Did you know that the first skateboards were just flat wooden boards with roller skates attached to the bottom? These primitive contraptions were called “sidewalk surfers” and were popular among surfers in the 50s who wanted to recreate their surfing maneuvers on land. Nowadays, skateboards have developed, and skateboarding is even considered a competitive sport and has even made its debut at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics! So, how much does a skateboard cost?
This is a question that many people have, especially those who are interested in getting into the sport of skateboarding. The answer to this question can vary depending on the type of skateboard you want, the brand, and where you purchase it. This blog post will take a closer look at how much different types of skateboards cost and what factors you should consider when purchasing one.
So, if you’re curious about how much money you’ll need to shell out for your very own good skateboard, keep reading!
How Much a Skateboard Typically Costs
The cost of a skateboard may vary based on the material and design of the blank deck, skateboard trucks, and wheels.
A wooden deck made from traditional 7-ply maple wood is generally more affordable, while branded decks made from reinforced carbon fiber or bamboo can be pricier.
The trucks and wheels also impact cost – premium skateboarding brands like Independent or Tensor tend to have higher price tags due to their reputation for durability and performance.
Another factor in determining the cost is whether the skateboard comes pre-assembled or as a DIY kit that requires assembly.
Finally, limited edition graphics and collaborations with popular artists can significantly increase the cost of a skateboard.
The general price, however, starts from $20 and can go up to $400.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual skater to weigh their budget against their personal needs and find a board that suits them best.
The Different Types of Skateboards and Their Prices
In the market, various types of skateboards are available in different shapes and sizes. The three main types are longboards, cruiser boards, and street skateboards.
1. Longboards
Longboard skateboards, which are longer and wider than traditional skateboards, are made from plywood layers. The wood used in the deck construction can range from birch to bamboo to maple to koa or oak, with anywhere from two to eleven layers. Each layer is typically 2 millimeters thick.
Did you know that longboards are the largest type of high quality skateboard? Measuring over 33 inches in length and 8 inches in width, they are of a size similar to a traditional longboard surfboard.
Many longboards are designed for downhill racing and can reach high speeds, making them perfect for experienced skateboarders who want to push their limits. However, beginners may find longboards more difficult to control due to their size and weight.
These oversized skateboards are also perfect for transportation or even cruising. Their longer length and width make them stable and comfortable to ride on, making them a popular choice among skateboarders. While longboards can be on the pricier side compared to other types of skateboards, with prices starting at around $53 and going up to $350 or more, they are well worth the investment for those looking for a high-quality riding experience.
2. Cruiser Boards
Cruise boards are a type of skateboard that falls in between longboards and street skateboards. Measuring 28-32 inches in length and 7-9 inches in width, they are great for commuting or cruising around town or skate parks.
They can also do tricks at skate parks like any other type of good skateboard. Regarding cost, cruiser boards typically fall between $50 and $150. Their construction sets them apart from the rest – they typically have small kick tails and comfortable shapes, making them easy to maneuver.
The deck is usually made from maple wood, a type of wood known for durability, while the trucks (part connecting wheels to the deck) are made from aluminum alloy for flexibility and strength.
3. Street Skateboards
Street skateboards are made with a deck or decent board, truck, wheels, and bearings. The deck is usually made out of solid wood or a type of plastic called polypropylene. The truck is attached to the deck and allows the board to turn.
The wheels can be made out of urethane and come in various sizes and hardness levels based on personal preference. Bearings fit inside the wheels to make them spin smoothly. When purchasing a street skateboard, you must consider your skill level and the skating you plan on doing.
Prices can range from $25 for a basic setup to $200 or more for higher-quality boards with specialized parts. It’s also worth investing in safety gear such as pads and helmets to protect yourself while skating.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Skateboard
When purchasing a skateboard, there are several factors to consider.
- First, a decent board size should match your height and weight. A board that is too small can make maneuvering difficult, while a board that is too large may be unwieldy and unstable.
- Next, consider the skateboard deck shape – does it fit your preferred skating style? Do you prefer a lightweight or durable skateboard deck?
- Another factor to keep in mind is the trucks – are they adjustable to suit different types of terrain?
- And finally, think about the wheel size and hardness – soft skateboard wheels provide better grip on rough surfaces, while harder wheels allow more speed on smooth surfaces.
Whether or Not It’s Worth Investing in a More Expensive Skateboard
While it may be tempting to buy cheap skateboards you can find, investing in a higher-quality board can have major long-term benefits for both your skills and your wallet. As riders improve their technique, they may put more strain on lower-quality boards, leading to cracks or broken skateboard decks. These constant replacements cost more in the long run than investing in a sturdier board.
Higher quality materials such as maple wood and stronger trucks lend themselves to smoother riding and better tricks. And while it may seem overwhelming initially, many brands offer financing options or payment plans to make buying a higher-end skateboard more manageable.
How to Get the Most for Your Money When Buying a Skateboard
When buying a skateboard at a local skate shop, it can be tempting to choose the cheapest option. However, investing in a higher-quality board can save you money in the long run and improve your overall skating experience. Here are some tips for getting the most bang for your buck:
- First, consider the materials used to make the complete board. Cheap plastic or low-grade wood will not hold up as well as stronger materials like maple or fiberglass.
- It’s also important to consider how the blank decks are constructed, affecting their durability and flexibility.
- Next, look at the wheels and trucks. Higher-quality soft wheels are made of harder material and roll more smoothly, while premium trucks offer better turning control.
- Finally, check that all hardware (bolts, screws) is sturdy and securely attached.
Ways To Protect Your Investment
Now that you’ve invested in a high quality skateboard, it’s important to take care of it to ensure a long lifespan.
Here are some tips for protecting your investment:
1. Store your board indoors in a cool, dry place.
2. Avoid riding in wet or muddy conditions, which can damage the skateboard bearings and wheels.
3. Don’t leave your board in direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can warp the deck.
4. Periodically check all hardware to make sure it’s tight and secure.
5. Clean your own skateboard after each skating session to remove dirt and debris.
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your skateboarding experience for years to come!