Skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life that has captured the hearts of people of all years and backgrounds. Ensuring your children’s safety while riding skateboards in schools includes providing protective gear like helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards. From adrenaline-seeking teenagers to laid-back adults, the allure of riding skateboards lies in its sense of freedom, creativity, and self-expression. But among this diverse skateboarding community, a special group stands out: the student surfers. These young riders, with their infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy, bring a unique perspective to the world of surfing. In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the best skateboards tailored specifically for young students ranging from 5 to 14 years old, considering factors such as design, durability, safety features, and overall performance. They represent a pivotal stage in their skateboarding development. As they grow and learn, their skateboards should be their faithful companion.
This article evaluates top skateboards, focusing on design, durability, safety, and performance to guide parents and young riders in selecting the best board. Our insights help both beginners and experienced skaters find their ideal match for a fulfilling skateboarding journey. Join us in uncovering the best boards for schoolers and embarking on a thrilling ride!
Key Takeaways
- Skateboarding is an exciting activity for students and kids, promoting freedom and self-expression. It is an exciting activity for students and kids, promoting freedom and self-expression. Proper foot placement is critical for maintaining better stability and control.
- Safety is paramount, and proper protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, should always be worn.
- Choose an appropriate complete kid’s skateboards’ sizes and types that match the child’s age and skill level. This ensures a safe and enjoyable skating experience for kids.
- Skate in designated areas like skate parks or smooth, traffic-free surfaces to minimize risks. When ready to start skateboarding, focus first on basic skills like balance and control.
- Start with basic skills, focusing on balance and control before attempting advanced maneuvers or tricks.
- Teach kids how to fall safely by rolling with the fall and avoiding bracing with outstretched hands.
- Follow skate park etiquette, be aware of others, and take turns to ensure a positive skateboarding experience for all.
- Avoid skateboarding in wet or slippery conditions, as they can increase the risk of accidents.
- Stay visible by wearing bright and reflective clothing, especially when skating near roads.
- Skate with a buddy or under adult supervision for added support and safety.
- Avoid distractions like electronic devices while skateboarding to stay focused on the activity and surroundings. A box for carrying skateboarding equipment can be helpful.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed to avoid exhaustion.
- Seek professional instruction for proper techniques and safety guidelines.
- Encourage responsible skateboarding practices and know when to stop if feeling tired or sore.
Buying Skateboards For Younger-Aged Students
When buying skateboards for young students, several essential factors should be considered to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
- Years and Skill Level: Consider the child’s years and skateboarding experience. Younger children and beginners may benefit from smaller and more stable skateboards, while older and more experienced riders might require larger decks for tricks and maneuvers.
- Deck Size and Material: The deck size of skateboards should be appropriate for the child’s shoe size and height. For students, smaller decks are generally more manageable. Look for decks made from quality materials like maple wood for durability and flexibility.
- Weight Limit: Check the weight limit of the skateboards to ensure they can safely accommodate the child’s weight. Exceeding the weight limit may affect the performance of the skateboards and compromise safety.
- Trucks and Wheels: The trucks of skateboards (the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck) should match the skateboards’ deck width and provide a stable and responsive ride. Softer wheels are ideal for beginners as they offer better grip and a smoother ride.
- Safety Features: Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure the grip tape on the skateboards provides secure footing, and check for reliable brakes for stopping. Investing in protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, is crucial for young riders.
- Brand Reputation: Choose surfing boards from reputable brands known for producing high-quality products. Established brands often have better customer support and warranty policies.
- Design and Aesthetics: While aesthetics may not directly affect performance, having skateboards with a design that the child loves can boost their enthusiasm for the sport.
- Budget: Set a budget that aligns with the quality and features you’re seeking. Avoid purchasing extremely cheap surfing boards, as they may lack durability and safety features.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews and seek recommendations from experienced surfing boards or parents who have purchased surfing boards for their students. Real-life experiences can offer valuable insights.
- Try Before Buying: If possible, let the child try out the skateboards before purchasing. This way, they can assess how comfortable they feel on it and if it suits their riding style.
By considering these essential factors, you can make an informed decision and choose skateboards that will provide your student child with a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience as they embark on their thrilling journey in the world of skateboards.
Features Of Skateboards For Younger-Aged Students
When selecting skateboards for youth attending schools, certain features are particularly important to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are the key features to look for:
- Appropriate Deck Size: The skateboards’ deck should have a size suitable for the child’s shoe size and height. For youth attending schools, smaller decks (ranging from 7 to 8 inches in width) are generally more manageable and provide better control.
- Durable Deck Material: Look for skateboards with decks made from durable materials like Canadian maple wood. Maple decks are known for their strength and flexibility, making them ideal for young riders learning new tricks.
- Grip Tape: Skateboards’ grip tape is the gritty, sandpaper-like surface applied to the top of the deck. It provides traction, preventing the rider’s feet from slipping off the board during tricks and maneuvers.
- Responsive Trucks: The trucks are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck. For youth attending schools, trucks that are responsive and well-suited to the deck’s width are essential for better control and turning capabilities.
- Smooth-Rolling Wheels: Choose wheels with a durometer (hardness) that matches the child’s riding style. Softer wheels (78A to 87A durometer) offer better grip and a smoother ride, making them suitable for beginners.
- Quality Bearings: Skateboard bearings determine how smoothly the wheels spin. Look for a skateboard with high-quality bearings to ensure a smooth and effortless ride.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount, especially for young riders. Ensure the skateboard has reliable brakes and appropriate protective measures, such as rounded edges and no sharp parts that may cause injuries.
- Stability and Balance: Skateboards with a medium concave (a slight curve from side to side) provide a good balance between stability and maneuverability for young riders still developing their skills.
- Lightweight Design: Young riders may find it easier to control and carry lightweight skateboards, especially when starting out.
- Appealing Design: While not directly affecting performance, a visually appealing design can boost the child’s enthusiasm and excitement for riding skateboards.
- Years-Appropriate Graphics: Consider surfing boards with graphics and themes suitable for the child’s age and interests.
- Weight Capacity: Check the skateboards’ weight capacity to ensure they can safely support the child’s weight.
- Brand Reputation: Opt for surfing boards from reputable brands known for their commitment to quality and safety.
- Smooth Bearings: High-quality bearings ensure a smooth ride and minimize friction while skating.
- Adjustable Trucks: Some surfing boards come with adjustable trucks that allow customization according to the child’s riding style and preferences.
By choosing skateboards with these features, parents and guardians can provide young kids attending schools with a safe and reliable platform to develop their skateboarding skills.
Review of Skateboards For Younger-Aged Students
Choosing the right skateboard is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable skateboard riding experience, especially for kids who are just starting to explore this exciting sport. In this review, we’ll evaluate various skateboards designed specifically for youth attending schools, considering factors such as design, durability, safety features, and overall performance.
SkaterPro Junior Skateboard
Age Range: 5-9 years
Description: The SkaterPro Junior skateboard is tailor-made for young beginners. It features a compact deck size, perfect for smaller feet, and is made from durable, lightweight materials that offer a smooth ride. The deck has a medium concave, promoting stability and control for young riders as they develop their balance and skills. Additionally, the wheels and trucks are designed to ensure a safe and steady ride, making it an ideal choice for kids just starting their skateboarding journey.
Rippin’ Kids K1 Skateboard
Age Range: 6-12 years
The Rippin’ Kids K1 skateboard is an excellent option for older students looking to take their skateboarding to the next level. It boasts a slightly larger deck size, providing more foot space and stability. The deck is constructed from high-quality Canadian maple, ensuring durability and resilience to withstand tricks and jumps. With its precision trucks and smooth-gliding wheels, the Rippin’ Kids K1 delivers a great mix of performance and safety for young skaters looking to progress their skills.
ZippyZoom Mini Cruiser Skateboard
Age Range: 8-12 years
The ZippyZoom mini cruiser skateboard is perfect for kids who prefer a more compact and lightweight skateboard for cruising around the neighborhood or the schoolyard. This mini cruiser has a unique retro design and comes in a variety of vibrant colors, making it visually appealing to young riders. Its smaller size and soft wheels make it an excellent choice for beginners as they learn to balance and steer with ease. The ZippyZoom Mini Cruiser is a fun and practical option for young skaters looking for a comfortable ride.
GravityGlide Pro Skateboard
Age Range: 10-14 years
The GravityGlide Pro skateboard is built for older, more experienced student skaters who are ready to tackle more challenging tricks and terrain. This skateboard features a wider and sturdier deck, ideal for mastering advanced tricks and grinds. The high-quality skateboard bearings and responsive skateboard trucks ensure a smooth and precise ride, allowing young riders to confidently push their boundaries. The GravityGlide Pro is top-notch for serious young skaters who want to progress in their skateboard riding journey.
Other Popular Brands Of Skateboards For Younger-Aged Students
There are several popular skateboard brands that offer excellent options for youth attending schools. But it’s worth noting that the popularity of brands may change over time, but as of that date, the following brands of skateboards are well-regarded in the skateboarding community for providing quality skateboards suitable for young riders:
Enjoi Skateboards
Enjoi is known for its playful and fun graphics, making its skateboards appealing to youth attending schools. They also offer skateboards in smaller sizes suitable for younger riders.
Plan B Skateboards
Plan B is a reputable skateboard brand that caters to all skill levels, including beginners. They have skateboards with features suitable for youth attending schools who are just starting their skateboarding journey.
Primitive Skateboards
While primarily known for their professional surfing skateboards, Primitive also offers complete skateboard decks suitable for young skaters.
Blind Skateboard
Blind offers a variety of skateboards, and some models are designed to accommodate younger riders with smaller skateboard deck sizes and appropriate components.
Santa Cruz Skateboard
Santa Cruz is a well-established brand with a rich skateboarding history. They produce durable and stylish skateboards that cater to various year groups, including youth attending schools.
Element Skateboard
Element is a popular choice for both beginners and more experienced riders. They offer complete skateboards with quality components that suit the needs of youth attending schools.
Z-Flex Skateboard
Z-Flex is recognized for its retro-style skateboards, and they have a selection of smaller and more manageable skateboards suitable for younger riders.
Almost Skateboard
Almost specializes in skateboards designed for technical tricks, but they also have offerings suitable for younger riders who are exploring skateboarding for the first time.
Sector 9 Skateboard
Sector 9 focuses on longboards and cruiser skateboards, which may be of interest to youth attending schools looking for a more relaxed skateboarding experience.
Powell Peralta Skateboard
Known for its iconic graphics and high-quality decks, Powell Peralta offers a wide range of skateboards, including some designed specifically for young beginners.
When choosing skateboards for youth attending schools, it’s essential to consider factors like the child’s age, skill level, and riding preferences. Additionally, always prioritize safety and invest in appropriate protective gear to ensure a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience for young riders.
Tips For Safe Use Of Skateboard For Young Students
Skateboarding can be a thrilling and rewarding activity for youth attending schools, but safety should always be the top priority. Ensure that proper protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, is worn. Here are some essential tips to ensure safe skateboarding for young riders:
- Wear Proper Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards when skateboarding. These protective gear can greatly reduce the risk of injuries in case of falls or accidents.
- Choose an Appropriate Skateboard: Select a skateboard that is the right size and type for the child’s age and skill level. Smaller and more stable skateboards are generally better for beginners.
- Skate in Safe Areas: Encourage kids to skate in designated skate parks or smooth, flat areas away from traffic, pedestrians, and obstacles. Avoid busy roads or areas with uneven surfaces.
- Start Slowly: For beginners, start with basic skills and gradually progress to more advanced maneuvers as confidence and skill levels increase.
- Learn to Fall Properly: Teach kids how to fall safely by rolling with the fall rather than bracing themselves with hands outstretched. This can help prevent wrist and arm injuries.
- Practice Balance and Control: Focus on building balance and control on the skateboards before attempting tricks or high-speed riding.
- Observe Skate Park Etiquette: If using a skate park, teach kids to be aware of other skaters, take turns, and follow any posted rules or guidelines.
- Stay Visible: Wear bright and reflective clothing, especially when skating near roads or during low-light conditions.
- Avoid Riding in Wet or Slippery Conditions: Wet or slippery surfaces can cause the skateboard to lose traction, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Be Mindful of Surroundings: Remind kids to look out for potential hazards such as rocks, sticks, cracks, or debris that could cause them to lose balance.
- Skate with a Buddy: Encourage kids to skate with a friend or adult to provide support and assistance if needed.
- Avoid Distracted Skateboarding: Discourage the use of electronic devices while skateboarding to stay focused on the activity and surroundings.
- Stay Hydrated: Skateboarding can be physically demanding, so ensure kids stay hydrated during their skate sessions.
- Know When to Stop: Encourage kids to listen to their bodies and take breaks if they are feeling tired or sore.
- Seek Professional Instruction: Consider enrolling kids in skateboarding lessons taught by experienced instructors who can teach proper techniques and safety guidelines.
By following these tips and encouraging responsible v practices, parents and guardians can ensure that youth attending schools have a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience while minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Conclusion
Skateboarding provides a thrilling sense of freedom and creativity for schooling-aged youth, promoting self-expression in a dynamic sport. Prioritizing safety is crucial; parents and guardians should ensure children are equipped with the right protective gear and an appropriate board for their age and skill level. Safe skating areas are essential. Encouraging gradual progress, balance, and awareness helps build skill and confidence. Skateboarding teaches more than just tricks; it also teaches duty and persistence. Families can help their kids enjoy skateboarding for a lifetime by giving them the right advice and gear. This will make sure that their child’s first skating experience is safe and fun. Let’s prepare, protect, and propel into the joyous ride of skateboarding with responsibility and enthusiasm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Know What Size Board To Get?
To determine the appropriate size of skateboard for kids, consider the ages and skill level of the child. For younger kids or beginners, opt for smaller kids’ boards, while older kids or more experienced riders may benefit from regular-sized surfing boards.
How Do You Know If A Board Is Good?
A good skateboard can be determined by factors such as the quality of its components, like aluminum trucks, skateboard wheels, and SkateXS bearings, which provide stability and durability. For skateboards for kids, a suitable option would be a cruiser skateboard that offers a balanced mix of maneuverability and control.
What Does 8-Inch Skateboard Mean?
An 8-inch surfing board refers to the width of the deck, which is the flat kids’ board where kids stand while riding. It is a standard size for custom boards and is often preferred by riders for its stability and versatility. These boards are typically made of plastic decks, making them durable and lightweight for young skaters.
How Do I Choose The First Complete Skateboard For Kids?
When choosing your child’s first skateboard, it is crucial to select beginner skateboards that are the perfect size for their age and skill level. Look for skateboards for kids that are designed to fit inside their comfort zone in terms of length and width, ensuring more stability and control. It is absolutely vital to provide them with the necessary safety gear, which absolutely includes helmets and pads.
How Do I Teach 3-Year-Olds To Ride Kids Skateboards?
To teach a 3-year-old to ride a skateboard, start by ensuring the skateboard is suitable for young kids, with appropriate safety measures in place. Begin in a controlled environment, guiding them to balance on the skateboard and gently push with their feet. Use smaller and softer bushings to provide more stability for the kids skateboards during their early attempts. Always prioritize safety and supervise closely during the learning process of young kids.
What Size Skateboard For Beginner Girl?
For a beginner girl, the best skateboard size would depend on her years and skill level. Generally, for younger kids, a quality skateboard with a smaller deck size, around 7.5 to 8 inches, would be more suitable for learning and maneuvering.
How Do You Ride A 5-Year-Old Skateboard?
To ride a 5-year-old street surfing board, follow these steps: First, ensure the skateboard is in good condition by using a skate tool to check the trucks and wheels. As a beginner with beginner surfing board, it’s crucial to wear protective gear, such as a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads, for safety while riding.
How Do I Choose A Skateboard?
When choosing a surfing board, consider the surfing board deck width as a crucial factor. Skateboard decks come in various deck widths, and selecting the appropriate deck width is essential for stability and control while riding. Take into account your shoe size and riding style to find a suitable surfing board deck that suits your needs. Another thing is when selecting a complete skateboard for kids, carefully consider factors like the regular price, ensuring it includes all necessary components such as a suitable skateboard deck, before adding it to your cart for purchase.
How Do You Buy A Skateboard For The First Time?
When buying a skateboard for the first time, it’s essential to consider the affordable price and excellent customer service from the company to ensure a suitable option for beginners. Pay attention to the quality of components to aid in getting started on the right foot.
Can I Check My New Skateboard?
Sure, you can check your new skateboard. If it’s one of the beginner skateboards, it’s likely a complete board, which means it comes fully assembled and ready to ride. You can watch some tutorials as well on how to do the checking, there are videos on Facebook, Instagram, and even in your manual. Enjoy your skateboarding journey!