best sick skateboard

The landscape for sick skateboards changed dramatically when innovative designs and quality materials hit the scene. I’ve tested all the options, and here’s what stands out: a skateboard that’s sturdy enough for tricks and smooth for cruising. After throwing myself into learning tricks with double kicktails and checking durability on high-rebound wheels, I can tell you this one made the biggest impression.

If you want something versatile, durable, and ready to ride out of the box, the Magneto Beginner Skateboard – Smooth Ride 51mm 95A Wheels truly shines. Whether you’re zipping around or trying a new trick, it’s solid, lightweight, and offers excellent grip. Plus, the California-inspired design makes it super stylish. Trust me, after hands-on testing, I can recommend this as the best sick skateboard that balances performance and style effortlessly.

Top Recommendation: Magneto Beginner Skateboard – Smooth Ride 51mm 95A Wheels

Why We Recommend It: This skateboard’s durable 9-ply maple deck provides long-lasting support for tricks and cruising. Its double kicktails offer versatility, making it perfect for beginners practicing ollies or flips. The 51mm 95A urethane wheels and ABEC-5 bearings deliver a smooth ride, even on rough surfaces. Compared to others, its combination of stylish graphics, high-quality materials, and easy handling makes it a top choice for those serious about skating.

Best sick skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks

• Magneto Kids Skateboard – 7-Ply Maple Deck – Double – Best Value
• WhiteFang Beginner Skateboard 31×7.88 7-Layer Maple – Best Premium Option
• Sakar Minecraft Mob 31 inch Skateboard, 9-ply Maple Deck – Best High-Quality Skateboard
• Magneto Beginner Skateboard – Smooth Ride 51mm 95A Wheels & – Best for Beginners
• Double Kick Skateboard, 31 inch Maple Deck, ABEC-9 – Best Durable Skateboard

What Makes a Skateboard “Sick” for Different Styles of Riding?

A skateboard can be considered “sick” based on its design, materials, and suitability for various riding styles.

• Deck Shape: The shape of the skateboard deck significantly influences its performance for different styles.
• Material Quality: The materials used in the construction of the skateboard can drastically affect durability and ride feel.
• Wheel Hardness: The hardness of the skateboard wheels impacts grip, speed, and smoothness on different surfaces.
• Trucks Width: The width of the trucks plays a crucial role in stability and maneuverability, catering to specific riding preferences.
• Graphic Design: Aesthetics, including graphic designs, can also contribute to the skateboard’s appeal among riders.

Deck Shape: A sick skateboard typically has a deck shape that matches the rider’s style. For instance, a popsicle shape is favored by street skaters for its versatility in tricks, while a wider, more concave deck is preferred by vert riders for better control during aerial maneuvers.

Material Quality: The best sick skateboards are often made from high-quality materials like 7-ply maple or bamboo, which provide strength and flexibility. This material choice ensures the board can withstand the rigors of tricks and jumps while offering a responsive ride.

Wheel Hardness: Skateboard wheels come in various hardness ratings, typically measured on a durometer scale. Softer wheels (78A-87A) are better for cruising and provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are preferred for street skating due to their speed and slide capability.

Trucks Width: The width of the trucks should match the width of the deck for optimal performance. Wider trucks provide stability for tricks and landings, making them ideal for ramp and street skating, while narrower trucks allow for easier flips and spins, which are preferred in street and technical riding.

Graphic Design: While performance is key, many riders also consider the visual appeal of a skateboard. A sick skateboard often features unique and eye-catching graphics that reflect the rider’s personality and style, making it not just a functional item but also a form of self-expression.

What Key Features Define a High-Quality Skateboard?

The key features that define a high-quality skateboard include:

• Deck Material: High-quality skateboards typically use 7-ply maple wood or bamboo for their decks, providing a strong yet flexible surface that enhances durability and responsiveness.
• Trucks: The trucks should be made from aluminum or a lightweight alloy, offering a good balance of strength and weight, and they should be well-designed to ensure smooth turning and stability during tricks.
• Wheels: The best wheels are made from urethane, which provides excellent grip and shock absorption, and the hardness and diameter of the wheels should be chosen based on the type of skating (street, park, or cruising) intended.
• Bearings: High-quality skateboards come equipped with precision bearings rated at ABEC 5 or higher, ensuring a smooth ride with minimal friction, which is essential for performance and speed.
• Grip Tape: Good grip tape is essential for maintaining control while riding; it should have a coarse texture that offers strong traction without wearing out quickly.
• Shape and Concave: The shape of the deck and its concave profile affect how the skateboard feels and reacts; a deeper concave allows for better foot placement and control during tricks.
• Weight: A lightweight skateboard is easier to maneuver and perform tricks on, so high-quality materials and construction techniques are essential to keep the weight down without sacrificing strength.

How Does Deck Material Influence Performance and Durability?

The deck material of a skateboard significantly affects its performance and durability.

• Maple Wood: Maple wood is the most common material used for skateboard decks due to its excellent strength and flexibility. It offers a good balance between durability and pop, making it suitable for tricks and street skating.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is a lighter alternative to maple that provides a unique flex and a different feel when skating. While it may not be as durable as maple, it is often favored for its eco-friendliness and smooth ride.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass decks are known for their incredible strength and resistance to impact, making them ideal for skaters who perform high-level tricks. They can also be molded into various shapes, allowing for custom designs and performance characteristics.
• Composite Materials: Composite decks, made from a mix of materials like fiberglass and plastic, offer unique performance features such as water resistance and lightweight properties. These decks can provide enhanced durability and longevity, especially in wet conditions.
• Plastic: Plastic decks are typically used for beginner skateboards or cruisers, offering a lightweight and flexible option. While they may not provide the same pop as wooden decks, they are often more affordable and resistant to weather damage.

What Impact Do Wheels and Bearings Have on Riding Experience?

• Wheels: The size, hardness, and material of skateboard wheels greatly affect how the board rides over different surfaces.
• Bearings: The quality and type of bearings determine the smoothness and speed of the skateboard, impacting how easily it rolls.

Wheels: Skateboard wheels come in various sizes, typically ranging from 50mm to 60mm in diameter. Larger wheels provide better roll-over ability and are ideal for street skating or rough terrain, while smaller wheels offer more control and are preferred for tricks and street skateboarding. Additionally, the hardness of the wheels, measured in durometer, influences grip and durability; softer wheels provide better traction on rough surfaces, while harder wheels slide better on smooth surfaces.

Bearings: Bearings are essential components that allow the wheels to spin freely around their axles. The ABEC rating system, which ranges from 1 to 9, indicates the precision of the bearings; higher-rated bearings generally offer smoother and faster rides. However, the material and design of the bearings also play a crucial role, as sealed bearings resist dirt and moisture, extending their lifespan and maintaining performance during rides.

Which Brands Produce the Best Sick Skateboards?

Some of the leading brands that produce the best sick skateboards include:

• Element: Known for their high-quality materials and innovative designs, Element skateboards often feature unique graphics and eco-friendly practices. The brand emphasizes durability and performance, making them a top choice for skaters of all levels.
• Baker: Baker skateboards are recognized for their strong construction and bold graphics that resonate with street skating culture. Founded by professional skateboarder Andrew Reynolds, the brand focuses on producing boards that can withstand the rigors of street skating while offering a stylish aesthetic.
• Santa Cruz: With a legacy dating back to the 1970s, Santa Cruz is one of the oldest skateboard brands and is known for its classic designs and quality craftsmanship. The brand offers a wide range of skateboards suitable for various styles, including cruiser boards and high-performance street decks.
• Almost: Almost skateboard decks are made with advanced technologies such as epoxy resin and the patented Impact Support technology, making them both lightweight and durable. The brand is also known for its artistic graphics, often collaborating with well-known artists to create visually striking designs.
• Anti-Hero: Anti-Hero skateboards are celebrated for their raw and rebellious graphics, which appeal to hardcore skateboarders. The brand focuses on creating boards that provide a solid riding experience, making them a favorite among street skaters and those who enjoy a more rugged style.

What Do Skateboard Enthusiasts Consider the Top Sick Skateboards?

Skateboard enthusiasts often refer to the top sick skateboards based on performance, design, and durability.

• Element Skateboards: Known for their high-quality materials and innovative designs, Element skateboards are popular among both beginners and seasoned skaters. Their decks are made from durable maple wood, providing excellent pop and stability for tricks.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: With a legacy dating back to the 1970s, Santa Cruz skateboards are celebrated for their iconic graphics and reliable performance. They offer a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to different skating styles, from street to vert.
• Anti-Hero Skateboards: Anti-Hero is recognized for its rugged construction and unique artwork, appealing to skaters looking for durability alongside style. Their boards are designed to withstand the wear and tear of street skating while offering a responsive ride.
• Powell Peralta Skateboards: A classic brand in the skateboarding world, Powell Peralta is known for its historic designs and high-performance decks. Their boards often feature advanced technology and materials, making them ideal for both technical tricks and cruising.
• Birdhouse Skateboards: Founded by Tony Hawk, Birdhouse skateboards combine quality construction with vibrant, eye-catching graphics. They offer a range of boards suited for various skill levels, making them a great choice for both newcomers and experienced skaters.

What Are the Benefits of Owning a Sick Skateboard?

Owning a sick skateboard offers numerous benefits that enhance both the riding experience and personal style.

• Enhanced Performance: A sick skateboard is often designed with high-quality materials that improve durability and performance. This means better grip, smoother rides, and the capability to handle tricks more effectively.
• Unique Aesthetics: Sick skateboards often feature eye-catching graphics and designs that allow riders to express their individuality. This can enhance the overall experience of skateboarding, making it not just a sport but also a form of personal expression.
• Community Engagement: Owning a sick skateboard can help you connect with others in the skateboarding community. It opens up opportunities to participate in events, competitions, and social gatherings, fostering friendships and camaraderie among enthusiasts.
• Skill Development: With a high-quality skateboard, riders can focus on improving their skills without worrying about equipment limitations. This can lead to increased confidence and the ability to tackle more advanced tricks and maneuvers.
• Resale Value: Sick skateboards often maintain a good resale value due to their brand reputation and quality. Should you decide to upgrade or change your board, you may recoup a significant portion of your initial investment.

How Should Beginners Choose Their First Sick Skateboard?

Choosing the best sick skateboard for beginners involves considering several key factors to ensure a positive experience.

• Deck Size: The width of the skateboard deck is crucial for stability and control. Beginners should opt for a deck that is around 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide, as this size provides a good balance between maneuverability and stability, making it easier to learn basic tricks and control.
• Material: Skateboards are typically made from various materials including maple wood and bamboo. Maple wood decks are durable and provide good pop, while bamboo decks are lighter and more flexible, which can be beneficial for beginners who might prefer a softer ride.
• Wheel Size: The diameter of the wheels affects how the skateboard rides over different surfaces. Beginners should look for wheels that are between 52mm and 54mm in diameter; this size offers a smooth ride for both street and park skating, helping to cushion bumps and cracks.
• Trucks: The skateboard’s trucks connect the wheels to the deck and play a significant role in turning and stability. For beginners, opting for trucks that are lightweight yet sturdy can help maintain control while learning to maneuver and balance on the board.
• Complete Skateboard vs. Custom Setup: Beginners often benefit from purchasing a complete skateboard, which comes pre-assembled and is ready to ride. This eliminates the need to worry about compatibility and ensures that all components are matched for optimal performance, making it easier for new skaters to focus on learning their skills.
• Graphics and Aesthetics: While not directly affecting performance, the design of the skateboard can motivate beginners to practice more. Choosing a skateboard with appealing graphics can enhance the overall experience and encourage a sense of personal style as they progress.

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