My First Board and the Thrill of the Ride
Let's rewind to my early days; I wasn't born with a board under my feet, you know? I remember saving up every penny from my paper route – that's how committed I was, lol. Finally, I got my hands on a beat-up Sims skateboard. It was far from fancy, the wheels were wobbly, and it probably had more scratches than smooth surface, but man, that thing was my world. The first time I really popped an ollie... the feeling of flight, the pure joy... that's what got me hooked. That feeling is what I still crave today. What's your first skateboarding memory? Let's hear it in the comments!
Teenage boy skateboarding on a beat-up skateboard | Image: Supplied
Top 10 Skateboard Brands for Every Skill Level (Updated March 4, 2025)
So, you're ready to join the awesome world of skateboarding, or maybe you're looking to upgrade your ride? Awesome! Picking your first board can be daunting, I get it. There are so many brands, deck sizes, trucks, wheels... It's enough to make your head spin. So, let's break down some top brands catering to all skill levels. Remember, choosing a board is very personal. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what suits your style!
- Beginner:
- Santa Cruz: Known for their reliable, affordable complete boards. Great for learning the basics. They're a classic for a reason.
- Powell-Peralta: Another iconic brand that delivers quality without breaking the bank. They have a great selection of beginner-friendly completes.
- Globe: Awesome graphics, excellent construction. Their entry level boards are surprisingly durable for learning.
- Intermediate:
- Element: A super stylish brand, well-known for it's sustainability commitment (eco-conscious skaters unite!). Their boards offer a great balance of performance and price.
- Almost: Almost skateboards have a reputation for lasting a long time. A step-up in quality and feel without a huge jump in price.
- Creature: Great decks known for their pop and strength - this brand is made for shredding.
- Advanced:
- Plan B: Pro-quality boards, favored by many pros. This one is an investment, but if you're serious, you'll feel the difference.
- Baker: A very popular brand among street skaters; known for durability and strength, these boards can handle anything you throw at them.
- Real: Real skateboards are tough and reliable, great for skaters who push their limits. Their decks are made to endure serious wear and tear.
- Chocolate: A very reliable brand for more advanced skaters; this is an excellent choice for a durable, high performance board.
Variety of skateboards from different brands | Image: Supplied
Choosing the Right Skateboard: What to Consider
Beyond the brand, there are other things to think about. Deck size is important – bigger decks offer more stability, smaller ones are more nimble. What's your skating style? Street, park, vert? This will influence your board choice. Wheel size matters, too; bigger wheels are smoother, smaller ones better for technical tricks. Remember to take your shoe size into account as well! Don't feel limited by what I said here; research and read reviews to discover what works for you. Trust your gut and try things out!
Close up of skateboard parts, highlighting deck, trucks, and wheels | Image: Supplied
Protecting Yourself: Safety First!
Okay, before you start dropping in, let's talk safety! Always wear a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. You may think you look silly, but trust me, a scraped knee isn't worth the bragging rights. I know from experience. I even remember falling during a professional skate competition and scraping my knees, so don't think you're alone. It's much better to be safe than sorry. This sport can be dangerous, be responsible and protective!
Skater wearing safety gear | Image: Supplied
Finding Your Skateboarding Community
Skateboarding isn't just a sport; it's a community. Find your local skatepark, join a skate group. You'll meet awesome people, share tips, and improve your skills together. The skate community is incredibly supportive; there are always people willing to share their tips, tricks, and knowledge. It's a positive group that encourages progression! Don't hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and most importantly, have fun!
Group of diverse skaters at a skatepark | Image: Supplied
Keep Shredding!
So, there you have it – my top 10 skateboard brands and some tips to get you started. Remember, skateboarding is about having fun, pushing your limits, and expressing yourself. Don't be afraid to fall—it's part of the learning process. Most importantly, find what you enjoy and keep shredding! What are your favorite brands and why? Share in the comments below!
