The decision to buy a skateboard should not be taken lightly; you want something long-lasting, safe, and that looks great too.
Whether you are looking for your first board or are an experienced skater looking to upgrade, it is essential to understand the range of costs available so that you do not spend more than necessary.
In this article, we will discuss skateboard prices from entry-level boards up to pro-level models so that no matter what kind of budget you have in mind, there is an option for everyone.
How much does skateboard cost?
The cost of skateboards can vary greatly depending on size, construction material, and other features.
In general, an entry-level board for beginners will usually range between $50 and $200. For those looking for something more advanced or custom-built, prices can range up to hundreds of dollars.
Deck graphics, better quality components, lightweight materials, and longer lasting trucks all play a role in the higher cost of some boards.
When looking for a new skateboard, it’s important to take into consideration the features you need and what kind of skateboarding style you plan on doing.
Understanding the Different Types of Skateboards:
There are many different types of skateboards to choose from, such as longboards, mini-cruisers, and etc.
1. Longboards –
Longboards are usually about 33-60 inches long, making them much longer than traditional skateboards. They have wider decks and larger wheels which make them great for cruising around town or going on long-distance rides.
They can also be used for downhill racing and sliding tricks.
2. Cruiser Boards –
Cruiser boards are similar to longboards in terms of size but they have smaller wheels which makes them better suited for doing tricks on flat ground or in the park rather than cruising around or going down hills.
They typically come with softer wheels which makes them easier to use in bowls or vert ramps.
3. Mini Cruisers –
Mini cruisers are smaller versions of cruiser boards that are typically shorter (around 24-32 inches) and lighter than regular cruisers and longboards but still slightly bigger than traditional skateboards.
They offer more stability when performing tricks due to their larger wheelbase but they’re still small enough to carry around easily when not in use.
4. Street Skateboards –
Street skateboards are designed specifically for street skating and performing tricks on flat ground or in the park rather than cruising around town or going down hills like with longboards and cruisers.
These boards usually have narrower decks (around 7-8 inches wide) with larger wheels (50-60mm) which make them better suited for doing tricks on flat ground or in the park rather than cruising around town or going down hills like with longboards and cruisers.
5. Vert Skateboards –
Vert skateboards are designed specifically for vert ramps and pools where you want more stability while performing tricks at higher speeds due to their wider decks (around 8-10 inches wide).
The larger wheels also help provide more grip while performing airs off the coping of a pool or vert ramp as well as providing extra speed control when coming into landings from high airs off vert transitions.
6. Old School –
Old School boards typically have wider decks (9-10 inches wide), softer bushings, wider trucks, large soft wheels, and no kick tails.
This style was popularized in the 70s by skaters who wanted a board specifically designed for freestyle slalom racing.
7. Popsicle –
Popsicle boards were originally designed as a bridge between traditional street skating and longer cruiser-type boards, but they have since evolved into a unique style of their own.
They usually feature narrow decks (7-8 inches wide) with soft bushings, medium-sized hard wheels, low ride height, and minimal nose/tail kicks depending on the rider’s preference.
This style has become increasingly popular over recent years due to its versatility, as it allows riders to do both street skating and some basic transition skating without having two completely separate setups.
Factors That Influence Skateboard Prices:
Skateboard prices can vary greatly depending on the different components and materials used, as well as the brand or manufacturer.
a. Brand, Quality, and Materials –
The brand and quality of the components used on a skateboard can have a huge impact on how much it costs. Higher-end boards will typically use better materials, such as stronger decks and lighter trucks, which make them more expensive.
b. Deck Size –
The size of the deck can also affect the price, as larger decks are typically more expensive than smaller ones due to the increased materials needed.
c. Wheels –
The type and size of wheels also play a factor in how much a skateboard costs. Smaller soft wheels will typically be less expensive, while larger harder wheels can cost more.
d. Setup –
The setup (type of trucks, bushings, etc.) of a skateboard can also influence the price. Specialty setups may cost more due to their increased complexity and customization options.
Final Verdict
When considering how much a skateboard will cost, you must factor in the materials it is made of, which vary widely in cost.
Beginners should opt for starter boards – those made with more affordable materials – while experienced skaters should invest in a more expensive board with better components to help increase their performance.
Fortunately, no matter your budget or skill level, there is a skateboard out there that fits your needs. Just make sure to do your research before buying and you’re sure to find the perfect board for you.