Best Beginner Skateboard for Kids who want a Smooth Ride

Skateboarding is one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling things for children and adults to learn. It makes it easier to move across distances within minimal time, and the stunts can be fun to master. However, if you want your kids to get familiar with skateboarding quickly, you'll need to buy the best beginner skateboard for kids.

With the numerous options, it can be tricky to pin down a specific model. This post covers the best kid skateboard reviews and what you need to consider to make the ideal choice.

Let's begin!

What is a Skateboard for Kids?

Unlike us grownups, kids need to master a few things before confidently taking on the skateboard and going about a typical day. Skateboards for kids are made explicitly with adjustments that favor children. The size, weight and materials used to make the kids' skateboards are all meant to boost the learning process and make it as much fun as possible. We have a list of the best kids' skateboards available right now.

What is the best beginner skateboard for kids?

1. Meketec Skateboard 8k

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Opening our list today is the Meketec Complete Mini Cruiser Skateboard which weighs 3lbs and measures 22 inches long. It's specially designed to be compact so that you can easily move around with it without any hassle. Whether you want to learn how to commute or skateboard, this kids' skateboard will facilitate your movement even if you are a beginner.

This plastic cruiser is made from durable polypropylene to ensure it's light enough for you to practice without feeling weighed down. It can roll or cruise on any terrain, thanks to its quality construction. The Meketec Mini Cruiser also features high-speed bearings, polyurethane wheels, and a max load weight of about 200lbs. Here are some things you will absolutely love about the skateboard:

Meketec skateboard is meant to be easy to use and has CE certification, making it the best beginner skateboard for kids since it can accommodate riders of any level.

2. Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard 2734

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Next up is the Skatro Skateboard, which is among the best kids' skateboards thanks to its lightweight construction and premium quality materials. It comes with ABEC 7 bearings, Urethane wheels, and thick aluminum trucks, making it a reliable option for rolling around.

This mini skateboard is ideal for commuting around the subway, park, or school. Plus, since it's light enough, you can carry it to a location you feel comfortable practicing in. It's designed to be easy to use, even for a kid starting their skateboarding journey.

This Skatro product is fitted with Skatro Flexy Technology which gives it a better performance than other beginner skateboards. Additionally, it comes at an affordable cost and includes a standard T-tool that matches the color of your board.

3. Magneto Mini Cruiser Skateboard

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The Magneto Mini Cruiser Skateboard is fun to ride and easy to carry, which is great for kids of any level, especially beginners. It features durable Canadian maple construction, making it a durable and reliable option that you can use to cruise around obstacles.

If you want to learn how to execute various tricks, flips, ollies, or mannies, this skateboard comes with a double kicktail to facilitate that. The six-ply Canadian maple wood deck is strong enough to support the weight of a 200lb adult, which means it can comfortably hold your kid without breaking under their weight.

To ensure you won't slip off the board, this item features a sand grit finish that makes it safer for younger kids to ride.

4. Merkapa Skateboard

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Next on this list of the best beginner skateboards for kids is the Merkapa Complete Skateboard, which comes with colorful LED light-up wheels that don't need batteries or chargers to work. This makes them one of the coolest options for your kid since the wheels will light up the entire way as they spin.

This CE-certified skateboard is safe for any skill level and is especially suited for beginners starting to learn how to skateboard. It's long and strong enough to withstand the weight of anyone below 180 lbs. This means that your kid can move around on this kids' skateboard without fear of breaking it.

The soft wheels and ABEC-7 bearings have shock-absorbing capabilities that ensure it can resist abrasion while improving grip to ensure you feel stable on top of the deck when rolling.

5. NPet Pro Skateboard

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The NPet Pro is the fifth-best beginners' skateboard for kids, thanks to its stylish appearance, which uses thermal transfer film production for a long-lasting and realistic pattern. As such, you don't have to worry about the design fading off with time as it does in cheap skateboards.

The maple deck is made of seven-ply layers and features a cover grip tape across the top to ensure maximum safety for your kid as they ride this skateboard. The size of this item is perfect for a beginner to intermediate rider and can make it easier to learn various skateboarding techniques and tricks.

You can enjoy great control on this skateboard thanks to the dual concave design and double kick feature, making it more playable. Your feet will be well-positioned to carry out the stunts you have been practicing with minimal risk of instability.

6. Minority Maple Skateboard

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The Minority Skateboard is the next option on this review of the best skateboards for kids. It features a 100% maple deck that is strong enough to support up to 220 lbs. This means your kids can enjoy riding it all day without any fear that it will give out under their weight.

The mediate concave design ensures that you can perform stunts and tricks with this skateboard with ease. The aluminum trucks are thick enough for better strength and stability so that you can ride this skateboard safely.

The chrome steel ABEC-9 precision bearings are designed for speed, making it easier to pull off the tricks you have been learning. The stylish appearance makes this skateboard a great gift option for your kids.

7. Krown Rookie Complete Skateboard

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Lastly, we have the Krown Rookie Skateboard, which features premium quality materials that make it one of the best skateboards for kids. The complete board is perfectly suited for beginners, and the deck has black grip tape to reduce the chances of slipping as you ride on this skateboard.

The PU wheels are smooth enough for you to move as swiftly as you want with maximum control. You won't have to struggle to assemble this skateboard since it comes assembled and ready to ride. Young children will enjoy riding this item on any terrain, including rough surfaces, without fear of instability.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Beginner Skateboard for Kids

1. Types of Kids Skateboards

a. Micro Skateboards

A micro skateboard is one with a deck width of between 6.5 - 6.75 inches. They can reach an average length of 27 inches and are best suited for young kids under 6 years of age. They aren't a great option for taller kids since they can only accommodate a child who fits in a shoe size of 3 or below.

b. Mini Cruisers

Mini Cruiser Skateboards are designed for moving across short distances. They are small-sized, which makes them easy to carry in your backpack. These skateboards aren't the best for tricks or fast movements.

c. Longboard Skateboards 

These skateboards are longer than 33 inches. They are ideal for practicing how to maneuver for beginners and can help kids develop stability on the deck. They can ride smoothly even on rough ground.

2. Skateboard Safety

Before selecting the best skateboard for kids, you'll need to consider getting some safety gear. This is the best way to ensure that children don't get severely injured if an accident happens. One of the things to get is a pair of wrist guards which can reduce the chances of dislocating or breaking the wrists.

Another item necessary for ensuring kids' safety is elbow pads. These are crucial since children could fall on their elbow, which can be excruciating. A helmet will also ensure that the head doesn't directly impact any hard surfaces, which can lead to a concussion. You should also get a pair of knee pads to ensure the knees are well protected from injury.

3. Deck Width

The size of the deck is another thing you should consider. What you need to determine the ideal deck width is the height and shoe size of your child. For a younger kid wearing a size six or smaller shoe and with a height of 4'4 feet, a width of 7 inches or less will do.

For kids wearing a size 6 -8 shoe and with a height of 4'5 to 5'2 feet, you should look for a width of about 7-7.5 inches. Older kids can handle anything above 7.5".

4. Deck Shape

The deck of the skateboard is the platform on which you stand when riding. It can be made from different materials, which is why we have wooden skateboards and plastic skateboards. Others feature unique materials like a fiberglass compound deck.

These decks come in different shapes, including radial concave decks, progressive decks, tub boards, convex boards, kick tails, flat decks, or camber boards. The best choice depends on preference, but a concave deck could provide more stability to beginners than other types.

5. Skateboard Trucks

As you consider the trucks of the best beginner skateboard for kids, you'll need to check on the material used, width, and height. First, you'll need to ensure the tracks are made of durable materials like aluminum. The width of the trucks will mostly depend on the type of deck you choose. For kids, you'll want an average thickness of about 5 inches.

The height of the trucks varies between low, mid-level, and high settings. Low trucks or mid-level trucks are the best options for beginners since they offer stability and smoothness.

6. Skateboard Wheels

Skateboard wheels can be soft or hard. The harder wheels are designed for fast movements, while the softer ones are better suited for a smooth ride. So, if you prefer control to speed, soft wheels will be a better choice than hard ones.

Wheels can also take different sizes. They are measured in millimeters, and the most ideal for kids is the 54-59 mm range. These wheels will do well in parks, streets, or bowls. They are large enough for fast movements while also being smooth to cruise on.

7. Grip Tape

Another feature you want in a kid's skateboard is the grip tape. It's important for the deck to have grip tape to help the child start skateboarding without feeling unstable. This tape is designed to keep your feet from slipping off the deck as you move about.

The grip tape should begin from the middle of the board and press towards the outer edges of the deck. Having it will ensure you feel enough grip on the board to move without the fear of slipping off. Without it, it'll be harder to learn how to skateboard, which beats the purpose of buying the best skateboard for kids.

8. Plastic Board

Whether you are getting a longboard skateboard or a regular board, the material plays a huge role in how the skateboard will last. A plastic board has a durable deck because of the material that can withstand wear and tear, especially from a learning kid. You can find a decent skateboard made mostly of plastic. Maple and other wood types can make a great board and should not be discounted. However, plastic will go easy on the kid and still offer a quality board that will help the kid master a few rides every practice hour.

9. Design

The design of the skateboard matters when given to a learner. The double kick concave design has proven helpful for the kid when stunts are starting to get manageable. The child's safety is the first thing that every skateboard should consider. The best starter skateboard can not be very experimental without being careful how the design affects the performance. Skate parks are made of tempting slopes and challenges, and the kid will want to try them out sooner than later. A bad design will not be saved by the willingness to learn or decent wheels.

10. Price

Kids are spontaneous. One day they may wake up and want a skateboard. Getting a good budget skateboard is not the easiest thing to do. However, once you go through this article, you will have more than one option for the skateboards you can get at a moment's notice. You do not have to keep your kid waiting because there are great skateboards for beginners out in the market that will not cost you more than you might have saved up for fun. Quality skateboards are quality primarily because of the thought behind the design and not the skateboard price. Plastic boards are an option you might want to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

a) What is the best beginner skateboard for kids?

The best beginner skateboard for kids is the Meketec Complete Mini Cruiser Skateboard, a cheap skateboard made from high-quality materials that are easy to handle. The Meketec Complete skateboards have proven themselves among other brands by offering the best and safest option in the market. In addition, the Meketec Complete skateboard has lightweight material perfect for skateboarding kids who are about to embark on an exciting journey.

Kids' skateboards need to meet various vital standards. Luckily, there is an option that ensures all the standards are met: the Meketec Complete skateboard.

b) What is the best size skateboard for beginners kids?

The ideal deck width for a kid's skateboard is between 6-7.5 inches depending on their exact height and shoe size. This range covers most kids and offers a smooth ride that will not be too difficult for kids. The best kids' skateboard balances the weight and the size to offer a great learning experience. Kids want to play in the skate park, and a good skateboard will get them there in no time.

c) What kind of kids' skateboard is best for beginners?

A mini-cruiser is the best option for beginners since it is small, portable, and easy to maneuver to avoid obstacles. Since kids fall almost all the time, the skateboard helps curb the dangers that come with boarding. Most skateboards for beginners are made to reduce the chances of accidents taking place by considering the features on the board. From the skateboard size to the material, many factors come together to make good skateboards for beginners.

How Do I Teach My Kid How to Skate?

The one thing that makes kids more advantaged than adults is learning and adapting at unprecedented rates. Kids make the best virtuosos and talents because of their religious dedication to whatever they are interested in. If your kid is interested in picking up skating, the best thing you can do is help them learn how to do it. You need to be as dedicated as the kid to match their energy levels. If you are as excited about skating as you realize they love the board, they have a better chance of learning than the indifferent parent. What a great way to spend your time with your baby. Here are a few steps you can follow when guiding your kid through skating.

Step 1: Ensure the Kid WANTS to Skate

Regardless of how determined you teach your kid how to skate, they need to be up for the challenge. In episode 13 of the first season of "Malcolm in the Middle," Bryan Cranston, who is playing Malcolm's dad, exhibits some talent as he is about to teach Malcom how to skate. Malcolm is awed by it. In the same manner, try and notice whether you are forcing your kid or whether they want to learn.

You may be tricked into teaching the kid how to skate because you want to spend quality time with them and not necessarily because they want to learn. If you find yourself on that spot, take a step back and reevaluate your motives. The best thing to do for the kid is matching their energies sometimes. Once you are sure the kid wants to skate, it is time to hop into nearby stores.

Step 2: Choose the Right Skateboard

Let the kid choose the skateboard. If you surprise them, let it be with a skateboard they might like. Be keen and try to see the one they look at every time you are out shopping. There is a big chance that the kid has a specific board they hope to own one day. Please take advantage of that and let them pick their favorite one. Kids' skateboards come in different colors and shapes. The kid should choose the one they like. Kids have favorite colors as well, and it is better to tap into that energy instead of trying to fight it all the time.

If the kid has a favorite superhero, you can have the character design on the board, giving the kid the motivation they need. Look for your kid's favorite things to make the surprise work. The more memorable the skateboard, the more excited the kid will be to try and learn the skating board.

We have outlined a few features you can check when looking for the right skateboard. However, the one, your kid, may not be the right one for the kid. Many factors determine a great and safe skateboard. Before starting the skating process, the size, material used, and other features need to be on point.

Step 3: Gear Up

Having the kid have safety gear o will give them the confidence they require to learn skating successfully. Apart from the confidence boost, safety is the first thing that comes first in any sporting scene. Knee pads, helmets, elbow kits, bright clothes and good shoes should be some of the must-haves before stepping onto the skate park.

Nothing feels better than gearing up for a mission. Imagine a soldier who goes to war with the latest firearm, helmet, night-vision, goggles and fear-inspiring uniform. The soldier will be more determined to defend the country than one who just showed up with a gun. Confidence is mostly half the learning process.

Step 4: Pick the Learning Environment

When I was learning to skate as a kid, I struggled through it because the environment was not the best for learning skating. I picked the tarmac that was sloping. To me, skating was about moving more than it was about balance. I needed to understand that I needed to learn how to balance first. The skate park may sound like a lucrative place to teach the kid how to skate. However, the skate park offers a few challenges. First, some older kids already know how to skate and perform a few tricks that might intimidate the kid. The already built-up confidence should stay right where it is.

Secondly, the skate park has a slippery surface that may pose a challenge for anyone who does not know how to balance on the skateboard. A grass surface offers a more forgiving surface where the kid can learn how to balance. Even the best skateboard will require some effort from the kid when performing the balancing act.

Look for a place where the kid will not feel embarrassed when trying to learn. Not knowing how to do something that many people know can be a bit embarrassing for anyone. To add some confidence, only take the kid out in public once they can at least balance.

Step 4: Time to Step on the Board

When it is time to step on the board, it is all things go. Balancing is the main goal at this point. So how do you balance on a skateboard? First, you need to ensure the feet are on the bolts of the skateboard. Secondly, the head should be aligned above the space between the feet to spread out the bodyweight evenly. Finally, the dominant foot will help the kid balance on the board.

Balancing on the board should be both when the kid is upright and with the knees slightly bent. The bent knees will help in some situations in the future. Kids skateboard function just as the adults' ones do, with the main difference being the size. Note the difference between the stances that the kid has. The stances may be regular or goofy, and once you have identified which foot inspires which stance, you will be good to go.

Step 5: Push

Once the stance is out of the way, it might be time to start moving. This moving part is the best session in skating lessons. Do you remember when you first learned how to drive a car? All you wanted to do was move the car from one point to the other. It did not matter how much theory anyone gave you; all you needed was to drive already. The same applies to skating. The feeling will be good once you start moving.

Pushing the skateboard should not be your kid's first attempt at doing splits because those will hurt. The feet need to get back on the board once pushed. Kids' skateboards should have the correct weight that will not be overwhelming for the kid to push. Pushing is a trick that, once learned, will be useful for the longest time to come.

Remember that the toe of the front needs to point forward as the kid pushes the skateboard. Once pushed, the kid should not jump back on the skateboard but instead hop back. Skateboards for kids are wide enough to warrant a successful hop back on.

Step 6: The Tic-Tac

Once the kid has learned how to push and balance on the skateboard, it is time to learn the tic-tac. The tic-tac is a trick that involves moving the skateboard without pushing using the leg. Instead, the method works by moving the board by lifting the tip and moving it to the left and then to the right, creating movement. This method eliminates the need to keep pushing every time the kid wants the board to move.

Step 7: Fun

After taking all the time to learn the skateboard diligently, it is time to have fun and learn all the new tricks. Visit all the skate parks you can find and meet new skaters while at it. Meeting new people and hanging around skate parks is an excellent way of learning more and perfecting the skill. Soon, your kid will be going everywhere with their skateboard. Skateboards are a massive part of any kid's life because the kids' skateboard brings value. The value is in the memories, and memories are the most valuable things we hold.

Remember to record every step of the journey for future reference. Footage helps you see how you used to be when you were young, and I am pretty sure your kid will appreciate it.

Step 8: Peers 

Learning among peers will be the most motivating thing for your kid. When your kid is playing with other kids, the best out of them tends to come out. It is, therefore, better for you to identify the kids your child is vibing with. For example, your child probably wants to skate because other kids are skating. It is wise to tap into that energy and let it flow. When your kid is with other kids, they will be freer to try new things or show their skills to their friends. You can watch over the kids but do not get in their way of fun. Remember, you are all grown, and your kid can use similar energy as theirs. That being said, engage where necessary and teach the kid what you know.

Step 9: Reward System

Does your kid have a favorite skater? Do they have a dream skateboard or skate park they would love to visit? Tap into these opportunities and make your kid's dreams come true. Have performance markers for the kid. If they achieve something, gift them. You can get posters for superstar skaters, new skateboards and so forth. Remember that these small acts of acknowledgment go far into boosting the kid's morale. Look at most career talents and listen to their stories. Again, the parents play a huge role, whether positively or negatively.

Step 10: Affirmation

This might be the most crucial step in your kid's development. Be their biggest fan, and you will see them thrive. Picking up a skill is not easiest and requires consistency that desire alone can not fuel. Having someone always cheer them up even when they do not feel like it will mean the world. Some tricks are almost impossible and require days and days of practice. On days like these, your presence will mean the world to the kid. If a trick does not work out today, show up with them tomorrow.

Safety Measures for Kids When Skating

1. Supervision when Learning

Learning is the most crucial part of any skilled process. Learning is where most of the mistakes are made. Mistakes on a kids' skateboard lead to accidents and injuries. Supervision helps reduce the tactical mistakes that are avoidable when there is a skilled person around. A supervisor acts as a protection for the kid against injury and as a cheerleader to keep the kid going. For example, when the kid is learning how to push, someone should constantly be behind them to ensure they do not fall off the kids' skateboard. The best thing you can do for your kid is to assure them that you will be there every step of the way.

2. Safety Gear

A complete skateboard and skating gear is a non-negotiable when teaching the kid how to skate. Safety gear includes helmets, gloves, knee-guards, shoes with a good grip and elbow guards. Safety is the first thing that needs to be considered when doing any physical sporting activity. Once your kid is safe, then they can go ahead and become the best skater they can ever be. Soon you will be impressed by the skating skills that kid can pull off. With the internet available and information easier to access, your kid will be learning the most incredible tricks in no time.

As you and I know, skaters are pretty daring. However, the cooler the trick, the harder it is to pull off, and the more stakes it has regarding safety. So always be on the lookout and on the same page with your kid to know what they are up to and what new thing they are trying out. Be there every step of the way.

3. Quality Kids' Skateboard

Getting a bad kids' skateboard is as good as setting up the kid for failure. Loose bolts, bad design and a weak board will pose a lot of potential accidents to your kid. Ensure you are getting the best skateboard for your kid when you go to the shops to look for a skateboard. The best skateboard for kids meets some standard criteria that you should know before you buy a skateboard. If a kids' skateboard does not have CE certification, think twice before you take it. Avoid any skateboard that does not have proof of meeting standard requirements.

4. Age Limit

Younger kids below the age of three should not be on the board. Yes, we live in an age where it would be cool. However, just let the kid be of good age before you can let them on the board. Posting "4 year old does unbelievable tricks" is just as fantastic. Therefore you do not need to rush your kid to the board before they are ready.

One of the reasons why the kid should be on the board is because they showed interest. The only way the kid can show interest is when they are old enough to do so. Before you go and buy the best skateboards for kids, let the kid at least want to do it. Otherwise, your kid will have the best kids' skateboard in the world with zero interest in using it. Maybe they want to play football or chess, or do music. Only they know.

Do not impose your hobbies on your kids.

5. Weight

The weight of a beginner skateboard is a big deal because it influences a lot of things. For starters, the kid is still learning how to push the skateboard, and they need to master the technique before they can have to deal with the stress of pushing heavyweight. The best skateboards for kids are made of lightweight materials like plastics. Canadian maple may be an excellent material, but is it lightweight enough for your kid to push around for the first time?

6. Weather

Now, I understand that dedication sometimes states that no matter what, you have to practice. Sometimes practicing in the rain is romanticized in the movies and the star actor was in the rain doing the thing. However, when your kid is learning to skate, their safety comes first, just like we mentioned before. When we say safety comes first, it comes before the dedication. If it is raining or snowing, let them watch funny skating videos instead of going out. Wet weather is equivalent to wet surfaces. Wet surfaces are slippery and unpredictable.

Have you seen what black ice does to people and cars? Imagine what that situation would do to a skating kid.

When we talk about the weather, we tend to focus on the rain and snow. However, the sun can be just as harmful. When the kid is going to skate out, the evening hours work best because the sun is not as harsh as during the afternoon hours. If you have to go out when the sun wants to chill at the skate park with you, use sunscreen.

7. Do Not Overplay

Overplaying involves things like tagging on a car and letting it drag the skater. Or by making the surface wet and more slippery. Skating blindfolded can be tempting. However, do not play too much.

Final Take

Skating is one of the most fun activities your kid can take part in. However, the best you can do for them is to see them through the process. Teaching your kid how to skate involves getting them the best beginner skateboard for kids that you can find in the market. Remember, let it come from the kid that skating is something worth trying out.