Thinking about skateboarding as an adult? It might initially seem tricky, but don’t worry—you’re not alone! I remember wondering which skateboard to buy, what size to get, and how to stay balanced. If you’re feeling the same, I’ve got you covered.
Skateboarding is an awesome way to stay active, have fun, and even get around town. But with so many options there, picking the right skateboard can be tricky. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you! As a professional skateboarder, I’ve tested and reviewed different boards to find the best skateboards for adults.
Below, I’ve handpicked 6 top skateboards that are perfect for starter adult riders. Let’s check them out!
How to Choose a Skateboard as an Adult Beginner
As an adult beginner, choose a skateboard that prioritizes comfort, control, and stability. A cruiser board with a wider deck and softer wheels is ideal for learning. You don’t need anything fancy, a solid setup that makes it easier to get started. So, let’s start with a few basic rules to follow.
- Deck Width: Go for a deck between 8.25” to 8.5”. A wider deck gives more stability, which is exactly what you need when starting.
- Deck Shape & Concave: A medium concave deck is best. It gives enough control without making the board too hard to balance.
- Trucks: Make sure the trucks match your deck width. If you pick an 8.25” deck, get trucks around 5.5” wide.
- Wheels: Soft wheels (78A – 87A) are great for smooth rides. If you want to try tricks later, go for harder wheels (96A – 99A).
- Grip Tape: Standard grip tape is fine. It keeps your feet in place, which is what you want when learning.
- Bushings: If you’re heavier, swap out the stock bushings for harder ones to get better control.
Quick View of Our Expert’s Pick
Recommended Top 6 Best Skateboards For Adult Beginners
After buying & testing multiple skateboards, I’ve compiled a list of the top options for adult riders. If you’re just starting or getting back into skating, these boards offer the right balance of durability, performance, and comfort. Here’s a top selection of beginner skateboards for adults:
1. SANTA CRUZ Standard Complete Skateboard
Santa Cruz has been making top-rated skateboards for over 40 years, and this complete setup lives up to the brand’s reputation. I took this board out for a test ride on streets, parks, and ramps, and it handled everything smoothly. This board offers great control and stability for beginners and adults.
The 8.0” x 31.25” 7-ply maple deck feels sturdy underfoot. The medium concave design gives you a solid balance between control and comfort. The shape feels natural and responsive whether you’re popping an ollie or cruising around. The Slime Balls 95A wheels offer a smooth roll, but you might feel a few vibrations if you’re skating on rough terrain.
The ABEC-5 steel bearings provide a decent roll speed. That’s why this board is ideal for street and park skating. The 90A bushings ensure smooth turns without feeling too loose. Right out of the box, the trucks were a little tight for my preference. But a quick adjustment made carving feel much more fluid.
Why We Recommend It
- Durable 7-ply maple deck for long-lasting performance
- Slime Balls 95A wheels for a smooth ride
- ABEC-5 bearings provide a balanced speed
- Medium concave for better foot placement and control
Pros
✔ Sturdy and durable deck
✔ Smooth rolling on parks and smooth streets
✔ Great for beginners and experienced riders.
Cons
✖ Wheels feel a bit hard on rougher surfaces
✖ Bearings could be faster for advanced riders
For the price, the SANTA CRUZ Standard Complete is a fantastic all-around skateboard. If you want a reliable setup from a legendary brand, this one’s a perfect choice.
2. Magneto SUV Skateboard – Best for Versatile Riding
Here is my recommended second option. The Magneto SUV Skateboard is built for skaters who want an all-terrain experience. I tested this board on streets, sidewalks, and even rougher paths, and it performed impressively. Whether you’re into cruising, freestyle tricks, or off-road adventures, this board adapts well to different surfaces.
Now, it is time to look at the features that impressed me. The 8.5” x 32.0” 7-ply maple deck feels sturdy yet flexible, making it great for stability and maneuverability. The high concave design allows for better foot grip, making turns and tricks more controlled. The 78A large soft wheels roll smoothly over cracks, pebbles, and rough terrain, ensuring a comfortable ride. However, if you prefer a stiffer feel, you might find the softness of the wheels takes some getting used to.
The ABEC-11 bearings provide a fast and smooth roll, making this board ideal for long-distance rides as well. The aluminum gravity-cast trucks offer excellent durability and control, though they might feel a bit tight straight out of the box. A quick adjustment helps improve carving and responsiveness.
Why We Recommend It
✔ 7-ply maple deck for a strong and durable build
✔ 78A soft wheels for an ultra-smooth ride on all terrains
✔ ABEC-11 bearings for enhanced speed and efficiency
✔ High concave design for improved foot control
Pros
✔ Great for rough surfaces and versatile riding
✔ Smooth and comfortable cruising experience
✔ Durable construction with premium components
Cons
✖ Soft wheels may not suit those who prefer a stiffer ride
✖ Trucks may need adjustment for better turns
3. KPC Complete Skateboard – Best for Beginner to Intermediate Riders
The KPC Complete Skateboard is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. I took this board for a test ride in the streets and at the skatepark. And it delivered a solid performance. It’s a good board for beginners who want to learn tricks and for intermediate skaters looking for a reliable setup.
The 7.75” x 32” maple deck feels sturdy but isn’t too heavy. It has a medium concave, which helps with control and makes tricks easier to pop. The 52mm 99A urethane wheels roll smoothly on flat surfaces, though they can feel a bit rough on uneven pavement.
Speed-wise, it does a decent job because of the ABEC-7 bearings. It’s not the fastest board out there, but it’s smooth enough for street skating and light park use. The aluminum trucks are durable, but I had to loosen them a bit to get better turns. The 80-grit grip tape is solid, keeping your feet locked in place.
If you’re starting or need a cheap upgrade, this board is worth considering. It’s ready to ride right out of the box and has everything you need for learning tricks or cruising around.
Why We Recommend It
✔ 7-ply maple deck for a sturdy and lightweight feel
✔ ABEC-7 precision bearings for a smooth ride and better speed
✔ Medium concave design for improved foot placement and trick control
✔ Durable aluminum trucks for stability and long-lasting performance
✔ 80-grit black grip tape for superior traction and control
Pros
✔ Affordable but well-built
✔ Sturdy maple deck with good pop
✔ Comes fully assembled
✔ Lots of color and design options
Cons
✖ Wheels can feel stiff on rougher roads
✖ Trucks might need some adjusting
Overall, the KPC Complete Skateboard is a good beginner-friendly option. If you want something affordable but reliable, this board gets the job done.
4. Magneto Cruiser Longboard Skateboard
If you want a longboard that’s smooth, stylish, and built for cruising, the Magneto 44” Kicktail Cruiser is a right pick. I took it for a ride around town, and it handles well on different surfaces. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate skater, this board is fun to ride and easy to control.
The 44-inch deck is made from bamboo and maple. It gives a sturdy yet flexible feel. The kicktail design makes turning and maneuvering easier, while the sand grit finish provides grip without needing regular grip tape. It looks clean, and the laser-engraved logo adds a nice touch.
The 70mm 78A wheels are soft enough to roll smoothly over rough roads. The gravity-cast aluminum trucks feel stable and strong, though you might need to adjust the bushings to match your riding style.
This board is a great choice for comfortable and stylish cruising. It’s versatile, well-built, and ready to ride straight out of the box.
Why We Recommend It
✔ 44-inch long deck provides excellent stability and control for cruising and carving
✔ Bamboo and maple construction offers a perfect balance of flexibility and durability
✔ Sand grit finish enhances grip without the need for traditional grip tape
✔ 70mm 78A soft urethane wheels ensure a smooth ride over rough terrain
✔ Gravity-cast aluminum trucks provide strength and longevity
✔ SHR medium-stiffness bushings improve maneuverability and carving response
✔ Kicktail design enhances control and allows for quick turns
✔ High weight capacity of up to 275 lbs
✔ Lightweight design at 9.5 pounds for easy carrying and transport
✔ Designed in California by skaters for a truly authentic riding experience
Pros
✔ Smooth ride, even on rougher roads
✔ Sturdy yet flexible bamboo and maple deck
✔ No grip tape needed—sand grit finish does the job
✔ Kicktail makes turning easier
Cons
✖ Not ideal for tricks or downhill riding
✖ Trucks may need slight adjustments for better turning
Overall, the Magneto 44” Kicktail Cruiser is a great longboard skateboard for relaxed riders. If you want a stylish, well-built board for everyday cruising, this one delivers.
5. Sefulim Skateboard – Best for All Skill Levels
The Sefulim Skateboard is a versatile and high-quality built option. It is designed for beginners, teens, and adults. If you are stepping on a skateboard for the first time or refining your tricks, this board delivers a stable and controlled ride. I tested it on both smooth pavements and skateparks. And it held up well, providing a reliable skating experience.
The 31-inch deck is crafted from 7-layer Canadian maple wood. It offers excellent durability while maintaining a lightweight feel. It provides better maneuverability for its double-kick concave design. The high-rebound PU wheels (52mm) combined with ABEC-9 precision bearings provide a smooth ride and absorb shocks on rough surfaces.
Equipped with a 95A durometer hardness, the wheels are sturdy enough for street skating and park rides while still offering good grip. The 220-pound load capacity ensures it can accommodate skaters of all sizes. Also, the high-quality grip tape provides superior traction and control. The heat-transfer graphic design on the deck is waterproof and long-lasting, ensuring it remains vibrant over time.
Why We Recommend It
✔ 7-layer Canadian maple deck for durability and stability
✔ ABEC-9 precision bearings for enhanced speed and smooth performance
✔ Double-kick concave shape for better control and trick execution
✔ High-rebound PU wheels (52mm, 95A durometer) for improved shock absorption
✔ No assembly required – ready to ride straight out of the box
✔ Waterproof and heat-transfer graphic design for long-lasting appeal
✔ Lightweight design (5.51 lbs) with a high load capacity (220 lbs)
✔ Excellent grip tape for maximum traction and safety
Pros
✔ Ideal for all skill levels – beginners to advanced riders
✔ Strong deck construction with a lightweight feel
✔ Stable and responsive turning for better control
✔ Multiple color and design options available
✔ Affordable price with great performance
Cons
✖ Wheels might feel too firm for ultra-smooth rides
✖ Slightly smaller deck width may take time to adjust to for some riders
For skateboarders seeking a high-quality, budget-friendly skateboard, the Sefulim Skateboard is an excellent choice.
6. CAPARK 31-Inch Skateboard – Best for Beginners and Casual Riders
The CAPARK 31-inch Pro Complete Skateboard is designed for skaters of all skill levels. This Amazon best-selling board offers a smooth and stable ride for beginners, teens, and adults. Whether you’re learning the basics, commuting, or just cruising around, this board provides a solid platform for fun and skill development.
If you’re new to skateboarding or picking it up again after a break, the CAPARK Pro Complete Skateboard is a great starting point. It’s built for stability and control.
This setup features a 7-layer Canadian maple deck, offering a solid yet lightweight board that holds up to regular use. At 31 inches long and 8 inches wide, it provides ample foot space while riding. The double-kick concave design enhances maneuverability, making turns and tricks feel more natural as you progress.
With 50mm anti-shock PU wheels, ABEC-7 precision bearings, and PU bushings, this board delivers a smooth ride on most surfaces. The aluminum trucks and steel axle add durability and support up to 220 lbs, ensuring a reliable setup. The grip tape keeps your feet locked in, while the heat-transferred graphics provide a stylish, long-lasting finish.
If you’re looking for a skateboard that lets you cruise comfortably while keeping the option open for tricks, this one is a great choice.
Why We Recommend It
✔ 7-layer Canadian maple deck provides durability and stability
✔ 31-inch by 8-inch size offers a comfortable foot stance for better balance
✔ Double kick concave design allows for easy tricks and better control
✔ Waterproof emery grip tape ensures traction and safety
✔ 50mm PU wheels absorb shocks for a smoother ride on rough surfaces
✔ ABEC-7 precision bearings provide speed and smooth rolling
✔ Sturdy aluminum trucks and steel axle enhance support and maneuverability
✔ Supports up to 220 lbs, making it suitable for kids, teens, and adults
✔ Lightweight and portable at only 4.7 pounds, easy to carry anywhere
✔ Available in multiple vibrant designs to match personal style
Pros
✔ Durable and lightweight maple wood deck
✔ Smooth and fast ride with shock-absorbing wheels
✔ Suitable for beginners and intermediate riders
✔ Pre-assembled and ready to ride out of the box
✔ Stylish graphics with long-lasting heat transfer printing
Cons
✖ Bearings may need upgrading for faster speeds
✖ Not ideal for advanced tricks or extreme skateboarding
For those looking for a reliable and beginner-friendly skateboard at an affordable price, the CAPARK 31-Inch Pro Complete Skateboard is a fantastic choice. With its durable build, smooth performance, and stylish design, it’s a great option for skaters of all ages.
What Size Skateboard for Adults?
Skateboard size matters more than you think. A board that’s too small can feel unstable. On the other hand, one that’s too large might be tough to control. Here’s a quick reference table to help you pick the right size based on your height and shoe size:
| Rider Height | Shoe Size | Deck Width |
| Under 5’5″ | 6-8 | 7.75″ – 8.0″ |
| 5’5″ – 6’0″ | 8-11 | 8.0″ – 8.5″ |
| Over 6’0″ | 11+ | 8.5″+ |
For general street skating, an 8.0″ to 8.25″ deck is ideal. If you prefer cruising or transition skating, go for 8.5″ or wider.
Why Trust Our Reviews?
Our recommendations stem from hands-on testing and thorough evaluations. Each skateboard featured has been ridden across various terrains and conditions to assess its performance, durability, and suitability for adult beginners. We prioritize firsthand experience to provide you with reliable and practical advice.
Conclusion
Skateboarding as an adult is all about having fun and finding the right board to match your style. Whether you’re cruising, learning tricks, or getting comfortable on wheels, choosing a stable and durable skateboard makes all the difference.
These options I’ve shared are some of the best for adults. These boards offer a smooth ride, great control, and long-lasting quality. No matter which one you select, the key is to start riding, stay consistent, wear protective gear, and enjoy the journey.
FAQs
What is the best skateboard brand for adults?
Top brands for adult include Santa Cruz, Magneto, KPC, and CAPARK. They offer durable decks, smooth wheels, and stable trucks for easy learning.
Can adults learn to skateboard easily?
Yes! It may take some practice, but adults can learn to skateboard at any age with the right board, balance, and protective gear. Start on smooth surfaces and progress gradually.
Can heavy adults skateboard?
Yes! Look for a sturdy 7-ply maple or bamboo deck with a weight capacity of at least 220 lbs. Longboards and wider skateboards offer more stability for heavier riders.
Can adults use kids’ skateboards?
Not recommended. Kids’ skateboards are smaller and weaker. It makes them uncomfortable and unsafe for adult riders.