Getting into skateboarding shouldn’t break the bank, but you still need a deck that won’t hold you back. Finding the best skateboard decks that balance price and quality can be tough. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you.
These are the boards we’d recommend to a friend—solid, reliable, and affordable decks that are perfect for starting out or for a backup you can abuse without worry. We rode them, scuffed them up, and found the ones that are genuinely worth your money.
Skip to Our Top RecommendationsHow to Choose the Right Skateboard Decks
The right skateboard decks are the ones that feel comfortable, stable, and fit your skating style. Size, material, and shape all matter when picking the right deck for you. Select a strong maple deck with the ideal width and a beginner-friendly shape to make learning easier and more enjoyable.
Size
If you’re younger or have smaller feet, a deck between 7.5 and 8 inches wide works best. It’s lighter and easier to flip. If you’re older or want more stability, decks between 8.25 and 8.5 inches wide give you better balance. Wider skateboard decks are good for heavy riders.
Material
The high-quality skateboard decks are usually made from 7-ply maple wood. This type of wood is strong, flexible, and holds up well after lots of riding. Avoid cheap decks because they are made from low-quality wood/plastic. Those might save money upfront, but they tend to break easily and make skating less fun. A solid maple deck will last longer and feel better under your feet.
Shape
The shape of the deck affects how easy it is to control. Look for a popsicle shape with a medium concavity. That means the board has a slight curve in the middle to help lock your feet in place. This shape gives you better control for turning, pushing, and trying tricks. It’s the most beginner-friendly shape and works well no matter what style of skating you want to do.
Design
When you’re starting, don’t get caught up in flashy graphics or big brand names. The best beginner skateboard decks often come with simple or blank designs. Blank decks are cheaper and perfect if you want to customize your board with your art or stickers.
Feel
The feel of the board is the most important part. In general, a good deck feels stable under your feet without wobbling. It should be solid but not too heavy to handle. Choose a deck that makes you excited to skate and helps you build confidence every time you ride. When your board feels right, learning new tricks and cruising around gets way more fun.
Take your time choosing. Skip the cheap junk. Find the deck that fits your style and helps you enjoy skateboarding from day one. The right deck makes all the difference. Learn more
Quick View Of Our Top Picks
Top 10: Best Skateboard Decks in 2025 for Every Skill Level
1. Moose Blank Skateboard Deck
The Moose Blank Skateboard Deck is a high-quality, 7-ply maple wood deck built for strength, pop, and durability. It features a mellow concave with steep kicks, offering excellent control and responsiveness. With 10 size options ranging from 7.25” to 9.0”, it’s ideal for all skill levels and ages. The natural wood finish gives it a clean look, perfect for skaters who want to customize their board with personal artwork. Despite having no graphics, it delivers pro-level performance at a lower price. It’s a #1 best seller for a reason: simple, strong, and designed to ride hard.
Why We Chose It
We chose the Moose Blank Deck because it performs beyond expectations, especially for the price. I rode this deck and was impressed by how stable and responsive it felt while practicing flip tricks and manuals. The steep kicks gave me confident control when popping tricks, and the mellow concave made it comfortable for long sessions. I also saw how well it held up under pressure when my younger cousin used it to learn ollies despite repeated harsh landings; the board showed no signs of cracking or warping. It’s a solid option for both beginners and seasoned skaters who want clean looks and reliable performance.
Moose Blank Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Strong 7-ply maple feels super solid | No graphics – might feel too plain |
Mellow shape is forgiving for new tricks | Needs grip tape and hardware added |
Great price for the quality you get |
2. Vigorange Blank Skateboard Deck
Vigorange 31″x8″ Blank Skateboard Deck is a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable blank deck for skating or custom art. Made from 7-ply maple, it offers a good balance of flex and strength for tricks or cruising. The medium concave and popsicle shape gives you a stable feel, whether you’re hitting a park or the streets. At 8 inches wide, it’s a versatile size that suits all skill levels from beginners to seasoned riders. What makes it stand out is the included free sandpaper and the blank design that’s perfect for personal artwork. It’s also a great budget-friendly deck.
Why We Choose It
We picked the Vigorange Blank Deck because it’s simple, sturdy, and ideal for beginners on a budget. When my friend was learning how to push and balance, I set up this deck for him. It felt solid underfoot and didn’t chip or crack, even after a few bails. The medium concave and popsicle shape gave him a stable, predictable feel while learning turns and basic tricks.
The included grip tape was a bonus, saving time and extra cost. At 8 inches wide, it offered just the right amount of space for comfort without feeling bulky. Plus, the blank surface made it fun to customize with his design. All in all, it’s a great choice for first-timers who want a clean, capable board.
Vigorange Blank Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonKey Features
Feature | Details |
Dimensions | 31″ Length × 8″ Width |
Material | 7-Ply Maple Wood |
Concave | Medium concave with symmetrical popsicle shape |
Weight Limit | Up to 150 lbs |
Skill Level | Suitable for all levels: beginner to pro |
Included | Comes with free grip tape/sandpaper |
Best For | Street, park, pool, vert, DIY painting, and budget replacement needs |
3. Beipoo Blank Skateboard Deck
The Beipoo 31″x8″ Blank Skateboard Deck is a great option if you’re after durability, affordability, and customization. Built from 7-ply maple, it offers the right mix of flex and stiffness for street, park, or vert riding. The medium concave and popsicle shape gives you solid control whether you’re doing tricks or just cruising. What’s cool is the woodgrain finish that’s perfect for DIY art. It feels like your own custom board. It also comes with grip tape and waterproof anti-slip stickers, which is a huge plus. For under $40, it’s a smart backup or beginner deck that doesn’t feel like a compromise.
What I Found On It
The Beipoo deck impressed us with its build quality and beginner-friendly design. I originally picked it up for a DIY paint project, but once I felt how solid the 7-ply maple was, I took it for a ride. It had just the right mix of flex and strength, sturdy enough for tricks, yet not too stiff for cruising. The medium concave gave my feet a nice locked-in feel, especially during ollies and manuals. The included grip tape and waterproof anti-slip stickers were a huge bonus, especially for beginners who don’t want to buy extras separately. It’s simple to set up, easy to ride, and a great value for the price.
Key Features & Specifications
Feature | Details |
Deck Size | 31 x 8 inches |
Material | 7-ply premium maple wood |
Weight Limit | 150 pounds |
Includes | Grip tape, sandpaper, stickers |
Shape | Medium concave, popsicle style |
Beipoo Blank Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Comes with grip tape and sandpaper | Not for heavier riders |
Smooth and stable for beginners | No graphics or design |
Great price for the quality |
4. Santa Cruz Standard Skateboard Deck
The SANTA CRUZ is crafted from 7-ply maple, it has that classic snap and durability Santa Cruz is known for. The standard popsicle shape gives you a familiar ride, perfect for flip tricks, park lines, or pool sessions. It comes in various widths and bold graphic styles, including the iconic Screaming Hand. Whether you’re just getting started or riding daily, this deck feels dialed in straight out of the wrap. It’s a bit pricier than blanks, but the performance and brand heritage make it worth every cent.
What We Found On It
The Santa Cruz deck stands out with its durable 7-ply maple build and wide 8.6-inch profile, giving it a strong, balanced feel underfoot. I let my buddy, who had never skated before, borrow it for his first session. The extra width helped him stay stable while learning to push and turn, and he gained confidence surprisingly fast. The standard popsicle shape felt natural, offering enough control for a beginner but still responsive enough to grow into. Even after a few weeks, he’s still riding it comfortably. It’s a reliable choice if you’re just starting but want something that performs like a pro deck.
Key Features
Feature | Details |
Deck Size | 31.95 x 8.6 inches |
Shape | Standard popsicle |
Material | 7-ply maple wood |
Weight | Around 1 kg |
Skill Level | All levels |
Santa Cruz Standard Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Wide and stable for beginners | It might feel bulky for small feet |
Strong maple wood with good pop | No grip tape included |
Trusted brand with solid quality |
5. LOSENKA Maple Skateboard Deck
The LOSENKA Maple Skateboard Deck is a solid beginner-friendly option that offers great value for its price. Built with 7-ply Russian maple, it’s denser and more elastic than regular maple, giving it solid strength and better pop. The medium concave and popsicle shape feel natural underfoot, perfect for street and park skating. It’s lightweight, responsive, and comes with free grip tape, which is always a bonus for new skaters. You also get the choice between a 2-pack or 5-pack, making it a smart pick for backups or budget setups. If you’re just starting or practicing tricks, this deck handles it all with ease.
Key Features
Feature | Details |
Material | 7-Ply Russian Maple |
Deck Size | 8″ Width × 31.75″ Length |
Shape | Medium concave, symmetrical popsicle shape |
Durability | High-density maple offers better elasticity and resistance to breakage |
Skill Level | Ideal for beginners and casual skaters |
Included | Comes with free grip tape |
Best For | Street and park skating, practice tricks, and budget backups |
Why We Chose It
The LOSENKA deck strikes the perfect balance between budget and performance. I painted one for a community event raffle, and the winner rolled away on it that same afternoon. Despite the extra paint, the 7‑ply Russian maple still popped cleanly on ollies and felt light underfoot. Its mellow concave and popsicle shape kept his feet centered while learning turns and basic flips, and the included grip tape made setup quick and hassle‑free. If you’re after a first deck or an inexpensive backup that feels sturdier than its price tag, this one’s a no‑brainer.
LOSENKA Maple Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonThis deck is worth it for anyone learning how to skate. It’s solid, easy to ride, and gives you room to learn. Perfect for the street or park and built to last.
6. CCS Skateboard Deck
CCS Skateboard Deck delivers pro-level quality at a price that works for everyone, from beginners to seasoned riders. Built from 7-ply Canadian maple, it features the perfect balance of flex and stiffness for solid pop and control. The shape feels balanced and stable, making it easy to learn tricks or cruise around comfortably. With a wide range of sizes and dozens of graphic styles, CCS lets you pick a board that fits both your skill and personality. It’s been tested and approved by real skaters, and the durability lives up to the hype. Whether you’re just getting started or need a reliable everyday deck, CCS makes it easy to ride with confidence.
Why We Chose It
We chose the CCS Skateboard Deck because it offers a balanced, stable ride that’s ideal for beginners. I used this deck while teaching a skate class, and one student struggling with balance on a narrower board immediately felt more in control when I handed her this one. The 8.5-inch width gave her a solid base to push and turn confidently, and by the end of the session, she was landing kick turns. The 7-ply Canadian maple construction strikes the right mix of flex and stiffness, making it easy to learn tricks without feeling too rigid. It’s lightweight, smooth underfoot, and tested by real skaters, perfect for anyone starting or looking for a reliable everyday ride.
CCS Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Strong and stable maple build | No grip tape included |
Great for beginners of any age | Not flashy if you want graphics |
The wide shape gives better balance | Just the deck, not a full setup |
7. Powell Peralta Andy Anderson Heron Egg Flight Deck
This Deck is a premium choice built for serious skaters who demand top-tier performance. With its 8.7″ width and 32.3″ length, it offers a stable platform ideal for technical street skating, bowl, and vert. What sets this deck apart is Powell’s FLIGHT construction, a revolutionary blend of hard rock maple, high-strength fiberglass, and epoxy resin that makes it lighter, stronger, and longer-lasting than traditional 7-ply decks.
The K20 concave and symmetrical 6.8″ nose and tail give you excellent control and balance for both switch and regular tricks. It’s a deck made to take a beating and keep its pop, even after months of skating. If you’re an intermediate or advanced skater looking for serious tech and durability, this board is worth every dollar.
Specifications
Feature | Details |
Deck Size | 8.7″ Width × 32.3″ Length |
Wheelbase | 14.5″ |
Concave & Shape | K20 Concave / Shape 301 |
Construction | FLIGHT Tech: Hard rock maple + fiberglass + epoxy (ultra strong & thin) |
Nose & Tail | Symmetrical: 6.8″ nose and 6.8″ tail |
Weight | Lightweight at 2.5 lbs |
Skill Level | Ideal for intermediate to advanced riders |
Made In | USA |
Extras | Deck only – grip tape not included |
Best For | Street, bowl, vert, high-impact tricks, and long-lasting performance |
Powell Peralta Andy Anderson Deck
View On AmazonWhat We Found On It
Riding this Powell Peralta Flight deck felt wild in the best way. It’s thinner and lighter than most decks I’ve used, but still insanely strong. The shape is unique with a wide 8.7-inch body, which gave me way more control when landing tricks or cruising around. That wider shape helps if you’re just starting and want a stable ride that doesn’t feel sketchy. The K20 concave feels comfy under your feet, and the tail and nose have just the right kick for tricks. It’s beginner-friendly but still feels like a pro-level board.
8. Bamboo Skateboards Blank Deck
The Bamboo Skateboards Blank Deck is one of the most underrated options for skaters seeking a lightweight, durable, and eco-conscious choice. Built with a 6-ply bamboo and maple hybrid, this deck doesn’t just hold up. It also pops hard and lasts longer than most full-maple decks I’ve ridden. The deep concave keeps your feet locked in for tricks, while the slightly flexible feel gives a shock-absorbing cushion on landings. If you’ve never skated bamboo before, this one might surprise you. It rides snappy, feels alive underfoot, and helps protect the planet while you’re at it.
Whether you’re bombing stair sets or cruising park transitions, this deck holds its own and does it with style. Plus, it’s available in multiple widths, so there’s a size for every skating style.
What We Found on It
I rode the 8.5-inch Bamboo Skateboard deck for a few weeks at my local park and during a few street sessions. The first thing I noticed? That pop is real. Ollies felt crisp, and the tail had a spring to it that I didn’t expect from a bamboo mix. One of the younger skaters at the park kept borrowing it to try new tricks, and he landed his first clean kickflip on this deck.
Even after repeated rail slides and drops, the board held strong with no cracks, no pressure splits, and just some cosmetic scuffing. The flex took the edge off landings, and my knees appreciated the difference. This is a solid alternative to traditional maple if you’re skating regularly and want more longevity out of your setup.
Features and Specifications
Feature | Details |
Deck Size | Multiple sizes (e.g., 7.5″, 8.0″, 8.5″) |
Shape | Deep concave, popsicle shape |
Material | 6-ply bamboo and maple hybrid |
Weight | Approx. 1.34 kg (depending on size) |
Sustainability | Eco-friendly bamboo saves maple forests |
Durability | Tested to withstand high impact |
Skill Level | All levels (beginner to pro) |
Included | Deck only – grip tape and hardware sold separately |
Bamboo Skateboards Blank Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent pop with bamboo flex
- Shock-absorbing landings
- Sustainable and eco-conscious build
- Durable under stair sets and rails
- Deep concave for control
Cons
- Slight flex may not suit heavy riders who prefer stiffness
- No grip tape included
This deck is a strong contender if you’re looking for something that blends performance with purpose. It feels responsive, it holds up, and it’s doing something good for the planet. For skaters who want more pop without sacrificing strength or want to try something beyond traditional maple, Bamboo Skateboards delivers.
9. Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Deck
The Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Deck is a go-to choice for skaters who love classic style and responsive performance. Built with the signature Baker OG shape, this deck is designed for quick pop and smooth control, perfect for street and park riding. With multiple sizes available, including the popular 8.0″ and 8.25″, it fits a wide range of riding preferences. The steep concave and 14″ wheelbase give you a locked-in feel that’s great for flip tricks and technical skating. It’s a solid, pro-level board with clean graphics that stay true to Baker’s roots. Whether you’re hitting rails or just cruising the city, this deck holds up and keeps you looking fresh.
Why We Chose It
We chose the Baker Brand Logo Deck because it offers that perfect mix of responsiveness and control, ideal for skaters who want to build skills fast. I gave this deck to a friend who was having a hard time balancing on his wider board. Once he stepped on the 7.88-inch Baker, he immediately felt more in control. The steep concave helped lock in his feet, and the OG shape made popping tricks smoother. Within a couple of park sessions, he landed his first ollie with no stress, just confidence. Backed by Baker’s trusted build quality, this deck makes progression feel natural, especially for newer riders who want something that reacts fast but stays stable.
Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Deck
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Quick, responsive feel | A narrower width might feel small |
Steep concave helps the foot grip | No grip tape included |
Good size for learning tricks | Just the deck, no full setup |
10. Honoson Blank Maple Skateboard Decks
The Honoson Blank Skateboard Decks (12-Pack) is a great value set for anyone looking to stock up on decks for practice, art projects, or group activities. Each deck measures 8″ x 32″, made from 7-ply maple wood for solid strength and lightweight, ideal for daily use or creative customization. The double-tail concave design provides good control for learning tricks and makes the deck versatile for beginners and casual riders. While these are blank and don’t include grip tape or wheels, they’re perfect for DIY art or turning into wall decor. If you’re into custom painting or teaching skateboarding, this bulk pack gives you tons of room to experiment. It’s a practical and creative option for skaters, artists, or schools.
Why We Chose It
We picked the Honoson 12-pack because it combines creativity, value, and durability, great for both practice and projects. I used this set with a local skate crew where everyone painted their deck before taking it to the park. The 7-ply maple held up surprisingly well through heavy use and plenty of bails, proving it’s more than just a display board. The double-tail concave gave decent foot grip and balance, especially for beginners learning basic tricks. Whether you’re teaching, customizing, or just need backup decks for progression, this bulk pack gives you both freedom and functionality at a solid price.
Honoson Blank Maple Decks
View On AmazonPros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
Great value with 12 decks | No trucks, wheels, or grip tape |
Strong and lightweight maple | Not for immediate riding setup |
Perfect for DIY painting projects |
How We Tested The Boards! Tried- Ridden- Slammed- Approved
Every board we talked about here was used in real sessions, some at skateparks, some on quiet streets, and a few even during teaching moments with brand-new skaters. Our testing wasn’t done in a lab. It happened in real places, with real people, in real shoes, eating real pavement. That’s how we like it.
A couple of these decks we picked up to teach friends or younger cousins who were just starting. We paid close attention to how the boards felt under their feet, how quickly they got used to the shape, and how easy it was for them to push, turn, and try basic tricks like ollies and kick turns. If someone could go from nervous to stoked in one afternoon, we knew the deck was doing its job.
Some decks were used by us directly, swapping them in mid-session after snapping a cheaper board or just out of curiosity. We checked for pop, flex, and overall control. If the board helped us land tricks more comfortably or held up after a hard slam, it earned real points.
A couple of decks were even used in beginner skate classes. We let new skaters borrow different shapes and sizes to see which ones helped them feel most comfortable. Some riders needed more width for balance, and others wanted a lighter board for easier flicks. We took notes and used that feedback when deciding what to recommend.
So yeah, everything we say here comes from actual use. Not just one session but many. We skated these boards, taught with them, painted on them, and even raffled one off at a local event. We’ve seen how they ride fresh and how they hold up over time. That’s the kind of testing you can trust.
How To Shop Your First Skateboard Deck (Buying Guide)
Choosing your first skateboard deck can feel confusing at first. But with the right guidance, it becomes simple. This guide will help you find a deck that suits your skill level, deck types, and riding goals.
Know Your Skill Level First
Start by being honest about where you are. Are you brand new? Still learning the basics? Just want something to cruise around on? Your first deck should make you feel steady and in control. Focus on comfort and learning, not fancy features.
Get the Right Width
Deck width affects how your board feels under your feet. If you’re smaller or younger, a narrower board gives you more control. Something around 8.0 to 8.25 inches is perfect for most beginners. Wider decks offer more balance. Choose what feels stable when you imagine standing on it.
Choose Good-Quality Wood
Stick with 7-ply maple. It’s strong, durable, and gives a nice flex for learning tricks. Avoid plastic or softwood decks; they wear down quickly and don’t ride well. You’ll grow faster with better material under your feet.
Look for a Simple Shape
Go with the classic popsicle shape. It has a rounded nose and tail and works well for most riding styles. Medium concave (the curve in the board) gives you balance and control. Steep concaves or odd shapes can be tricky when you’re just starting.
Graphics Are Fun, But Not Essential
The look of your deck won’t make you skate better. Choose a graphic you like, or save money with a blank deck. Blank decks often cost less and perform the same. You can even decorate them yourself to make them feel more personal.
Know What Comes With the Deck
Many beginner skaters don’t realize that a “deck” often means just the board. You still need grip tape, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware. Some shops sell complete setups. If not, you’ll need to buy and assemble everything separately.
Think About Your Body Size
If you’re heavier or taller, consider a wider deck around 8.25 inches or more. It will feel more solid and support your weight better. If you’re lighter or smaller, a thinner deck gives you easier control without feeling wobbly.
Budget Smart
You don’t need to spend a lot. Many solid beginner decks cost between $30 and $60. Pricier options last longer and may offer smoother rides, but you can learn just as well on a budget board. Figure out if you want to start simply or invest in something that grows with you.
If You Can, Try Before You Buy
Visit a local skate shop or ask a friend to let you stand on their board. Feel matters more than hype. If it feels right under your feet, that’s more important than brand names or trends.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the best skateboard is the one you’re riding. All the research in the world doesn’t compare to the feeling of rolling on pavement. Any deck on this list will give you a trustworthy start and a solid platform to build your skills on. So, stop stressing over the small details. The real journey starts when you put the board down and step on it. Pick one that feels right, get it set up, and go make some noise. The scuffs and scratches are just part of the story. Go start yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are cheap decks for skateboards worth buying?
Cheap decks might work for casual use, but most don’t last. They crack or lose pop fast. If you’re serious, go for real maple decks. They last longer and feel much better.
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How much should I spend on my first skateboard deck?
You don’t need to spend a lot. A good quality beginner deck will typically cost between $30 and $60. Blank decks, like those from Moose or Vigorange, offer great performance at a lower price because you aren’t paying for graphics.
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What is the best size skateboard deck for a beginner?
For most beginners, a deck width between 8.0″ and 8.25″ is the perfect starting point. This size offers a great balance of stability for learning to ride and control for trying your first tricks. If you have smaller feet (under US size 9) or are a younger skater, a slightly narrower board (7.5″ to 8.0″) might feel easier to handle. If you have larger feet or want maximum stability, go for an 8.25″ or 8.5″ deck.
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What is a “blank” skateboard deck and is it good for beginners?
A blank deck is simply a skateboard without any graphics printed on it. They are fantastic for beginners because they are usually cheaper than pro models but are often made from the same high-quality 7-ply maple.
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What does the “concave” of a skateboard deck mean?
Concave is the gentle side-to-side curve of the deck. For beginners, a medium concave is the best choice. This shape helps lock your feet in place, giving you better balance and control when turning and trying tricks. It’s the most common and versatile shape, found on most “popsicle” style decks.
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Should I buy a complete skateboard or just the deck?
If it’s your very first board, buying a “complete” (a pre-assembled skateboard with a deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings) can be easier and more cost-effective. However, buying just the deck allows you to customize your setup later.
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Do the graphics on a skateboard matter for performance?
No, the graphics have zero impact on how the board rides. While cool graphics are fun, they don’t make you a better skater. For beginners, it’s smarter to focus on the quality of the wood, the shape, and the size.