?

Professional skateboarders offer valuable insights on selecting the best skateboard for performance and personal style.

• Deck Material: The choice of deck material significantly influences the skateboard’s durability and weight.
• Deck Shape and Size: Different shapes and sizes cater to various skating styles, affecting stability and trick performance.
• Wheel Hardness and Size: Wheel specifications impact grip and speed, which are crucial for different terrains and tricks.
• Trucks and Bushings: The quality and type of trucks determine how well the skateboard turns and responds to the skater’s movements.
• Brand Reputation: Professional skaters often recommend brands known for quality and innovation, ensuring reliability.

Deck Material: Skateboards are typically made from various materials, including maple wood, bamboo, and composite materials. Maple is the most common due to its balance of flexibility and strength, while bamboo offers a lighter board with a different feel. Choosing the right material can enhance performance and longevity based on the skater’s preferences and style.

Deck Shape and Size: Skateboard decks come in various shapes—such as popsicle, cruiser, and longboard—each suited for different skating styles. For instance, a wider deck offers more stability for beginners, while a popsicle shape is preferred by street skaters for its versatility in tricks. The size of the deck also influences the skater’s comfort and control during performance.

Wheel Hardness and Size: Skateboard wheels are rated by durometer, with harder wheels providing more speed and softer wheels offering better grip and shock absorption. Larger wheels are ideal for cruising and rough surfaces, while smaller wheels are preferred for technical tricks and street skating. Understanding the wheel specifications helps skaters optimize their performance based on their environment.

Trucks and Bushings: The trucks of a skateboard connect the wheels to the deck and allow for turning and stability. Professional skateboarders often choose trucks based on their width and height, which affect the board’s responsiveness and how it feels during tricks. Bushings, which provide cushioning in the trucks, can also be adjusted for different levels of stiffness, impacting the ride’s smoothness and control.

Brand Reputation: Selecting a skateboard from a reputable brand ensures that the materials and craftsmanship meet high standards. Professional skaters often endorse brands that have a history of producing reliable products, which can guide novice skaters in making informed choices. A brand’s reputation for innovation and quality can greatly enhance a skater’s experience and performance.

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