Skateboarding is a sport that has stood the test of time. With its roots in street culture, skateboarding has grown into a widely celebrated activity enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or new to the sport, skateboarding is a great way for kids, particularly tweens, to get active, build confidence, and foster skills that will serve them in many areas of their lives. As a parent, introducing your tween to the world of skateboarding is not only a great way to keep them active and entertained, but also to teach them the importance of perseverance, balance, and creative self-expression.
But choosing the right skateboard can be a challenge, especially with so many options available. Do you get a longboard or a shortboard? Should you prioritize durability over style? Is it best to start with a simple, affordable board or go all out with something designed for serious tricks? Ahead, we’ll cover all the aspects you need to consider when choosing the best skateboard for your tween, from safety tips to skill-building, and from skateboard types to product recommendations.
Finding the Best Skateboards for Your Tweens To Build Confidence, Balance & Coordination
Before diving into the specifics of skateboard types and product suggestions, it’s essential to understand why skateboarding is such a great activity for your tween. There are numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits to skateboarding that can help your child develop important life skills.
Confidence Through Progress
Skateboarding is not an instant skill. It requires practice, perseverance, and a lot of trial and error, which makes it a perfect tool for building confidence. Tweens will start out with small, manageable goals, such as learning to balance on the board or push themselves along a flat surface. As they master each skill, they’ll gain confidence in their abilities. Learning to fall safely and get back up is a key part of the sport, which is a great metaphor for life’s challenges. Skateboarding teaches resilience—falling down isn’t a failure, it’s a lesson, and getting back up is a victory.
Balance and Coordination
Skateboarding is essentially a balance-focused activity. To stay on the board, skaters must distribute their weight evenly, adjust their body’s movements, and maintain a center of gravity. Tweens develop core strength and improve their coordination as they practice. These skills will carry over into other sports and daily activities. For example, many children who skateboard find that they have better balance when riding a bicycle or participating in activities like skiing or gymnastics. The increased control over their body can make them more confident in general movement.
Physical and Mental Benefits
Skateboarding is a physically demanding sport that engages the whole body. From the legs pushing the skateboard to the core balancing the body, skateboarding is an excellent way for tweens to stay active. This full-body workout can help kids develop flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health.
Mentally, skateboarding challenges kids to think on their feet (literally). They must quickly assess the environment for obstacles, decide which tricks to try, and learn from their mistakes. It encourages focus, patience, and creative problem-solving—skills that are beneficial both on and off the board.
Social Growth and Self-Expression
Skateboarding is a social activity, especially as your tween grows older. They’ll likely join a local skateboarding community, whether online or in person. Skating is often a group activity, where kids can share tips, offer support, and bond over a shared passion. As your tween learns new tricks, they’ll also learn the importance of encouragement and support within a community.
Additionally, skateboards are a powerful form of self-expression. A skateboard can be a reflection of your child’s personal style, from the graphics on the deck to the color of the wheels. This gives them a chance to showcase their personality and creativity.
Things to Consider When Shopping for Kids Skateboards
When you start shopping for a skateboard, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. There are so many things to consider: skill level, board size, wheel type, and more. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors to keep in mind while shopping for a skateboard for your tween.
Skill Level
Understanding your tween’s skill level is the first step in selecting the right skateboard. If they are brand new to skateboarding, they’ll need a stable, forgiving board that allows them to get comfortable before attempting tricks. On the other hand, if your tween is more experienced and looking to step up their game, they might prefer a board designed for more advanced maneuvers.
- Beginner: For new skaters, choose a skateboard with a wider deck (around 7.5 to 8 inches) that offers stability. A board with softer wheels is also a good choice for beginners, as they offer better grip and smoother rides on rough surfaces.
- Intermediate: If your tween is familiar with the basics and starting to master balance and turning, a medium-sized skateboard (around 8 inches) with harder wheels will be better. This will allow them to perform tricks while maintaining control.
- Advanced: For more experienced skaters, you’ll want to look for a lighter, more responsive board, which might be narrower (7.5 inches) and made from high-quality materials to withstand trick-intensive use.
Size and Deck Width
The size of the skateboard deck is critical for your kid’s comfort and performance. Skateboards typically come in a few different sizes. Tweens tend to prefer a deck that is between 7.5 and 8 inches wide, depending on their preference and foot size. The larger the deck, the more stability your tween will have, which is especially important when they’re starting out.
- Deck Width: A wider deck offers more stability, while a narrower deck offers more maneuverability. Beginners may want to stick with a wider deck to feel more secure while learning basic movements. However, for tweens starting to get more serious about tricks, a narrower deck may be preferred to allow for quicker, sharper turns.
- Deck Length: Longer decks provide more space to stand and are generally better for downhill cruising. Shorter decks, on the other hand, are more agile, which is ideal for performing tricks.
Board Type
There are various types of skateboards, each suited for a specific riding style. Let’s break down the different types to help you choose the best one for your tween.
Standard Skateboards (Popsicle Decks)
The popsicle skateboard is the most common style and is suitable for a wide range of activities. Its symmetrical shape allows for easy turning, making it great for both beginners and more experienced skaters. These boards are typically used for street skating, tricks, and park skating.
- Best for: Beginners to advanced skaters, street skating, tricks, and park riding.
Cruiser Skateboards
Cruisers are designed for smooth, comfortable rides, making them perfect for casual riders or tweens who want to use their skateboard for commuting or just cruising around the neighborhood. These boards have wider decks and larger, softer wheels that offer more comfort when riding over uneven surfaces.
- Best for: Casual riders, commuting, and less emphasis on performing tricks.
Longboards
Longboards are designed for riders who want maximum stability and a smooth ride, especially on longer distances or downhill. These boards are typically longer than traditional skateboards, making them great for beginners who may not yet have mastered the finer details of skateboard control.
- Best for: Cruising, downhill riding, and longer distance riding.
Material and Durability
Durability is a crucial consideration when buying a skateboard. For tweens who are still learning, a durable board is essential as they’re likely to experience a few falls along the way. Maple wood is the most common material for skateboard decks because it’s strong, flexible, and provides good grip. Higher-end boards may use other materials, like bamboo or carbon fiber, which are lighter and more durable but may be more expensive.
Wheel Size
The size of the skateboard wheels affects the ride and performance of the board. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are great for performing tricks in the skatepark or on smooth pavement. Larger wheels (55mm and up) offer more stability and are ideal for downhill riding or cruising on rougher surfaces.
- Small Wheels (50-54mm): Great for street and park skating where smooth surfaces are available.
- Larger Wheels (55mm+): Ideal for cruising, downhill riding, and rougher surfaces.
Design and Style
Last but not least, the design and style of the skateboard are a key factor. A skateboard is a personal statement, so it’s important that your tween feels proud of the board they choose. There are tons of designs available, ranging from graphic-heavy boards with unique artwork to sleek, minimalist designs that focus on performance. JAKKS offers a variety of graphic designs, including colorful patterns, fun themes, and classic aesthetics that will suit any personality.
Skateboard Types & What They’re Best For
Now that we’ve covered the important factors to consider when buying a skateboard, let’s dive into the different types of skateboards and what they’re best suited for.
Standard Skateboards
Standard skateboards, also known as popsicle decks, are designed for all-around use. They are the most common type of skateboard and are perfect for both beginners and more advanced skaters. These skateboards are great for street skating, performing tricks, and park riding.
Our Picks:
- Gray Icon 31″ Popsicle Skateboard
The Gray Icon skateboard offers a sturdy build with a sleek design, perfect for any beginner looking to get into street skating or learn basic tricks. - Blazing 31″ Popsicle Skateboard
This board is great for tweens who want a durable, stylish board that can handle both tricks and street skating with ease. - Dragon 31″ Popsicle Skateboard
The Dragon popsicle skateboard is designed for kids who want to practice stunts and tricks while maintaining control and stability. Plus, the vibrant graphics make it a standout.
Cruiser Skateboards
Cruiser skateboards are perfect for tweens who want to ride casually or commute. They offer a smooth and easy ride, with larger wheels and a wider deck that provides a comfortable, stable experience.
Our Picks:
- Pastels 25″ Mini Pintail Cruiser
The perfect choice for tweens who want to cruise around with comfort and style. The pintail design makes it easy to maneuver on various terrains. - Cruiser Islands 25″ Mini Pintail Cruiser
This cruiser offers a relaxing ride with a fun tropical design—ideal for leisure rides around the neighborhood. - Colors 25″ Mini Pintail Cruiser
Colorful and fun, this pintail cruiser board is perfect for tweens who want to ride casually in style.
Longboards
Longboards are designed for stability, longer rides, and downhill cruising. Their size and wheel configuration make them ideal for smooth, long-distance rides, especially on rough terrain.
Our Pick:
- Section Wood 37″ Pintail Longboard
This longboard is perfect for cruising and downhill riding. It offers a large deck for balance, stability, and a smooth ride.
Where to Buy Our Skateboard Picks
You can find these great skateboards at JAKKS.com, where you’ll find a wide selection for every skill level and riding style. With quick shipping and hassle-free returns, shopping online has never been faster!
Safety Gear Essentials
Before your tween hits the pavement and starts perfecting their skateboarding skills, it’s important to ensure they have the right safety gear. Skateboarding is an exciting and rewarding activity, but like any sport, it comes with its risks. Whether they are a first-time skater or an experienced rider working on new tricks, the proper safety gear will help protect them from potential injuries, offering peace of mind to both you and your tween as they practice and enjoy this exhilarating sport.
Safety gear doesn’t just reduce the risk of injury—it also boosts your tween’s confidence as they learn and master new skills. When children feel safe and protected, they are more likely to push themselves and improve their skateboarding abilities without hesitation. So, let’s take a closer look at the essential safety gear that every tween skateboarder needs:
Helmet
When it comes to skateboarding, the helmet is the most critical piece of safety equipment your tween will wear. It’s designed to protect the head in the event of a fall or collision, reducing the risk of serious head injuries. A helmet should always be worn, even when your child is just cruising around the neighborhood, as falls are unpredictable and can happen at any time.
Make sure the helmet is CPSC-certified (Consumer Product Safety Commission) for skateboarding. This certification means that the helmet meets specific safety standards designed to protect against head injuries in case of a fall or crash. Look for a helmet that fits snugly but comfortably, without being too tight. There should be no gaps between the helmet and your tween’s head, and it should stay in place during movement. A helmet that’s too loose will not provide the necessary protection, while one that’s too tight can cause discomfort and distract your child while they skate.
Knee and Elbow Pads
Knee and elbow pads are essential for protecting your tween’s joints, particularly when they’re learning new tricks or skating on rough terrain. Beginners and even experienced skaters are prone to falling, and without the proper protection, these falls can result in painful scrapes, bruises, or worse—joint injuries.
Knee Pads: These pads provide vital protection for the knees, which are particularly vulnerable during falls. They act as a cushion, absorbing the impact when your tween hits the ground. It’s common for skateboarders to land on their knees when they’re trying to master new tricks or when they lose their balance. A good set of knee pads will reduce the risk of cuts, bruises, and serious joint damage. Look for knee pads with a hard outer shell, which protects against abrasions, and foam padding inside for comfort and shock absorption.
Elbow Pads: Elbow pads work in a similar way, protecting the elbows from abrasions, cuts, and impact injuries. Elbows are another vulnerable area, especially when skateboarders are learning to fall properly or trying out more advanced maneuvers. A fall on the concrete can lead to painful elbow injuries, so it’s essential to make sure your tween is equipped with the right elbow pads. Like knee pads, elbow pads should have a rigid outer shell and soft padding on the inside for comfort.
Wrist Guards
Wrist injuries are among the most common types of skateboarding accidents, particularly for beginners who may not have perfected the art of falling yet. When learning to skateboard, many skaters instinctively put their hands out to catch themselves during a fall. This can lead to sprains, fractures, or more serious wrist injuries. That’s where wrist guards come in—they provide crucial protection for the wrists, preventing unnecessary damage and offering extra support.
Wrist guards are typically made of a combination of hard plastic and foam padding, providing a tough exterior that shields against impact while cushioning the wrist. They’re designed to fit snugly around the wrists, with straps to keep them secure during use. Some wrist guards feature a splint system, which gives additional stability to the wrists, helping to prevent hyperextension or twisting during a fall.
Why Safety Gear Is Crucial for Tweens
Tweens are still developing their coordination, balance, and spatial awareness, so they are more prone to accidents and falls than older, more experienced skateboarders. Skateboarding can be a thrilling and empowering experience, but the risks are very real. Wearing the proper safety gear is the best way to prevent injuries and ensure that your tween enjoys the sport safely and confidently.
Tips for Skateboard Beginners
For tweens just starting out, skateboarding can be both fun and challenging. Here are some tips to ensure their success:
- Start with the Basics: Focus on balance and learning how to ride in a straight line first before attempting tricks.
- Safety First: Always wear a helmet and pads, especially when practicing new skills or tricks.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Encourage regular practice sessions in a safe environment to help build skills and confidence.
Skateboard Maintenance
Just like any other piece of sports equipment, a skateboard requires regular maintenance to keep it performing at its best. Proper care and attention can extend the life of your tween’s skateboard, improve their overall experience, and ensure they remain safe while riding. By regularly inspecting and maintaining the various parts of the skateboard, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear, enhance its performance, and avoid potential safety hazards. Let’s take a deeper dive into the essential skateboard maintenance practices you should be following to ensure your tween’s board is always ready to ride.
Inspect the Wheels and Trucks: Keep Everything Running Smoothly
Wheels and trucks are the primary components of a skateboard that experience the most wear and tear. They’re responsible for controlling the movement of the skateboard, so it’s essential to ensure that both are in optimal condition.
- Wheel Wear: Look for signs of uneven wear, cracks, or flat spots. If one part of the wheel is more worn down than the rest, it can cause the skateboard to ride unevenly, which could lead to a loss of control. Flat spots—areas where the wheel has become flat instead of round—are a common sign of heavy use, and should be replaced immediately to avoid instability.
- Wheel Tightness: Make sure that the wheels are securely attached to the trucks and not wobbly. If the wheels feel loose or wobble when the skateboard is rolled, they could affect the smoothness of the ride. Tighten the wheel nuts carefully to ensure they’re fastened securely, but be cautious not to overtighten them, as this can reduce wheel movement and performance.
- Material Condition: Skateboard wheels come in a variety of materials, but urethane is the most common due to its durability and smooth ride. Over time, even high-quality urethane wheels can become worn down, affecting the quality of the ride. If you notice that the wheels feel rough or gritty, or if your tween is skating on rough or cracked pavement, it may be time to replace the wheels.
- Check for Looseness: Use a wrench to check the tightness of the bolts that secure the trucks to the deck. Loose bolts can cause the trucks to wobble, which affects control and can lead to dangerous situations, especially at high speeds or during trick attempts. Be sure to tighten these bolts, but not too much, as overly tight trucks can reduce turning ability, making it harder for your tween to maneuver the skateboard.
Clean the Deck: Maintain Performance and Aesthetics
The deck of the skateboard is more than just the surface your tween rides on; it’s an integral part of their connection to the skateboard. Dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate on the deck over time, which can not only affect how the board looks but can also impact the performance and grip of the skateboard. Keeping the deck clean is a simple yet crucial part of skateboard maintenance. Here’s how you can maintain the deck:
- Wipe Down Regularly: Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the deck after each skating session, especially if your tween has been skating in dirt, mud, or wet conditions. A buildup of debris on the deck can make the surface slippery, which compromises grip and could lead to accidents. Wipe the deck with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or sticky residues. Be sure to dry it thoroughly afterward to prevent moisture from damaging the wood or grip tape.
- Check the Grip Tape: The grip tape on the deck is essential for providing traction and preventing the skateboarder from slipping. Over time, dirt, dust, and grime can build up on the grip tape, reducing its effectiveness. If the grip tape feels slippery or sticky, clean it using a wire brush or a grip tape cleaner. Regularly check for fraying or wear, and replace the grip tape if it becomes excessively worn out.
- Avoid Excessive Water: While it’s important to keep the deck clean, it’s crucial to avoid excessive exposure to water. Skateboards are not designed to be submerged in water or exposed to heavy rain for extended periods, as moisture can warp the deck, weaken the adhesive holding the grip tape, and lead to rust on the trucks. If the deck does get wet, be sure to dry it as soon as possible.
- Protect the Deck: If your tween’s skateboard is used frequently, it may also be helpful to apply a protective coating to the deck to preserve its finish. Some skateboarders use a clear, water-resistant spray that helps protect the wood from moisture and dirt while maintaining the board’s aesthetics. Be sure to use an appropriate product that doesn’t interfere with the grip tape.
Replace Worn Parts: Keep the Ride Smooth and Safe
As your tween continues to skate, parts of the skateboard will naturally wear down due to constant use. While regular maintenance can help prolong the life of the board, some parts will eventually need to be replaced. Replacing worn-out components is vital for maintaining the performance, safety, and overall enjoyment of the skateboard.
Wheels
As mentioned earlier, skateboard wheels will wear down over time, and if they’re worn unevenly, cracked, or excessively smooth, they should be replaced. Replacing worn wheels ensures that your tween can ride smoothly and maintain control while skating. When purchasing new wheels, be sure to choose the correct hardness and size based on your tween’s skating style and terrain preferences.
Trucks
If the trucks become warped, cracked, or damaged, they should be replaced immediately. Worn-out bushings, loose components, or broken axles can make it difficult for your tween to control their skateboard and can lead to accidents. Upgrading to higher-quality trucks can also improve the overall ride if they’re using lower-quality ones.
Bearings
Bearings are the small metal rings that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. Over time, bearings can get dirty, rusted, or worn out, which can slow down the wheels and affect the overall performance of the skateboard. Bearings can be cleaned and lubricated to extend their life, but if they’re too damaged or slow, they should be replaced.
Deck
While the deck of the skateboard can last for a long time if properly maintained, it will eventually show signs of wear. Cracks, chips, or deep gouges can affect the structural integrity of the skateboard and reduce its overall safety. If the deck has been subjected to heavy use or has been damaged in a fall, replacing it is necessary to maintain a safe and enjoyable ride.
By following these basic skateboard maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your tween’s skateboard stays in top shape and provides a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience. Regular inspections, cleaning, and prompt replacement of worn parts will keep their skateboard performing at its best and help prevent accidents caused by malfunctioning or damaged equipment. Proper care for a skateboard can extend its lifespan, improve performance, and enhance the overall enjoyment for your tween as they continue to grow and improve their skills.
Conclusion
Choosing the right skateboard for your tween is an exciting journey that can introduce them to a fun and rewarding sport. Whether they’re just learning the basics or are already mastering tricks, there’s a perfect board for them. With the tips and product recommendations from JAKKS, you can feel confident in your choice. Visit Jakks.com to find the ideal skateboard that will help your tween build confidence, balance, and coordination while having fun!
