Best Skateboard Decks Review: Top-Rated, Buy Guides & FAQs

Introduce

If you’re starting with skateboarding, choosing a deck is the most important thing. You want a deck that fits your feet comfortably, the safety, construction, and specifications of the deck also need to be ensured. This will be a bit complicated and difficult for new players.

So in this article, I will make it easier for you to choose and buy the best skateboard decks. They will secure you with safety, balance, and everything involved.

Whether you want to buy a cheap or expensive deck, whether you buy it for an adult or buy it for a baby or child, this article will have that product for you. Don’t worry if you don’t know anything about skateboarding yet because this will be your best start.

First of all, let’s start with a buying guide where you get to know all the factors to consider to buy a good skateboard deck. Once you know what the criteria are, we come down to a list of recommended products, hand-picked by us. You have my guarantee that they are the best products available. Skateboard Cast!

If you have any questions, please save them for the next part. All your queries will also be answered with some more tips for players of different ages, maintenance know-how, and ways to get the best out of your skateboard deck.

Buying Guides: Some factors to look out for when selecting the best skateboard decks

What are the best skateboard decks?

First of all, you need to know how to choose the best skateboard for you. A deck is more than just a wooden board. Today skateboards are made of many different materials, and they also have different strengths, lightness, and elasticity.

You also need to consider a few characteristics such as length and width as well as the concave of the skateboard for your best experience. As you can see, choosing a skateboard can frustrate anyone. Read our guide on how to choose the best skateboard deck for you so you don’t have to give up before you start.

Right Skateboard Decks for you

Skateboard decks come in different sizes and widths so you can choose the right one based on your height and weight.

Choose deck based on your height – Length

If your decks are too long, it will be easy to lose your balance while standing on them. The wheelbase of the skateboard deck can be decided by your height. Now you have a standard to choose the length of the skateboard deck. However, there will be some cases where you will choose a longer skateboard or a shorter one.

• When to choose a longer deck?

New players should choose the length of the skateboard according to their height or maybe a little longer. Because long decks give you more room on the stand, which helps you to keep your balance better.

• When to choose a shorter deck?

As a good skateboarder, you can choose some shorter-sized decks to be able to do shuvits or spins. Shorter skateboards are also lighter, giving you more space to get creative with your deck.

Choose deck based on your shoe size – Width

To choose the right width for the skateboard deck, you need to consider the 2 factors. With the table below you can easily choose a skateboard with the right width for your feet, but another very important factor is the style you want to pursue.

• When to choose a broader deck?

A wider deck gives your feat a more stable ground. You can easily speed up. But it also has the disadvantage that the wider the deck, the heavier it is. You find it suitable for bumpy roads or a road with many obstacles, it gives you some stability and keeps your balance.

• When to choose a thinner deck?

Thinner skates are also lighter and allow for flexibility when making turns or rotations. Skateboarders who want to show off their technique or want to skate on the curb should choose slim sizes. But one drawback of a thinner deck is that you don’t get high speed.

Skateboard Deck Construction

A skateboard deck is made of different layers also called “ply”. It is not constructed from a solid piece of wood, if so the deck would lack flexibility.

Therefore, it is prone to break easily when sliding on bumpy roads or hitting an obstacle. Classic skateboards are made of maple that usually have seven plies glued together. When combining 7 layers, you will get a better elasticity.

Now the materials for making skateboards have diversified a great deal. Skateboards can also be made from bamboo and many other materials.

Some decks are also supported by a layer of carbon fiber that adds up the strength and durability. Usually, you will get a skateboard with 7 layers of plywood. But if you pay a little more, you can get a very good skateboard with 9 layers of a super durable and extremely strong deck.

Concave shapes

Skateboards are not just for some simple moves. But it also helps to demonstrate technique, slides, twists, and turns. That’s why manufacturers have designed skateboards with different curvatures (concave). This will facilitate players when they want to pull out their tricks.

Most skateboards on the market have a U-shaped incline or it is widely called a radical concave. If you are a new player, stick with this type. But if you want to do technical moves with a high level of difficulty, here are some concave shapes you can consider.

What is pop? Why do you need to know about it?

The elasticity of a skateboard is called Pop. This is a factor you cannot ignore when choosing your skateboard deck. If the pop is good, your skateboard will recover or rebound well when it hits the surfaces. With such good elasticity, you can bounce very high and do a lot of technical movements in the air.

• Why is pop so important to skaters?

As being said, your skateboard needs to have good elasticity in order to do jumps, turns, or any other tricks. If the boards are wet, they won’t be able to bounce very high, so you get no pop. For experienced players, they need a deck with good pop to show off their skills. Bad pop will make their talent go to waste.

• How to choose the best skateboard deck with great pop?

To choose a skateboard deck with good Pop, there are some important notes for you.

• Water resistance

To lift the body off the ground and perform a pop, you need to keep your skateboard dry at all times. Ideally, you should choose products that are waterproof or feature an anti-intrusion outer layer.

• Durable material

The elasticity of the deck comes from the material it is made of. Ordinary skateboard decks made in an old-fashioned way with maple wood layers have quite limited pop. These decks often have to rely on steep concave to increase pop. New materials such as bamboo, carbon fiber, or synthetic materials will give a much better pop.

• Deck’s weight and length

The longer and thicker the skateboards are, the harder to pop them. Players should prioritize light materials to reduce the weight of the deck. Now manufacturers are switching to use carbon fiber and bamboo to make lighter decks.

However, if the product becomes too light, it will be difficult for you to stand firmly, as the deck can not bear the weight of the skater. You also cannot slide fast and achieve good speed to perform technical movements. So the key here is balance.

• Concave

If the deck features a steeper or deeper Concave, the easier it is made for pop. However, if you are a newcomer, you should not choose a difficult concave because it will not be safe.

To get started, you need to be familiar with the deck and slide smoothly before you want to play tricks. And even the skateboard deck with popular concaves like u-shaped gives players great pop.

I believe that now choosing a skateboard with you is no longer a difficult thing. The above experience is enough for you to choose a skateboard that fits your height and weight.

You also know about the concave of the skateboard deck that would be suitable for your current level. Now it’s time to go into the world of colorful skateboards and choose the best skateboard deck for you.

Best Skateboard Decks Review for different purposes

1. WhiteFang Skateboards 31 Inch Complete Skateboard

Product’s highlights

The deck made of traditional maple wood is colored with many vivid tones. With this skateboard deck, you will become a trendsetter. The product is best used for children and beginners

The deck’s construction

A seven-ply maple skateboard that balances out harness and weight. It’s also made of a water-resistant coating to maintain durability and longevity. Products will be sold in sets and are usually pre-installed. So new players won’t have any trouble getting started with this deck.

The manufacturer is very thoughtful to equip the deck with tape, wheels, bearings… you will save a lot of time for installation and be ready to practice with your skateboard deck right now.

Bottom line

This is a pretty solid product for beginners and kids who love skateboarding. The product has youthful colors. So it will be suitable for people who are aware of fashion. The product is quite worth the price.

2. Bamboo Skateboards Graphic Decks

Product’s highlights

If I have just three words to describe this product, it would be simple, durable, and worthy. With bamboo material, the product has a good harness. This product will be suitable for all ages and levels.

Moreover, this is a very light product so it is not hard to show off all your techniques and skills. If you’re looking for a product that’s lightweight yet reliable, this is the one for you.

Design

The design of the skateboard can make you feel a bit strange. It has both good and bad sides. The skateboard deck is a bit longer and the concave is deeper.

With this design, you will be able to manage your board and keep your balance better. Spins and slides will become more natural. However, new users may need a bit of time to get used to the skateboard as it’s lighter than most common decks.

Built for skills?

The skateboard has a pointy tail, which will be very suitable for you to do spins or flips. But you will have less pop, but can still do this technique flawlessly. This is a suitable product for those who are familiar with skateboarding.

Bottom line

The product is made from 6 layers of Bamboo and one layer of maple wood for improved durability. This is a reliable product to get you started. It is not necessary to know much about skateboarding to get familiar with the product.

The manufacturer calculates their design to suit those with little experience. Moreover, the product has a very pleasant price, it is much cheaper than other products. So if you are wondering if you are suitable for skateboarding or not, you might want to give it a try.

3. Element Section #9 Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

Element prides itself on brand recognition. Most stylish young people want to own an Element skateboard. There are designs with red and white as the main color.

Designs involving elements of nature (wind, fire, water, earth) inspire the drawings on skateboards, showing the emphasis on the environment. The manufacturer does not use dyes for the wood layers to minimize the number of chemicals. Then these wooden planks can be reused.

Element’s story

Element’s history dates back to the early 90s, evolving with the rise of hip-hop culture and contemporary art. The company was founded and run by professional skaters. Their deep understanding of skateboarding style techniques has contributed to the brand’s success.

Today Element’s products are not limited to skateboards but also extend to innovative products in the fashion industry. However, the durable and unique skateboards still maintain one of the trademarks of this brand.

Deck’s review

Element skateboard quality is comparable to other high-end famous brands. with a special design method, they use fewer chemicals and glue between the wood layers to make the deck become much lighter and have more pop.

TWIG technology is also included to optimize the weight of the product. Experienced players will enjoy this one very much. skateboard decks are not only lighter, but also allow users to do many tricks and show off their technique.

Bottom line

Because of the new product quality and environment-conscious technology, element’s skateboard decks have won the hearts of users.

When buying, users need to carefully check the accessories that come with the deck of the skateboard. Elements are usually sold separately. However, you need to have wheels, bearings, tapes… a full set to start this hobby.

4. Bamboo Skateboards Blank Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

The product inherits distinctive characteristics from the manufacturer Bamboo. This product stands out for its lightness and excellent shockproof support. Eco-friendly design technology makes sure the maples aren’t cut down to make skateboards.

It has medium concave and is quite comfortable for your feet. You feel the concave of the skateboard, the lightness of the product also helps when you want to perform skillful movements. Pressure cracks may appear. But if you are not on a rough road, there is no need to worry.

The design of the product is quite beautiful, however, it is slightly different from the standard. The wheelbase of Bamboo products is usually shorter/longer compared to the benchmark. Maybe it’s why users need time to get used to the deck.

Bottom line

If you are an experienced player, this will be a bit boring. However, if you are eager for a skateboarding hobby. Bamboo Skateboards will bring you an experience that will make you satisfied.

5. Blind Skateboard Decks

Product’s highlights

Blind is a brand that has been around for a long time. It started with groups of skaters and then they opened businesses and made their own products of reliable quality.

Concave on Blind products is very smooth. It is very comfortable so you stand on your skateboard deck and take it for a long time. Players will not feel tiredness or leg cramps. This product also comes with a steeper kick for users who want to upgrade to a more pro-level.

About the price, the customers feel satisfied with what they get. It is fairly accurate for the quality. Users can look for a price range under $100 for a great product. Blind Skateboard Decks will normally go for $50, depending on the accessories you want to have along.

Bottom line

Blinds products have a slightly different design from the standard. 8 layers of maple are used instead of the traditional 7 layers. Durability is also a positive point for Blinds as it has more than one layer of wood.

But on the other hand, the skateboard deck will weigh more and limit your movement with the deck. However, parents can find it good news. because children who skateboard will be safer if using this product.

6. Baker Brand Logo Deck-8.0 Black/White Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

This is Baker’s classic skateboard and it’s also the best gear for beginners. durability is ensured thanks to its sturdy design and meticulous production process.

Manufacture and design

Buyers can choose to purchase the skateboard floor separately or purchase a set. Usually, this manufacturer will offer the deck and let the players buy the necessary items by themselves.

So, you can buy some more support tools to best suit your level. Skateboard decks come in a variety of sizes to accommodate adults or younger players. The skateboard follows the standard size to help players get used to it faster.

Baker’s classic skateboard product uses 7-layer maple technology. The wooden deck is also designed with an “OG shape” so that players can react quickly. skating speed is also significantly improved.

Bottom line

The crisp pop of the product is responsive, so it will meet the needs of lawyers who demand technical features. The tricks are also done with ease.

The product also has very good durability to ensure absolute safety for players when performing these techniques. A characteristic of the Baker skateboard is that the deck is slightly wider than usual. That would be suitable for men or people with big feet.

7. Element Section Yellow Red Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

It stands out from the crowd with the signature look featuring black and gold yellow colors. The patterns engraved on the deck define luxury and elegance.

Having such a skateboard all eyes will be on you to witness your amazing movements and techniques. It goes for a good price and top quality. I am 100% confident this will be a product worth your purchase.

Design

Its design is very standard, which is optimized for ramps and uneven roads, or roads with a lot of obstacles. New players also have better grips with this one. Users will feel very familiar and comfortable when they switch from other brands because Element follows the norms.

This deck is in the Element Skateboards Section. The product is designed from 7 layers of hardwood with Featherweight technology.

It consists of a super-strong wood layer and is combined with other lighter layers for optimal weight. With standard designs, users can use this deck with other accessories of many different brands.

Players’ levels and skills

The product can be used by a wide range of people, but for those who are a little inexperienced or are just starting, this will be a better choice. The product will also support good skills and can allow tricks. It has long-term durability, so it can accompany you during the whole journey.

Bottom line

The skateboard will immediately catch your eye with an aesthetic look. As for the size, the deck is made in three different sizes to best suit your needs and age preferences. Featherlight technology will allow your product to have the most ideal weight without sacrificing your creativity.

8. Powell-Peralta Frankie Hill • Bulldog • Green Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

This is one of the most durable skateboards you can buy because it is equipped with 2 layers of carbon fiber composite. Its stylish look also does not let you down. Each skateboard deck is like a work of art that you will carry around every day. Hand down to Powell-Peralta, a value-for-money product to start with.

The deck construction

Powell-Peralta Frankie Hill skateboard deck is a very durable product.

It is specially researched and designed with two layers of carbon fiber for ever-lasting durability. If you don’t break or damage it on purpose, it will be your perfect ride forever.

About the ply, its structure is made of 7 layers of which 5 plies are made of maple wood. the two layers of carbon. Not only is it hard to crack, but the product is also very light.

Design

The product has a rather unique design with a more curved nose than traditional products. This makes it easy for players to perform flips. The product material is absolutely great, but you might find it a bit crisp when you first buy it.

Which means the brand-new one needs to hit the road. The elasticity of the product will be greatly improved after you use it a few times.

Bottom line

The product has medium concave and you can order a special spoon nose concave if you are a pro player. This product gives you great creativity with top-notch slides and turns.

If you are a new player but are charmed by the good things of the Powell deck, I advise you to go with it and let it guide you on this journey. The product is easy to get used to and has good support for newbies to keep their balance. You will go very far with this deck.

9. Powell Peralta Skateboard Deck

Product’s highlights

If you like the unique and strange, you can’t miss the decks from Powell Peralta. The brand’s popularity lies in the bizarre design with skull and skeleton decorations that have become familiar to skaters. Perhaps this anti-conventional design has evoked liberality and free spirit and created a great vibration with the players.

Powell Peralta’s signature

The brand was co-founded by George Powell and Stacy Peralta. It has a history of over 40 years with skateboard technologies getting rèined over time. The Powell Peralta deck is known for its super durability, nearly indestructible skateboards.

Another unique point is the unique graphic design of this brand. Every deck is a piece of art, praised by young people for the breakaway mindset that goes beyond the box.

Anyone can look stylish when owning a skateboard of this brand. Inspired by the whimsical, it’s not hard to find a skateboard deck decorated with bones, skulls, dragons, aliens… Powell Peralta’s defiant style is a panacea for skaters.

Deck’s construction

The product is made from 7-ply of traditional maple and is laminated with the unique AirLam™ technology. You will buy with confidence thanks to its durability and endurance.

Powell Peralta decks are for tough players. Besides, accessories such as wheels, bearings, and trucks are also the best of their class, helping the product to move smoothly on any terrain.

Bottom line

A multi-use product for skaters. Experienced people love this product as it allows their unlimited creativity. The structure of the product is durable and hard but still has room for flex. It’s exactly the balance you should aim for.

Benefits of Using Different Skateboard Decks

1. Get familiar with the decks

One of the best ways to become a skateboarder is to try different skateboard decks. With each type of skateboard, players will experience different concave, lengths, construction… That’s how you learn from real experience.

You’ll need to adjust your stance and technique to fit the style of your deck. The improvement in controlling the deck, swing skills, and overhead balancing skills will be seen in no time.

2. Experience different riding types

Certainly, skaters do not want to narrow and limit themselves to a certain type of deck. So it’s time for you to explore the variety and creativity that different skateboards have to offer. There are a few styles you might consider:

• Popsicle Deck: basic skateboard template and suitable for newbies and skateparks
• Bowl & Pool Shaped Deck: it is a skateboard deck that is wider than usual.
• Shaped Decks: it has a pointed tip and a square tail (looks like a water ski pad). It will help players glide on the street like shuttles. Players easily reach the highest speed with this type of skateboard deck. But it will be a bit heavy for newbies.

There are many different designs and styles available, but I’ll leave it up to you to explore and experience for yourself.

3. Find your passion

The more you explore the world of skateboarding, the more curious you’ll be to see where your limits are. If you ever feel that your deck has become boring, you should find inspiration with a new deck. It is sure to open up many possibilities and diversify your experience.

If you are an experienced player, you definitely have multiple skateboard decks to serve different purposes. A skater has to change through many skateboards to find the one that best suits and their preferred style.

4. Customized to players’ purposes

Most skateboards are designed to be universal so their accessories can be shared and used for different decks. You can mix and match a bit to customize the skateboard to your liking.

For example, you can use a steep concave kick to raise the curvature of a skateboard, or you can install other bearings to optimize speed. When you have many decks, you are free to show your creativity and have a lot of fun with your decks.

5. Show your diverse style

What I like most about skateboard decks is that they express personality in the best way. You should own multiple decks so you don’t have to stick to a certain mold. It’s fun to have each deck bring out a color to you as well as being part of your identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of skateboard deck should a beginner get?

• Right size

First of all, you need to find a product that is right for your foot size so that you can quickly get used to the skateboard deck. You can look up the size charts above to see which one is right for you. It is preferred to choose standard products designed according to norms.

Since you won’t be doing many technical turns, flips, or tricks yet, your skateboard doesn’t need to be super hard or indestructible. For initial training, endurance is not something you have to worry about too much. Just find one that fits your feet.

• Mid-range price

You don’t need to invest a fortune in a skateboard deck when you’re just starting. For about $50-70 you’ve got an excellent skateboard to practice with. They will be durable enough for you to take your first steps. And if you do break it by slipping the wrong technique, you won’t feel discouraged about losing money.

• Pre-assembled with accessories

The deck needs to be fitted with wheels, bearings, trucks… to be able to slide on the road. If you are new, let’s buy the pre-installed ones.

Installation steps can take a lot of time and effort. It’s not too difficult if you are familiar with a skateboard, but I think the manufacturer will do the job better than us. And if you are unfortunate to install it incorrectly, or do not tighten the screw, it can cause a danger too.

2. When should skateboard decks be replaced?

• Signs of damage

Chipping is not a strange problem with skateboarders. It can happen because the pressure of the plywood layers is affected by external forces, or because you ride too hard… The edges of the skateboard, its head, and its tail are also prone to chipping.

If your skateboard deck does not keep its original shape and is warped in some parts, you should seek maintenance from the shop staff. When the sides of the skateboard are broken or warped, it’s time to find an alternative, because then it’s no longer good for you to keep your balance.

• No longer pop

Another sign that it’s time to say goodbye is that your skateboard loses its good pop. At this point, you can hardly do your high jumps, turns or tricks, because your skateboard is old and it doesn’t bounce anymore.

If the skateboard is left in a humid condition, it will easily lose its pop. You can only use it for regular skates or buy a new one.

• Maintenance

No matter how durable your skateboard is, it will get damaged if it is not taken care of well. Since it’s made of wood, you have to avoid any kind of moisture or humidity, as water is the worst enemy. In a damp environment, your beloved skateboard will get soggy. And that’s the last thing you want to happen.

You should make sure the skateboard is stored in a well-ventilated place. Find a cool and dry place, place the board in a horizontal position to best preserve it. If you take good care of your skateboard, the day you say goodbye to it is still far away.

3. Make Your Skateboard Last Longer with 4 simple methods

• Avoid pressure cracking

The screws and bearings of the skateboard should not be tightened too much as this will cause unnecessary pressure on the product. And stretch marks will appear. The pressure every time you do a heavy move is also a burden on the deck.

You should choose a skateboard deck that has a layer of fiberglass or carbon fiber for the most durability. The technique of difficult or extreme movements should be practiced well before performing on the skateboard.

• Avoid chipping the nose and tail

The nose and tail are the extremely sensitive parts of the skateboard deck and are most prone to chipping. You should choose products with their head and tail wrapped or protected by an outer cover to prevent this from happening.

• Avoid Razor Tail

Razor Tail most often occurs when you want to stop the deck. With the wrong technique, you can drag your skateboard deck and leave ugly scratches.

So it’s very important to practice how to slow down, land, and stop correctly. You should not make sudden stops, it is not safe for you and it harms your skateboard.

• Keep clean and store your deck in a well-ventilated place

   

If your skateboard is water-resistant, you can wash it off. But a warning is to stay as far away from the water. You can hang it up to put it away, but it’s quite inconvenient.

Avoid turning it over and let its nose and tail touch the ground. You can lean the deck on the wall. Dusty and humid places are definitely not ideal for keeping the deck. You can use a towel to clean the deck then keep it in a dry place.

Final Verdict

Now you are close to becoming an expert in choosing a skateboard deck. And here comes my final tip for you. You don’t have to look outside for any fancy tech talks or adverts, but to find within yourself and find what you truly want.

The right deck should be comfortable for your foot size and your style. If you are a newbie, trust the products reviewed here, choose the length and width based on your index, it is the most appropriate one.

Pre-assembled skateboards are good for beginners. And don’t forget to add more new skateboard decks to your collection to play mix-match sometimes and diversify your style.