When you sit and consider your child’s transportation options, you may figure out that none of the choices you have at hand are very exciting. Your kid wants something ‘cool’ and you want something budget-friendly. Apparently, you actually want to drop your kid off at school on your car but he or she just is not comfortable with that level of affection in front of his school friends.
They will yell, “Mom! Leave already!”. In order to avoid such embarrassing yet emotionally draining experiences, it is best to let your kid out into the world alone. Why not buy him a skateboard? That’s where this best skateboard for kids’ article come into play.
It sure does not need fuel and it sure does not need you. So, just a one-time investment and you can save money and also your honor. Plus, your kid will find it cool and engage in other activities, even competitions related to skateboards.
But, the age-old concern that comes with kids is their safety. A skateboard does not in any way look safe. However, there are certain factors in it that can make it safe and also easy enough for your kid to control.
You are probably here to find out exactly what will make a skateboard safe and easy for your kid. Furthermore, you also want the best value for your money, don’t you? Our buying guide should give you a clear idea of the features you should check out to assure you are getting exactly what you need. Apart from that, our reviews will give you real examples of the best skateboard for kids because that is what you are looking for.
- Top 10 Kids Skateboards In The Market
- Kids Skateboard Reviews
- Quest QT-NSC44C The Super Cruiser Review
- RIMABLE Complete (22-Inch) Skateboard Review
- KPC Pro Skateboard Complete Review
- Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard Review
- Atom Drop Deck Longboard (41-Inch) Review
- Atom Drop-Through Longboard (40-Inch) Review
- Ridge Skateboards (27-Inch) Cruiser Board Review
- SCSK8 Complete Longboard Skateboard Review
- Quest Rorshack Bamboo Longboard Skateboard (34-Inch) Review
- Swagtron SwagBoard NG-1 Youth Electric Longboard Review
- The Ultimate Skateboard Buying Guide (things to remember)
- The Benefits of a Skateboard
- FAQs
- Final Words
Top 10 Kids Skateboards In The Market
Our reviewed top 10 skateboards for kids are:
- Quest Super Cruiser Longboard Skateboard
- RIMABLE Complete 22″ Skateboard
- KPC Pro Skateboard
- Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard
- Atom Drop Deck Longboard
- Atom Drop Through Longboard
- Ridge Skateboards
- SCSK8 Complete Longboard Skateboard
- Quest Rorshack Bamboo Longboard Skateboard
- Swagtron SwagBoard NG-1 Youth Electric Longboard
Kids Skateboard Reviews
Quest QT-NSC44C The Super Cruiser Review
What if your kids ride his first skateboard and find himself on the sitting on the road because it broke? Well, he will not only be disheartened but he may forget his interest in skateboard forever. This is why you need a durable and strong skateboard and the Quest QT-NSC44C meets this need.
For a beginner, this skateboard may just be a bit difficult to maneuver but that will set his beginning standard quite high. Apparently, as it is a top-mount skateboard, it turns quite easily and sharply. So, beginners might find it a bit wobbly and unstable.
The long deck not only holds the rider in a secure way but also is great to look at. As a kid, this is what appeals to most kids- the looks and this one has a lot of it. However, if you want the skateboard to be fast, you will need to make a few changes for a couple of extra bucks.
Firstly, the bearing although are ABEC 7 bearings, need changing for faster performance. Then, there are the trucks that you might find too loose or tight so you will have to adjust them accordingly. Lastly, you may need to make some changes to the bushings as well.
Aside from that, the skateboard often rattles when you are using it so that might bother you. However, it is still a great choice for commuters and a lot of other things. In fact, it is lightweight and very portable.
Pros
- Well-built and durable.
- Great looks.
- Good for beginners.
- A long and strong deck.
- Takes turns easily.
- Great with modifications.
Cons
- The bearings may need changing.
- The truck and bushings may have to be adjusted.
- Can be noisy.
- Wheels can get chipped easily.
The Quest Super Cruiser Longboard Skateboard
RIMABLE Complete (22-Inch) Skateboard Review
When you are looking for a skateboard for a beginner and that too a beginner kid, you have to consider both the price and strength. Luckily, the Rimable 22-inch skateboard is affordable and also sturdy. In fact, it is a great choice for beginners at any time.
As you can notice, the skateboard is not very long at a 22-inch length. But, this length should be ample for a kid to ride on. In fact, this shorter length will make it easy for the kid to turn the skateboard.
However, that is always not the case with this skateboard. The bushing and a few parts may be too tight and this often makes the turning of the wheels a hard task. So, your kids may have a hard time turning it.
The bearings it comes with are not the best and you may find replacing it a better option. However, the bearings will cause trouble only if you want to go really fast.
Apart from that, the material and the 6-inch width makes this a stable board to ride on. The skateboard is a treat to look at with its sharp graphics. But, in the long term (or short) the paint may come off or you may find scratches.
When it comes to wheels, the ones on the skateboard are something average. They can handle rough surface but they could do better at it. Although the skateboard is small, it is not very light so portability may prove to be a problem if carried on hand for too long.
Overall, this skateboard is a great affordable option for beginners.
Pros
- Quite stable.
- Easy to learn on.
- Good quality build.
- Easy to turn because of the short length.
- Cool graphic on it.
- Great value for money.
Cons
- Needs modification of the bearings to go faster.
- Paint may come off.
- Turning the wheels may be a bit difficult.
RIMABLE Complete (22-Inch) Skateboard
KPC Pro Skateboard Complete Review
Do you want your kid to take things slowly at the beginning? Well, even though his childish brain wants to go wild with a skateboard, we understand your concerns. KPC Pro skateboard is such a skateboard that will let parents sleep in peace.
It is, in fact, a well-built skateboard with a very strong and durable deck. In fact, the deck is the best part about this skateboard as it will not only provide a good grip with its grip tapes but is also quite attractive in looks. A kid will definitely find the graphics very cool.
The wheels on this skateboard are quite average and will do an average job on the rough surface as well. However, only if they last. There were many complaints about the wheels wearing out too soon. Apparently, many customers even suggested changing the wheels when you buy this skateboard.
The two other things that you will need to change or adjust over time are trucks and bearings. You can only bear the bearings this skateboard comes with if your kid is alright with going very slow even in the long term. However, if you want speed, the bearings must be dealt with.
Trucks are not in for consideration even in the short term because even people who loved the skateboard complained about the trucks. In fact, the trucks make it quite difficult to turn the wheels and the skateboard.
The skateboard falls in the affordable range when it comes to price. However, although the deck is one of the best, the other parts of the skateboard are either average or not durable at all. So, you have to spend more to make it suitable for a kid.
Pros
- A stunning, sturdy and durable deck.
- Safe to ride on.
- Great design.
- Affordable and offers good value.
- Wheels do a good job.
Cons
- Trucks are terrible and need replacement.
- Very slow even when bearings are changed.
- Parts do not last long.
KPC Pro Skateboard Complete
Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard Review
Nothing is exactly perfect at first. You have to make adjustments to skateboards to make it suit you perfectly. Skatro understands that and not only does it provide you with a good-quality skateboard but it also includes a tool that will help you adjust the skateboard to your liking.
Firstly, let us talk about the T-tool that makes this skateboard worth it and actually increases its value for the price. Apparently, you can use the T-tool to adjust the wheels and trucks. A few customers complained that T-tool is not very durable and may break. But, it worked fine in most other cases.
As for the skateboard itself, the deck is great but small. Unless you are sure that your feet are not large enough to be uncomfortable on this skateboard, you should stop yourself from buying it. Other than that, except a few minor easy scratches, the deck looks fine.
When it comes to bearings, although they are of good quality, they really take away the speed. Even if you replace the bearings, the speed of this skateboard may not impress you. The wheels are of good quality and can act smoothly on rough surfaces.
However, they need some adjustments with the T-tool. Once you are done adjusting all the crucial features, you will love riding this skateboard. Apart from that, learning on this skateboard is not really easy.
Because of the small size, it should be easy to maneuver but first, you will have to learn to balance yourself. The trucks are not the best and turning will require some getting used to.
Pros
- Includes a T-tool.
- Very adjustable.
- Attractive looks.
- Great value for money.
- Easy to maneuver.
Cons
- Quite slow.
- Need many adjustments.
- Hard to learn balancing.
Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard
Atom Drop Deck Longboard (41-Inch) Review
Have plans to cover long distances on a longboard? Then this Atom Drop Deck longboard may just be what you need because it will provide you the most stable ride. It is on the expensive side but the quality and performance speak for the price.
As it is long, it will provide a very stable ride. Furthermore, the drop deck with its low center of gravity will make learning even easier. However, it won’t be very easy to turn for the same reason- the long deck.
It will take time and space to turn this longboard. Furthermore, the grip tape on the board is neither effective nor durable. So, it is best to replace it.
Although the deck itself is really strong and will survive almost anything, The trucks are not. Even though the longboard does not have a weight limit, the trucks seem to bend way too easily.
Apart from that, the board is stable but it is not really fast. You will have to replace the bearings and adjust other things to go faster. But, it will still not be very speedy.
The wheels are large enough to deal with slightly rough roads. However, it is best not to expose them to those too often. You might need to change the wheels in the long run.
This longboard is a great option for beginners to learn on. However, the flex might be a problem as some reported that the longboard was too stiff at times. In the end, it all comes down to your own preferences.
Pros
- Great quality build.
- Very stable and sturdy.
- Quite effective wheels.
- Good for beginners.
- Very durable.
- A great choice for commuters.
Cons
- A bit expensive.
- Heavy to carry.
- Trucks get bent.
- Not very fast.
- Turning takes some effort.
Atom Drop Deck Longboard (41-Inch)
Atom Drop-Through Longboard (40-Inch) Review
Fancy a ride so smooth you feel like you are flying? The Atom Drop longboard may just be your magic carpet as one customer termed it. Apparently, as you can see it a longboard and therefore quite long at 40 inches.
The length makes it a good option for your daily commutes. It will take you to places faster. Furthermore, the longboard is quite wide as well so a kid can enjoy both a stable ride and ample space for both his feet.
Apart from that, it has a drop deck style, it will be quite easy for you to ride on. However, turning this giant is really not the easiest and especially not easy for kids. It will not only require space to turn but also time.
Moreover, the bushings in the trucks are not the friendliest either. They are a bit tight and may make turning more difficult. However, once you get a hold of it, you get used to the difficult turns.
The wheels make this whole longboard much easier to ride on. They are of a greater diameter so you can enjoy a very smooth ride and also a fast one. You will experience no wheel bite whatsoever with this longboard.
The bearings are not the best, however. Most users of this longboard got the best experience only after they replaced the bearings with something better.
It is a longboard so it has a price higher than the usual skateboards. However, it does offer a quality product for the price which you won’t regret buying any time soon.
Pros
- Very smooth.
- Large wheels.
- Great looks.
- Long and wide deck.
- No wheel bite.
- Good quality build.
- Easy to learn on.
- Quite stable.
Cons
- Difficult to turn.
- Bushings are not friendly.
- Bearings may need replacing.
Atom Drop Through Longboard (40-Inch)
Ridge Skateboards (27-Inch) Cruiser Board Review
If portability is your first priority then you cannot go wrong with the Ridge Skateboards Cruise Board. This 27-inch skateboard is very light and compact so a kid can easily use it to reach his school, keep it somewhere close without causing anyone any inconvenience and return back home on it. But, this is not the only feature that will satisfy you.
This skateboard is well-built and its length and width make it very user-friendly. It is a great option for beginners as their first concern is balance and this board is quite stable to provide you with balance. Furthermore, its width gives you enough room to ride comfortably.
Although it is easy to turn, it does need a large turning circle as it is a bit long. On the other hand, you need to push with more effort and more often as the bearings, this board comes with are not the best. They do not spin for too long so you will be constantly pushing forward.
Once you replace the bearings, this board is great to ride on. Even the trucks and bushings are good enough. However, this skateboard is not the most durable.
It has molded plastic on it which gets scratches easily. Although the trucks are effective, they may break after a while. When it comes to price, it is rather on the expensive side.
However, it does perform quite well except for a few minor difficulties that can be easily solved. You can ride it on rough roads but it is best to avoid bricks. Other than that, it has a good style.
Pros
- Long and wide enough to provide ample stability.
- Good choice for beginners.
- Great for long commutes.
- Very portable and compact.
- Good trucks and bushings.
- Easy to turn.
- Great looks.
Cons
- Bearings are better if replaced as they make the rider put in more effort.
- Not the most durable.
Ridge Skateboards (27-Inch) Cruiser Board
SCSK8 Complete Longboard Skateboard Review
Need a skateboard that only does the necessary in the best way without featuring anything fancy? Then this SCSK8 longboard may fit your budget and also needs. Apparently, this has a plain bamboo-like deck that gives it a ‘just for work’ look.
While kids may not like this blank look, they sure have the option to paint it or put any stickers they prefer on it. So, it gets even better as you get to personalize the skateboard. As expected of a heavy-duty longboard, this one has a very strong deck that can carry you comfortably anywhere.
It is a great choice for beginners because not only is it stable but it is easy to turn as well. However, you must make one change and that replaces the bearings. If you change the bearings, you can go faster more effortlessly than before.
Apart from that, although the trucks do fine, you will find them too tight at first. So, loosen them up to enjoy the best. If you plan to use the wheels that this skateboard comes with, you will need to loosen them up as well.
However, the wheels just do an average job on rough surfaces. Apart from that, the grip tape on the board is totally not the best. You will do better if you replace it.
Another problem you may face is a rattling sound. It actually originates from the trucks when you loosen them up. You may benefit from putting something in there to stop the noise.
Pros
- Plain surface allows customizing with stickers or paints.
- Good quality build which makes it durable.
- Good at turns.
- Easy to learn for beginners.
- Average wheels.
- Affordable option.
Cons
- Bearings need replacing.
- Wheels may need to be replaced.
- Bad grip tape.
- Can be noisy.
- Too tight at first
SCSK8 Complete Longboard Skateboard
Quest Rorshack Bamboo Longboard Skateboard (34-Inch) Review
If you want something for a beginner or something just for easy commutes then this Rorshack skateboard may be what you are looking for. Apparently, it is neither too long nor short. It is probably something in the middle with its 34-inch deck.
So, this is a great option for daily, usual rides. It does not go very fast because of the length and also the bearings. When it comes to the bearings, you might as well think of replacing them for better performance. The ones that come with it are alright but for faster commutes, you definitely need better ones.
Apparently, the wheels are well-made but won’t help to give you the smoothest rides. In fact, turning this skateboard is kind of easy but the wheels may not be properly aligned and touching the ground as a few customers complained.
Because of the low-quality bearings, the skateboard requires more effort and pushes from you to move. Other than that, you will need to loosen up the trucks for use. This may bring on noise but you can fix that with a few easy hacks.
The best part of the board is the deck. It has a large capacity and will hold even an obese person who wants to ride a skateboard. So, you can imagine how strong it is made.
Apart from that, the skateboard has a really nice look. Also, it won’t really break your bank. The grip tape on top does provide some grip but is not the most durable as it often comes off.
For the price, this skateboard does offer value. With some modifications, it can do much better than a more expensive model. It is up to you whether it suits your purpose or not.
Pros
- Quite affordable.
- Great for daily simple use.
- Easy to maneuver.
- A few modifications can improve its performance a lot.
- Very strong and durable deck.
Cons
- The trucks, wheels, and bearings may or may not need replacing.
- The grip tape is not the best.
- The wheels may not be aligned properly.
Quest Rorshack Bamboo Longboard Skateboard (34-Inch)
Swagtron SwagBoard NG-1 Youth Electric Longboard Review
Even though skateboards ease up our commutes a lot, it is never enough for us humans, is it? This is why electric longboards that do not need almost any effort from the riders came into the market. Apparently, this longboard is powered by a battery and all your kid has to do is turn it on, turn it when necessary and nothing.
When electricity is involved, the power of the motor and how well the unit holds charge matters most. This longboard is quite powerful being able to go at a speed of 11 mph according to the description. However, the real highest speed is a bit lower and it varies from one unit to another.
Apart from that, the weight limit is good too and the highest speed varies with the weight of the person riding the longboard. The charge is meant to stay for 10 hours but it does not go anywhere near that. You can ride on it for a maximum of 3-4 hours before it needs charging again.
However, it does get charged quite quickly. When it comes to the ride, this longboard is quite amazing. It will provide you with a really smooth right with its high-quality wheels. Furthermore, it is easy to maneuver as well but only as long as the control panel is responsive.
The trouble with electric products is the motor may just shut down. Often times, customers found that the longboard won’t turn on. Other than that, the brakes are a bit rough as well. The grip tapes may come off.
When it comes to ease of use and a comfortable ride, this longboard provides the best. However, that only happens if the motor and electric parts are working which they often stop to do.
Pros
- Very smooth ride.
- Easy to maneuver.
- Almost no efforts required.
- Charges fast.
- Good enough speed for a beginner.
- Good deck capacity.
- Quality build.
Cons
- Quite expensive.
- Motor and electric parts may suddenly stop working.
- Brakes are rough.
- The battery may not last long.
Swagtron Swagskate Classic NG-1 Youth Electric Longboard
The Ultimate Skateboard Buying Guide (things to remember)
Here are a number of things that you must check to ensure that your kid gets a normal skateboarding experience with the basic level of safety.
The Type of skateboard you Need
Yes, we know, a skateboard looks just like a plank of wood on a few wheels, how can it be of various types? Apparently, it is still of three types with minor changes in them. However, before we move on to the types, you have to decide, what will your kid be using the skateboard for?
Is it for his commute to school or afternoon shenanigans? Or, is it for a bigger dream- a competition? Whatever it is, you will only get the best results if you choose the proper type.
Basically, the three types are- Retro, Classic, and Snake. If your kid needs to use his skateboard to reach places by traveling then the Retro with its longer decks and larger wheels can be a good choice. On the other hand, if your kid wants to do the cool trick, flips and all that with the skateboard then a sturdy, hard-wheeled classic will do.
What your kid does not need is a Snake skateboard because these are mainly built for adults. Apparently, these skateboards have only one wheel. But, if your child is an extraordinary kid with great potential in skateboarding, you sure can give it a try.
The Size of the Skateboard
You are looking for a skateboard for a kid so of course, the size matters. Apparently, the perfect length of a deck for kids would be 28-inches and above. But, this also depends on your kid’s height and weight. Your kid will find the skateboard hard to control if it is too long for him.
In case you didn’t know, the deck is the part of the skateboard on which the rider stands. So, your kid will have to keep one or both his foot on it. Thus, it is not only the length of the skateboard that matters but the width as well.
The wider the skateboard, the easier it will be for your kid to learn. Because he will be able to balance and control it easily. However, the width may sacrifice some of the speed.
Therefore, considering your child’s height and weight, choose the perfect length and width of the deck. The width usually starts at 7-inches.
The Capacity of the Skateboard
You may choose the perfect length and width but if you do not choose a good enough weight capacity, then your kid is doomed. The moment he goes out with all his excitement to ride his first-ever skateboard will be the moment he learns how disappointing the world can be. Because if the skateboard does not have enough weight-capacity for him, the deck will most likely break.
Therefore, choose a deck that has more weight capacity than your kid’s weight. It should be enough for even you to ride on and not break.
The Wheels of the Skateboard
It is what will move the skateboard forward so a lot of things depend on it. In fact, you have to consider a number of things when it comes to wheels. Firstly, you need to decide on the diameter of the wheel.
The smaller the diameter, the smaller the wheel. Likewise, the smaller the wheel, the lesser the speed of the skateboard. However, smaller wheels make it easier to do flips and tricks on the skateboard. It also makes it easier to control.
On the other hand, wheels with larger diameters will cover distance more quickly. So, if your child will be commuting, you know what to look for.
Another consideration for wheels is the material building it and the grip of the wheel. Apparently, softer wheels are great for longer, stable rides on hard surfaces. They usually provide a better grip.
On the other hand, hard wheels are better for tricks and flips as they are stronger. The best material that wheels can be built with is Polyurethane. You will also find plastic wheels but they are usually of lower quality.
The diameter usually starts from 50mm as the smallest rising up to 60mm and more.
The Material of the Skateboard
The greatest safety concern when it comes to your kid riding a skateboard is “what if it breaks?”. Well, terrible things can actually happen if it breaks so you need to make sure it won’t easily. The most important thing to check will be the deck, its material, and its thickness.
This part is usually made with wood so the wood should be durable and strong. The greater the number of layers, the stronger the skateboard will be. Other than that, grip tapes will give your child a better grip on the board.
Other than that, the skateboard should have ABEC bearings in its wheels. These bearings will keep the skateboard moving smoothly for years. Unless, of course, they get rust. So, make sure the bearings are efficient as well.
The Appearance
If you were buying the skateboard for yourself then the appearance would not have played a very important role. However, a child loves to show off and is very concerned about little things like color and design. So, the skateboard you choose should not only look cool but it should match your child’s taste as well.
In this case, you can consider different brands with their signature styles. Some have a really eye-catching logo while others just make themselves known with their color and designs. It is a totally subjective criterion so ask your child what h wants his skateboard to look like.
The Portability
There will be times when the kid does not want to or cannot ride the skateboard. He may be inside school premises or somewhere else where a skateboard cannot be rolling on the ground. In such cases, you will realize that the portability of skateboard is very important.
In order to be very portable, the skateboard should be lightweight. Then, your child’s little body can carry it easily when he needs to. Other than that, you should be able to store it vertically to save space when necessary.
The Accessories and Features
Some skateboards actually come with spare tires, cleaning kits, and even LED lights. If you want any of these extras, you just have to look for the right brand and deal. In fact, these features come quite handy when you have specific needs in mind that you want to be addressed.
For example, your kid may only have free time for skateboarding at night and the LED lights become more of a necessity than a luxury. So, if you have preferences then just look for a skateboard that has a feature that can meet your needs.
The Price
It is best not to go for the cheapest skateboards available even if it is just for fun. Because those can break quite easily and also make your kids detest them. The expensive ones are not a great choice for kids and beginners either.
Because the style may not fit them which will require future replacement. Moreover, they may break even expensive ones very easily.
So, the trick is to stay in the safe zone- the medium-priced well-known skateboards to avoid getting ripped off. You will find good skateboards from the price of 100 dollars and above.
The Warranty
Skateboards are not exactly cheap and they do have quite a lot of parts that require somewhat maintenance. Therefore, if one just fails suddenly before you even expected it to, some backup is obligatory. The warranty provided with a skateboard may not cover the whole skateboard but certain frequently-failing parts.
Therefore, make sure the warranty terms cover most of the danger. In fact, if it covers all of the danger then even better, go for it!
The Benefits of a Skateboard
Does a kid who stays glued to a phone or computer worry you? Then, you should buy him a skateboard right away (you are already reading a best skateboard for kids guide, so you are on the right track). Because of the following reasons:
- More movement outside: A skateboard will naturally help a child’s mental and physical growth by allowing him to be outside under the sun or trees more. Luckily, it makes the time outside fun.
- Useful for commutes: Learning tricks and being cool are not the only reasons people buy skateboards for. In fact, it is becoming a popular and cheap transport for commuters.
- Building skills: Whether you do tricks or not, riding a skateboard requires you to coordinate your various body parts with what you see. Therefore, it does help to build skills and better control. VLSkate folks have illustrated this on a cool clip below.
FAQs
It is mainly your purpose for using a skateboard and portability that you need to consider when choosing between a short and long skateboard.
Apparently, short but still shortboards are great for daily use and commutes as they are portable and also fast. On the other hand, longboards are heavier and less compact.
A shortboard is a great choice for doing tricks.
The bushings in the trucks absorb the turns you take. So, if your skateboard barely goes straight then you know what to blame.
As most skateboard companies don’t prefer building micro skateboards, you will often find yourself trying to fit in a slightly bigger version. That’s absolutely alright. It is very similar to riding a bicycle in theory. A bigger one will not be a problem as long as you know what you are doing.
According to the experts, as early as age 6-8 should be fine enough.
Final Words
With global warming on the rise, skateboards can prove to be the green solution to pollution. Furthermore, it may also be the solution to the financial troubles that fuels can cause. A kid will happily commute using a skateboard while having loads of fun and you can also happily go to sleep.
However, a skateboard will be useful only if it is efficient. The best skateboard for kids should firstly be durable and secondly should perform really well. Therefore, you need to pour in your efforts to find the best one out there for you or the kids you are buying it for.
Even if it does not end up being the best, you will have a warranty to back things up.