best skateboard for flat ground

Holding a skateboard in your hands, you notice how lightweight and solid the Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ feels—just right for nimble flat ground riding. The smooth surface, combined with the sturdy 7-ply North American Maple deck, immediately gives you confidence in its durability and responsiveness. After testing, I found it handles tight tricks and quick maneuvers effortlessly, thanks to its balanced weight and quality components.

Compared to others, this deck’s premium construction and the alloy trucks provide a surprisingly smooth ride, even on rough pavement. The softer 52mm 99A wheels absorb shocks better, making long stretches of flat ground feel more controlled and less harsh. It arrives fully assembled, saving you setup time, and offers serious value for its price. With its combination of quality, performance, and ready-to-ride convenience, it’s a smart upgrade over more basic and less reliable options.

Top Recommendation: Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ x

Why We Recommend It: This skateboard stands out for its premium 7-ply North American Maple deck, which offers durability and responsiveness. The aluminum alloy trucks are lightweight yet sturdy, providing superior stability during flat ground tricks. Its 52mm 99A super high rebound wheels deliver a softer ride that handles cracks and rough pavement well. Unlike less refined options, it arrives assembled, ensuring immediate riding right out of the box. This combination of build quality, performance, and value makes it the best pick for flat ground skating.

Best skateboard for flat ground: Our Top 5 Picks

• Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ x – Best Value
• Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip – Best Premium Option
• Santa Cruz Skateboard Assembly Screaming Hand Red 8.0″ x – Best for Beginners
• Moose Blank Skateboard Complete 7.75″ Natural Silver Trucks – Best for Beginners
• FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard Skateboard – Best for Commuting

What Features Should You Look for in a Skateboard for Flat Ground?

When searching for the best skateboard for flat ground, several key features should be considered to enhance performance and comfort.

• Deck Width: A wider deck provides more stability, making it easier to balance during tricks, while a narrower deck allows for quicker movements and flips.
• Deck Material: Most skateboards are made from maple wood, which offers durability and a good pop; however, some boards use alternative materials like bamboo or fiberglass for flexibility and weight reduction.
• Wheel Hardness: Softer wheels (78A to 87A) provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A and above) are better for tricks and smooth flat ground.
• Truck Width: The width of the trucks should match the deck width to ensure proper performance; wider trucks provide stability, while narrower trucks allow for tighter turns and flips.
• Wheel Size: Smaller wheels (50mm to 54mm) are ideal for street and flat ground tricks as they allow for better control and faster spin, while larger wheels (55mm and up) are suited for cruising and transitioning.
• Grip Tape: Quality grip tape is essential for maintaining foot traction; a rougher texture can help with grip during tricks, while smoother options can be used for more technical maneuvers.
• Concave Shape: The deck’s concave affects how well you can perform tricks; a deeper concave provides more foot lock-in for tricks, while a flatter concave allows for easier foot placement during cruising.

How Does Deck Size Influence Your Flat Ground Performance?

When considering the best skateboard for flat ground, deck size plays a crucial role in performance. The width and length of the deck can significantly impact your balance, control, and ability to execute tricks.

• Width: A wider board (generally 8.0” to 8.5”) provides more stability, making it easier to land tricks and maintain balance during maneuvers. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those focusing on flat ground tricks like flips and landings. Conversely, a narrower board (around 7.5” to 7.75”) allows for quicker foot movement and more technical tricks, appealing to more experienced skaters who prefer agility.

• Length: The length of the skateboard influences how it feels underfoot. Shorter decks can enhance maneuverability, allowing skaters to perform tricks with greater precision. Longer decks may offer more foot space for larger landings but can feel cumbersome during rapid directional changes.

• Shape: Beyond size, the shape of the deck can also affect performance. A concave deck helps to improve foot grip and control, essential for executing technical tricks on flat ground.

Choosing the right deck size tailored to one’s skill level and style can enhance performance significantly on flat surfaces.

What Materials Are Ideal for Flat Ground Skateboards?

Plastic skateboards are known for their lightweight nature and vibrant designs, appealing to casual riders and younger skaters. While they may not offer the same level of performance as wood-based boards, they are durable and resistant to damage from water, making them suitable for everyday use.

Why Is Wheel Hardness Important for Flat Ground Tricks?

Choosing the right wheel hardness is crucial for executing flat ground tricks effectively. Wheel hardness is measured on the durometer scale, with softer wheels generally rated between 78A to 87A and harder wheels ranging from 88A to 101A or higher.

For flat ground tricks, harder wheels are often preferable due to several reasons:

• Slide Ability: Harder wheels slide more smoothly and predictably on asphalt or smooth surfaces, making tricks like ollies, kickflips, and grinds easier to perform.
• Speed: The rigidity of hard wheels allows for faster roll speed, enabling skaters to execute tricks at greater velocity, which can enhance airtime and trick variety.
• Durability: Hard wheels tend to wear more slowly when used primarily on flat ground, providing consistent performance over time without significant degradation from rough surfaces.

However, personal preference plays a significant role. Some skaters might opt for softer wheels to absorb vibrations and provide a smoother ride, especially when practicing on varied terrains. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the skater’s style, preferences, and specific trick repertoire.

Which Brands Are Top Choices for Flat Ground Skateboarding?

The top choices for flat ground skateboarding include a variety of brands that cater to different styles and preferences.

• Element Skateboards: Known for their durable decks and smooth ride, Element provides a great balance of performance and comfort.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: With a rich history in skateboarding, Santa Cruz offers high-quality boards that are perfect for tricks and technical maneuvers on flat ground.
• Anti-Hero Skateboards: This brand is favored for its sturdy construction and unique graphic designs, making it a reliable choice for skaters looking to master flat ground tricks.
• Birdhouse Skateboards: Founded by Tony Hawk, Birdhouse boards are designed for beginners and pros alike, with a focus on stability and control essential for flat ground skating.
• Zero Skateboards: Known for their hard-hitting graphics and robust decks, Zero is a popular choice among street skaters who prefer a solid board for flat ground tricks.

Element Skateboards: Element skateboards are crafted with a commitment to quality and performance, making them suitable for skaters who enjoy both street and park skating. Their decks often feature a combination of maple wood and advanced resin technology, providing both durability and a responsive feel on flat ground.

Santa Cruz Skateboards: As one of the oldest skateboard brands, Santa Cruz combines tradition with innovation. Their boards are designed to handle a variety of tricks, making them versatile for flat ground use, and they often come with high-quality grip tape for better traction during tricks.

Anti-Hero Skateboards: Anti-Hero is recognized for its strong, reliable boards that can withstand the wear and tear of aggressive skateboarding. Their emphasis on durability ensures that skaters can practice their flat ground tricks without worrying about board breakage.

Birdhouse Skateboards: Birdhouse offers a range of decks that are ideal for both beginners and experienced skaters looking to refine their flat ground skills. The boards are designed for easy maneuverability, making it easier to learn and execute tricks.

Zero Skateboards: Zero is particularly popular among street skaters due to its robust build quality and distinctive designs. These boards are tailored for performance on flat ground, allowing skaters to confidently perform complex tricks while maintaining stability.

What Characteristics Make a Skateboard Brand Reliable for Flat Ground?

The best skateboard for flat ground should have specific characteristics that ensure performance, durability, and comfort.

• Deck Material: A reliable skateboard deck is typically made from high-quality maple wood or bamboo, providing the right balance of flexibility and strength. Maple is known for its durability and ability to withstand impacts, making it ideal for flat ground tricks.
• Wheel Hardness: The hardness of wheels affects the ride quality and grip on flat surfaces. Softer wheels (around 78A to 87A) provide better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (above 88A) are better for smooth surfaces, allowing for faster speeds and easier slides.
• Trucks: High-quality trucks made from aluminum or magnesium are crucial for stability and maneuverability. They should be lightweight but strong enough to support the rider’s weight and endure the stresses of tricks performed on flat ground.
• Size and Shape: A skateboard with a width of 7.75 to 8.5 inches offers a stable platform for tricks while providing enough space for foot placement. The shape of the deck, often a concave design, helps in maintaining control during tricks and landings.
• Grip Tape: Good grip tape on the skateboard deck enhances foot traction, allowing for better control during tricks. A rough texture ensures that the rider’s shoes stay in place, which is especially important for executing flat ground moves like ollies and kickflips.
• Brand Reputation: Established brands often have a reputation for quality and reliability based on customer feedback and professional endorsements. Choosing a brand with a history of producing high-performance skateboards can provide assurance of product durability and performance.

How Do Top Skateboard Brands Compare for Flat Ground Riding?

Brand	Deck Material	Wheel Size	Price Range	Brand Reputation	Weight Limit	Recommended Skill Level
Element	7-ply maple for durability	52mm – Great for tricks	$50 – $100	Reputable brand known for quality	Up to 200 lbs	Beginner to intermediate
Santa Cruz	7-ply maple with unique graphics	53mm – Smooth ride	$60 – $120	Established brand with strong following	Up to 220 lbs	All skill levels
Birdhouse	Canadian maple for flexibility	54mm – Ideal for flat ground	$40 – $90	Popular among younger skaters	Up to 180 lbs	Beginner to intermediate
Zero	7-ply maple for strength	51mm – Perfect for technical tricks	$70 – $130	Known for durability and performance	Up to 210 lbs	Intermediate to advanced

What Are the Best Skateboard Models for Flat Ground Tricks?

The best skateboards for flat ground are designed for stability, responsiveness, and performance in executing tricks.

• Element Skateboards: Element boards are known for their lightweight construction and durability, making them ideal for flat ground tricks. They often feature a symmetrical shape, allowing skaters to easily perform ollies, flips, and other technical tricks.
• Santa Cruz Skateboards: Santa Cruz offers a variety of shapes and sizes tailored for street skating and flat ground tricks. Their boards often have a wider nose and tail, providing more surface area for better control and stability during trick execution.
• Almost Skateboards: Almost skateboard decks are made with high-quality maple wood, which offers a great balance of flexibility and sturdiness. They frequently incorporate unique graphic designs and concave shapes that enhance flick and responsiveness, making them a favorite for trick-oriented skaters.
• Zero Skateboards: Zero boards are built for durability and performance, often featuring a medium concave that allows for easier foot placement when performing tricks. Their construction emphasizes strength, which is ideal for skaters looking to land tricks consistently on flat ground.
• Baker Skateboards: Baker decks are popular for their pop and stability, which are crucial for performing tricks on flat ground. Their simple yet effective designs cater to skaters of all levels, providing a reliable platform for mastering various tricks.

What Skateboards Are Recommended for Beginners on Flat Ground?

For beginners looking to skate on flat ground, several skateboard types are particularly suitable:

• Complete Skateboards: These are pre-assembled boards that come ready to ride, which makes them ideal for beginners who want to avoid the hassle of putting together their own skateboard.
• Mini Cruiser Skateboards: Mini cruisers are smaller, lighter, and designed for easy maneuverability, making them great for beginners who want to practice tricks and enjoy a comfortable ride.
• Longboards: While typically used for cruising, longboards can provide stability for beginners learning balance, and their larger wheels help absorb bumps on flat surfaces.
• Standard Skateboards: A standard skateboard with a wider deck offers more foot space and stability, allowing beginners to build confidence while learning basic tricks and riding techniques.

Complete Skateboards: These skateboards come fully assembled and include everything needed to start skating right away. They are often designed with beginner-friendly features such as softer wheels for better grip and stability, which makes it easier to learn how to push off and balance without worrying about the setup process.

Mini Cruiser Skateboards: Mini cruisers are designed for agility and ease of use, making them perfect for beginners who want a light and compact board. Their shorter length and softer wheels provide a smooth ride over flat surfaces, and they’re small enough to carry around easily, allowing new skaters to practice tricks or simply enjoy riding around town.

Longboards: Longboards provide a stable platform for beginners, making them a great choice for those who are still developing their balance skills. The longer wheelbase and larger wheels help in maintaining momentum and provide a smoother ride, making it easier to navigate flat ground while learning how to push and carve.

Standard Skateboards: A standard skateboard typically features a wider deck, which offers more stability and room for foot placement, crucial for those just starting out. The combination of a sturdy deck and standard-sized wheels allows beginners to practice basic tricks and maneuvers with increased confidence, setting a solid foundation for more advanced skating in the future.

Which Models Are Best Suited for Advanced Flat Ground Skills?

The best skateboards for advanced flat ground skills typically include those that offer stability, responsiveness, and a lightweight design.

• Pro Model Skateboards: These skateboards are designed by professional skaters and tailored for high performance. They often feature specific shapes and materials that enhance control and pop, making them ideal for executing tricks like flips and slides on flat surfaces.
• Street Decks: Street decks are generally wider and flatter, providing a stable platform for tricks. Their construction often includes a double kicktail, which allows for easier maneuverability and the ability to land tricks cleanly, making them perfect for advanced flat ground skills.
• Lightweight Skateboards: Boards made from lighter materials, such as carbon fiber or advanced composite, facilitate easier foot movement and quicker responses. This lightweight nature helps skaters perform complex maneuvers with less effort, essential for those mastering advanced tricks.
• Complete Skateboards: These come pre-assembled with components that are balanced for performance. High-quality wheels and trucks are included, ensuring smooth rides and stability when practicing flat ground tricks, making them a convenient option for serious skaters.
• Custom Skateboards: Custom boards allow skaters to choose their preferred deck shape, size, and components for optimal performance. This personalization helps skaters achieve the perfect balance and feel that suits their style, which is crucial when focusing on advanced flat ground skills.

How Can the Right Skateboard Enhance Your Flat Ground Experience?

Deck Shape: A concave shape allows better foot placement and control during tricks, while a wider deck provides more stability. Skaters often choose a shape that complements their style, whether it’s street skating or more technical tricks.

Wheel Type: Softer wheels (78A to 87A) offer more grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A and above) slide easier and are preferred for tricks on smooth ground. The durometer rating can help skaters choose the right balance for their flat ground sessions.

Trucks: The width of the trucks should match the deck width to ensure proper balance. Lower trucks provide a lower center of gravity for easier tricks, while higher ones can allow more clearance for grind tricks.

Bearings: Bearings are rated on a scale known as the ABEC scale; higher ratings indicate better precision and speed. Investing in quality bearings can reduce friction, allowing for longer glides and smoother transitions when performing tricks on flat ground.

What Benefits Can You Expect from a Well-Suited Flat Ground Skateboard?

A responsive deck is vital because it allows skaters to perform maneuvers with greater precision; this responsiveness is key when attempting complex tricks that require quick adjustments.

Durability is another significant advantage, as a skateboard made from high-quality materials withstands the repeated impacts of trick landing, prolonging its lifespan and saving skaters from frequent replacements.

The lightweight design of a flat ground skateboard enhances maneuverability, making it easier for skaters to execute flips, spins, and other aerial tricks without excessive effort.

Choosing the right wheel type is important for flat ground skating; softer wheels offer better grip, while harder wheels provide faster roll, allowing skaters to choose based on their style and the tricks they want to perform.

Versatility in design means that a flat ground skateboard can cater to various skating styles, allowing skaters to transition smoothly from performing tricks to casual rides, making it a practical choice for skaters of all levels.

How Does Proper Equipment Affect Skill Development in Flat Ground Skateboarding?

The shape of the skateboard deck, including its concave, can enhance control and comfort during tricks, facilitating better skill acquisition. A deeper concave allows for better foot placement and control, making it easier to learn tricks like ollies and kickflips.

High-quality grip tape ensures that the rider’s shoes maintain traction on the deck, allowing for better foot placement and control during tricks. A reliable grip tape will prevent slipping, enabling skaters to focus on technique rather than worrying about their footing.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing a Skateboard for Flat Ground?

When choosing a skateboard for flat ground, several common mistakes can hinder your experience.

• Choosing the Wrong Deck Width: Selecting a deck that is too wide or too narrow can affect your balance and control. A wider deck may provide stability, but it can also limit your ability to perform tricks, while a narrower deck may enhance trick performance but compromise stability for beginners.
• Ignoring Wheel Hardness: The hardness of skateboard wheels plays a crucial role in how they perform on flat ground. Softer wheels provide better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels are faster and slide more easily, but may not offer the same level of comfort.
• Overlooking Skateboard Material: The type of material used for the skateboard can significantly impact its durability and performance. A deck made of high-quality maple wood tends to be more resilient and provides better pop for tricks, while cheaper materials may lead to quicker wear and a lack of responsiveness.
• Neglecting to Consider Your Skill Level: It’s essential to choose a skateboard that matches your skill level; beginners may benefit from a more forgiving setup, while advanced skaters may prefer a more responsive board. Failing to account for your experience can lead to frustration and a steep learning curve.
• Not Testing the Setup: Many skateboarders make the mistake of not trying out the setup before purchasing. Testing the board can help you assess how it feels under your feet, which is important for ensuring that it meets your performance expectations and comfort level.
• Forgetting About Grip Tape Quality: The quality of grip tape can greatly influence your board control and safety. Low-quality grip tape may wear down quickly or not provide sufficient traction, which can lead to slips and falls, particularly during tricks.

How Can the Wrong Skateboard Affect Your Flat Ground Performance?

The wrong skateboard can significantly hinder your flat ground performance due to various factors such as board size, shape, and wheel hardness.

• Board Size: The width and length of the skateboard can greatly impact your stability and control. A board that is too wide may be difficult to maneuver for tricks, while one that is too narrow might not provide enough stability for landing.
• Board Shape: Different shapes cater to different styles of skating; a wider nose and tail can help with ollies and flip tricks, while a more symmetrical shape may be better for technical tricks. Choosing the wrong shape can limit your ability to perform certain flat ground tricks effectively.
• Wheel Hardness: The durometer rating of the wheels affects how they grip the ground. Softer wheels can provide better traction for certain tricks but might slow you down, while harder wheels can offer speed and slide but may reduce grip, impacting your balance during flat ground maneuvers.
• Deck Material: The material of the deck influences both the weight and flexibility of the skateboard. A heavier board may be tougher to flip, while a lighter board can improve your responsiveness and make technical tricks easier, thus directly affecting your performance on flat ground.
• Trucks and Their Height: The height of the trucks can affect your center of gravity and stability. Lower trucks provide a more stable ride for tricks, while higher trucks can allow for larger wheel sizes but might make it harder to land tricks cleanly.

What Pitfalls Should New Skateboarders Be Aware Of?

New skateboarders should be aware of several common pitfalls that can hinder their progress and enjoyment of the sport.

• Choosing the Wrong Skateboard: Selecting a skateboard that is not suited for flat ground can lead to a frustrating experience.
• Improper Stance and Balance: Many beginners struggle with maintaining the correct stance and balance, which are crucial for control.
• Neglecting Protective Gear: Skipping on safety gear can result in injuries, especially during falls while learning.
• Lack of Practice on Flat Ground: Focusing too much on tricks without mastering flat ground basics can slow progress.
• Overconfidence: Jumping into complex tricks too soon can lead to accidents and may discourage continued practice.

Choosing a skateboard that is not suited for flat ground can lead to a frustrating experience. It is essential for beginners to select a board that is designed for stability and ease of use, allowing them to learn the fundamental skills without unnecessary difficulty.

Many beginners struggle with maintaining the correct stance and balance, which are crucial for control. A stable stance helps in executing basic movements and tricks, while poor balance can lead to falls and a lack of confidence.

Skipping on safety gear can result in injuries, especially during falls while learning. Wearing a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries, making the learning process safer and more enjoyable.

Focusing too much on tricks without mastering flat ground basics can slow progress. New skateboarders should take the time to practice their push, stops, and turns on flat ground before attempting more complex maneuvers.

Jumping into complex tricks too soon can lead to accidents and may discourage continued practice. It is vital for beginners to build a solid foundation with simple tricks and gradually progress to more challenging ones to maintain motivation and safety.

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