Buying Guide for the Best Skateboard For Kids 8 14
Choosing a skateboard for kids aged 8 to 14 can be an exciting experience, as this age group is often eager to learn new skills and try tricks. The right skateboard can help your child build confidence, stay safe, and enjoy their time riding. When shopping, there are a few key specifications you should pay attention to, as they influence how easy it will be for your child to control the skateboard, how comfortable the ride will be, and how well it suits their growing abilities. Understanding these main specs can help you find the best fit for your child's needs and goals.Deck SizeDeck size refers to the width and length of the skateboard's board—the part your child stands on. This is very important because it affects stability, comfort, and ease of tricks. For kids aged 8 to 14, look for decks that usually range from 7.0 to 8.0 inches in width. Smaller decks (around 7.0 to 7.5 inches) are better for younger or smaller kids as they make it easier to control the board, while slightly wider decks (up to 8.0 inches) provide more space and stability for older or larger kids. Consider your child's shoe size, height, and skateboarding experience to pick the right width; beginners often do well with mid-sized decks that balance control and stability.
Deck MaterialThe deck material is typically wood—most commonly maple—or a composite. The material matters because it affects how durable and flexible the board is. Maple is strong and offers a good mix of strength and pop (springiness), which is ideal for kids learning tricks. Composite materials, sometimes including plastic or fiberglass, can provide lighter boards and more resistance to wear, but they may feel different underfoot. For most kids starting out, a classic 7-ply maple deck combines reliability with performance.
Wheel Size and HardnessWheels are rated by diameter (measured in millimeters) and hardness (measured by durometer). The size of the wheels affects how smoothly the skateboard rolls and how easy it is to perform tricks. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are better for technical tricks and smoother surfaces like skate parks, while slightly bigger wheels (54-60mm) roll better on rough ground and are great for cruising. Harder wheels (above 95A) slide more easily and are good for skate parks, while softer wheels (78A-92A) provide more grip and comfort for riding on sidewalks. If your child is just starting or will mostly ride outside, slightly softer, medium-sized wheels are a comfortable and versatile choice.
Truck Width and HeightTrucks are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck and allow the board to turn. The width of the trucks should closely match the width of the deck to keep the board stable—if they're too wide or too narrow, turning can feel awkward. For children's decks, standard mid-sized trucks usually work well. Truck height affects how the board feels underfoot; lower trucks keep the board closer to the ground and stable for beginners, while higher trucks allow for bigger wheels but require more control. Matching the trucks to the deck width and picking mid-height for all-around use is recommended for most kids.
Board Shape and ConcaveThe shape of the board and the degree of its curve, known as concave, influence how easy it is for kids to perform tricks and feel comfortable. Shallow concave boards are flatter and offer more comfort and stability, which is great for beginners. A medium or deeper concave helps with doing tricks as it gives more grip for the feet. For kids new to skateboarding, a board with a mellow to medium concave is usually easiest to control and comfortable for both riding and learning basic tricks.
WeightThe weight of the skateboard can affect how easy it is for kids to carry and perform tricks. Lighter boards are easier for smaller kids to maneuver and pick up, which is important when they’re learning. Heavier boards may offer more stability but can be harder to work with for tricks or when carrying the board around. Look for a board that your child can comfortably lift and control.