As summer skate sessions heat up, I’ve found that choosing the right Santa Cruz skateboard can make all the difference. I’ve tested decks that feel solid and responsive, especially when tackling tricks or cruising smoothly. The key is a deck that balances strength, weight, and grip — something like the Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0″ stands out. It’s made from seven-ply North American Maple pressed with epoxy, giving it a perfect mix of durability and bounce. Plus, the included high-quality components like lightweight trucks and ABEC 5 bearings mean you get pro-level performance right out of the box.
After comparing all these options, I’ll recommend the Santa Cruz Land Shark Rasta Skateboard for its wider 8.8″ deck, providing stability for tricks or cruising, and Bullet trucks that handle tight turns. It’s a bit larger but offers excellent control. Still, for all-around versatility, the assembly kit offers a high-performance combo of features that cater to beginners and pros alike. If you want a reliable, stylish ride built for action, I’d suggest going with the Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0\”.
Top Recommendation: Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0″
Why We Recommend It: This deck’s combination of durable epoxy-pressed 7-ply North American Maple and responsive trucks makes it ideal for all skill levels. The included premium ABEC 5 bearings and 52mm 99A wheels provide smooth rides on street and park. Its long-lasting pop and consistent concave make tricks easier, especially for beginners advancing quickly. Compared to the wider Land Shark, its size offers more agility, and unlike the simpler complete Skates, it comes fully assembled for immediate riding.
Best santa cruz skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0″ x – Best Value
- SANTA CRUZ Complete Drop Through Skateboard – Screaming – Best Santa Cruz skateboard setup
- Santa Cruz Land Shark Rasta Skateboard 8.8 x 27.7 – Best Santa Cruz skateboard for beginners
- Santa Cruz Flier Dot Full Complete Skateboard, 8″ x 31.25″ – Best Santa Cruz skateboard wheels
- Tie Dye Rainbow Street Skate Cruiser by SANTA CRUZ – Best Santa Cruz skateboard trucks
Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0″ x
- ✓ Durable and responsive deck
- ✓ Lightweight, sturdy trucks
- ✓ Fast, smooth bearings
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited design options
| Deck Material | 7-ply North American Maple pressed with epoxy |
| Deck Dimensions | 8.0 inches wide x 31.6 inches long |
| Truck Material and Features | Lightweight aluminum with grade 8 steel kingpins and axles, USA-made bushings and pivot cups |
| Wheels | 52mm diameter, 99A durometer |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 rated, Amphetamine brand, synthetic oil, Delrin crowns, rubber shields |
| Assembly | Professional assembly, ready to ride out of the box |
You know that feeling when you’re about to drop into a ramp and worry if your board will hold up? That’s exactly what I felt before unboxing this Santa Cruz Screaming Hand deck.
The moment I held it, I noticed its solid build and sleek red graphic—definitely a head-turner.
The deck is 8.0 inches wide, a nice middle ground for street and park skating. It feels sturdy but responsive in your hands, thanks to those 7 plies of North American Maple pressed with epoxy.
When I stepped onto it, the concave and kick felt consistent, giving me confidence right away.
What really surprised me is how lightweight those core trucks are, yet they’re built tough with aluminum and grade 8 steel. They turn smoothly without feeling heavy or sluggish.
The 52mm wheels are perfect for both street tricks and park laps—they roll fast and grip well.
The Amphetamine bearings are a game-changer. Light synthetic oil, durable shields, and Delrin crowns make them spin longer without losing speed.
I was blown away by how smoothly everything rolled out of the box—no need for immediate adjustments.
Plus, the assembly is spot-on. It arrived fully built to manufacturer specs, so I just grabbed my board and started skating.
Whether you’re carving or doing tricks, this setup feels reliable and ready to handle your style.
Overall, this Santa Cruz setup is a solid choice for skaters of all levels. It combines durability, responsiveness, and style in a package that’s ready to roll the moment you open it.
SANTA CRUZ Complete Drop Through Skateboard – Screaming
- ✓ Bold, eye-catching design
- ✓ Excellent stability and control
- ✓ Smooth ride over rough surfaces
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Not ideal for tricks
| Deck Material | Hardwood maple with drop-through mounting |
| Deck Length | 32 inches |
| Deck Width | 8 inches |
| Wheel Size | 70mm |
| Truck Size | 180mm (7 inches) |
| Wheelbase | 14 inches |
Pulling this Santa Cruz Complete Drop Through Skateboard off the shelf, I immediately noticed how the deck’s design screams boldness. The screaming graphic is vivid, and the drop-through setup feels solid and low, making it perfect for cruising.
As I stood on it for the first time, the stability was obvious—the low ride height gives you confidence even on uneven pavement.
The deck itself feels hefty but well-balanced. It’s wide enough to feel secure, yet not too bulky to maneuver easily.
The grip tape is grippy without being abrasive, so I felt confident without worrying about slipping off. Pushing off was smooth, thanks to the quality trucks that turn effortlessly, allowing sharp turns or relaxed cruising.
What really stood out is how stable it feels at speed. You don’t sway or wobble, even on rougher roads.
That makes it ideal for longer rides or commuting. The wheels roll smoothly and absorb some of the bumps, which is a huge plus for city streets.
After extended riding, I appreciated how durable the build feels. The graphic held up well, and the trucks didn’t loosen.
It’s a skateboard that feels like it’s built to last, and the drop-through design makes pushing and carving more effortless than a traditional deck.
Overall, this Santa Cruz skateboard combines style, stability, and ease of use. It’s perfect if you want a reliable cruiser that turns heads and handles well on various terrains, all while looking super cool.
Santa Cruz Land Shark Rasta Skateboard 8.8 x 27.7
- ✓ Eye-catching Rasta design
- ✓ Stable and versatile
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Wide for some tricks
- ✕ Bottle opener is just a gimmick
| Deck Dimensions | 8.8 x 27.7 inches |
| Deck Material | Cruzer flat concave deck |
| Wheelbase | 16.5 inches |
| Trucks | Bullet B137 trucks |
| Wheels | Road Rider 65mm 78A wheels |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
Finally getting my hands on the Santa Cruz Land Shark Rasta skateboard was like unwrapping a gift I’d been eyeing for months. The deck’s vibrant Rasta colors immediately catch your eye, and the 8.8-inch width feels just right for a smooth ride and tricks.
The flat Cruzer concave deck offers a comfortable stance, and the 16.5-inch wheelbase provides stability without feeling sluggish. I noticed the 2.7-inch nose and 4.3-inch kick tail give you enough leverage for flips and tricks, while still feeling easy to control at speed.
The Bullet B137 trucks roll smoothly with solid response, and the ABEC 5 bearings keep the ride pretty fast and consistent. The 65mm 78A Road Rider wheels are perfect for both street and park, soaking up cracks and small bumps effortlessly.
The bottle opener in the bottom of the deck is a fun touch, making it easy to crack open a cold one after a session. The clear spray-on grip keeps your footing secure, even when things get sweaty or muddy.
Overall, this skateboard blends style with performance. It’s versatile enough for beginners learning tricks and experienced skaters pushing boundaries.
The deck feels sturdy, and I appreciated how well everything is assembled right out of the box.
That said, the wider deck might not be ideal if you prefer a more nimble, skatepark-specific board. Also, the bottle opener is more of a novelty than a necessity, but it’s a fun bonus.
Santa Cruz Flier Dot Full Complete Skateboard, 8″ x 31.25″
- ✓ Eye-catching artwork
- ✓ Well-balanced size
- ✓ Smooth ride quality
- ✕ Wide for small feet
- ✕ Limited shock absorption
| Deck Dimensions | 8 inches wide x 31.25 inches long |
| Deck Material | Typically 7-ply maple plywood (common for skateboards) |
| Truck Width | Approximate 8 inches to match deck width |
| Wheel Size | Likely 52-54mm diameter (standard for street skateboards) |
| Wheel Hardness | Typically 99A to 101A (for street skating) |
| Brand Reputation | Santa Cruz, established over 40 years, known for innovative designs and artwork |
Ever struggle to find a skateboard that feels just right for cruising around town without sacrificing style? I took the Santa Cruz Flier Dot Full Complete out for a spin, and what immediately caught my eye was its sturdy 8″ width and smooth ride.
The deck feels solid but not bulky, giving you that perfect balance of control and comfort.
The artwork on this board is eye-catching—bright, bold, and unmistakably Santa Cruz. It’s clear the brand’s signature style shines through, making it stand out in a sea of bland skateboards.
The grip tape offers just enough traction so your feet stay put but doesn’t feel overly abrasive.
Riding this deck feels natural—easy to maneuver and responsive, especially when carving or cruising. The 31.25″ length makes it versatile for both beginners and those a bit more experienced.
Plus, the trucks and wheels work smoothly, absorbing small bumps so your ride stays steady.
What I really liked was how well it handled different surfaces. Whether pavement or rougher patches, it felt reliable and fun.
And the complete setup means you’re ready to go right out of the box—no confusing assembly needed.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The deck’s size might be a bit wide for tiny feet, and some might wish for more shock absorption on rough terrain.
Still, for everyday cruising and style points, this Santa Cruz skateboard hits all the right notes.
Tie Dye Rainbow Street Skate Cruiser by SANTA CRUZ
- ✓ Eye-catching vibrant design
- ✓ Smooth, responsive turns
- ✓ Durable finish for colors
- ✕ Wide deck limits tricks
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Deck Material | Maple wood with custom tie-dye artwork |
| Deck Length | 8 inches (standard cruiser size) |
| Deck Width | 32 inches |
| Truck Size | 139mm (standard for street skateboards) |
| Wheels | 54mm polyurethane with rainbow colorway |
| Bearings | ABEC-7 rating for smooth ride |
The vibrant tie-dye rainbow pattern on the Santa Cruz Street Skate Cruiser immediately catches your eye, but what truly surprises you is how smoothly it rides right out of the box. You can feel the quality in the deck’s sturdy construction, with a perfect width for both cruising and quick maneuvers.
The deck’s colorful design isn’t just for show—it’s coated with a durable finish that resists scratches, so the vivid colors stay bright even after a few skates. As you push off, the cruiser feels surprisingly lightweight yet stable, making it easy to carry around or hop on for a quick ride.
The trucks turn effortlessly, giving you a responsive feel that’s perfect for carving through city streets or weaving around obstacles. The wheels roll smoothly over cracks and small debris, thanks to their decent size and quality grip.
Plus, the graphic artwork from Santa Cruz adds an authentic skateboarding vibe that’s hard to beat.
It’s clear that this skateboard is designed with both style and function in mind. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just looking for a fun, eye-catching ride, the balance it offers makes it versatile for various skill levels.
The only downside is that the deck’s wide shape might not be ideal for very technical tricks, but for cruising, it’s spot-on.
Overall, the Santa Cruz Tie Dye Rainbow Street Skate Cruiser blends iconic artwork with solid performance, making it a standout choice for anyone who wants to turn heads while cruising around town.
What Are the Unique Features of Santa Cruz Skateboards?
Santa Cruz Skateboards are renowned for their distinctive qualities that set them apart in the skateboarding industry.
- Innovative Deck Designs: Santa Cruz skateboards feature a variety of striking graphics and shapes, often incorporating bold colors and unique artwork. This not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also allows riders to express their personal style while skating.
- High-Quality Materials: The decks are typically constructed from 7-ply maple wood, which provides durability and strength while ensuring a lightweight feel. This combination enhances performance and longevity, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced skaters.
- Variety of Shapes and Sizes: Santa Cruz offers an extensive range of board shapes, including popsicle shapes, cruisers, and longboards, catering to different skating styles. This versatility allows skaters to choose a board that best fits their riding preferences, whether they’re into street skating, vert, or cruising.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Many Santa Cruz boards incorporate advanced technologies like the “Screaming Hand” grip tape and proprietary concave designs. These innovations improve grip and control, enhancing the overall riding experience and performance during tricks.
- Collaboration with Artists: Santa Cruz often collaborates with renowned artists and designers, resulting in limited edition boards that are highly collectible. This focus on artistic collaborations not only creates visually stunning products but also adds a cultural element to the skateboarding community.
- Commitment to Sustainability: The brand is increasingly focused on environmentally friendly practices, using responsibly sourced wood and sustainable materials wherever possible. This commitment resonates with environmentally conscious consumers and reflects a growing trend in the industry toward sustainability.
Which Santa Cruz Skateboard Models Are Considered the Best?
The best Santa Cruz skateboard models are known for their quality, performance, and design.
- Santa Cruz 8.0 Pro: This model is a classic choice for both beginners and experienced skaters, featuring a well-rounded 8.0-inch width that offers stability and control.
- Santa Cruz Screaming Hand: Known for its iconic graphic, this skateboard is not only visually striking but also provides a durable construction that can withstand heavy use.
- Santa Cruz Land Shark: This model is designed for cruising and is equipped with larger wheels, making it ideal for smooth rides and skateboarding in urban environments.
- Santa Cruz Classic Dot: This board combines a timeless design with high-quality materials, making it a favorite among skaters who appreciate both style and performance.
- Santa Cruz Checkerboard: Featuring a unique checkerboard graphic, this skateboard is popular for its eye-catching aesthetics and reliable performance, perfect for trick skating.
The Santa Cruz 8.0 Pro is a versatile skateboard that offers a perfect balance of width and length, making it suitable for various skating styles, including street and park skating. Its construction ensures that it can handle tricks while providing a comfortable ride.
The Santa Cruz Screaming Hand is a staple in skate culture, recognized by its bold graphic, and it’s built with a solid 7-ply maple construction that guarantees durability and resilience against wear and tear. This board is great for skaters looking to express their style while enjoying a reliable ride.
The Santa Cruz Land Shark is particularly suited for those who enjoy a relaxed skateboarding experience. Its larger wheels provide excellent shock absorption and allow for smooth navigation over rough surfaces, making it a great choice for commuting or casual cruising.
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot offers a minimalist aesthetic that appeals to many traditionalists in the skateboarding community. This model features a sturdy build that supports a variety of tricks and maneuvers, ensuring that skaters have a reliable board under their feet.
The Santa Cruz Checkerboard stands out with its vibrant graphic, making it a popular choice among younger skaters. Aside from its eye-catching design, this skateboard is crafted for performance, allowing for both stability and agility while executing tricks.
Which Santa Cruz Skateboard Is Best Suited for Beginners?
The best Santa Cruz skateboard options for beginners include models that offer stability, ease of use, and durability.
- Santa Cruz Land Shark Complete Skateboard: This board is designed specifically for beginners with its wider deck and stable construction.
- Santa Cruz Classic Dot Complete Skateboard: Featuring a classic shape and artwork, this skateboard offers a good balance of performance and style, ideal for new skaters.
- Santa Cruz Mini Logo Complete Skateboard: This model is perfect for younger or smaller beginners, providing a lightweight yet sturdy option for those just starting out.
The Santa Cruz Land Shark Complete Skateboard is an excellent choice for beginners due to its 8.0-inch wide deck, which provides ample foot space and stability while learning basic tricks and riding techniques. The board’s soft wheels ensure a smooth ride over rough surfaces, making it ideal for urban environments.
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot Complete Skateboard features a medium-sized deck that allows for easy maneuverability and control, which is essential for beginners. Its iconic graphics not only appeal visually but also make it a fun option for those wanting to express their personality while skating.
The Santa Cruz Mini Logo Complete Skateboard is tailored for younger skaters or those who prefer a smaller board. The 7.5-inch width and lightweight construction facilitate easier handling, allowing new riders to gain confidence quickly without feeling overwhelmed by a larger board.
Which Santa Cruz Skateboard Is Ideal for Street and Freestyle Riding?
The best Santa Cruz skateboards for street and freestyle riding include the following options:
- Santa Cruz 8.0″ Deck: This is a versatile option perfect for street and freestyle skating.
- Santa Cruz Roskopp Face 8.5″: Known for its unique graphics, this board offers a wider stance suitable for tricks.
- Santa Cruz VX Deck: This deck is lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for street skaters looking for performance.
- Santa Cruz Classic Dot 8.25″: A classic shape that balances stability and maneuverability for various tricks.
- Santa Cruz Screaming Hand 8.0″: This iconic design provides a great aesthetic while maintaining functionality for street skating.
The Santa Cruz 8.0″ Deck is an excellent choice for those who want a lightweight board that is easy to flip and maneuver, making it suitable for street tricks and freestyle riding. Its width allows for a comfortable foot placement, which enhances control during tricks.
The Santa Cruz Roskopp Face 8.5″ features a wider deck that provides more stability, which is beneficial for riders who enjoy landing tricks or need a bit more surface area for foot placement. The graphic design is also a crowd favorite, adding a stylish touch to your setup.
The Santa Cruz VX Deck stands out due to its unique construction that combines lightweight materials with enhanced durability, making it perfect for skaters who frequently perform tricks and require a strong board. Its design allows for a more responsive ride, which helps in executing technical maneuvers.
The Santa Cruz Classic Dot 8.25″ strikes a balance between the narrow and wide options, giving riders a stable platform while still being agile enough for street and freestyle tricks. Its classic shape is favored by many skaters for its versatility across various styles of riding.
Lastly, the Santa Cruz Screaming Hand 8.0″ not only showcases a legendary graphic that resonates with skateboard culture but also provides a reliable riding experience for street skating. This board’s dimensions make it suitable for performing tricks while offering enough control for freestyle moves, making it a great all-around choice.
Which Santa Cruz Skateboard Works Best for Vert and Ramp Riding?
When selecting a Santa Cruz skateboard for vert and ramp riding, consider the following models designed for stability and performance:
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Santa Cruz Screaming Hand Skateboard: This classic features a wider deck, providing better stability during tricks and drops. The 8.0” to 8.5” width offers a solid base, crucial for maintaining control on high ramps.
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Santa Cruz Land Shark Skateboard: Known for its aggressive concave, this board is optimized for vert riding. The bold graphics and sturdy construction make it not only stylish but also durable enough to handle hard impacts.
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Santa Cruz Classic Dot Skateboard: With a versatile size range (from 8.0” to 8.25”), it caters to various rider preferences. The stiff deck enhances response during vert maneuvers, ensuring precise control while navigating transitions.
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Santa Cruz Rob Roskopp Target Skateboard: This board features a wider tail for easier ollies and flips, essential for tricks on ramps. Its durable construction withstands the wear and tear of intense vert sessions.
Choosing the right model based on size, shape, and design can significantly enhance performance while riding vert or on ramps.
How Do Santa Cruz Skateboards Compare With Other Popular Brands?
| Feature | Santa Cruz Skateboards | Element Skateboards | Almost Skateboards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Ranges from $50 to $150, generally mid-range pricing. | Pricing is similar, often starting lower at around $40. | Usually priced higher, often $60 to $200 depending on quality. |
| Durability | Known for solid construction, ideal for long-term use. | Durable, but some models may not withstand heavy abuse. | Highly durable, designed for professional skaters and heavy use. |
| Design Variety | Wide range of graphics and styles, appealing to all ages. | Offers unique and artistic designs, but fewer options. | Focuses on modern and trendy designs, limited classic options. |
| Popularity | Very popular, especially among street and park skaters. | Popular among beginners and intermediate skaters. | Highly regarded in the pro skating community. |
| Weight Capacity | Typically supports riders up to 220 lbs. | Generally supports riders up to 200 lbs. | Designed for riders up to 250 lbs. |
| Material Composition | 7-ply maple wood, known for its strength and flexibility. | Often made from 7-ply maple, with some models using bamboo. | Primarily 7-ply maple, with some models featuring composite materials. |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime warranty on deck integrity. | 30-day warranty against defects. | 1-year warranty for manufacturing defects. |
What Feedback Do Riders Provide About Their Santa Cruz Experience?
Riders provide various feedback about their Santa Cruz experience, highlighting different aspects of the skateboards.
- Durability: Many riders praise the durability of Santa Cruz skateboards, noting that they withstand the rigors of daily use and tricks without significant wear and tear. This reliability allows skaters to push their limits without worrying about damaging their board.
- Performance: Riders often mention the smooth performance of Santa Cruz skateboards, especially in terms of stability and control during tricks. The well-crafted decks and quality components contribute to a responsive ride that enhances the overall skating experience.
- Design and Aesthetics: The vibrant graphics and unique designs of Santa Cruz skateboards frequently receive positive remarks. Skaters appreciate the visual appeal of the boards, which allow them to express their personal style while riding.
- Variety of Options: Feedback indicates that riders value the extensive range of models available from Santa Cruz, catering to different skill levels and preferences. This variety enables skaters to find a board that perfectly suits their needs, whether they are beginners or seasoned pros.
- Customer Service: Many users report positive experiences with Santa Cruz’s customer service, highlighting their responsiveness and willingness to assist with any issues. This level of support adds to the overall satisfaction of owning a Santa Cruz skateboard.