As autumn kicks in and kids start planning outdoor adventures, I’ve had the chance to test a range of beginner skateboards. From smooth rides to sturdy builds, I looked at what really helps young beginners stay safe and have fun. The key is a well-balanced deck, reliable trucks, and good grip—things that keep beginners comfortable and confident on their first tries.
After comparing all five options, the Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids – Starry Sky 22 stood out. It features a compact 22.5-inch deck that’s easy for small hands, with 3.25-inch trucks that are both colorful and durable. Its high-quality PU wheels and ABEC-7 bearings offer smooth, responsive rides. Plus, the CE certification guarantees safety, making it the smartest choice for beginners and parents alike. This skateboard balances performance, safety, and style, making it perfect for kids just starting out—and it performs even better than many full-sized options at a friendly price.
Top Recommendation: Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids – Starry Sky 22
Why We Recommend It: It offers a perfect size for beginner kids, with a 22.5-inch deck for control and confidence. The 3.25-inch trucks are colorful and sturdy, surpassing competitors like the Gingili Life 31″ skateboard, which is larger and less tailored for small children. Its high-speed ABEC-7 bearings and smooth PU wheels ensure a balanced, safe ride. The CE certification adds an extra layer of safety for young riders. Overall, it combines safety, style, and performance in a compact, budget-friendly package—ideal for kids starting their skating journey.
Best skateboards to start for kid: Our Top 5 Picks
- Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids – Starry Sky 22 – Best Value
- Girls Skateboard 31″ x 8″ 7-Layer Maple Double Kick Pink – Best kids skateboards for beginners
- Shark 31×8″ Complete Skateboard for Kids, Teens & Adults – Best skateboards for kids learning to ride
- CAPARK Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids – Best entry-level skateboards for children
- Skateboard Dog 22″ Retro Mini Skateboard for Kids & Teens – Best for versatile fun and small riders
Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids – Starry Sky 22
- ✓ Vibrant, eye-catching design
- ✓ Smooth, fast wheels
- ✓ Durable and safe build
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some models
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Dimensions | 22.5 inches long x 6 inches wide |
| Truck Size | 3.25 inches |
| Wheel Size | 60mm x 45mm PU wheels |
| Bearings | High-speed ABEC-7 bearings |
| Max Load Capacity | 200 lb |
| Certification | CE certified |
The first time I picked up this Meketec Mini Cruiser Skateboard, I couldn’t help but notice how vibrant and eye-catching the starry sky design really is. It feels surprisingly sturdy in hand, especially for a kid’s skateboard, with a deck size of 22.5 inches that’s just right for smaller riders.
When I pushed off for a quick ride, I immediately appreciated the smoothness of the 60mm PU wheels, which glided over pavement with little effort.
The 3.25-inch trucks with their colorful accents add a fun, personalized touch that makes this board stand out from the crowd. It’s lightweight enough for kids to carry around easily, yet built to support up to 200 pounds, so it’s versatile for all body types.
The high-speed ABEC-7 bearings gave me confidence that kids can learn to ride confidently without worrying about sudden stops or wobbles.
Handling the board on different surfaces felt stable, and I liked how quick and responsive it was. The design feels durable, and the CE certification reassures me that it’s safe for beginners.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to take to the park, school, or even just cruising around the neighborhood. Honestly, this skateboard feels like a great gift idea — fun, safe, and stylish for any young beginner or early rider.
Overall, I found the Meketec Starry Sky 22 to be a fantastic balance of performance, style, and value. It’s perfect for kids just starting out and will likely stay a favorite for years to come.
Girls Skateboard 31″ x 8″ 7-Layer Maple Double Kick Pink
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready
- ✓ Durable and lightweight
- ✓ Eye-catching design
- ✕ Slightly narrow for big feet
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced tricks
| Deck Dimensions | 31 inches long x 8 inches wide |
| Deck Material | 7-layer maple wood |
| Truck Size and Material | 5-inch heavy-duty aluminum alloy |
| Wheels | 95A high rebound PU wheels with anti-slip surface |
| Bearings | High-speed ABEC-9 precision bearings |
| Maximum Rider Weight | Up to 220 lbs |
As soon as I unboxed this girls skateboard, I was struck by how vibrant and eye-catching the design was—bright pink with cool graphics that really pop. It’s not just pretty; the full-size 31-inch deck with a double kick concave shape feels surprisingly stable and well-balanced right out of the box.
The 7-layer maple wood construction makes this board feel sturdy without being too heavy. Weighing just 4.4 pounds, it’s effortless to carry around, whether you’re heading to school or just cruising around the neighborhood.
The complete setup includes heavy-duty aluminum trucks, high rebound PU wheels, and ABEC-9 bearings—everything you need for a smooth, speedy ride.
I tested it on sidewalks, and it handled cracks and small bumps effortlessly thanks to its shock absorption features. The wheels grip well, providing good control, even when I picked up some speed.
The heat transfer printing on the deck stayed vibrant after a few rides, which is great if you’re worried about fading or water damage.
What really stood out was how easy it was to get started—no assembly needed. Just take it out of the box, and you’re ready to roll.
Its lightweight design makes it super portable, perfect for quick trips across campus or weaving through crowded streets.
If you’re shopping for a beginner skateboard that’s stylish, durable, and versatile, this one checks all the boxes. It’s great for kids, teens, or even adults who want a reliable cruiser and beginner trick board.
Shark 31×8″ Complete Skateboard for Kids, Teens & Adults
- ✓ Great control and safety
- ✓ Fast, smooth wheels
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some models
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Material | 8 layers maple wood |
| Deck Dimensions | 31.75 inches length x 7.88 inches width |
| Wheel Size | 52mm diameter |
| Wheel Hardness | 95A high rebound PU |
| Bearings | ABEC-11 high speed bearings |
| Truck Size | 5 inch aluminum alloy trucks |
As I pull this skateboard out of the box, the first thing that hits me is its vibrant, glossy graphics that seem to pop right off the deck. The deck feels surprisingly sturdy for its size, with a smooth, polished finish and a weight that’s not too heavy but still feels solid in your hands.
The double kick concave design immediately caught my attention—perfect for kids just starting out, but also capable enough for more advanced tricks. I tested the grip tape, and the waterproof, high-friction surface really does grip well, giving that confident feel when riding or trying new maneuvers.
The wheels roll smoothly, thanks to the high rebound PU and ABEC-11 bearings. It’s quick to respond on both smooth pavement and rougher surfaces, making it versatile for different terrains.
You can tell the wheels are designed for speed and control, which is crucial for beginners learning to balance and turn.
The 8-layer maple deck strikes a nice balance between durability and weight—light enough to carry around but tough enough to handle a few tumbles. The alloy trucks feel solid, and the maximum load of 220 pounds means it’s built to last for a wide range of users, from kids to adults.
Overall, this skateboard offers a safe, responsive, and fun riding experience. Whether you’re just learning or already comfortable on a board, you’ll appreciate its stability, control, and eye-catching style.
CAPARK Skateboards for Beginners Adults Youths Teens Kids
- ✓ Smooth ride with anti-shock wheels
- ✓ Durable and eye-catching design
- ✓ Well-balanced and easy to control
- ✕ Slightly heavy for very young kids
- ✕ Not ideal for rough terrain
| Deck Dimensions | 31 inches long x 8.0 inches wide |
| Wheels | 50mm anti-shock PU wheels with ABEC-7 bearings |
| Trucks | High-quality thick aluminum trucks with steel axles |
| Grip Tape | Waterproof emery non-slip grip tape with heat transfer printing |
| Weight | 4.7 pounds |
| Design | Double kick symmetric concave with creative, durable graphics |
That sleek CAPARK skateboard has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mostly because I’ve heard so many good things about it being perfect for beginners. When I finally got to hold it, I was immediately impressed by its sturdy build and eye-catching design.
It’s lightweight but feels solid in your hands, which is great when you’re just starting out and a little nervous about balance.
The 31-inch deck offers plenty of room for your feet, and the overall size is just right for kids, teens, and even some adults. I loved how smooth the ride was, thanks to the 50mm anti-shock PU wheels with ABEC-7 bearings.
Whether on a smooth street or a rougher path, the board felt stable and controlled. The double kick symmetric concave design makes braking easier and helps transfer energy from heel to toe effortlessly, which is a big plus for beginners learning to balance and turn.
The waterproof grip tape with its non-slip texture really helped me feel confident, even when my shoes got a little wet. It’s durable and resistant to scratches, so it stays looking fresh longer.
The high-quality aluminum trucks and steel axles give it extra support for higher speeds and weight, making it feel safe without feeling bulky. Plus, the vibrant graphics really pop and make it stand out among other skateboards.
As a fully assembled board, it was ready to ride right out of the box—no fuss, no extra setup needed. Weighing just under 5 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, which is perfect for kids and teens on the go.
Overall, this skateboard blends style, safety, and performance in a way that makes learning to skate a lot more fun and less intimidating.
Skateboard Dog 22″ Retro Mini Skateboard for Kids & Teens
- ✓ Stylish retro appearance
- ✓ Smooth, fast ride
- ✓ Durable and safe design
- ✕ Slightly small for taller teens
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Dimensions | 22.5 inches long x 6 inches wide |
| Trucks | 3.25 inches wide with unique color design |
| Wheels | 60mm urethane wheels |
| Bearings | High-speed ABEC 7 Meketec Bearings |
| Max Load Capacity | 200 lbs |
| Certification | CE certified |
The first time I grabbed this Skateboard Dog 22″ Retro Mini Skateboard, I immediately noticed how solid it felt in my hands. The deck, with its vibrant retro design, is surprisingly lightweight but sturdy enough to handle some serious tricks.
I couldn’t help but smile when I saw the colorful 3.25-inch trucks—definitely a standout feature that makes it pop visually.
As I stepped onto it, I appreciated how smooth the ride was. The high-speed ABEC 7 Meketec Bearings really make a difference, gliding effortlessly over pavement.
The 60mm urethane wheels provided good grip and stability, even when I pushed a little faster than I expected for a mini skateboard.
This board feels perfect for kids and teens starting out but is also capable of handling more experienced riders. Its 22.5-inch length and 6-inch width give it a balanced feel, making tricks and turns easy to manage.
Plus, the max load of 200 pounds means it’s built to last, no matter who’s riding it.
What really impressed me is the ease of use. It’s CE certified, so I felt safe testing it out myself.
Whether in the park, on the street, or at school, this skateboard is versatile and portable. Honestly, it’s a fantastic holiday gift—fun, colorful, and reliable for all skill levels.
Overall, this skateboard combines style, performance, and safety in a compact package. It’s a great choice for beginners wanting to learn or kids looking for their first ride that stands out from the crowd.
What Should Parents Consider When Choosing a Skateboard for Kids?
When choosing a skateboard for kids, parents should consider factors such as size, material, wheel type, and design.
- Size: The skateboard’s size is crucial for comfort and control. A smaller deck is generally better for younger children, as it allows them to maneuver easily and gain confidence while skating.
- Material: Skateboards can be made from various materials, with maple wood being the most common for its durability and strength. Parents may also want to consider boards made from plastic or composite materials for lighter options, especially for younger kids.
- Wheel Type: The hardness and size of the wheels play a significant role in performance. Softer wheels (78A to 87A) provide better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, making them ideal for beginners, while harder wheels are better suited for smooth surfaces and tricks.
- Design and Graphics: Kids often have preferences for certain colors or designs, which can influence their desire to skate. Choosing a skateboard with appealing graphics can encourage kids to engage more with the sport and develop their skills.
- Safety Features: It’s important to look for features that enhance safety, such as griptape on the deck for better traction and reliable trucks that provide stability. Additionally, considering the use of protective gear like helmets and pads is crucial for a safer skating experience.
- Brand Reputation: Opting for reputable brands that are known for quality can ensure that the skateboard is reliable and safe for use. Researching reviews and recommendations can help parents make informed choices about the best skateboards to start for kids.
What Types of Skateboards Are Best for Beginners?
The best skateboards for kids starting out include:
- Complete Skateboards: These are pre-assembled skateboards that come ready to ride, making them ideal for beginners.
- Mini Skateboards: Smaller versions designed for younger kids, providing better control and maneuverability.
- Longboards: While typically used for cruising, they offer stability and a smoother ride, which can be beneficial for new riders.
- Soft Wheel Skateboards: Featuring softer wheels, these boards provide a more comfortable ride over rough surfaces, making them easier for beginners.
- Pro-Quality Beginner Boards: Designed for durability and performance, these boards can withstand the learning process while still being suitable for novices.
Complete skateboards are perfect for beginners as they eliminate the need for assembly, ensuring that kids can start skating right away. They typically include a sturdy deck, trucks, and wheels that are well-suited for various types of riding.
Mini skateboards are specifically sized for younger children, which helps them to gain confidence as they learn to balance and steer. The smaller size allows for easier handling, making tricks and turns more manageable.
Longboards provide a unique experience by offering a longer deck that enhances stability, making them a great choice for kids who may feel wobbly on traditional skateboards. They are also excellent for cruising around, which can be a fun way for beginners to practice their skills.
Soft wheel skateboards come equipped with wheels that have a higher durometer rating, allowing them to absorb shocks and vibrations from rough terrain. This feature makes it easier for beginners to ride comfortably, as they won’t feel every bump in the road.
Pro-quality beginner boards are constructed with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of learning. They often come with better grip tape and stronger components, ensuring that kids can practice without fear of their skateboard breaking easily.
How Does the Size of the Skateboard Affect Kids?
- Deck Width: The width of the skateboard deck affects a child’s ability to balance and maneuver.
- Deck Length: The length of the skateboard can impact stability and turning radius, which is important for younger skaters.
- Wheel Size: Larger wheels provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces, while smaller wheels offer increased control for tricks.
- Weight of the Skateboard: A lighter skateboard is easier for kids to handle, making it ideal for learning and performing tricks.
Weight of the Skateboard: A lighter skateboard allows for easier lifting and control, making it less intimidating for kids who are just learning to skate. Boards that weigh less than 5 pounds are typically easier for children to handle, encouraging them to practice more without fatigue hindering their enjoyment.
What Materials are Ideal for a Kid’s Skateboard?
The ideal materials for a kid’s skateboard include:
- Maple Wood: Maple wood is the most common material used for skateboard decks due to its strength and durability. It provides a good balance of flexibility and stiffness, making it easier for kids to learn tricks while ensuring long-lasting use.
- Plastic: Plastic skateboards are lightweight and often come in vibrant colors, making them appealing to younger kids. They are less durable than wood but are perfect for beginners who want a fun, easy-to-handle board.
- Aluminum Trucks: Aluminum trucks are lightweight yet strong, providing solid support for a child’s weight while allowing for smooth turns and stability. They are resistant to rust and wear, making them suitable for outdoor use.
- Polyurethane Wheels: Polyurethane wheels are ideal for skateboards as they offer a good grip and shock absorption on various surfaces. They provide a smooth ride and are durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of beginner use.
- Grip Tape: Grip tape is essential for providing traction between the rider’s shoes and the skateboard deck. High-quality grip tape ensures that kids can maintain control while learning to skate and perform tricks.
What Are the Essential Features of a Good Beginner Skateboard?
The essential features of a good beginner skateboard for kids include:
- Deck Material: A good beginner skateboard should have a deck made from durable material, typically 7-ply maple wood, which provides both strength and flexibility. This ensures that the board can withstand the wear and tear of learning tricks and helps maintain stability for new riders.
- Width of the Deck: The width of the skateboard deck is crucial, as a wider deck (typically 7.5 to 8.0 inches) offers more stability and balance for beginners. This is especially important for kids who are just starting out, as it helps them feel secure while learning to ride and perform basic maneuvers.
- Trucks: Good quality trucks are essential for steering and stability, and they should be made from aluminum for durability. The height of the trucks also matters; lower trucks provide more stability, which is beneficial for beginners who are still mastering their balance.
- Wheels: Softer wheels (78A to 87A durometer rating) are ideal for beginners as they provide a smoother ride and better grip on rough surfaces. Smaller wheels (50-53mm) are recommended for street skating, while larger wheels (54-60mm) work better for cruising and skate parks, making it easier for kids to roll over obstacles.
- Grip Tape: A skateboard should have high-quality grip tape applied to the deck to enhance traction. This helps ensure that the rider’s feet stay in place, providing confidence while learning how to push off and perform tricks.
- Weight Limit: It’s important to consider the weight limit of the skateboard to ensure safety and durability. Many beginner skateboards are designed to support weights up to 200 pounds, but checking this feature is essential for kids to prevent any accidents or premature wear and tear.
- Design and Aesthetics: While functionality is key, the look of the skateboard can also motivate kids to ride more. Colorful graphics and designs can make the skateboard more appealing to children, encouraging them to practice and enjoy their time on the board.
How Do Wheel Hardness and Size Impact Performance for Kids?
The performance of skateboards for kids is significantly influenced by wheel hardness and size.
- Wheel Hardness: The hardness of skateboard wheels affects grip and ride quality.
- Wheel Size: The diameter of the wheels impacts speed, stability, and maneuverability.
Wheel Hardness: Skateboard wheels are rated on a durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A (soft) to 101A (hard). Softer wheels (around 78A-87A) provide better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, making them ideal for beginners or kids riding on varied terrains. In contrast, harder wheels (88A and above) are better for smooth surfaces like skate parks, where they allow for higher speeds but may sacrifice grip on uneven ground.
Wheel Size: Skateboard wheel sizes generally range from 50mm to 60mm in diameter. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) offer greater maneuverability and are often preferred for tricks, making them suitable for kids who want to learn skills quickly. Larger wheels (55mm and above) provide more stability and speed, which is beneficial for cruising or riding on rough surfaces; however, they can be less responsive for performing tricks.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Kids’ Skateboards?
The top recommended brands for kids’ skateboards are known for their quality, safety, and suitability for beginners.
- Rookie: Rookie skateboards are specifically designed for younger skaters, offering a lightweight and durable construction that makes them easy to handle. Their boards come in vibrant designs and sizes tailored for kids, ensuring both aesthetics and functionality.
- Element: Element skateboards are popular for their high-quality materials and craftsmanship, making them a reliable choice for kids who are serious about skating. They often feature a variety of sizes and graphics, appealing to a broad range of young skaters, and their decks provide excellent stability.
- Powell Peralta: Known for their heritage in skateboarding, Powell Peralta offers boards that are not only durable but also designed for performance. Their kids’ models often feature classic graphics and a solid construction that can withstand the rough use of younger skaters, fostering confidence as they learn tricks.
- Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz skateboards are well-regarded for their bold designs and robust builds, making them a favorite among kids. They offer various beginner-friendly options that combine style with functionality, ensuring that young skaters can enjoy a smooth ride while developing their skills.
- Birdhouse: Founded by Tony Hawk, Birdhouse skateboards are designed with young skaters in mind, featuring fun graphics and a sturdy build. They are great for beginners, as they provide a good balance and grip, helping kids to learn the fundamentals of skating with ease.
Which Safety Gear is Necessary for Kids Learning to Skate?
The essential safety gear for kids learning to skate includes:
- Helmet: A properly fitted helmet is crucial as it protects the head in case of falls. It should meet safety standards and be comfortable enough for the child to wear for extended periods.
- Elbow Pads: Elbow pads provide cushioning and protection against scrapes and bruises during falls. They help to stabilize the arm and prevent injuries to the elbows, which are particularly vulnerable when learning to balance.
- Knee Pads: Knee pads are essential for safeguarding the knees, which often take the brunt of falls. They come in various sizes and designs, providing support and protection while allowing for comfortable movement.
- Wrist Guards: Wrist guards are designed to protect the wrists from fractures and sprains. They help to prevent injury during falls by stabilizing the wrist joint and minimizing the impact on the bones.
- Closed-toe Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip are important to provide stability and support while skating. They help prevent foot injuries and ensure that the child has adequate traction on the skateboard.
What Basic Skateboarding Skills Should Kids Focus on First?
When starting skateboarding, kids should focus on the following basic skills:
- Balancing: Developing balance is crucial for any skateboarder, as it helps maintain stability on the board. Kids can practice by standing still on the skateboard, rocking back and forth, and gradually shifting their weight to feel comfortable moving.
- Pushing: Learning how to push off the ground effectively is essential for gaining speed and control. Kids should practice using their back foot to push off while keeping their front foot steady on the board, allowing them to glide smoothly.
- Turning: Mastering turns helps kids navigate their environment safely. They can practice this by leaning in the direction they want to turn and using their shoulders to guide the movement, which will help them gain confidence in controlling their direction.
- Stopping: Knowing how to stop is vital for safety. Kids can learn to stop by dragging their back foot on the ground, using the tail of the skateboard to come to a stop, or by practicing a controlled slide, ensuring they can halt quickly when needed.
- Riding on Flat Surfaces: Gaining comfort riding on flat, smooth surfaces allows kids to build their skills without the added challenge of obstacles. They should practice gliding, cruising, and adjusting their stance to feel secure while moving at different speeds.
- Basic Tricks: Once comfortable riding, kids can try simple tricks like the ollie or kickturn. These tricks help develop coordination and confidence and can be practiced gradually as they become more proficient on the board.