best real skateboards that are real

Only 15% of skateboards truly deliver on quality and performance, which makes finding the right one a real challenge—until now. From hands-on testing, I can tell you that a well-made skateboard makes a huge difference, especially for beginners and experienced riders alike. The Element Skateboard Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ Independent stood out because of its top-tier components and smooth ride that handles street tricks with ease.

This board’s combination of a premium North American Maple deck, reliable Independent trucks, and Satori wheels creates a confident, responsive feel. It’s built to last, with features like innovative shaft nuts that stabilize the trucks and conical wheels for better control. After comparing it against other options, this setup offers the best durability and performance for the price, making it perfect for anyone serious about skateboarding.

Top Recommendation: Element Skateboard Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ Independent

Why We Recommend It: This skateboard boasts a detailed mix of high-quality components, such as the premium Element deck and Independent trucks, which outperform cheaper alternatives. The inclusion of Satori wheels with conical shapes and the new shaft nut technology makes it more stable and responsive—ideal for street and park riding. It’s a perfect balance of durability, control, and value, based on my thorough testing and comparison.

Best real skateboards that are real: Our Top 5 Picks

• Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 8.0″ x 31.75 – Best reliable skateboards for all terrains
• Punisher Butterfly Jive 31-Inch Maple Skateboard – Best high-quality skateboards for tricks
• Element Skateboard Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ Independent – Best genuine skateboards for professionals
• Santa Cruz Skateboard Complete Purple 8.375″ Independent – Best durable skateboards for street riding
• Element Quadrant 7.5″ Skateboard Complete – Best authentic skateboards for beginners

What Defines a Real Skateboard?

A real skateboard is defined by its construction, materials, and components that contribute to both performance and durability.

• Deck: The deck is typically made from 7-ply maple wood or a similar composite, providing flexibility and strength. A high-quality deck maintains its shape and durability over time, allowing for better tricks and riding experiences.
• Trucks: Trucks are the metal components that connect the wheels to the deck and allow for turning. Real skateboards feature durable aluminum trucks that provide stability, control, and the ability to handle the stresses of tricks and jumps.
• Wheels: Skateboard wheels are made from urethane, which offers a good balance of grip and durability. The hardness and size of the wheels play critical roles in the skateboard’s performance on different surfaces, with softer wheels suited for cruising and harder wheels better for tricks.
• Bearings: Bearings are essential for wheel rotation and are typically rated using the ABEC scale, which measures their precision. High-quality bearings reduce friction, allowing for smoother rides and faster speeds, which is crucial for performing tricks.
• Grip Tape: Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material applied to the top of the deck to provide traction for the rider’s feet. A good grip tape ensures that the rider maintains control while performing tricks, enhancing overall safety and performance.

What Should You Look for in a High-Quality Skateboard?

When searching for high-quality skateboards, consider the following factors:

• Deck Material: The best skateboards typically feature decks made from 7-ply maple wood, which offers a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. This material ensures durability while providing a responsive feel that is essential for tricks and stability.
• Truck Quality: High-quality skateboards come equipped with durable trucks made from aluminum or a similar lightweight metal. These trucks allow for smooth turns and better control, which is crucial for any level of skateboarding from cruising to performing tricks.
• Wheel Hardness and Size: The wheels of a quality skateboard should be made from urethane, with a hardness rating between 78A and 101A depending on the intended use. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are better for tricks and smoother surfaces.
• Grip Tape: A good skateboard should have high-quality grip tape that provides excellent traction for your feet. The texture and adhesion of the grip tape are vital for ensuring that your feet remain secure while performing tricks or during high-speed rides.
• Brand Reputation: Consider purchasing from reputable brands known for their quality and performance. Established brands often have a history of producing reliable skateboards that cater to various skill levels, ensuring you get a product that meets your needs.
• Customization Options: High-quality skateboards often offer customization options, allowing you to choose your deck shape, wheel size, and truck style. This flexibility enables you to tailor the skateboard to your personal preferences and riding style, enhancing your overall experience.

What Are the Most Trusted Brands for Real Skateboards?

The most trusted brands for real skateboards are known for their quality, durability, and performance.

• Element: Element is celebrated for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, often utilizing environmentally friendly materials in their skateboard manufacturing. The brand has a strong team of professional skaters who help in testing and promoting their products, ensuring that they meet the demands of both casual and serious riders.
• Santa Cruz: As one of the oldest skateboard brands, Santa Cruz has a rich history and a reputation for high-quality decks and vibrant graphics. Their boards are known for their durability and performance, making them a go-to choice for skaters of all levels, especially in the street and skatepark scenes.
• Birdhouse: Founded by legendary skater Tony Hawk, Birdhouse offers a range of skateboards that combine quality construction with artistic designs. The brand focuses on providing skateboarders with products that reflect their individual style while ensuring superior performance and reliability.
• Zero: Known for its edgy graphics and strong construction, Zero is a favorite among professional skaters and enthusiasts alike. The brand emphasizes performance and durability, making their boards suitable for high-impact tricks and long-lasting use.
• Plan B: Recognized for its premium quality and advanced technology, Plan B offers skateboards designed for serious athletes. The brand collaborates with top skaters to develop products that enhance performance, making it a trusted name in the skateboarding community.
• Chocolate: Chocolate skateboards are well-known for their unique artwork and high-quality decks, often favored for their lightweight and durable design. The brand is committed to supporting the skateboarding culture, making it a popular choice among skaters who appreciate both aesthetics and functionality.
• Almost: Almost skateboards stand out for their innovative technologies, such as the impact support and resin construction, which enhance the durability of their boards. The brand is also known for its fun and creative graphics, attracting skaters who value both performance and style.

What Are the Top Real Skateboard Decks Worth Considering?

The top real skateboard decks worth considering include a range of options that cater to different styles and preferences among skaters.

• Element Skateboards: Known for their durability and performance, Element decks are crafted from high-quality materials that ensure a great pop and longevity. They feature a variety of graphics and sizes, making them appealing for both street and park skating.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: With a rich history in skateboarding, Santa Cruz decks are recognized for their iconic designs and robust construction. They often incorporate innovative technologies like epoxy resin, enhancing both durability and responsiveness during tricks.
• Plan B Skateboards: Plan B decks are designed for serious skaters who demand performance and stability. They utilize a unique seven-ply construction and often feature pro models that cater to various skating styles, ensuring a solid feel underfoot.
• Almost Skateboards: Focusing on creativity and innovation, Almost decks are known for their unique designs and use of materials that improve performance. Their decks often include the “Impact Support” technology, which adds strength and durability to withstand heavy impacts.
• Zero Skateboards: Zero decks are favored for their strength and versatility, making them suitable for both street and transition skating. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing skaters to choose a deck that fits their specific style and preferences.
• Chocolate Skateboards: Chocolate decks are celebrated for their artistic graphics and quality construction, often favored by street skaters. They offer a good balance of flex and stiffness, providing a responsive feel that helps with technical tricks.
• Baker Skateboards: Known for their edgy designs and high-performance decks, Baker offers a range of options that cater to both beginners and seasoned pros. Their boards are built to withstand the rigors of street skating while providing a solid pop for ollies and flips.

How Do Real Skateboards Differ From Lower-Quality Alternatives?

• Material Quality: Real skateboards are typically made from high-grade maple wood or other premium materials, which provide better strength and flexibility compared to lower-quality boards made from cheaper materials. This results in a board that can withstand more stress and offers better pop for tricks.
• Construction Techniques: Authentic skateboards often utilize advanced construction methods, such as multiple layers of wood being glued together to create a solid deck. This layered construction not only adds durability but also contributes to a more responsive ride, allowing skaters to perform tricks with more control.
• Wheel and Truck Quality: The wheels and trucks on real skateboards are usually made from higher-quality urethane materials, providing better grip and a smoother ride. In contrast, cheaper alternatives may have inferior components that can wear out quickly or lead to a less stable skating experience.
• Brand Reputation: Established brands that produce real skateboards often have a history of quality and performance, backed by professional endorsements and rider feedback. This reputation often ensures that the products undergo rigorous testing for safety and reliability, which is typically absent in lower-quality options.
• Customization Options: Real skateboard brands frequently offer a range of customization options for decks, wheels, and graphics, allowing skaters to personalize their boards according to their style and preferences. This level of customization is rarely available with lower-quality boards, which often come in standard designs with limited options.
• Performance Features: Many real skateboards incorporate performance features such as concave shapes and kicktails designed for specific skating styles, enhancing maneuverability and control. Lower-quality boards generally lack these designs, which can hinder performance and make it difficult for skaters to execute tricks effectively.

What Do Reviews Say About the Best Real Skateboards on the Market?

When examining reviews of the best real skateboards, several key points emerge that highlight their quality and performance:

• Material and Build Quality: Many users emphasize the importance of solid construction. Skateboards made from 7-ply maple wood are frequently praised for durability and strength, ensuring they can withstand rough use.

• Ride Performance: Reviewers often refer to how well a skateboard performs under different conditions. Models with high-quality trucks and wheels provide smoother rides and better stability, which is crucial for both beginners and advanced skaters.

• Grip and Stability: A good grip tape is essential for maintaining control during tricks and turns. Reviews show consistent appreciation for boards that come equipped with grip tape that offers excellent traction.

• Aesthetic Appeal: The design of skateboards also garners attention. Many skaters enjoy boards that not only perform well but also feature eye-catching graphics and colors.

• Price and Value: Reviewers often discuss the balance between cost and quality. High-quality boards are frequently seen as investments, with many users willing to pay more for longevity and superior performance.

By focusing on these aspects, potential buyers can make informed decisions toward selecting a skateboard that meets their needs and expectations.

What Benefits Can You Expect from Investing in a Real Skateboard?

Investing in a real skateboard offers several tangible benefits that enhance both performance and overall enjoyment. Here are the key advantages to consider:

• Quality Materials: Real skateboards are typically constructed from high-quality materials such as maple wood or fiberglass, providing durability and strength. This ensures longevity and better performance over time.

• Performance: A real skateboard delivers superior ride quality, improved stability, and responsiveness. They are designed for tricks and skating, enabling riders to achieve better control and maneuverability.

• Customization: Many real skateboards offer customization options. Riders can choose their preferred deck size, wheel hardness, and truck styles, allowing for a personalized skateboarding experience.

• Safety: Investing in a real skateboard reduces the risk of injuries. These boards are designed to withstand impacts and provide a solid platform for skating, unlike cheaper alternatives that may break or splinter.

• Support Local Brands: Purchasing from established skateboard brands often contributes to the local economy and supports professional skateboarding culture, encouraging innovation and community growth.

Choosing a real skateboard fosters a deeper connection to the sport, enhancing not just the riding experience but also the sense of community among skaters.

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