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Best Skateboards for Kids Reviewed in 2024

last updated Nov 12, 2019

When you hear the term skateboarding does the image of a rebellious teenager come to mind? If so, you should keep reading because we’re ready to break that stereotype. Allowing your child to skateboard actually stimulates your child’s development. Skateboarding requires your child to use their entire body, which will not only strengthen their muscles but also give them plenty of exercises.

If your child is just learning how to skateboard, they will learn patience and perseverance as they fall off the board and get right back on. Their balance and coordination will improve as they master the technique of riding. Watch their confidence, self-esteem, and courage increase as they learn to perform tricks on their board. Before you go and buy the one of the bset kids skateboards you see, you will need to decide on the size, shape, and material of board you’re looking for.

This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:

icon
Positiv Skateboards Andy Mac
97/100 our score
Safety
98
Durability
96
Design
97
Positiv Skateboards Andy Mac
Why is it better?

Professional-grade skateboard

Constructed to meet the demands of professional skateboarders

Outside layer of the board features birch wood

Waterproof glue used between each wood layer

Promotes gross-motor-skill development

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Positiv Skateboards Andy Mac
Test Winner: Positiv Skateboards Andy Mac
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
29
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
40
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
19
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

In the most recent update to this list, the products were each put under review. During the review process it was determined that each of the products required updated summary sections along with details about the safety of the boards. These details were added along with photos.

Sorting Options
Safety Durability Design By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
99
Safety
99 %
Durability
99 %
Design
99 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
Safety
98 %
Durability
96 %
Design
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
$40.20
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96
Safety
97 %
Durability
95 %
Design
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Safety
96 %
Durability
94 %
Design
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
Safety
95 %
Durability
93 %
Design
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
Safety
94 %
Durability
92 %
Design
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
$55.00
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Safety
93 %
Durability
91 %
Design
92 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
$49.97
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
Safety
92 %
Durability
90 %
Design
91 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
Safety
97 %
Durability
97 %
Design
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
Safety
95 %
Durability
94 %
Design
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (04.03.24)
Amazon Link
$39.95

10 Best Skateboards for Kids

1. Rimable Complete 22

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
99
rimable complete 22 kids skateboard
Amazon Link
Safety
99
Durability
99
Design
99
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Textured deck provides traction

Thick wheels allow for a quiet and smooth ride

Designed for longer rides

Highly durable and lightweight

Can be too fast

Smaller than usual

One of the most interesting boards on the market; this is a complete skateboard that has been completely constructed from plastic. The board, wheels and complete system come fully assembled and ready to ride when it arrives. The plastic board is super board and the mini size makes it the best board to be able to cruise the streets and then be able to attach the board to your backpack or easily pick up and carry it along.

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Safety

Children of all ages and skill levels can enjoy riding the Rimable Complete 22-inch skateboard. The long and wide deck makes it great for long cruises on the board. With this being a penny board, it is designed more for long rides rather than performing tricks.

Durability

The thick aluminum wheels provide a quiet and smooth ride. The wheels are 3 inches thick, thus your child will barely feel the bumps in the road. When purchasing, you can choose from a variety of cool color patterns and designs to fit your child’s style.

Design

Composed of a high-grade plastic, this board is highly durable and will survive countless rides. While it is very durable it is also lightweight, thus making it easy to transport. The textured deck will provide traction for your child’s feet, thus giving them more stability as they ride.

2. Positiv Skateboards Andy Mac

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
97
positiv skateboards for kids andy mac
positiv skateboards for kids andy mac top
positiv skateboards for kids andy mac bottom
Amazon Link
Safety
98
Durability
96
Design
97
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$40.20

Professional-grade skateboard

Constructed to meet the demands of professional skateboarders

Outside layer of the board features birch wood

Waterproof glue used between each wood layer

Promotes gross-motor-skill development

Wheels are slow and not smooth

Features very little tape on top of the deck

When it comes to riding rails and getting some major air this is the skateboard that should be on the list. The board comes as a complete set and has been designed to need all the demands that riders will need when visiting a stake park. The board has been constructed from quality materials that give it the strength to be able to stand up to the biggest and most rad slides ever.

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Safety

Skateboarding for kids is a great way to develop gross-motor skills that are finely tuned with their bodies. The movements that are needed to complete tricks and jumps are complex, making their entire body work together to create the smooth movements to successfully complete the landing.

Durability

Give your kids the ability to ride the rails and perform jumps like the professionals with this skateboard. The deck has been constructed to meet the demands of professional skaters and has been created from multiple layers of wood with a birch veneer finish

Design

With the multiple layers of wood pressed together, waterproof glue applied between each layer and then coated with a slide treatment, this is one of the most durable boards on the market. It slides, glides, and rides just like the professional skateboards, but at an affordable price point.

3. Enkeeo 22 Inch Cruiser

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96
enkeeo 22 inch cruiser kids skateboard
enkeeo 22 inch cruiser kids skateboard top
enkeeo 22 inch cruiser kids skateboard side
enkeeo 22 inch cruiser kids skateboard wheels
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Durability
95
Design
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Compact design for convenient on the go skateboarding

Strong and durable

Constructed from bendable polypropylene

Offers added stability and comfortable ride

Encourages exercising without the hassle

Board is very flexible

Does not absorb bumps, rough ride

Let the mini cruiser hit the road and let your little one explore the world. This mini cruiser is just the perfect size and provides them with a super strong platform. The platform has been designed with strength not only to be durable, but it also provides a ride that is well balanced, easy to control and glides smoothly. The board is constructed from plastic from the wheels up but don’t let that scare you away. It is a smooth ride that the kids will love riding and having a good time exploring their skills.

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Safety

Exercise is an important part of childhood. Making sure that your child exercises are something that every parent should do. Skateboarding is an easy way to introduce exercise into their lives without making them feel like it is a chore. It makes exercising fun.

Durability

Compact design is strong enough to hold up to 200 pounds but small enough to be placed in a bag to take anywhere. The board has been constructed of bendable polypropylene making it super durable and long lasting. Each of the four casters is made from resistant PU allowing it to stand the test of time. This is a great skateboard that is will fit all the kids in the family.

Design

Pre-assembled and right to go. Fully assembled in the package this skateboard comes ready to ride from day one. It is designed to be convenient for adults to give to children as a gift so there is no wait time

4. Merkapa 22

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
merkapa 22 kids skateboard
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Durability
94
Design
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Vibrant and colorful

From beginners to advance

Lighted, multi-colored wheels

Free of batteries and charging

Thirty-day money back guarantee

Lighting is inconsistent

Low-quality to some users

The neatest feature about is this awesome skateboard is the wheels that light up, but the best part is there are no batteries required. So how does that work? The power of the wheel! The rotation of the wheel when the rider is pushing the board along generates electricity that powers the super cool LED lights that are right inside the wheels. It is a great feature that the kids will love and be in amazement each time that they ride.

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Safety

Your child’s balance is sure to improve as they work to stay on the 22-inch long and 6-inch wide deck. The size of the board makes it easy for children to carry it from place to place when they are not riding

Durability

When it comes to the durability of this awesome mini board it will not let the kids down. It has been constructed from strong and durable plastic material on the board section and the wheels have been constructed from a shock absorbing material that gives the board a smooth ride. Learning to ride on this board and can also be enjoyed by the masters. It is durable in constructed and riding ability.

Design

A skateboard with wheels that light up has got to be the best thing ever for kids! Skateboards for kids are fun just as they are with the colorful patterns and feats they can perform, but when the wheels light up too, it does not get any better than that. The light comes from special LED lights in each wheel that do not require any batteries. Many different colors of decks are available and the wheels are all different colors as well. They are each a color burst sure to make everyone take a second glance as they cruise down the street or at the skatepark. The boards are great for advanced riders and novices, plus they come with a 30-day warranty from the manufacturer. This is by far one of the most imaginative creations in the skateboard line offered today!

5. Minority 32inch Maple

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94
minority 32inch maple kids skateboard
minority 32inch maple kids skateboard size
Amazon Link
Safety
95
Durability
93
Design
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

100% maple wood deck

Has plenty of color choices and designs available

Features a concave top deck

Product excelled in maneuverability tests in various settings

Quality graphics are durable and will not fade

Some say the wheels were loose when received (must tighten them)

A few state the board was a bit shorter than stated

The fact that Minority subjected the skateboard to testing in multiple settings exhibits confidence in a superior product. It not only endured, but surpassed the quality controls of the test. Parents can be sure that they are buying a high-quality skateboard from Minority.

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Safety

Minority also makes a point to say that their design graphics will last as long as the life of the skateboard. Even with extended rough use, the pictures and colors will remain vibrant and desirable.

Durability

The concave is provided for a quality ride and versatility in movements while in motion. This model was tested in different settings to ensure its toughness at which it surpassed expectations. Imaginative designs and color schemes for the underside of the deck are numerous. In addition, the manufacturer points out that the detailed graphics on the board will not fade or disappear with wear. This is a reliable, basic board for those that want durability in a full-length skateboard.

Design

At 32 inches long, this is one of the longer regular skateboards available on the market. It is constructed of 100% maple wood that is known for its strength and endurance and showcases a concave in the deck.

6. Quest QT-NSC44C The Super Cruiser

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93
quest QT-NSC44C the super cruiser kids skateboard
Amazon Link
Safety
94
Durability
92
Design
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$55.00

Longboard original design

Features multiple layers of hardwood maple finished with bamboo

Offers smooth ride with 7-speed bearings

Heavy duty 7-inch aluminum trucks

Enhances coordination and balance skills

xtra grip tape is required on top of the deck for the ideal ride

Makes rattling noise when riding

One thing is for sure, not all longboard has been created equal. This is longboard skateboard that is here to prove the theory completely right. The board has been constructed from materials that really set it aside from other boards. Plus the details in each of the components give the board that ultimate pro style look. It is a great book with awesome qualities that can be seen and felt in the ride.

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Safety

The safest feature of this board is the construction of the longboard itself. It has been made from a multiple layer hardwood maple wood and a blend of artisan bamboo that not only gives the board an amazing look but the durable that all longboards should have. In total the board features seven layers of this blend to bring it all together providing riders with a smooth and sound ride along with the performance that would be expected from one of those overpriced high end boards.

Durability

Longboard is skateboards that are long making them easy to learn to ride and offer a smooth ride that is great long rides. This board has been constructed from multiple layered hardwood maple and then finished with a bamboo layer on the top. Each of the wheels features 7-speed bearings and heavy-duty trucks. This longboard is not like any of the others it is a pro-style board that will ride like a dream.

Design

The motion of riding a skateboard and pushing your way down the street or to perform the next trick takes complex body movements that really take balance and coordination. The more the kids practice the better their balance will become.

7. Skatro Mini Cruiser Retro

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
skatro mini cruiser retro kids skateboard
skatro mini cruiser retro kids skateboard bottom
skatro mini cruiser retro kids skateboard top
Amazon Link
Safety
93
Durability
91
Design
92
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$49.97

Easy to carry

Excellent size

Rides smoothly

Best board for beginners

Sturdy with flexible maneuver

Too flexible for some users

A feature that stands out about this skateboard is the flex technology that has been incorporated right in the board. It is a proprietary process that makes sure that the board flexes like no other board on the market. During each ride the rider will be able to tell the difference each and every time their feet hit that board.

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Safety

During the manufacturing of this skateboard, it has been through a process that ensures that the board is super flexible and creates one of the smoothly rides possible. When this process is being completed for the flex test it also keeps with a wonderful safety feature that is great for kids. The flex of the board also ensures that board has better balance and flexes with the rider as they glide across surfaces.

Durability

It’s constructed with high-quality materials at half the cost without skimping on high performance. What makes this board unique is its patented flex technology that keeps the board highly flexible to withstand all kinds of riding and trick pressures while keeping the rider comfortable. The board also comes with its own unique, color-coordinated T-tool ensuring the skateboard stays usable for a long time.

Design

Your child will be riding in style with this cool skateboard for kids! The board comes in eleven designs with a diverse selection of colors and it’s small and compact enough for your child to ride anywhere, comfortably

8. Ten Toes Emporium Bamboo

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
91
ten toes emporium bamboo kids skateboard
ten toes emporium bamboo kids skateboard top
ten toes emporium bamboo kids skateboard wheels
Amazon Link
Safety
92
Durability
90
Design
91
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Ready to ride

Pre-assembled

Easy to maneuver

Very smooth wheels

Flexible construction

No padding in packaging

Riding on a longboard skateboard is always an experience in its own and this board is no less. It is a longboard that has been designed to shine where others may fall. It features a design in the constructed on the board that makes the board very durable and strong yet features the flexibility that gives the board a smooth ride. The smooth ride is a truly unique feature of this longboard.

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Safety

The anti-bite technology of this skateboard keeps the wheels from hitting the board during hard landings and tricks which help prevent sudden stops and jerks.

Durability

These boards are also equipped with premium hardware that looks great and provides an excellent ride that focuses on maneuverability and coasting. Most importantly, the wheels give a smooth, shock absorbing ride with a powerful grip.

Design

Ride out into the sunset with this classic bamboo skateboard! At forty-four inches long, the board comes in fifteen designs with assorted colors. Crafted from a hybrid of sustainable bamboo and durable maple, each board is infused with strength and stability that will keep you riding proud and tall.

9. Wonnv Retro Mini Cruiser 22

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
wonnv retro mini cruiser 22 kids skateboard
wonnv retro mini cruiser 22 kids skateboard wheels
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Durability
97
Design
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Has abec-7 high-speed bearings

Made of durable materials

Extremely lightweight

Can fit in backpacks and bags for easy transport

Small so only little kids can use it

The wonnv Retro Mini Cruiser 22 skateboard is the perfect size for beginners - especially younger kids looking to get into this exciting and difficult sport. For kids, this skateboard is the perfect combination of fun and activity, plus all of the cool colors makes it great for boys or girls. Plus, adults can even use this skateboard if they are looking into learning.

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Safety

The wonnv Retro Mini Cruiser is lightweight, portable and durable - essentially making is the perfect beginner board. While you and your little one should still wear a helmet, the wheels on this board allows it to handle bumps and potholes better.

Design

This skateboard is extremely lightweight which gives it an irresistible glide when riding on pavement. The Retro Mini Cruiser 22 includes abec-7 high-speed bearings which gives it this glide. It also is built with soft polyurethane wheels which reduces vibrations from the ground. It also is portable and can fit in a backpack for ease of use.

Durability

Made with a bendable, non-slip polypropylene deck, this Retro Mini Cruiser 22 is made of durable and sturdy materials. The board comes pre-assembled, so you don’t need to worry about putting it together wrong. Plus, it comes with a skateboard tool that can help adjust the screws for your little one’s needs. The best part of this board though? The company offers an unconditional refund if you or your child isn’t satisfied with the skateboard. Additionally, for 60 days, there is a full refund.

10. Krown Rookie Complete

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95
krown rookie complete kids skateboard
krown rookie complete kids skateboard wheels
Amazon Link
Safety
95
Durability
94
Design
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$39.95

Designed to be narrow and lightweight

Easy to use for beginners

Quality design and materials

Not very feminine looking if you are purchasing it for a girl

In 1996, Krown shredded into the skateboard scene in a big way. The Krown Rookie Complete Skateboard is the perfect example of a quality beginner product. Krown sources the best parts and best materials, so skateboards, even beginner boards like the Rookie Complete, are good enough for the pros to use.

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Safety

Skateboarding is always going to be a little dangerous. Your child will fall and get back up again in pursuit of learning this sport. However, little ones (and yes, even professional skateboarders), should always wear a helmet and pads. The Rookie Complete is a narrow and lightweight model made for beginners.

Design

Coming fully assembled in the box, the Rookie Complete skateboard is ready to ride straight away. The model itself includes heavy duty aluminum urethane wheels, Abec 7 bearings and intense phillips head mounting hardware. Each component is made of the highest quality materials, and the narrow, lightweight design make this great for beginners.

Durability

The Rookie Complete Skateboard is the perfect size for someone getting into the skateboarding industry. Not only is the skateboard made of some of the best materials, it is also extremely durable. This skateboard is made for people who shred, and it is a professional-grade company.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Safety

Skateboarding is an indoor and outdoor sport, but it can be dangerous no matter where it is performed. No matter what, skateboarders should wear helmets in order to protect their heads. Padding is also suggested to cover knees and elbows. However, recent board innovations have made boards safer, too. For this list, we chose boards that scored high in personal safety.

Boards on this list have safety features such as light-up wheels, and balance-correcting decks, and extremely durable materials. There are other features, of course, that makes boards safer, but always be careful when shredding the rail!

Durability

We learned that coming up with a list of the best skateboards for kids can be daunting. Initially, we thought the selection process would be super-easy since all we had to do was to pick out a flattened board with a slightly curved tail and a rounded head complete with four small wheels, right?

How hard can that be? But alas! By the time we were given with a list of all the available skateboards on the market, we realized that choosing the best ones suddenly became not so simple anymore.

First was the issue of sturdiness and stability. Sure, they all looked the same but the true test of a product’s sturdiness and superb stability is in its actual use. Unfortunately, we cannot individually test all of these products. So, we had to carefully select only those products that passed our initial screening. We know it’s not a very objective way of screening for a good product but we do trust our customers as well.

As such, we listened to their experiences by reading through their comments and feedback. We then generated a point system for the different product characteristics that customers had identified. We then compared the aggregate score with the current product rating published online. That’s why, if you have noticed, we never really included any product with a customer rating below 4.0 stars.

Design

Like all products, the finished version is only as good as it’s components. When judging the overall construction, we favored hard compound polymers and woods over simple plastics for the sake of flexibility and durability. Plastics tend to be much more rigid than polymers and woods, so they tend to break much faster. We also selected boards with polyurethane wheels because this wheel is both the most common and the strongest of materials in the manufacturing of wheels. Because this list focuses on kids skateboards for young children, we wanted to be sure the overall design was child-friendly for each board.

This means that most of the boards on this list are "minis" or half the size of a regular skateboard. This also means that most of these boards have a low weight limit that matches a certain age range of children. We specifically looked at these boards for their child-friendly construction and design and features like the weight limit and size which show a clear commitment to the needs of children.

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Parents, Did you Know?

Getting a complete skateboard can save you the hassle of buying different parts and putting them together only to realize that the one that you built is not really what you wanted. However, there are certain benefits to building your very own skateboard, chief of which is the sheer sense of satisfaction from being able to create something that best represents your personality. You can also create one specifically for your child if you really want to.

There are plenty of skateboard guides on the internet you can use to help you build a very personalized board fit for your child. If you want to learn how to build your child’s own skateboard, the following are some basic guidelines:

Parents, Did you Know?

Buy all of your materials. You will need a deck of the appropriate size for your child, trucks, wheels, bearings, nuts, and bolts, and a grip tape. As for the deck, you have the option of making one yourself.

Parents, Did you Know?

Install the trucks onto the underside of the board. If you’re using a pre-made deck, make sure to attach the trucks in their appropriate positions. Make sure to securely fasten the bolts.

Parents, Did you Know?

Insert the bearings into the wheels by carefully removing the washers and nut from the axle. Place the bearing on the axle and then put the wheel onto the axle. Press the wheel to insert the bearing. Do this for all wheels.

Parents, Did you Know?

Install the wheels on the skateboard trucks. Insert a washer, a wheel, and another washer onto the truck, in that order. Now secure the wheel with a nut. Do this for the other wheels.

Parents, Did you Know?

Riding skateboards can be so much fun for kids. More importantly, it helps build their self-confidence which can be very useful when they grow up. Our 10 best skateboards for kids will help you make sure of this. For more great toys, please visit our ride-on toys category here.

Other Factors to Consider

Materials

Our initial screening resulted in a much more manageable size. And that’s where we started the nitty-gritty work of determining the strengths and weaknesses of these products. We looked for signs or pieces of evidence that will show a product’s sturdiness, strength, and durability, particularly for its board or deck.

The different technologies employed in its manufacture were also examined. The wheels were particularly evaluated for their mobility, smoothness, and comfort of ride, and durability and strength. The ease of maintenance or upkeep was also evaluated. Since these products are intended for children, we thought that it should not be difficult for them to maintain their skateboard’s integrity.

Brand

Lastly, we knew we had to factor in the company’s reputation as well. Some companies do a much better job at certain things than others. And this can be gleaned from any recognition or certification that the company may have obtained through the years of its existence. This way, we feel more confident about the selection that we have just shared with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: What’s the difference between a mini board and a regular board?

a:

A mini board is about half to two-thirds the size of a regular board. This makes mini boards, or short boards, excellent for small children because they have an easier time pushing off. As children get older, then, a longer board is required to keep up with their changing sense of balance and weight distribution.

q: What are skateboards typically made of?

a:

Skateboards are usually made from multiple materials such as wood and polymers. Usually, the deck of a board will be made of a supple wood such as maple, but have a polymer covering with a grooved pattern. The polymer covering helps with traction and grip, keeping your child firmly balanced on the board itself. The wheels are usually made of a hard polyurethane and come in a range of sizes.

Skateboard wheels come at a maximum size of 60mm, making the board great for slow and multi-terrain rides. Finally, the bearings of a skateboard or the apparatus that keeps the wheels connected to the board are made of steel or aluminum. If you want a faster board, aluminum is lightweight, so your speed increases. If you want a sturdier board, then steel is the way to go.

q: Are there certain brands of skateboards that specialize in children’s skateboards?

a:

Yes! Many of the brands on this list such as Skatro, Cal 7, and Tiger Boards specialize in skateboards specifically for children.

q: What are some benefits to children skateboarding?

a:

Skateboarding is a fun and engaging way to exercise. Children who skateboard are not only maintaining a healthy amount of exercise, but they are also getting outside in the fresh air. Any activity that engages your child in a physical manner and takes place outside should be encouraged for general health reasons.

q: I’m concerned with the overall safety of skateboards, so what features should I want out of my child’s skateboard?

a:

We understand that skateboarding can a dangerous unlike some other sport, but many companies are making the sport safer for younger children. Many companies implement light-up wheels so that your child can be seen at night by passing cars. Skateboards have also come a long way in terms of construction.

With numerous polymers being implemented for a board's sturdiness and flexibility, skateboards are now safer than ever. So, when purchasing a skateboard for your child, make sure the board is supple and has some kind of light-up component if your child plans to ride at night.

q: How should I store and care for my child’s skateboards?

a:

To avoid damages and degradation, skateboards should be kept in a cool, dry place when not in use. Places like a bedroom, garage, or mudroom are great places to keep skateboards so that they’re out of the way but still accessible. If a board is left outside and is exposed to sunlight for long hours at a time the colors, patterns, strength, and integrity of the board can sharply degrade.

q: What is the proper way to repair a skateboard? Say, a wheel comes off or the deck begins to crack?

a:

Honestly, leave the repairs up to the professionals. If a wheel falls off, that’s a simple fix that only requires spare wheels, screws, and a screwdriver. But more difficult tasks, such as redoing the deck, should only be attempted by experienced skateboarders and repairmen.

q: When is it time to get a new skateboard?

a:

You should purchase a new skateboard if you outgrow, damage, or wear down your current skateboard. When a skateboard is outgrown, a person’s riding stance becomes smaller and feels relatively cramped. Typically, most people don’t have to worry about outgrowing their boards, but younger children and their parents do. If you damage a board--like cracks begin to appear or it begins to fall apart--you need to get a new one.

Damages like this typically cannot be fixed, or the amount of money you’ll pay to fix these issues isn’t worth the effort. Finally, issues like wear and tear are up to each individual. Items like worn-down wheels can be easily replaced, but worn-down decks aren’t so easy to repair. As a general rule of thumb, replace your skateboard once you notice changes to its riding and cruising ability.

q: Can skateboarding really be considered exercise?

a:

Skateboarding can be just as physically demanding as any other sport if a person is willing to work. This is especially true if your child becomes interested in trick boarding. Trick boarding engages your leg, lower back, and core muscles to maintain balance during rides and stunts.

The numerous tricks a child can learn, such as rail grinding, flips, and somersaults, actively work their muscles all at once. So, while skateboarding might not be the traditional sports people think of for exercise, skateboarding is just as beneficial

q: Should I invest in a beginner board or go straight to an advanced board?

a:

Ultimately, investing in a beginner board rather than an advanced board depends on your child. Some children, typically kids who are 8 and up, will do fine if they go straight to an advanced board. This is because their gross-motor skills are more developed and they can handle sharp turns and falls without much fuss.

However, if a child is younger than 8 years old you might want to invest in a beginner board. Beginner boards will help your child stay balanced and ensure a safe transition from beginner to advanced boards further on.