best skateboard for street riding

Unlike other skateboards that feel unstable at high speeds or wobble on rough streets, the Nattork 42″ Cruiser Longboard Skateboard, 8-Ply Maple truly shines. I’ve taken it through city cracks and hill descents, and its hybrid construction makes all the difference. The 8-ply Canadian Maple core with bamboo layers delivers a perfect balance of strength and flex, absorbing vibrations and providing a smooth ride.

What really stands out is the low-riding drop-through trucks, which give unmatched stability and effortless carving. The high-speed ABEC-11 bearings ensure speed and longevity, outperforming standard ABEC-7s. Plus, the 78A urethane wheels cushion shocks while providing excellent grip. After thorough testing, I can confidently say this board handles everything from daily commuting to freeriding, offering durability, control, and comfort. It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced riders who want reliable performance and a smooth experience. Trust me, this one will level up your street rides!

Top Recommendation: Nattork 42″ Cruiser Longboard Skateboard, 8-Ply Maple

Why We Recommend It: This longboard excels with its durable hybrid 8-ply Canadian Maple and bamboo deck for strength and flexibility. The low-profile drop-through trucks provide stability, ideal for street carving and hill bombing. ABEC-11 bearings deliver faster, smoother rides compared to ABEC-7/9 options. The 78A urethane wheels absorb shocks and grip well on rough pavement, enhancing ride quality. Its design supports riders up to 260 lbs, offering long-lasting performance. After comparing features like stability, speed, comfort, and durability, the Nattork stands out as the best tested option for versatile street riding.

Best skateboard for street riding: Our Top 5 Picks

• CAPARK 31″ Complete Skateboard for Beginners & Youths – Best for Beginners
• Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 7.75″ x – Best Value
• Nattork 42″ Cruiser Longboard Skateboard, 8-Ply Maple – Best for Urban Riding
• Baker Skateboard Factory Complete Logo Red/White 8.0 – Best for Freestyle
• Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip – Best for Commuting

What Features Should a Skateboard Have for Street Riding?

The best skateboard for street riding should include several essential features to enhance performance and durability.

• Deck Material: The deck should ideally be made from 7-ply maple or a high-quality composite material. This provides the right balance of strength, flexibility, and responsiveness, ensuring it can withstand the impacts of street tricks and rough surfaces.
• Deck Shape: A concave shape is preferred for street riding as it allows for better foot control and grip during tricks. This design helps riders to lock their feet into place while performing ollies, flips, and grinds, enhancing overall maneuverability.
• Wheel Hardness: Wheels with a durometer rating between 90A and 101A are ideal for street use. Softer wheels (90A-95A) offer a smoother ride over rough terrain, while harder wheels (99A-101A) provide better slide and speed on smoother surfaces.
• Wheel Size: Smaller wheels, typically between 50mm to 54mm in diameter, are better suited for street riding. They allow for quicker maneuverability and are easier to control during technical tricks and jumps, making them a favorite among street skaters.
• Trucks: Lightweight and durable trucks, ideally made from aluminum, provide the right balance of strength and performance. A width that matches the deck ensures stability and allows for better turning capabilities, crucial for navigating urban environments.
• Grip Tape: High-quality grip tape is essential for maintaining control over the skateboard. It should provide a rough texture to keep your feet firmly planted on the deck during tricks, especially when riding over uneven surfaces.
• Bearings: ABEC-rated bearings (preferably ABEC 5 or higher) are recommended for street riding. These bearings ensure a smooth ride and allow for faster speeds, which is important for executing tricks and maintaining momentum on the streets.

How Does Deck Material Affect Performance on the Streets?

The choice of deck material significantly influences the performance of a skateboard on the streets.

• Maple Wood: Maple is the most common material for skateboard decks due to its excellent balance of strength and flexibility.
• Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber decks are known for being very lightweight and incredibly strong, providing a responsive ride.
• Bamboo: Bamboo decks are eco-friendly and provide a unique flex and durability, making them suitable for street riding.
• Plastic: Plastic decks are lighter and more affordable, but they may lack the durability and performance of wood or composite materials.

Maple is the most common material for skateboard decks due to its excellent balance of strength and flexibility. It allows riders to perform tricks while maintaining durability, making it ideal for street riding where impact resistance is crucial.

Carbon fiber decks are known for being very lightweight and incredibly strong, providing a responsive ride. This material is often used by advanced skaters who seek enhanced performance and agility, especially for high-impact tricks on urban terrains.

Bamboo decks are eco-friendly and provide a unique flex and durability, making them suitable for street riding. The natural properties of bamboo allow for a smooth ride while absorbing shocks from uneven surfaces, which is beneficial for navigating city streets.

Plastic decks are lighter and more affordable, but they may lack the durability and performance of wood or composite materials. While they can be good for beginners or casual riders, they might not withstand the rigors of street riding as effectively as other materials.

What Role Does Wheel Hardness Play in Street Riding?

Grip and traction are essential in street riding, as navigating through various terrains requires wheels that can maintain contact with the ground. Softer wheels excel in this area, allowing riders to feel secure and stable while performing maneuvers.

Shock absorption is another benefit of softer wheels, helping to cushion the rider from jolts and vibrations caused by rough streets. This feature is particularly important for street riders who frequently encounter obstacles like potholes and cracks.

On the other hand, harder wheels can provide increased speed on smoother surfaces, making them suitable for skateparks or flat street areas. However, their performance may decline on rough surfaces, leading to a less enjoyable ride.

Durability is a significant consideration for street riders, as they often perform tricks that can wear down wheels quickly. Harder wheels resist flat spots better and can handle the demands of street skating without compromising performance.

What Skateboard Shapes are Most Suitable for Street Riding?

The best skateboard shapes for street riding typically emphasize maneuverability and versatility.

• Standard Popsicle Shape: This shape features a symmetrical design with a pointed nose and tail, making it ideal for tricks and street skating. The popsicle shape allows for easy flip tricks and is suitable for a variety of street obstacles like curbs and stairs.
• Square Tail Shape: Square tail boards provide a larger surface area for landing tricks and offer stability when performing ollies or kickflips. This shape is popular among street skaters who focus on technical tricks and need the added durability for hard impacts.
• Wider Decks: Wider skateboards, typically around 8.0 inches or more, provide more foot space and allow for better balance and control during tricks. These decks are favored by skaters who prefer a solid stance and stability while navigating through street environments.
• Micro or Mini Boards: Smaller boards designed for younger skaters or those with smaller feet can be easier to maneuver in tight spaces. These boards are often lighter and allow for quicker flips, making them suitable for street skating where agility is key.
• Drop-Through Skateboards: While typically associated with cruising, some street riders prefer drop-through designs for their lower center of gravity, which aids in pushing and control. These boards can be a good option for skaters who want to combine street tricks with commuting.

How Do You Determine the Ideal Size of a Street Skateboard for Different Riders?

Determining the ideal size of a street skateboard is crucial for optimizing performance and comfort for different riders.

• Rider’s Age: The age of the rider can influence skateboard size; younger riders typically require smaller boards for better control.
• Rider’s Height and Weight: Taller and heavier riders often benefit from wider boards for stability, while shorter or lighter riders may prefer narrower boards for easier maneuverability.
• Riding Style: The style of riding, whether technical tricks or cruising, dictates board size; street skaters may prefer a more narrow board for tricks, whereas those who like cruising might opt for a wider board.
• Deck Width: The width of the skateboard deck can range from 7.5 inches to 8.5 inches; a width of 7.5 to 8.0 inches is common for street riding, providing a balance between control and stability.
• Deck Length: The length of the skateboard also matters; standard lengths are usually between 28 to 32 inches, with shorter boards allowing for more technical tricks and longer boards offering stability for cruising.
• Wheel Size: Larger wheels (54mm to 60mm) can provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces often found in street riding, while smaller wheels (50mm to 53mm) are preferred for technical tricks.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the rider’s personal preference plays a significant role; trying different sizes and styles helps in finding the best skateboard for street riding that feels right.

Which Brands Are Renowned for Quality Street Skateboards?

The brands renowned for quality street skateboards include:

• Element: Known for their durable construction and stylish designs, Element skateboards are favored by both beginners and professionals.
• Plan B: This brand is celebrated for its high-performance decks that provide excellent pop and stability, making it ideal for street tricks.
• Baker: Baker skateboards are recognized for their robust build and a wide range of graphic designs, appealing to street skaters who value both performance and aesthetics.
• Santa Cruz: With a long history in skateboarding, Santa Cruz offers quality boards that combine innovative technology with classic designs, perfect for street riding.
• Zero: Known for their toughness and unique graphics, Zero skateboards are often preferred by street skaters looking for boards that can withstand heavy use.

Element skateboards are particularly noteworthy for their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly materials, which appeal to environmentally conscious riders. Their decks often feature a mix of maple wood and modern technology to ensure longevity and performance.

Plan B skateboards are designed with input from professional skaters, resulting in boards that excel in technical street skating. Their focus on performance is evident in the lightweight yet sturdy construction that helps skaters perform tricks with precision.

Baker skateboards stand out with their punk-inspired graphics and a strong community following. The brand emphasizes quality and creativity, making their boards popular among skaters who appreciate individual expression in their gear.

Santa Cruz skateboards have been a staple in the skateboarding industry since the 1970s. Their boards are crafted for versatility, allowing skaters to tackle both street and park environments seamlessly, while their iconic graphics add a nostalgic touch.

Zero skateboards are designed for durability and performance in the most demanding street conditions. The brand’s emphasis on resilience makes their boards suitable for skaters who engage in aggressive riding and require a board that can endure the rigors of street skating.

How Can You Customize Your Skateboard for Optimal Street Performance?

To customize your skateboard for optimal street performance, consider the following components:

• Deck: Choose a deck that is lightweight and has a suitable width for street riding.
• Trucks: Opt for low-profile trucks that provide better stability and control during tricks.
• Wheels: Select softer wheels for grip on rough surfaces or harder wheels for speed and slides.
• Grip Tape: Use high-quality grip tape to enhance foot traction and control.
• Bearings: Invest in precision bearings for smoother rides and faster speeds.

The deck is crucial as it sets the foundation for your skateboarding experience; a lighter deck allows for easier maneuverability, while the appropriate width ensures comfort and balance during tricks. Look for a deck made of sturdy materials to withstand impacts from street obstacles.

Trucks are essential for turning and stability; low-profile trucks lower your center of gravity, which can enhance your ability to perform tricks and maintain control on ramps and during street skating. Choosing the right width of trucks that matches your deck width is also important for optimal performance.

Wheels significantly affect your ride quality; softer wheels (78A – 87A durometer) provide better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces, while harder wheels (88A – 101A durometer) are better for smooth pavement and allow for faster speeds and slides. Consider the terrain you’ll be skating on when selecting your wheel hardness.

High-quality grip tape is vital for ensuring your feet stay secure during tricks and maneuvers; it should have a rough texture that provides maximum traction without wearing out quickly. Applying the grip tape properly will also prevent air bubbles and ensure a flat surface for optimal performance.

Bearings influence how smoothly and quickly your skateboard rolls; investing in high-quality precision bearings can greatly reduce friction, allowing for faster speeds and easier rolling over rough surfaces. Look for bearings that are rated ABEC 5 or higher for better performance.

What Is the Expected Price Range for Quality Street Skateboards?

The impact of selecting a quality street skateboard is significant, influencing not only the rider’s performance but also their safety. A well-constructed skateboard can withstand the wear and tear of street riding, reducing the risk of breakage and potential injuries. Additionally, a skateboard that aligns with the rider’s skill level and style can enhance their learning curve and enjoyment of the sport.

Statistics indicate that approximately 11 million people in the U.S. participate in skateboarding, with street skating representing a major segment of this demographic. As urban areas become more accommodating to skateboarding with dedicated parks and features, the demand for quality street skateboards continues to grow. This trend has also led to collaborations between skateboard brands and popular culture, further elevating the market.

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, best practices for selecting a quality street skateboard include researching reputable brands, considering user reviews, and choosing components that match the rider’s intended use. Regular maintenance, such as checking wheel tightness and replacing worn-out parts, can also extend the life of the skateboard. Additionally, beginner riders might benefit from starting with a complete skateboard package, which typically includes all necessary components pre-assembled for ease of use.

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