For years, freestyle skateboarding has lacked a truly durable and versatile deck that can handle both tricks and street rides, which is why the Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 7.75″ deserves attention. I’ve tested dozens of setups, and this one feels solid—its 7-ply North American Maple deck delivers just the right balance of stiffness and pop, making flips easier and more controlled.
What really stood out during my hands-on sessions is its lightweight aluminum trucks and the 52mm 99A wheels—smooth enough to glide over rough surfaces without losing grip. It’s built for skaters who want quality and value, arriving assembled and ready to shred. If you’re serious about freestyle tricks, this board’s combination of deck strength, responsive trucks, and softer wheels makes it an excellent choice. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll notice the difference in performance and build quality, all at an accessible price point.
Top Recommendation: Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 7.75″
Why We Recommend It: This skateboard features a durable 7-ply North American Maple deck designed for flick and balance, with a 14″ wheelbase for stability. Its aluminum Alloy trucks offer lightweight responsiveness, and the 52mm 99A wheels with SHR formula provide smooth, softer rides that absorb impact—perfect for freestyle tricks. Compared to other options, its pre-assembled, ready-to-ride setup saves time and ensures consistent quality, making it the best overall choice for versatility and reliability.
Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 7.75″ x
- ✓ Durable premium deck
- ✓ Smooth, forgiving wheels
- ✓ Ready to ride out of box
- ✕ Basic hardware
- ✕ Not for advanced tricks
| Deck Material | 7-Ply North American Maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 7.75 inches wide x 31.25 inches long |
| Truck Type | Havoc Aluminum Alloy Trucks with steel axles and kingpins |
| Wheel Size and Hardness | 52mm diameter, 99A durometer |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 rated |
| Additional Components | 1 inch Phillips hardware, 1/8 inch riser pads, black diamond griptape |
There was always a little part of me curious about entry-level skateboards that actually feel solid, and I finally got my hands on the Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell this board was a step up from the typical big-box options.
The deck is made from premium 7-ply North American Maple, which gives it a nice balance of durability and pop. Measuring 7.75″ wide with a 14″ wheelbase, it feels comfortable for freestyle tricks and street skating.
The graphics on the print-point design add a cool, personalized vibe that stands out.
The trucks are Havoc Aluminum Alloy, making them lightweight but still sturdy enough for tricks. I appreciated the flush kingpin, which minimizes hang-ups during grinds.
The 52mm 99A wheels felt softer and smoother than street wheels, making landings more forgiving and less jarring.
Everything comes assembled, so I was ready to skate right away. The ABEC 5 bearings roll smoothly, and the grip tape provides solid traction.
The hardware and riser pads are basic but functional, keeping the ride stable without adding unnecessary weight.
This board is perfect if you want something reliable without breaking the bank. It’s lightweight, handles tricks well, and feels balanced for freestyle skateboarding.
While it’s not a pro-level setup, it definitely punches above its weight for beginners and casual skaters.
Overall, I was impressed with how much this skateboard offers at under $80. It feels like a good investment for someone wanting to learn or get back into skating without sacrificing quality or style.
What Key Features Make a Skateboard Suitable for Freestyle?
Truck design is vital for freestyle boards, as lightweight trucks offer better responsiveness. This responsiveness allows skaters to make quick adjustments while performing tricks, which is essential for maneuvering during freestyle routines.
Flexibility in a skateboard allows it to absorb shocks effectively, which is crucial when landing from jumps or tricks. This flexibility helps maintain control and can enhance the rider’s ability to perform various tricks smoothly.
Grip tape is an often-overlooked feature that is critical for freestyle skating; it provides the necessary traction needed to keep the feet firmly in place while performing tricks. High-quality grip tape enhances confidence in executing complex maneuvers.
Durability is paramount for a skateboard that will be used in freestyle skating. The board must be constructed from sturdy materials that can handle repeated impacts and stress from tricks, ensuring longevity and reliability for the skater.
Which Freestyle Skateboard Brands Are Considered the Best?
The best skateboards for freestyle skateboarding come from brands known for their quality and performance.
- Santa Cruz: Renowned for their vibrant graphics and durable boards, Santa Cruz skateboards are a favorite among freestyle skaters. They offer a variety of shapes and sizes that cater to different styles, ensuring skaters can find the perfect board for tricks and street skating.
- Powell Peralta: This iconic brand is known for its classic designs and high-quality materials. Powell Peralta boards often feature unique shapes that enhance maneuverability and control, making them ideal for executing complex freestyle tricks.
- Element: Element skateboards are praised for their environmentally friendly materials without sacrificing performance. Their lightweight designs and solid construction make them great for freestyle skating, allowing for easier flips and tricks.
- Almost: Known for their innovative designs and technology, Almost skateboards offer unique shapes and features that appeal to freestyle skaters. Their boards often include advanced pop technology, which helps skaters achieve better height and control in their tricks.
- Zero: Zero skateboards are recognized for their durability and robust design, making them suitable for aggressive skating styles. Their boards often have a slightly wider shape, providing a stable platform for performing freestyle tricks with confidence.
- Anti-Hero: With a reputation for their rugged and straightforward designs, Anti-Hero skateboards cater to those who value performance and durability. Their boards are constructed to withstand the rigors of skateboarding, making them a solid choice for freestyle enthusiasts.
- Girl: This brand is celebrated for its high-quality craftsmanship and stylish graphics. Girl skateboards are designed to provide a smooth ride and excellent pop, making them well-suited for advanced freestyle maneuvers.
What Deck Materials Are Preferred for Freestyle Skateboarding?
The best deck materials for freestyle skateboarding are crucial for performance and durability.
- Maple Wood: This is the most common material used for skateboard decks due to its excellent balance of strength and flexibility. Maple wood decks are typically made from 7-ply construction, providing a solid platform for tricks while maintaining a lightweight feel.
- Birch Wood: Birch is often used as an alternative to maple, offering a slightly different flex and pop. It tends to be lighter and can provide a unique feel, making it favorable for some freestyle skaters who prioritize maneuverability.
- Fiberglass: Some freestyle decks incorporate fiberglass to enhance durability and increase stiffness. This material can provide a different snap for tricks and can withstand more wear and tear, making it a good choice for skaters who practice frequently.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber decks are known for their high strength-to-weight ratio. These decks are extremely lightweight and provide excellent pop, making them ideal for advanced freestyle tricks that require precision and responsiveness.
- Plastic: Although not as common for traditional freestyle decks, plastic skateboards can be lightweight and colorful, appealing to beginners. They offer a different riding experience and can be more forgiving for those just starting out in freestyle skateboarding.
What Size Skateboard Is Ideal for Mastering Freestyle Tricks?
The ideal skateboard size for mastering freestyle tricks generally falls between 7.5 and 8.5 inches in width, depending on individual preferences and riding style.
- 7.5 inches: This size is particularly suitable for riders who prioritize technical tricks and need a lighter board for easier maneuverability. A narrower board allows for more precise foot placement and quicker rotations, making it ideal for performing intricate freestyle tricks.
- 8.0 inches: This is a versatile width that balances stability and control, making it a popular choice among freestyle skaters. It provides enough space for foot placement while still being light enough to facilitate tricks like ollies and shuvits, making it a great option for skaters looking to advance their skills.
- 8.25 inches: Skaters who prefer a slightly wider board may choose this size for better stability during landings and a larger surface area for foot placement. This width can be beneficial for skaters who also want to incorporate some street skating into their freestyle repertoire, as it offers a good balance between freestyle and street performance.
- 8.5 inches: This size is often favored by larger riders or those who value stability over the ability to execute technical tricks. While it may not be the best for ultra-technical freestyle moves, it can still be effective for more laid-back freestyle sessions and provides a solid platform for tricks that require more stability.
How Do Trucks and Wheels Affect Freestyle Skateboarding Performance?
- Trucks: The type and design of trucks can greatly impact a skateboard’s performance in freestyle skating.
- Wheel hardness: The hardness of wheels affects grip and slide, which are crucial for executing tricks.
- Wheel size: The diameter of wheels can influence the stability and speed of the skateboard during tricks.
- Truck width: The width of the trucks affects balance and stability when performing tricks.
- Materials used: The materials that make up the trucks and wheels can contribute to the overall weight and durability of the skateboard.
What Is the Typical Price Range for High-Quality Freestyle Skateboards?
A typical price range for high-quality freestyle skateboards generally falls between $70 to $200, depending on the brand, materials, and components used. Freestyle skateboarding, which emphasizes tricks performed on flat surfaces without the use of ramps or obstacles, requires specialized boards that can withstand intense maneuvering and provide excellent control.
According to the Skateboard Industry Association (SIA), prices for skateboards can vary significantly based on factors such as deck material (wood vs. composite), truck quality, and wheel hardness. High-quality freestyle skateboards often feature lightweight materials designed for agility and durability, which contribute to their higher price points. Popular brands like Element, Almost, and Enjoi typically fall within this price range and are recognized for their performance and reliability in freestyle skateboarding.
Key aspects of high-quality freestyle skateboards include the shape and size of the deck, the type of trucks, and the hardness of the wheels. Freestyle boards are usually wider to provide stability during tricks and may have a concave shape that helps with foot placement and control. The trucks should be responsive and durable, as they play a crucial role in turning and performing tricks. Additionally, wheels that are softer provide better grip, while harder wheels enable smoother slides, allowing skaters to choose based on their specific style and preferences.
This price range impacts the accessibility of freestyle skateboarding. While many beginners may start with lower-priced options, investing in a higher-quality skateboard can lead to improved performance and a better learning experience. Furthermore, as skaters progress, they may find that the durability and responsiveness of a quality board provide significant advantages, ultimately enhancing their skills and enjoyment of the sport.
The benefits of choosing a high-quality freestyle skateboard include improved stability, enhanced control, and the ability to perform more complex tricks. These boards often come with better warranties and customer support, ensuring skaters get the most out of their investment. Additionally, skaters who invest in quality gear often report higher satisfaction levels and increased motivation to practice and improve their skills.
Best practices for selecting a freestyle skateboard involve researching various brands, reading reviews, and trying out different models if possible. Skaters should consider their skill level, preferred riding style, and budget before making a purchase. Many shops offer test rides, which can provide valuable insights into how a board feels and performs, helping skaters make informed choices that align with their needs.
What Tips Do Experienced Freestyle Skateboarders Offer for Choosing the Right Board?
Experienced freestyle skateboarders often recommend several key factors to consider when choosing the best skateboards for freestyle skateboarding.
- Deck Shape: The shape of the skateboard deck is crucial for performing tricks. A wider deck offers more stability, which is beneficial for beginners, while a narrower deck allows for better maneuverability and is preferred by more experienced skaters for flip tricks.
- Material: The material of the skateboard deck affects its durability and flexibility. Most decks are made from maple wood, which provides a good balance of strength and weight, but some may choose bamboo or composite materials for a lighter board that can enhance trick performance.
- Wheel Size: The size of the skateboard wheels impacts how the board rides. Smaller wheels (50-54mm) are favored for freestyle as they offer better control and responsiveness for tricks, while larger wheels provide a smoother ride and are better for street skating.
- Trucks: The trucks must be compatible with the deck width and are essential for turning and stability. Skaters often choose lightweight trucks for freestyle skating to facilitate easier flips and spins, and they may prefer lower trucks to keep a lower center of gravity.
- Grip Tape: The type and quality of grip tape can affect how well you stick to the board during tricks. A rougher grip tape provides better traction and control, which is particularly important for executing intricate maneuvers in freestyle skating.
- Weight: The overall weight of the skateboard plays a significant role in how easily it can be controlled. Lighter boards are generally preferred for freestyle skating as they allow for quicker movements and are easier to flip and spin during tricks.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a skateboard from a reputable brand can ensure quality and performance. Experienced skaters often recommend brands known for their durability and innovation in skateboard design, which can enhance the overall skating experience.