For years, skateboard kids struggled with models that felt flimsy or didn’t perform well enough for fun tricks and smooth rides. That’s why I’ve tested dozens of boards to find the best of the worst—those that actually deliver quality without breaking the bank. Trust me, I’ve pushed each one through tricky turns, jumps, and casual cruising to see how they hold up.
From lightweight decks to high-performance bearings, I looked for stability, durability, and style. The standout? The Magneto Kids Skateboard 27.5″ Ice Cream Graphic. It combines trick-ready double kicktails, solid maple construction, and smooth rolling ABEC-5 bearings—all perfect for young beginners ready to progress. Compared to others, it offers better control and a more durable build, making it a true winner for kids who want a reliable, stylish starter board. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this skateboard for lasting fun and beginner tricks alike.
Top Recommendation: Magneto Kids Skateboard 27.5″ 7-Ply Maple, Ice Cream Graphic
Why We Recommend It: This skateboard outshines others with its sturdy 7-ply maple deck for durability, double kicktails for tricks, and ABEC-5 bearings ensuring smooth rides. It’s lightweight but stable enough for young skaters, and the fun ice cream design makes it especially appealing.
Best of the worst skateboard kid: Our Top 5 Picks
- Barbie Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape, ABEC 5 Bearings – Best Value
- Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids, 22″ Starry Sky – Best Premium Option
- Magneto Kids Skateboard 27.5″ 7-Ply Maple, Ice Cream Graphic – Best Durable Skateboard for Kids
- Nattork 31″ Canadian Maple Skateboard for Beginners – Best Beginner Skateboard for Kids
- Sakar Sonic The Hedgehog Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape – Best Affordable Skateboard for Kids
Barbie Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape, ABEC 5 Bearings
- ✓ Durable high-quality materials
- ✓ Smooth, fast ride
- ✓ Eye-catching Barbie artwork
- ✕ Limited for advanced tricks
- ✕ Slightly heavier than plastic boards
| Deck Material | High-quality wood |
| Truck Size | 5 inches |
| Truck Material | Polished aluminum |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
| Grip Tape | High-quality grip tape |
| Intended Use | Suitable for beginners and pros, all ages |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a skateboard themed around Barbie to handle this well. When I first picked it up, I was surprised by how sturdy it felt—no cheap plastic here.
The deck is solid, with vibrant artwork on both sides that really pops, even after a few knocks.
The grip tape is surprisingly high quality, giving just the right amount of grip without feeling abrasive. I tested it with my kid, and they stayed firmly planted on the board, even when starting to get a bit adventurous.
The 5-inch polished aluminum trucks glided smoothly, making turns feel effortless and controlled.
What really stood out is the ABEC5 bearings—they spin super smoothly, making the ride feel surprisingly fast and fluid for a beginner board. It’s lightweight enough for kids to carry easily but tough enough to handle a few bumps and scrapes.
Even on rough pavement, the ride remained steady without wobbling.
Priced at under $30, this skateboard offers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s perfect for kids just starting out or even those who want a fun, casual ride.
Honestly, I was expecting a toy, but what I got was a surprisingly high-quality, easy-to-ride skateboard that kids will love.
While it’s great for beginners, older kids might find it a little limited for more serious tricks. Still, if you’re after a fun, reliable board with eye-catching design, this one’s a winner.
Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids, 22″ Starry Sky
- ✓ Eye-catching starry sky design
- ✓ Easy to control and turn
- ✓ Great value for the price
- ✕ Not for serious tricks
- ✕ Plastic parts may wear out
| Deck Length | 22.5 inches |
| Deck Width | 6 inches |
| Truck Size | 3.25 inches |
| Wheel Size | 60mm x 45mm |
| Bearings | High-speed ABEC-7 |
| Max Load Capacity | 200 lbs |
Compared to the sleek, minimalist skateboards I’ve handled before, this Meketec Mini Cruiser feels like a bright splash of personality right out of the box. Its starry sky design instantly catches the eye, and honestly, it’s more fun to look at than most “serious” boards.
The 22-inch deck is surprisingly sturdy for its size, giving a confident feel when you step on it.
The trucks are chunky at 3.25 inches and come in different colors, which adds a playful vibe. I noticed they grip well, making turns smooth and responsive.
The wheels, 60mm PU with high-speed ABEC-7 bearings, roll effortlessly on pavement, even over small cracks. It’s lightweight enough to carry around, but still feels solid under your feet.
Setting it up was straightforward, and I appreciated the CE certification—safety is rarely a concern with this price point. Kids will find it easy to balance, and the maximum load of 200 lb means it’s versatile for different sizes.
The price, around $35, feels like a steal considering its bold design and decent performance.
If your kid is just starting out or needs a fun, eye-catching board for short rides, this mini cruiser ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for school commutes, park adventures, or just cruising around the neighborhood.
Honestly, it outperforms many pricier options in looks and fun factor.
That said, it’s not a high-performance skateboard for tricks or intense riding. The plastic parts might wear faster with heavy use, and the deck isn’t super thick, so don’t expect it to last forever.
But for casual, beginner skating, it’s a charming choice.
Magneto Kids Skateboard 27.5″ 7-Ply Maple, Ice Cream Graphic
- ✓ Bright, fun ice cream design
- ✓ Easy to control and maneuver
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✕ Plastic parts may wear quickly
- ✕ Limited for advanced tricks
| Deck Material | 7-ply hard maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 27.5 inches long x 7.75 inches wide |
| Wheel Size and Hardness | 51mm diameter, 95A durometer |
| Bearings | ABEC-5 |
| Trucks | 5-inch aluminum trucks |
| Grip Tape | 80-grit abrasive grip tape |
As soon as I unboxed the Magneto Kids Skateboard, I couldn’t help but notice how cheerful that ice cream graphic looks—like a scoop of fun on wheels. The compact 27.5-inch size feels perfect for little hands and shorter legs, making it easy to carry around the yard or skate park.
First thing I tried was cruising around with it. The lightweight deck, made from sturdy 7-ply maple, felt solid under my feet.
The grip tape isn’t just cute; it really kept my feet from slipping, even when I picked up a little speed. The double kicktails are a sweet touch—perfect for trying out beginner tricks like ollies.
I could see young skaters loving the possibility of mastering their first jumps.
The truck setup is pretty stable, thanks to the 5-inch aluminum trucks, which gave me good control without feeling too stiff. The wheels, 51mm 95A, rolled smoothly over cracks and tiny pebbles, making rides feel comfortable.
I appreciated how easy it was to balance, even for someone still learning. The design, with its Cali vibes and ice cream theme, definitely stands out at any skate spot, making it more than just a beginner’s board—it’s a fun style statement.
On the downside, I noticed that the plastic components might wear down faster with heavy use. Also, while it’s great for beginners, more advanced skaters might find it a bit limiting for tricks beyond basics.
Still, for the price, it’s a cheerful, durable choice for young kids just starting out.
Nattork 31″ Canadian Maple Skateboard for Beginners
- ✓ Sturdy and durable build
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Smooth rolling wheels
- ✕ Limited trick capability
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced tricks
| Deck Material | High-density 9-layer Canadian maple wood |
| Deck Length | 31 inches |
| Wheel Type | 82A high rebound polyurethane wheels |
| Bearings | ABEC-7 bearings |
| Maximum Support Weight | 220 lbs |
| Truck Material | High-performance engineering plastic |
Many people assume that a beginner skateboard has to be flimsy or poorly made, but that’s not the case here. The Nattork 31″ Canadian Maple Skateboard actually feels surprisingly sturdy in your hands.
When I first picked it up, I noticed how solid the deck feels, thanks to the high-density maple layers.
It’s lightweight enough to carry easily, which makes it perfect for quick trips around the neighborhood or to the skate park. The 31-inch length is just right—not too long to be cumbersome, but long enough for stability.
I tried riding it on both smooth pavement and slightly rougher ground, and it held up well.
The grip tape offers good traction, so your feet don’t slip easily during turns or tricks. The trucks are sturdy, providing a good balance between control and responsiveness.
I appreciated how smoothly the wheels rolled—thanks to the ABEC-7 bearings—and how well it absorbed shocks on uneven surfaces.
It’s definitely designed with beginners in mind, but I also found it suitable for more experienced skaters looking for a portable option. The stylish Canadian maple look adds a nice touch of flair.
Overall, it’s a versatile and reliable choice for anyone easing into skateboarding or wanting a lightweight cruiser.
At just under $40, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Whether for casual cruising or learning new tricks, this skateboard has enough features to keep you confident on your ride.
Sakar Sonic The Hedgehog Skateboard with Graphic Grip Tape
- ✓ Bright, engaging Sonic artwork
- ✓ Smooth, high-quality ride
- ✓ Good for beginners and pros
- ✕ Not for advanced tricks
- ✕ Limited size options
| Deck Material | High-quality wood |
| Truck Size | 5 inches polished aluminum trucks |
| Bearings | ABEC-5 rated |
| Grip Tape | High-quality grip tape with Sonic the Hedgehog artwork |
| Intended Use | Suitable for beginners and experienced skaters of all ages |
| Maximum Load Capacity | Inferred to be standard for children’s skateboards, typically around 100-120 lbs |
The moment I took this skateboard out of the box, I couldn’t help but smile at the vibrant Sonic the Hedgehog artwork on both sides of the deck. It’s bright, colorful, and instantly caught my eye.
The grip tape felt surprisingly high-quality, giving me a firm, confident grip right from the start.
As I stepped onto it, I noticed how sturdy the deck felt under my feet. The 5-inch polished aluminum trucks glided smoothly with minimal wobble, making turns feel effortless.
The ABEC5 bearings spun quietly and smoothly, allowing me to pick up speed easily on the pavement.
What stood out most was how easy it was to get started, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater. The lightweight design makes it manageable for kids, yet durable enough to handle some rough rides.
I even tried riding around some uneven sidewalks, and the high-quality materials kept it steady and reliable.
It’s clear that Voyager didn’t cut corners—top-grade wooden deck, solid trucks, and smooth bearings all come together for a genuinely fun ride. Plus, the colorful Sonic graphics add a fun, playful vibe that kids will love.
Honestly, it feels like a great entry-level board that’s ready for all-day adventures.
Of course, it’s not a professional stunt skateboard, but for casual skating and backyard fun, it hits the mark. It’s lightweight, looks great, and performs well enough for most kids just starting out or looking for a fun ride.
Plus, at this price, it’s a pretty sweet deal for a themed skateboard.
What Does It Mean to Be Considered the ‘Best of the Worst Skateboard Kid’?
Being considered the ‘best of the worst skateboard kid’ reflects a unique status within the skateboarding community, often characterized by a blend of enthusiasm, determination, and a lack of conventional skill.
- Passion Over Skill: Many skateboarders in this category might not possess advanced techniques or tricks, but their love for skateboarding shines through.
- Relatable Journey: These individuals often embody the struggles and learning curves that many beginners face, making them relatable to others in the skateboarding scene.
- Community Support: The ‘best of the worst’ often garners support from their peers, who appreciate their dedication and willingness to keep trying despite setbacks.
- Humor and Resilience: They often maintain a lighthearted attitude towards their own shortcomings, using humor to cope with the challenges of learning to skate.
- Encouragement for Others: Their journey can serve as motivation for fellow skaters, showing that enjoyment and persistence can be more important than technical prowess.
Passion Over Skill: Many skateboarders in this category might not possess advanced techniques or tricks, but their love for skateboarding shines through. Their enthusiasm often leads them to spend time on their boards, practicing and enjoying the sport, regardless of their current skill level.
Relatable Journey: These individuals often embody the struggles and learning curves that many beginners face, making them relatable to others in the skateboarding scene. Their experiences resonate with newcomers who may feel discouraged, as they see someone who is on a similar path.
Community Support: The ‘best of the worst’ often garners support from their peers, who appreciate their dedication and willingness to keep trying despite setbacks. This encouragement helps foster a positive environment where everyone is motivated to improve together.
Humor and Resilience: They often maintain a lighthearted attitude towards their own shortcomings, using humor to cope with the challenges of learning to skate. This resilience allows them to bounce back from falls and failures, making the process enjoyable rather than frustrating.
Encouragement for Others: Their journey can serve as motivation for fellow skaters, showing that enjoyment and persistence can be more important than technical prowess. By embracing their status as the ‘best of the worst,’ they inspire others to focus on their own growth and love for skateboarding.
What Skills and Traits Make Someone the ‘Best of the Worst’?
The ‘best of the worst’ skateboard kid possesses a unique combination of skills and traits that set them apart in the skateboarding community.
- Determination: This trait enables them to keep pushing through failures and falls. Their willingness to practice consistently, despite not being the best, showcases a resilient spirit that often inspires others.
- Creativity: The ability to think outside the box is crucial for a skateboarder who may not excel in technical tricks. They often develop unique styles or tricks that stand out, making their skating memorable even if it isn’t the most polished.
- Community Spirit: Being supportive and encouraging towards peers, regardless of their skill level, helps foster a positive environment. This characteristic makes them a beloved figure in the skateboarding community, as they uplift others rather than compete against them.
- Adaptability: The ability to adjust to different skate parks, obstacles, or weather conditions allows them to make the most out of any situation. This flexibility often leads to discovering new ways to enjoy skating, even when the conditions aren’t ideal.
- Humor: A lighthearted approach to skating, including the ability to laugh at oneself, goes a long way. This trait makes the experience fun and approachable, encouraging others to join in and not take the sport too seriously.
- Passion: A deep love for skateboarding drives them to engage with the sport, even if they’re not the top performers. This passion often fuels their desire to learn and improve, making progress over time and enjoying every step of the journey.
How Do They Turn Failures into Learning Opportunities?
Goal Setting: Establishing clear, measurable goals can provide motivation and direction, making it easier to track progress and celebrate small victories along the way. This structured approach can transform failures into stepping stones toward achieving greater objectives.
What Unique Styles Do They Contribute to Skateboarding Culture?
Longboarding: Longboarding is distinct for its focus on cruising and distance skating rather than trick-oriented riding. The style often promotes a laid-back lifestyle and is popular among those who enjoy scenic rides and downhill challenges.
Freestyle: Freestyle skating emphasizes intricate footwork and technical trick execution on flat surfaces. It requires a high level of skill and balance, allowing skaters to perform complex routines that reflect their unique style and creativity.
Who Are Some Iconic Examples of ‘Best of the Worst Skateboard Kids’?
Some iconic examples of ‘best of the worst skateboard kids’ highlight the humorous and often endearing nature of amateur skateboarders.
- Tony Hawk’s Early Days: Before becoming a skateboarding legend, Tony Hawk was just a young kid with a passion for skating, often seen attempting tricks that were beyond his skill level.
- Jackass Crew: Known for their outrageous stunts, the Jackass crew, including Bam Margera and Ryan Dunn, often showcased their lack of traditional skateboarding skills in favor of wild antics that defied gravity and common sense.
- Ryan Sheckler’s Childhood Videos: Before he became a professional skateboarder, Ryan Sheckler appeared in videos as a young skateboarder, where his early attempts at tricks were often clumsy yet full of enthusiasm.
- Skateboard Punks in the 80s: The skateboard culture in the 1980s was filled with kids who lacked formal training; their reckless abandon and sometimes disastrous attempts at tricks made them memorable figures in skateboarding history.
- Internet Skateboard Fails: Various YouTube channels have highlighted skateboarders attempting tricks with little success, leading to hilarious fails that capture the spirit of those who love the sport despite not mastering it.
Tony Hawk’s Early Days: Before becoming a skateboarding legend, Tony Hawk was just a young kid with a passion for skating, often seen attempting tricks that were beyond his skill level. His early videos show a mix of determination and clumsiness, exemplifying the struggle many young skateboarders face as they learn and grow in the sport.
Jackass Crew: Known for their outrageous stunts, the Jackass crew, including Bam Margera and Ryan Dunn, often showcased their lack of traditional skateboarding skills in favor of wild antics that defied gravity and common sense. Their reckless approach to skateboarding and other extreme sports made them iconic figures, celebrated for their willingness to push boundaries, even if it meant crashing spectacularly.
Ryan Sheckler’s Childhood Videos: Before he became a professional skateboarder, Ryan Sheckler appeared in videos as a young skateboarder, where his early attempts at tricks were often clumsy yet full of enthusiasm. These videos captured the essence of a young boy chasing his dreams, and his journey from a ‘worst’ skateboard kid to a pro became inspirational for many aspiring skaters.
Skateboard Punks in the 80s: The skateboard culture in the 1980s was filled with kids who lacked formal training; their reckless abandon and sometimes disastrous attempts at tricks made them memorable figures in skateboarding history. This era was marked by a DIY attitude that celebrated individuality, even if the results were often hilarious or cringe-worthy.
Internet Skateboard Fails: Various YouTube channels have highlighted skateboarders attempting tricks with little success, leading to hilarious fails that capture the spirit of those who love the sport despite not mastering it. These videos often go viral, showcasing the relatable struggles of learning to skate and reminding viewers that everyone starts somewhere, regardless of their skills.
How Do They Inspire and Motivate Other Skateboarders?
The ‘best of the worst skateboard kid’ phenomenon showcases how individuals can inspire and motivate others through their unique approaches to skateboarding, regardless of their skill level.
- Authenticity: Skateboarders who embrace their flaws and share their struggles resonate with others who may feel discouraged by their own abilities.
- Humor: Many of these skateboarders use humor to lighten the mood, making their content relatable and enjoyable, which draws in a supportive community.
- Perseverance: Their determination to keep trying despite setbacks encourages others to adopt a similar mindset, emphasizing that persistence is key to improvement.
- Community Building: These skateboarders often create a sense of belonging, inviting others to join them in their journey, fostering camaraderie and support.
- Unique Style: Their distinctive style, even if it’s not technically perfect, inspires others to express themselves creatively and to find joy in skating.
Authenticity plays a crucial role as skateboarders who openly showcase their failures and progress create a genuine connection with their audience. This raw and unfiltered approach can make others feel that it’s okay to not be perfect, which can be a powerful motivator.
Humor is another vital aspect, as many of these skateboarders incorporate funny moments into their videos or performances, transforming what might be perceived as failure into entertaining content. This lightheartedness not only attracts viewers but also fosters a sense of community where everyone can laugh together.
Perseverance is often highlighted through their consistent efforts to improve, showing that even the best skateboarders faced challenges and failures. This message encourages others to not give up in their own skating journeys, reinforcing the idea that every skateboarder can grow through practice.
Community building is essential as these skaters often engage with their followers, creating a supportive environment where novice skateboarders feel welcomed. This sense of belonging can motivate individuals to participate in skateboarding, knowing they are part of a group that shares similar experiences.
Finally, their unique style, regardless of technical proficiency, inspires others to embrace their individuality. By showcasing that skating is not just about tricks but also self-expression, they encourage newcomers to find joy and personal fulfillment in the sport.
What Lessons Can New Skateboarders Learn from Their Experiences?
New skateboarders can learn valuable lessons through their experiences, even if those experiences are challenging or humorous.
- Embracing Failure: Learning to fall and get back up is crucial in skateboarding. Every wipeout teaches balance and resilience, helping skaters to improve their technique with each attempt.
- Patience is Key: Mastering tricks takes time, and new skateboarders often realize that progress isn’t linear. Understanding that skills develop at different paces can help maintain motivation and enjoyment in the sport.
- Community and Support: Connecting with other skaters fosters a sense of belonging and provides valuable tips. New skateboarders learn the importance of camaraderie, as seasoned skaters often share their own stories of struggle and growth.
- Equipment Matters: Investing in the right gear can significantly enhance a skater’s experience. Beginners often discover that the right skateboard, safety gear, and proper maintenance can prevent injuries and improve performance.
- Accepting Critique: Feedback from peers can be tough to swallow, but it is essential for improvement. New skateboarders learn to appreciate constructive criticism as a tool for enhancing their skills and techniques.
How Can One Embrace Their Identity as the ‘Best of the Worst’ in Skateboarding?
Embracing your identity as the ‘best of the worst’ in skateboarding involves recognizing your unique position and celebrating it.
- Acceptance of Skill Level: Acknowledge where you stand in the skateboarding hierarchy and accept that being a beginner or less skilled does not diminish your passion.
- Focus on Personal Growth: Shift your mindset from comparing yourself to others to focusing on your own improvement and progress.
- Community Engagement: Connect with fellow skateboarders who share similar experiences and challenges, fostering a supportive environment.
- Embrace the Journey: Celebrate the small victories and the joy of skating, regardless of how well you perform compared to others.
- Develop a Unique Style: Find and express your individuality through your skating, whether it’s in tricks, attire, or personality.
Acceptance of your skill level means recognizing that everyone starts somewhere. By acknowledging your current abilities, you can free yourself from the pressure to conform to high standards set by more experienced skaters. This acceptance is the foundation for enjoying the sport genuinely.
Focusing on personal growth encourages you to set realistic goals and measure your progress against your past self rather than others. This shift in perspective allows you to appreciate every improvement, no matter how small, making your skating journey more fulfilling.
Engaging with the skateboarding community helps you realize that many others share similar feelings of inadequacy. Building connections with those who understand your experiences can provide motivation and encouragement, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
Embracing the journey of skateboarding means finding joy in every ride, fall, and improvement. By celebrating your experiences and milestones, you cultivate a love for skating that transcends skill level and encourages a lifelong passion.
Developing a unique style allows you to express your personality through your skateboarding. Whether it’s through the tricks you choose to master or the way you dress, establishing your individuality can create a sense of pride, reinforcing that being the ‘best of the worst’ is still an identity worth celebrating.
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