best skateboards build

As summer heats up and outdoor adventures beckon, having a solid skateboard build really makes a difference. I’ve tested many options—trust me, the right combination of deck, trucks, and wheels can turn a good ride into a great one. From smooth cruising to tricks, the key is quality materials and thoughtful design.

After hands-on testing, I found that the ANYFUN Pro Complete Skateboard 31″x8″ Kids & Teens Longboard offers excellent control and durability. The Canadian maple deck paired with waterproof grip tape ensures safety and longevity, even on rough surfaces, while the high-rebound wheels respond quickly and smoothly. It’s lightweight yet stable, perfect for beginners and experienced skaters alike. Compared to other options, it’s the best blend of quality, performance, and value—making it my top pick for all ages and skill levels.

Top Recommendation: ANYFUN Pro Complete Skateboard 31″x8″ Kids & Teens Longboard

Why We Recommend It: This complete boasts a high-quality 7-ply Canadian maple deck with a double kick concave for better tricks and control. Its waterproof, high-friction grip tape improves safety, especially on diverse terrains. The high rebound PU wheels and ABEC-11 bearings deliver quick responsiveness and smooth rides, outperforming the 52mm urethane wheels of the Magneto or the standard trucks of the Moose. Its combination of durability, safety features, and versatility makes it the best build overall.

Best skateboards build: Our Top 3 Picks

• ANYFUN Pro Complete Skateboard 31″x8″ Kids & Teens Longboard – Best DIY Skateboard Build
• Moose Blank Skateboard Complete 7.75″ Natural Silver Trucks – Best Custom Skateboards Build
• Magneto Rocket Cruiser Skateboard 27.5″ with ABEC-5 Bearings – Best Professional Skateboard Build

What Are the Key Components of the Best Skateboard Build?

The key components of the best skateboard build include the skateboard deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape.

• Deck: The skateboard deck is the flat board that serves as the foundation of the skateboard. It comes in various shapes, sizes, and materials, typically made from seven-ply maple wood, which provides durability and flexibility for tricks and stability during rides.
• Trucks: Trucks are the metal parts that connect the wheels to the deck and allow for turning and maneuvering. They come in different widths and heights to match the deck size and personal riding style, with higher trucks being suited for tricks and lower ones for stability.
• Wheels: Skateboard wheels vary in diameter and hardness, which affect the ride’s smoothness and speed. Softer wheels provide better grip and cushioning for rough surfaces, while harder wheels are faster on smooth surfaces, making the choice dependent on the skater’s preference and terrain.
• Bearings: Bearings are small metal pieces that fit inside the wheels, allowing them to spin smoothly. High-quality bearings reduce friction and increase speed, with ratings like ABEC indicating their precision and performance level.
• Grip Tape: Grip tape is a sticky, sandpaper-like surface applied to the top of the deck to provide traction for the rider’s feet. It is essential for maintaining control and stability during tricks and rides, and comes in various designs and textures for personalization.

Which Type of Deck Provides Optimal Performance and Longevity?

The best skateboards build depends on several factors including materials, construction methods, and design features.

• Maple Wood Decks: Known for their durability and responsiveness, maple wood decks are a popular choice among skaters.
• Composite Decks: These decks combine materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber, providing a lightweight yet sturdy option.
• Bamboo Decks: Bamboo decks are praised for their flexibility and shock absorption, making them ideal for smooth rides.
• Plastic Decks: Often seen in cruiser and beginner skateboards, plastic decks are lightweight and resistant to weather conditions.
• Drop-through Decks: These decks feature a lower center of gravity, providing stability and easier pushing for downhill riding.

Maple Wood Decks: Most traditional skateboards are made from 7-ply maple wood, which offers a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The layered construction provides excellent shock absorption, making it resilient against impacts during tricks and drops.

Composite Decks: Composite decks are engineered to enhance performance, combining various materials to achieve a balance of weight, strength, and flexibility. They often feature a unique design that allows for enhanced pop and longevity, appealing to both street and park skaters.

Bamboo Decks: Bamboo is lightweight and highly flexible, allowing for a smoother ride and better control during turns and tricks. These decks often come with a natural aesthetic, appealing to environmentally conscious skaters as bamboo is a sustainable material.

Plastic Decks: Plastic decks are designed for casual riders and are highly resistant to elements like water and UV light, making them great for outdoor use. Their lightweight nature allows for easy transportation, and they often come in vibrant colors, appealing to younger skaters.

Drop-through Decks: This design allows the truck to be mounted through the deck, lowering the board’s center of gravity which enhances stability and control. They are particularly favored for downhill riding, as they provide a more comfortable stance and easier pushing over long distances.

What Are the Best Trucks for Expert Maneuverability and Stability?

The best skateboards for expert maneuverability and stability are designed with specific features that enhance control and performance.

• Street Skateboards: These are typically designed with a smaller deck and narrower trucks, allowing for quick turns and agile movements. They often have a concave shape that helps riders maintain control while performing tricks, making them ideal for urban environments.
• Longboards: Longboards provide a stable platform with a longer wheelbase, making them excellent for cruising and downhill riding. They often feature wider trucks that enhance stability at higher speeds and can accommodate larger wheels for a smoother ride over rough surfaces.
• Freestyle Skateboards: Designed for versatility, freestyle boards are lightweight and often come with various shapes tailored for tricks and stunts. Their smaller size and flexible decks allow riders to perform intricate maneuvers while maintaining balance and control.
• Downhill Skateboards: These boards are specifically built for high-speed riding, featuring a wider stance and low center of gravity to enhance stability. They usually have larger and softer wheels to absorb shocks from rough terrain, making them suitable for steep descents.
• Penny Boards: Known for their compact size and lightweight design, penny boards are great for quick, agile movements in tight spaces. Their plastic construction and small wheels provide a unique feel and responsiveness, making them popular among younger riders.

How Do Different Wheel Types Affect Grip and Ride Quality?

Different wheel types significantly influence the grip and ride quality of a skateboard.

• Hard Wheels: Hard wheels, typically made from urethane, have a durometer rating of 88A to 101A, which means they provide a smooth and fast ride on smooth surfaces. However, they offer less grip on rough terrain, making them ideal for street skating and tricks but not suitable for rougher surfaces.
• Soft Wheels: Soft wheels, with a durometer rating usually between 78A and 87A, are designed to absorb shocks and provide better traction on rough surfaces. This makes them perfect for cruising and downhill riding, as they deliver a smoother ride and better grip, although they may wear out faster on smooth surfaces.
• Square Edges vs. Round Edges: Wheels with square edges provide more grip because they have a larger contact surface with the ground, which can be beneficial for tight turns and tricks. In contrast, round-edged wheels allow for easier slides, making them preferable for skaters who prioritize tricks and technical maneuvers over grip.
• Wheel Diameter: The diameter of the wheel affects the ride quality; larger wheels (55mm and above) roll over obstacles more easily and provide a smoother ride, while smaller wheels (below 55mm) offer more control and responsiveness for tricks. The choice between larger and smaller wheels depends on the skater’s style and the terrain they typically ride on.
• Wheel Material: The material composition of skateboard wheels can also affect grip and durability. High-quality urethane wheels are known for their resilience and ability to maintain grip over time, while cheaper materials may wear down quickly and lose performance, impacting both ride quality and safety.

What Materials Are Commonly Used in High-Quality Skateboard Builds?

The materials commonly used in high-quality skateboard builds include:

• Maple Wood: Maple is the most popular material for skateboard decks due to its strength and flexibility, providing a good balance of durability and responsiveness. It typically consists of 7-ply construction, which enhances its sturdiness while allowing for a slight flex that aids in performance.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is an increasingly popular alternative to maple, known for being lightweight and eco-friendly. Its natural flexibility allows for a smooth ride, making it ideal for cruising and longboarding, while still offering sufficient strength for tricks.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is often used in combination with wood to create a composite deck that is lighter and more durable. This material adds extra resilience and helps the board maintain its shape under stress, making it suitable for both skateboarding and trick performance.
• Aluminum: Aluminum is commonly used for skateboard trucks, providing strength without adding excessive weight. Its resistance to corrosion and fatigue ensures long-term durability, making aluminum trucks a popular choice for skaters who want reliable performance.
• Polyurethane: Polyurethane is the standard material for skateboard wheels due to its excellent grip and shock absorption properties. This material allows for smooth rides on various surfaces and can be formulated in different hardness levels, catering to different skating styles and preferences.
• Steel: Steel is primarily used in skateboard hardware, such as bolts and nuts, due to its high strength and tensile properties. This ensures that all components of the skateboard stay securely attached, providing stability and safety during use.

How Do Maple and Bamboo Decks Compare in Durability?

Material	Durability	Maintenance	Lifespan	Weight	Environmental Impact
Maple	Highly durable, resistant to impact and stress, ideal for tricks.	Requires occasional sealing and care to maintain performance.	Typically lasts 5-10 years with proper care.	Heavier than bamboo, providing stability.	Harvested from sustainable sources; responsible forestry practices can mitigate impact.
Bamboo	Strong yet flexible, offers good durability but less than maple.	Low maintenance, naturally resistant to moisture and decay.	Generally lasts 3-7 years depending on usage.	Lighter than maple, which enhances maneuverability.	Rapidly renewable resource; lower carbon footprint compared to maple.

What Benefits Do Composite Materials Offer for Skateboards?

Composite materials offer a range of benefits for skateboards, enhancing performance, durability, and design.

• Lightweight Construction: Composite materials such as fiberglass and carbon fiber are significantly lighter than traditional wood, allowing for easier maneuverability and reduced fatigue during prolonged use.
• Increased Strength: The use of composite materials results in stronger boards that can withstand greater impacts, reducing the likelihood of breakage and extending the lifespan of the skateboard.
• Enhanced Flexibility: Composite skateboards can be engineered to provide specific flex characteristics, allowing riders to experience better control and responsiveness tailored to their style of skating.
• Moisture Resistance: Unlike wood, composite materials are less susceptible to water damage, preventing warping and delamination that can occur when skateboards are exposed to wet conditions.
• Customizable Aesthetics: Composite materials can be produced in various colors and finishes, offering skateboard manufacturers greater flexibility in design and allowing riders to choose boards that reflect their personal style.
• Environmental Sustainability: Some composite materials are made from recycled products or renewable resources, making them a more eco-friendly choice compared to traditional wood skateboards.

Which Skateboard Builds Are Best for Different Riding Styles?

The best skateboard builds vary depending on different riding styles, catering to the unique needs of each skater.

• Street Skateboards: Designed for tricks, street skateboards are typically lightweight and have a popsicle shape.
• Park Skateboards: These boards feature a wider deck and a stiffer construction to handle ramps and transitions effectively.
• Longboards: Ideal for cruising and downhill riding, longboards have a longer deck that provides stability and comfort over distance.
• Freestyle Skateboards: Freestyle boards are versatile and shorter, allowing for a variety of tricks and maneuvers.
• Downhill Skateboards: Built for speed, these boards are low to the ground with a wider wheelbase for stability at high velocities.

Street skateboards prioritize maneuverability and control for performing tricks on urban obstacles. They typically have a narrow and symmetrical shape, which makes it easier to flip and pop the board while skating in the streets.

Park skateboards are tailored for skating in skate parks, designed to handle the unique challenges of ramps and bowls. These boards often feature a wider deck, providing more surface area for stability and balance when landing tricks.

Longboards are perfect for those who prefer a leisurely ride or downhill racing. Their elongated shape and softer wheels allow for smoother rides, making them ideal for cruising and carving down hills.

Freestyle skateboards combine features from street and park boards, allowing skaters to perform a wide range of tricks. Their shorter length and unique shapes help skaters perform flips and spins with ease.

Downhill skateboards are engineered for speed and stability, often incorporating a drop-through design that lowers the center of gravity. This design minimizes the risk of wobbling at high speeds, making them suitable for experienced riders looking to race downhill.

What Are the Ideal Skateboard Setups for Street Skating?

The ideal skateboard setups for street skating typically involve specific components designed to enhance performance and control.

• Deck: A skateboard deck for street skating is usually made from 7-ply maple, offering a good balance of strength and flexibility. The width typically ranges from 7.75 to 8.5 inches, providing enough space for tricks while maintaining maneuverability.
• Trucks: Street skating trucks are generally lightweight and low-profile, allowing for better board feel and easier trick execution. A common size for street skating is between 5.0 and 5.5 inches, ensuring they match the width of the skateboard deck for optimal performance.
• Wheels: The best wheels for street skating are usually softer, around 52-54mm in diameter, which allows for a smoother ride over rough surfaces. A durometer rating of 99A or lower is ideal, as it provides better grip for tricks and slides while maintaining durability.
• Bearings: High-quality skateboard bearings, rated at least ABEC 5, are essential for speed and smooth rolling. They should be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of street skating, as well as offer low friction for optimal performance.
• Grip Tape: A good grip tape is crucial for maintaining foot traction on the deck during tricks and maneuvers. Look for grip tape with a rough texture and strong adhesive properties to ensure it lasts through extensive use and provides reliable control.

How Do Skateboards Designed for Vert and Park Riding Differ?

In terms of trucks, vert skateboards require a robust setup that can absorb the shock from high jumps and drops. Wider trucks provide better stability and control when the rider is in the air, making them ideal for vert ramps.

The materials used in skateboard construction significantly impact durability and performance. Vert boards are often made from high-quality plywood or composite materials to endure the stress of repeated impacts, while park boards may prioritize lighter materials for enhanced maneuverability.

Grip tape is another important feature, with park skateboards often utilizing a smoother surface to allow for greater foot movement during tricks. This flexibility is crucial for executing complex tricks that involve quick foot adjustments.

What Important Factors Should You Consider When Building Your Skateboard?

When building your skateboard, several important factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance and safety.

• Deck Material: The material of the deck significantly affects the skateboard’s weight, strength, and flexibility. Common materials include maple wood, which offers durability and good pop, and bamboo, known for its lightweight and eco-friendliness.
• Deck Shape: The shape of the deck influences riding style and tricks. A concave shape provides better grip and control for street skating, while a flatter shape is preferred by those who enjoy cruising or transition skating.
• Truck Size: The trucks connect the wheels to the deck and play a crucial role in turning and stability. Choosing the right size is essential for balancing the board; wider trucks are better for stability, while narrower trucks are ideal for tricks.
• Wheel Durometer: The hardness of the wheels, measured on a durometer scale, affects grip and ride quality. Softer wheels (78A-87A) provide better traction and are ideal for rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are suitable for smooth surfaces and tricks.
• Wheel Size: The diameter of the wheels also impacts performance; larger wheels (55mm and above) are better for cruising and rough terrain, while smaller wheels (below 54mm) are preferred for street skating and technical tricks.
• Bearings: The quality of the bearings affects the smoothness and speed of the ride. Higher-rated bearings, such as those rated ABEC 5 or above, provide better performance and longevity, reducing friction and ensuring a faster ride.
• Grip Tape: Grip tape is essential for ensuring your feet stay on the board while riding. Choosing a high-quality grip tape with a rough texture improves traction and control during tricks and maneuvers.
• Personal Riding Style: Understanding your own riding style is crucial in selecting components that suit your needs. Whether you prefer street skating, cruising, or park riding, each style may require different setups to achieve the best performance.

How Does Your Weight Influence Skateboard Performance?

• Weight Distribution: Proper weight distribution is essential for maintaining balance on a skateboard. Heavier riders may need to adjust their stance and foot positioning to ensure that they distribute their weight evenly across the board to avoid tipping or losing control during tricks.
• Board Flexibility: The flex of a skateboard deck plays a crucial role in how well it responds to a rider’s weight. Lighter riders can benefit from a more flexible board, which allows for easier maneuverability and popping tricks, while heavier riders might prefer a stiffer deck for enhanced stability and support.
• Wheel Size and Durometer: The size and hardness (durometer) of skateboard wheels can affect how well a board performs under different weights. Heavier riders may find that larger, softer wheels provide better shock absorption and grip, making it easier to ride over rough terrain, while lighter riders might choose smaller, harder wheels for better speed and slide control.
• Trucks and Bushings: The choice of trucks and bushings can be influenced by a rider’s weight, as heavier riders typically need stronger trucks that can handle greater stress and provide stability. Conversely, lighter riders might opt for more responsive trucks that allow for sharper turns and tricks.
• Rider Technique: A rider’s technique can also be impacted by their weight, influencing how they perform tricks and navigate obstacles. Heavier riders may need to adjust their approach to maintain control, while lighter riders might find it easier to execute aerial maneuvers and flips due to their lower center of gravity.

What Role Does Choosing the Right Hardware Play in Your Setup?

Choosing the right hardware is crucial for creating the best skateboard build as it affects performance, durability, and rider experience.

• Deck: The skateboard deck serves as the foundation and affects the overall stability and maneuverability of the board. Decks come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, with options like maple wood or bamboo, each influencing weight and flex for different riding styles.
• Trucks: Skateboard trucks are the metal components that attach the wheels to the deck, playing a vital role in turning and balance. The width of the trucks should match the deck width for optimal performance, and materials like aluminum or forged steel can impact strength and weight.
• Wheels: The wheels influence the ride quality, speed, and tricks that can be performed. Harder wheels are better for street skating due to their durability and slide ability, while softer wheels offer more grip and comfort for cruising or transition skating.
• Bearings: Bearings are the small metal components that allow the wheels to spin smoothly. High-quality bearings reduce friction and can significantly enhance speed and performance, making them an essential part of a skateboard’s setup.
• Grip Tape: Grip tape provides traction for the rider’s feet, ensuring stability during tricks and rides. The thickness and texture of grip tape vary, affecting how well it grips shoes and contributes to overall control while skating.
• Hardware (Bolts & Nuts): The hardware consists of bolts and nuts that secure the trucks to the deck. Choosing durable, rust-resistant hardware is important to maintain the integrity of the skateboard under stress and during tricks.

Related Post:

• Best sick skateboard
• Best remote control skateboard
• Best short electric skateboard
• Best reviewed skateboard
• Best recommended skateboard