Looking for the best best skateboard combo? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package 70mm Wheels to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package 70mm Wheels
Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best skateboard combo category.
Best skateboard combo: Our Top 2 Picks
- VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package 70mm Wheels – Best Value
- Cal 7 Skateboard Complete with 5.25″ Trucks & 52mm Wheels – Best skateboard set
VJ skateshop Longboard Skateboard Combo Package 70mm Wheels
- ✓ Complete, all-in-one package
- ✓ High-quality longboard parts
- ✓ Versatile for different terrains
- ✕ Slightly advanced for total beginners
- ✕ Wheels might be too hard for rough surfaces
| Truck Type | Reverse Kingpin (RKP) aluminum trucks with 7-inch hanger and 6-hole baseplates |
| Wheel Size | 70mm diameter, 51mm width, 78a durometer hardness |
| Bearings | 608 standard ABEC 7, 8mm core, 22mm outer diameter, 7mm width |
| Axle Length | 9.75 inches |
| Bushings | 90a hardness, standard for downhill and freeride longboards |
| Color Options | Black, Blue, Red, Neon Green, Gel Black, Gel Blue, Gel Red, Gel Green |
Unlike most longboard kits I’ve handled, this VJ skateshop combo immediately feels like a complete package right out of the box. The moment I took it in my hands, the 7-inch reverse kingpin trucks struck me as sturdy and well-made, with a sleek aluminum finish that doesn’t feel cheap.
The 70mm wheels are a noticeable upgrade from smaller, beginner-friendly options. They roll smoothly over cracks and rough patches, making it perfect for city streets and sidewalks.
Plus, the variety of colors means you can pick one that really matches your vibe—neon green for a bold look or gel black for something more sleek.
Installing everything was straightforward. The ABEC 7 bearings spin with minimal resistance, and the screws and spacers fit perfectly without any fuss.
I appreciated how all the parts felt balanced and high-quality, which boosts my confidence when cruising or downhill riding.
The trucks are designed for downhill and freeride, with a 6-hole baseplate and a 90a bushings hardness that offers good stability without feeling too stiff. The 78a durometer wheels strike a nice balance between grip and slide, making it versatile enough for different terrains.
For just under 50 bucks, this kit offers solid value. It’s an excellent choice whether you’re building a longboard from scratch or upgrading your current setup.
The only downside? It might be a bit much for absolute beginners who need softer wheels or more beginner-specific trucks.
Cal 7 Skateboard Complete with 5.25″ Trucks & 52mm Wheels
- ✓ Durable lightweight trucks
- ✓ Smooth, responsive ride
- ✓ Wide color options
- ✕ No deck included
- ✕ Slightly higher price for the setup
| Truck Size | 139 mm (5.25 inches) aluminum trucks |
| Wheel Dimensions | 52 x 31 mm PU wheels with 99A durometer |
| Bearings | ABEC 7 precision bearings |
| Riser Pads | 3 mm to prevent wheel bite and absorb vibrations |
| Deck Material | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be standard skateboard deck material (wood) |
| Color Options | Multiple transparent and opaque color sets |
The moment I picked up the Cal 7 skateboard with its 5.25″ trucks, I immediately noticed how lightweight and solid it felt in my hands. The aluminum trucks have a sleek, smooth finish and quite a sturdy heft, giving me confidence right away.
As I set it down and stepped on, I was impressed by how balanced it felt even before rolling.
Once I pushed off, the 52mm wheels rolled smoothly over cracks and rough patches, thanks to the 99A PU composition. The ABEC 7 bearings delivered a surprisingly slick ride, making my turns feel responsive and controlled.
The 3mm riser pads did a great job absorbing shocks, so I wasn’t rattling from every bump on the sidewalk.
What really stood out was how durable the trucks felt under my weight — lightweight but firm, holding up well through tricks and quick turns. The vibrant color options added a fun touch, letting me pick a look that matched my style without sacrificing performance.
Setting it up was a breeze—just added my deck, and I was ready to go. The combo feels versatile enough for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
Whether carving around or cruising through city streets, it offers a stable and smooth experience every time.
Overall, this combo packs a punch for the price point. It’s a solid starter or upgrade that’s ready to roll out of the box, with enough features to keep you stoked for miles.
What Is the Definition of a Skateboard Combo?
A skateboard combo refers to a bundled package that typically includes a skateboard deck, truck, wheels, and bearings, designed to provide everything a beginner or intermediate skateboarder needs to start riding. These combos are often curated to ensure compatibility among the components, making it easier for users to select a complete setup without needing extensive knowledge about individual parts.
According to the Skate Warehouse, a reputable source in the skateboarding community, skateboard combos are favored by newcomers for their convenience and cost-effectiveness, as they usually present a better deal than purchasing each component separately. These packages allow users to dive into skateboarding without the hassle of picking out individual parts, which can be overwhelming for beginners.
Key aspects of a skateboard combo include the quality and composition of the deck, the strength and weight of the trucks, the hardness and size of the wheels, and the type of bearings included. A good combo will cater to the rider’s style, whether street, park, or cruising. For example, a street-oriented combo may feature a smaller, lighter deck for tricks, while a cruising combo might have larger wheels for a smoother ride. The materials used, such as maple wood for the deck or aluminum for the trucks, also play a significant role in the durability and performance of the setup.
The impact of choosing the right skateboard combo is substantial, particularly for beginners who are just starting out. A well-matched combo can enhance the learning experience, allowing users to feel comfortable and confident on their board. It can also lead to better performance and reduced risk of injury, as all components work harmoniously together. For instance, a poorly matched truck and wheel size could impact the stability of the ride, making it difficult for a novice to gain control.
In terms of benefits, purchasing a skateboard combo often leads to significant savings. Many retailers offer these bundles at a discount compared to buying components individually. Additionally, combos are usually designed with versatility in mind, making them suitable for a range of riding styles. This adaptability is especially valuable for those who may want to try different types of skateboarding as they progress in skills. Moreover, having all necessary components in one package simplifies the buying process, reducing the time and effort spent on research.
Best practices when selecting a skateboard combo include assessing personal riding style and preferences, ensuring the components are appropriately sized for the rider (height and weight), and looking for reputable brands known for quality. It’s also advisable to read user reviews and consider combos that come with warranties or guarantees, indicating a manufacturer’s confidence in their product. This can provide peace of mind and assurance of quality as one embarks on their skateboarding journey.
What Components Make Up the Best Skateboard Combo?
The best skateboard combo typically includes several essential components that work together to provide an optimal skating experience.
- Deck: The skateboard deck is the flat board that serves as the base for the skateboard. Made from layers of wood or composite materials, the deck’s size, shape, and graphics can affect performance and aesthetics, with wider decks providing more stability and narrower ones enabling better tricks.
- Trucks: Trucks are the metal components that connect the wheels to the deck and allow for turning. They come in various sizes and styles, impacting the board’s responsiveness and weight, with high-quality trucks providing durability and better control during maneuvers.
- Wheels: Skateboard wheels are typically made from urethane and come in different hardness levels and diameters, influencing the ride. Softer wheels offer more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels are better for tricks and skate parks, allowing for faster speeds and easier slides.
- Bearings: Bearings are small metal rings that allow the wheels to spin freely on the trucks. High-quality bearings can significantly affect the speed and smoothness of the ride; those rated with higher ABEC ratings generally provide better performance, though personal preference plays a role in the ideal choice.
- Grip Tape: Grip tape is a sandpaper-like material applied to the top of the deck to provide traction for the rider’s feet. A good grip tape enhances stability and control, ensuring the rider can perform tricks without slipping off the board.
- Hardware: Hardware refers to the bolts and nuts that secure the trucks to the deck. Reliable hardware is essential for safety and stability, and choosing the right size and strength ensures that the trucks remain firmly attached, even during intense riding.
- Riser Pads: Riser pads are placed between the trucks and the deck to increase the distance between the wheels and the board. This helps prevent wheel bite (when the wheels touch the deck during turns) and can provide additional cushioning for a smoother ride.
Which Deck Materials Are Considered the Best for Performance?
The best skateboard combo materials for performance include:
- Maple Wood: A traditional choice for skateboard decks, maple wood is favored for its strength and durability. It provides excellent pop and responsiveness, making it ideal for tricks and street skating.
- Bamboo: Known for being lightweight and flexible, bamboo decks offer a unique feel and a good amount of shock absorption. This material is great for cruising and longboarding, as it provides a smooth ride while maintaining durability.
- Fiberglass: Often used in conjunction with wood, fiberglass adds strength and rigidity to the deck without significantly increasing weight. This material can enhance the overall performance by providing added durability and a snappier response during tricks.
- Composite Materials: Decks made from a combination of materials, such as carbon fiber or kevlar, provide exceptional strength and lightweight properties. These composites are often used in high-performance skateboards designed for serious athletes looking for optimal performance.
- Plastic: While less common for professional skateboarding, plastic decks are lightweight and can be very durable. They are often used in beginner skateboards or cruisers, providing a fun and flexible ride ideal for casual use.
How Do I Choose the Right Size for Skateboard Wheels?
Durometer (Hardness): Wheel hardness is measured on a durometer scale, with softer wheels (78A-87A) providing better grip and shock absorption, perfect for rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A-101A) are faster on smooth surfaces but might offer less grip, making them better for tricks and park skating.
Riding Style: Your riding style plays a significant role in wheel selection; street skaters typically prefer smaller, harder wheels for technical tricks, whereas transition or vert skaters often opt for larger, softer wheels to absorb impacts and provide stability on ramps.
Terrain Consideration: If you plan to skate on rough terrains like cracked streets or gravel, larger and softer wheels are more suitable as they can roll over obstacles more easily. Conversely, for smooth skate parks or street spots, smaller and harder wheels will provide the speed and responsiveness needed for tricks.
What Types of Trucks Should You Choose for Your Combo?
Street trucks are engineered to withstand the rigors of street skating, where impacts and grind sessions are common. Their lightweight design combined with durability ensures that they can endure frequent usage while still performing optimally during tricks.
What Factors Should You Consider When Selecting Your Skateboard Combo?
When selecting the best skateboard combo, several key factors should be considered to ensure an optimal riding experience.
- Deck Material: The material of the skateboard deck plays a crucial role in its performance and durability. Common materials include maple wood for flexibility and shock absorption, while bamboo offers a lighter weight and environmental sustainability.
- Size and Shape: The size and shape of the skateboard deck affect how it handles and what tricks can be performed. Wider decks provide more stability, making them suitable for beginners, while narrower decks allow for easier maneuverability for advanced tricks.
- Trucks: The trucks are the metal components that connect the wheels to the board and significantly influence the ride quality. High-quality trucks provide better stability and turning capabilities, while the width of the trucks should match the deck size to ensure a balanced ride.
- Wheels: The hardness and diameter of skateboard wheels affect speed and grip. Softer wheels are better for rough surfaces and provide a smoother ride, while harder wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces and offer better speed and tricks.
- Bearings: Bearings determine how smoothly the wheels spin and influence the skateboard’s overall speed. High-quality bearings rated with an ABEC scale can provide better performance and longevity, making them essential for serious skaters.
- Grip Tape: Grip tape is crucial for maintaining traction between your shoes and the skateboard. A good grip tape ensures your feet stay planted during tricks and tricks can be performed with confidence, enhancing overall riding safety.
- Complete vs. Custom Setup: Deciding between a complete skateboard combo or a custom setup can impact your experience. A complete skateboard is often more convenient for beginners, while a custom setup allows experienced skaters to tailor components to their specific needs and preferences.
How Does Your Riding Style Affect Your Combo Choice?
Your riding style plays a crucial role in determining the best skateboard combo for your needs.
- Street Riding: This style often involves technical tricks and maneuvers in urban environments, which require a skateboard combo that offers durability and responsiveness.
- Park Riding: Riders who frequent skate parks benefit from setups that balance speed and stability, allowing for smooth transitions and grinds on ramps and bowls.
- Vert Riding: For those focused on vertical ramps, a skateboard combo needs to support high-impact landings and provide excellent grip, typically featuring wider boards and soft wheels.
- Freestyle Riding: This style emphasizes creative tricks and versatility, requiring a lighter board with a flexible setup that enhances maneuverability for flip tricks and spins.
- Downhill Riding: Speed is the priority for downhill riders, necessitating a stable, low-profile board equipped with hard wheels and a sturdy truck setup for optimal control at high velocities.
Street riding often involves technical tricks and maneuvers, which means that a skateboard combo needs to be both durable and responsive. A setup with a smaller deck and harder wheels allows for better control during ollies and grinds, making it easier to navigate urban environments.
Park riders benefit from a skateboard combo that strikes a balance between speed and stability. A wider deck paired with softer wheels can help absorb impacts and provide a smoother ride over transitions, allowing for fluid trick execution on ramps and in bowls.
Vert riding demands a skateboard combo that can withstand high-impact landings and provide excellent grip. Typically, this means a wider board to distribute weight more evenly and softer wheels for better shock absorption when coming down from height.
Freestyle riding focuses on creative tricks, requiring a lighter board for enhanced maneuverability. A flexible setup allows for greater control when performing flip tricks and spins, making it essential for riders looking to express their style.
Downhill riding prioritizes speed, making stability crucial in a skateboard combo. A low-profile board with hard wheels helps ensure optimal control during fast descents, allowing riders to navigate sharp turns while maintaining balance and speed.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a Complete Skateboard Combo?
The advantages of choosing a complete skateboard combo are numerous and cater to both beginners and seasoned skaters.
- Convenience: A complete skateboard combo comes fully assembled, allowing users to start riding immediately without the hassle of piecing together individual components.
- Cost-Effective: Purchasing a complete skateboard often proves more economical than buying each component separately, as manufacturers typically offer bundled pricing.
- Compatibility: All parts in a complete skateboard are designed to work seamlessly together, minimizing the risk of compatibility issues that can arise when mixing different brands or parts.
- Quality Assurance: Reputable brands ensure that their complete combos meet certain quality standards, providing confidence that the parts are durable and reliable.
- Variety of Options: Complete skateboard combos come in various styles, sizes, and designs, allowing skaters to choose one that fits their personal preferences and skating style.
Convenience is a significant advantage as a complete skateboard combo is ready to ride straight out of the box, eliminating the need for assembly tools or technical knowledge.
Cost-effectiveness is another key factor; buying a complete skateboard combo can save money, as the bundled price is often lower than purchasing individual components separately.
Compatibility is vital for performance; since all parts are designed to work together, complete combos reduce the chance of mismatched components that could affect stability and ride quality.
Quality assurance comes from established brands that rigorously test their complete combos, ensuring durability and performance, which is especially important for beginners who may not yet recognize quality differences.
Finally, the variety of options available in complete skateboard combos allows skaters to select a board that reflects their personal style, whether they prefer street skating or cruising, making it easier to find an ideal match.
What Are the Top Recommended Skateboard Combos Currently Available?
The best skateboard combos currently available combine quality components for an optimal skating experience.
- Element Skateboards Complete Skateboard: This combo features a durable 7-ply maple deck, high-quality trucks, and smooth wheels, making it suitable for both beginners and intermediate skaters.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards Complete: Known for its iconic graphics, this skateboard combo includes a sturdy deck and reliable hardware, ideal for street and park skating alike.
- Powell Peralta Skateboards Complete: This setup includes a classic design with a modern twist, featuring high-performance wheels and trucks that cater to those who appreciate both style and functionality.
- Almost Skateboards Complete: A great option for kids and adults, this combo offers lightweight construction and a variety of designs, allowing skaters to express their personality while enjoying a smooth ride.
- Bamboo Skateboards Complete: Made from sustainable materials, this skateboard combo is lightweight yet durable, perfect for eco-conscious riders looking for a unique skating experience.
The Element Skateboards Complete Skateboard is known for its excellent durability and performance, making it a reliable choice for various skating styles. Its 7-ply maple construction provides strength and flexibility, while the wheels and trucks ensure a smooth ride on different surfaces.
The Santa Cruz Skateboards Complete offers a perfect blend of art and performance, featuring high-quality materials tailored for both recreational and serious skaters. With its robust design and diverse graphics, it stands out as both a functional skateboard and a collector’s item.
The Powell Peralta Skateboards Complete combines a rich history with modern engineering, appealing to both nostalgic riders and new skaters. Its robust trucks and wheels deliver performance that is well-suited for street tricks and ramp skating.
Almost Skateboards Complete stands out with its lightweight build and a variety of artistic designs, making it a favorite among younger skaters. It emphasizes ease of maneuverability, allowing for creative tricks and comfortable rides.
Bamboo Skateboards Complete is an environmentally friendly option that does not compromise on performance. The use of bamboo not only reduces the carbon footprint but also results in a surprisingly lightweight and sturdy skateboard ideal for casual cruising and trick riding.
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