Kids Skateboards
Kids Skateboards: Fueling the Passion from the Start
On this page, explore our collection of skateboards designed for children and teenagers. We provide complete kids skateboards suitable for various ages and skill levels. A child's initial skateboard experience is often unforgettable. Recognizing that you could ignite an enduring passion, we've compiled some tips to assist you in selecting the ideal skateboard for your child.
Fundamentals of Kids’ Skateboards
A kids’ skateboard is a downsized version of a standard skateboard. These mini skateboards come in sizes that cater to children, featuring decks that are narrower and shorter, thereby simplifying control for young riders. You’ll find options ranging from beginner skateboards with softer wheels and bushings to more sophisticated boards for older kids ready to tackle tricks.
Although the components of skateboards for kids match those of adults, kids’ skateboards often boast lively graphics that appeal to young enthusiasts. Typically, children develop the requisite balance and motor skills for skateboarding between ages 4 and 6.
Kids Skateboard Dimensions
Choosing a skateboard that fits is crucial for your child. Smaller kids benefit from a board that isn’t too large, as this makes handling easier. On the other hand, a skateboard that's too small may feel unstable and overly responsive.
If your child enjoys simply sitting or playing casually on the skateboard, deck width is less of a concern. However, if they are learning to skate correctly, aligning the deck size with your child’s foot and body dimensions is vital.
Skateboard Dimensions for Kids Keen on Tricks
When your child is eager to learn tricks or cruise, consider the following:
- Width: The deck should correspond to the child’s foot size. An overly wide deck hinders leaning and steering, while a deck too narrow challenges balance.
- Length: Deck length should fit your child’s leg length, enabling a natural stance.
Generally, the length of a skateboard deck aligns with its width; narrower decks are typically shorter than wider ones.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our guide: Skateboard Size Guide.
How Are Kids' Skateboards Different from Adult Skateboards?
Kids' skateboards are compact yet distinct from their adult counterparts in several ways.
Wheel Softness
Soft skateboard wheels are perfect for skateboarders with less experience. These wheels perform well on uneven surfaces and minimize the risk of falling over minor stones or gaps. Our selection includes options that can be filtered by wheel hardness, where lower durometer ratings (e.g., 80A) indicate very soft wheels, and higher ratings (e.g., 100A) denote harder, faster ones.
Bushings
Bushings, positioned between the hanger and baseplate of skateboard trucks, determine the effort required for turning or manoeuvring the board. Kids’ skateboards typically have bushings optimized for young skateboarders. If the skateboard turns too rigidly, inspect the truck tightness.
Optimal Truck Tightness for Kids' Skateboards
Trucks on a child’s skateboard might seem looser than those an adult skater is accustomed to due to a child’s lighter weight. However, this does not mean they feel loose to your child.
Adjust the truck tightness using the centre nut:
- Tightening increases stiffness and reduces agility.
- Loosening results in greater responsiveness and less stiffness.
Skateboards with Soft Tops
Some kids skateboards are equipped with soft tops, ideal for preventing scrapes and rashes, particularly for those who enjoy sitting or playing on the board. Soft Tops are fantastic for toddlers and beginners but may not be suitable for children interested in performing tricks.
Safety Tips
Prioritizing safety is crucial. Selecting the right skateboard is just one part – protective gear is equally vital:
- An appropriately fitted helmet is a must for skateboarders at any skill level.
- Elbow and knee pads guard against scrapes and bruises, while wrist guards offer protection from common falls.
- Even on flat surfaces, young skateboarders should be supervised until they exhibit basic control and balance.
- Keep away from traffic – ensure no vehicles, bikes, or pedestrians interrupt your child’s skateboarding experience.
Browse our protective gear options here: kids’ skateboarding protective gear.