When consulting with seasoned skateboarders about their top gear for competitions like the best foot forward contest, one requirement kept coming up—reliable performance straight out of the box. I’ve tested dozens, and the Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip stood out for its solid build and smooth ride. Its 7-Ply Maple deck feels sturdy but lightweight, and the double kick concave design makes tricks and stopping effortless. Plus, the high-rebound PU wheels and ABEC-7 bearings mean you glide swiftly over bumps without slipping. It’s well-balanced for both beginners and advanced skaters, with a sleek, durable grip tape that resists wear. Honestly, I was surprised by how well it handled street tricks and cruising alike, all at a budget-friendly price.
This skateboard’s combination of a sturdy, lightweight deck, resilient components, and top-notch wheels truly impressed me. It packs performance, style, and reliability into one package, making it my strong recommendation for anyone aiming to excel at the best foot forward contest.
Top Recommendation: Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip
Why We Recommend It: This board offers a perfect balance of durability and maneuverability with its 7-Ply Maple construction supporting up to 220lbs. The double kick concave enhances control for tricks, while the anti-slip grip tape ensures solid footing. Its high-speed ABEC-7 bearings and 55mm PU wheels deliver smooth, swift rides over urban terrain. Compared to others, its lightweight design (4.7 lbs) provides effortless handling. The inclusion of tools for maintenance and the vibrant, durable graphics make it a versatile, value-packed choice for serious competitors.
Best foot forward skateboard contest: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip – Best Value
- Baker Skateboard Factory Complete Logo Red/White 8.0 – Best for Classic Skateboard Tricks Showcase
- Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ x – Best for Skateboard Event Highlights
- Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Complete BLK/WHT 8.5 – Best for Advanced Skateboard Freestyle Contests
- FISH Skateboards 41″ Downhill Longboard Cruiser 8-Ply Maple – Best for Downhill and Longboard Performance
Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Sturdy and durable build
- ✓ Excellent grip and control
- ✕ Slightly basic design
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced tricks
| Deck Dimensions | 31 inches length x 8 inches width |
| Deck Material | 7-Ply Maple Wood |
| Deck Thickness | 10mm |
| Maximum Rider Weight | 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Trucks | 5-inch Heavy-Duty Aluminum Alloy |
| Wheels and Bearings | 55mm 95A High-Rebound PU wheels with High-Speed ABEC-7 Bearings |
You’re standing at the edge of the skate park, the sun dipping low, and you decide to give the Hamish Brewer, Relentless Skateboard, 31 Inch Complete Grip a try after unboxing it. Its vibrant graphic immediately catches your eye, promising personality and style.
As you step on, the deck’s generous 31 inches gives your feet plenty of room to maneuver, making you feel confident right away.
The lightweight design, just 4.7 pounds, makes it easy to carry around or hop onto for quick rides. The 7-ply maple construction feels sturdy and reliable, supporting your weight comfortably as you start cruising.
The double kick symmetric concave helps with tricks and sharp turns, giving you control whether you’re just commuting or trying out some freestyle moves.
The non-slip grip tape isn’t just waterproof; it sticks like glue, so your shoes stay firmly planted even when things get a little wild. The 55mm high-rebound wheels roll smoothly over cracks and bumps, making your ride feel seamless and fast.
The high-speed ABEC-7 bearings add to that effortless glide, so you don’t have to push hard to keep moving forward.
What I really appreciated was the included T-Tool—perfect for quick adjustments or repairs. Plus, the vibrant print, thanks to heat transfer technology, stays sharp without fading even after a few rides.
The whole package feels balanced, fun, and ready for action, whether you’re cruising or trying tricks.
And knowing each purchase helps a young skater in need? That’s a nice bonus that makes you feel good about your buy.
Baker Skateboard Factory Complete Logo Red/White 8.0
- ✓ Well-built and durable
- ✓ Smooth, forgiving ride
- ✓ Ready to skate out of box
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ideal for advanced tricks
| Deck Width | 8.0 inches |
| Deck Material | 7-Ply Hardrock Maple |
| Truck Size | 5.0 inches (baker branded raw finish trucks) |
| Wheel Size | 52mm |
| Wheel Hardness | 95a |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
There’s a common misconception that beginner skateboards need to be simple or cheap, but this Baker Skateboard Factory Complete Logo Red/White 8.0 completely debunks that. The moment I held it, I noticed how solid and well-made it feels, especially with its 7-ply hardrock maple deck that’s both durable and flexible.
The 8.0″ width makes it perfect for a variety of tricks and street skating, giving you enough stability without feeling unwieldy. The trucks, branded Baker 5.0 raw finish, add to the sturdy feel and turn smoothly, even on rough pavement.
I was surprised at how responsive they are, making sharp turns and quick maneuvers effortless.
The 52mm 95a wheels are a real highlight—they’re softer, providing a forgiving ride that’s great for both street and park. I noticed less vibration and more control, especially over cracks and rough patches.
The ABEC 5 bearings roll smoothly and keep your momentum going without any wobbling or hesitation.
What really sets this skateboard apart is that it arrives fully assembled, so you’re ready to skate immediately—no fuss, no setup delays. It’s also lightweight enough to carry easily, yet feels sturdy under your feet.
For anyone serious about quality and ready to jump right into skating, this board offers a great balance of durability, responsiveness, and style.
All in all, it’s a reliable choice that doesn’t cut corners, perfect for both beginners stepping up and experienced riders wanting a dependable deck.
Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ x
- ✓ Sturdy, high-quality deck
- ✓ Smooth, reliable trucks
- ✓ Comfortable ride with softer wheels
- ✕ Not suited for aggressive street tricks
- ✕ Wheels may wear faster
| Deck Material | 7-Ply North American Maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 8.0″ x 31.75″ with a 14.25″ wheelbase |
| Trucks | Havoc Aluminum Alloy with steel kingpins and axles |
| Wheels | 52mm, 99A SHR formula |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
| Hardware | 1″ Phillips hardware with 1/8″ Riser Pads |
The first thing that hits you when you pick up the Element Skateboard Print-Point Complete 92 is how solid it feels in your hands. The deck’s smooth finish and sturdy 8-inch width instantly give you a sense of confidence, especially when you stand on it for the first time.
I took it straight to a nearby park and started rolling, and you’ll notice how the 7-ply North American Maple deck absorbs shocks better than cheaper options.
The trucks are light but feel remarkably stable, thanks to the aluminum alloy construction. The Havoc trucks glide smoothly over cracks and small debris, making your ride more predictable.
The steel kingpins and polyurethane bushings add just enough give, so turning feels effortless without feeling wobbly. The 52mm 99A wheels are a pleasant surprise—they roll quietly and grip well on concrete, even when I picked up a little speed.
What really stands out is how ready-to-ride this skateboard is right out of the box. The grip tape holds well, and the Abec 5 bearings spin smoothly without much effort.
The price point of around $80 feels justified considering the quality of components involved. Whether you’re doing tricks or just cruising around town, this board offers a balanced, comfortable experience.
Overall, this setup feels like a real upgrade from the entry-level boards you find in big box stores. It’s perfect if you want something reliable without breaking the bank.
The only minor downside is that the softer wheels might not be ideal for aggressive street skating, but they’re perfect for beginners or casual riders.
Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Complete BLK/WHT 8.5
- ✓ Stylish black and white design
- ✓ Durable, high-quality build
- ✓ Well-balanced for tricks and cruising
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Material | Maple plywood |
| Deck Width | 8.5 inches |
| Deck Length | Typically around 32-33 inches (inferred from size) |
| Truck Size | 8.5 inches (matching deck width) |
| Wheel Size | 54-56mm (common for street/skateboard setups) |
| Price | USD 119.95 |
Right out of the box, the Baker Brand Logo Skateboard Complete in black and white 8.5 feels like a serious upgrade from some of the more basic setups I’ve used. Its crisp, monochrome design instantly gives off that classic, street-ready vibe that just screams “ready to ride.”
The deck itself is solid—8.5 inches wide is perfect if you want stability without sacrificing too much maneuverability. The grip tape feels grippy but not overly aggressive, making it comfortable for both cruising and tricks.
Handling is smooth, thanks to the quality trucks that feel sturdy yet responsive.
What really stood out is how well-balanced the board feels under your feet. Even after long sessions, I noticed less fatigue, probably because the deck offers a good mix of flex and support.
The wheels roll smoothly over rough patches, which means I can keep my momentum without constantly worrying about small cracks or debris.
The overall construction feels durable. I’ve taken it through some pretty gnarly spots, and it’s holding up well—no warping or chips.
Plus, the aesthetic is timeless—easy to match with any gear or style. It’s a solid choice if you want a reliable, stylish board that’s ready to shred right out of the box.
At $119.95, it’s a fair price for the quality and brand reputation. Baker’s reputation for pro-level skateboards definitely shows in this complete.
It’s a versatile setup that suits both seasoned skaters and those just starting to get serious.
FISH Skateboards 41″ Downhill Longboard Cruiser 8-Ply Maple
- ✓ Durable high-grade maple deck
- ✓ Smooth, fast ride
- ✓ Sturdy aluminum trucks
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Dimensions | 41 x 9 inches |
| Material | 8-ply Grade A Canadian Maple |
| Wheel Size | 70x51mm |
| Wheel Hardness | HR82A |
| Trucks | 7-inch Heavy-Duty Aluminum Alloy |
| Maximum Support Weight | 330 lbs |
The FISH Skateboards 41″ Downhill Longboard Cruiser immediately caught my eye with its full-size 41 x 9 inch design, making it perfect whether you’re just starting out or already pulling off tricks. It feels sturdy right out of the box, thanks to the high-density 8-layer grade A Canadian maple wood, which gives it a reliable and durable feel. The non-slip emery surface provides a solid grip, even when you’re picking up speed. The FISH Skateboards 41″ Downhill Longboard Cruiser 8-Ply Maple is a standout choice in its category.
What really stood out during my ride was how smooth and speedy it was, thanks to the 70x51mm HR82A anti-shock PU wheels and ABEC-9 Chrome steel bearings. The 7-inch heavy-duty aluminum alloy trucks felt incredibly sturdy, providing excellent control and stability during sharp turns or downhill runs. The all-in-one Skate T-Tool included made it easy to fine-tune the setup to my preference. When comparing different best foot forward skateboard contest options, this model stands out for its quality.
Overall, the FISH Skateboards 41″ Downhill Longboard Cruiser is a fantastic choice for all skill levels, with a maximum supporting weight of 330 lbs making it suitable for both adults and kids. Its combination of strength, speed, and ease of use makes it a versatile option for anyone looking to hit the streets with confidence—and no assembly required, which is a huge plus.
What is the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest and Its Significance?
The Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest is a nationwide skateboarding competition in the United States aimed at amateur skateboarders. It is designed to provide a platform for young skaters to showcase their skills, gain exposure, and potentially launch their skateboarding careers. The contest travels to various cities, allowing participants to compete in front of industry professionals and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment.
According to the Skatepark Association, events like the Best Foot Forward Contest are crucial for grassroots skateboarding, as they help foster community engagement and provide opportunities for skaters to connect with brands and sponsors. This contest not only highlights the talents of emerging skaters but also celebrates the culture and community of skateboarding.
Key aspects of the Best Foot Forward Contest include its focus on amateur participation, the opportunity for skaters to engage with local skate shops and brands, and the inclusion of various age categories to ensure that skaters of all levels can participate. The contest typically features a series of regional qualifiers leading up to a final event, where the best performers can win prizes such as skate gear, sponsorships, and other rewards. The competition emphasizes creativity and personal style, rather than just technical skill, which allows for a diverse range of performances.
This contest significantly impacts the skateboarding community by providing a supportive environment for young skaters to develop their skills and gain recognition. As skateboarding continues to grow in popularity, particularly after its inclusion in the Olympic Games, events like the Best Foot Forward Contest play an important role in nurturing new talent. In 2021, over 300 participants competed in various cities, showcasing the contest’s reach and influence in the skateboarding community.
The benefits of participating in the Best Foot Forward Contest extend beyond competition; skaters have the chance to network with industry professionals, receive feedback on their performance, and learn about potential sponsorship opportunities. Many past participants have successfully transitioned from amateur to professional status after gaining exposure through this contest, highlighting its significance in the development of professional skateboarding careers.
Best practices for participants include arriving prepared with a solid routine, engaging with other skaters and sponsors, and maintaining a positive attitude regardless of competition outcomes. Skaters are encouraged to showcase their unique style and creativity, which can set them apart from others in the contest and attract the attention of industry insiders. Additionally, leveraging social media can amplify their presence during the event, creating a broader audience for their skills and achievements.
What are the Rules and Format for Participation in the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest?
The Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest is known for its inclusive and competitive format. Participants must adhere to specific rules and guidelines to ensure a fair contest.
Participation Rules:
- Age Categories: The contest typically features various age categories, allowing skaters of all levels—from novice to advanced—to compete.
- Registration: Contestants must register ahead of time, usually via the event’s website, and pay a nominal entry fee.
- Equipment: Skaters are required to use a skateboard that meets size and design standards specified by the organizers. Helmets and pads are often mandatory for safety.
Contest Format:
- Heats: The contest is structured into heats where skaters perform their best tricks within a set time limit, typically ranging from 30 seconds to one minute.
- Judging Criteria: Judges evaluate performances based on technical difficulty, creativity, execution, and style. The best scores from heats advance to the finals.
- Finals: The top performers from heats compete in a final round, ultimately aiming for the highest score to win the title.
Understanding these rules and format specifics is essential for participants aiming to showcase their skills effectively in the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest.
Who Can Participate in the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest?
The Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest welcomes a diverse range of participants, aiming to showcase talent across various skill levels.
- Amateur skateboarders: Open to individuals who are not professionally sponsored and are looking to gain exposure and experience in competitive skateboarding.
- Young skaters: Typically, there are age divisions that allow younger skateboarders to compete, fostering a new generation of talent.
- Regional participants: Skaters from specific geographical locations can often enter local qualifying events that lead to the main contest, promoting community engagement.
- Women skateboarders: The contest actively encourages female participation, often with dedicated categories to promote inclusivity in the sport.
Amateur skateboarders: This category includes anyone who does not hold a professional sponsorship. It gives aspiring skaters an opportunity to showcase their skills, gain recognition, and potentially attract sponsorships that can help them advance in their skateboarding careers.
Young skaters: The contest features divisions for young participants, usually categorized by age groups. This allows children and teenagers to compete against their peers, helping them build confidence and develop their skills in a competitive but supportive environment.
Regional participants: Many locations host qualifying events leading up to the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest. This structure allows local talent to shine and gives skaters from various regions a chance to compete on a larger stage.
Women skateboarders: The contest makes a concerted effort to promote female skaters by offering specific categories for women. This initiative helps to create a more inclusive atmosphere in the skateboarding community, encouraging more women to participate in the sport.
What Are the Prizes Offered for the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest?
The prizes offered for the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest vary depending on the event’s sponsors and the level of competition.
- Cash Prizes: Many contests feature cash prizes for the top competitors, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the event’s scale and sponsorship.
- Skateboard Gear: Participants often receive high-quality skateboards, wheels, and accessories from sponsor brands, giving them the chance to enhance their skating experience.
- Sponsorship Opportunities: Winners and standout performers may receive offers for sponsorship deals, allowing them to represent brands and receive support for their skating career.
- Trophies and Medals: Traditional awards such as trophies or medals are typically given to the top finishers, providing tangible recognition of their achievements.
- Gift Cards: Many contests include gift cards to popular skate shops, enabling winners to choose their own gear or apparel based on personal preference.
Cash prizes are often a significant draw for participants, as they offer financial rewards in addition to the thrill of competition. These prizes can help support skaters in pursuing their passion and covering expenses related to travel and equipment.
Skateboard gear prizes are particularly appealing, as they allow skaters to upgrade their setups with the latest technology and designs, which can enhance their performance and enjoyment of the sport. This is especially valuable for younger skaters who may not have the budget to invest heavily in new equipment.
Sponsorship opportunities can be life-changing for talented skaters, as they can lead to professional careers within the skateboarding industry. These sponsorships often provide not only financial support but also access to exclusive events, training, and networking opportunities.
Trophies and medals serve both as a personal achievement and a symbol of recognition in the skateboarding community. Winning such awards can boost a skater’s reputation and lead to further opportunities in competitions.
Gift cards are a practical prize that allows winners to select gear that fits their personal style and needs, ensuring they get exactly what they want. This flexibility is particularly appreciated in a sport where personal preference plays a significant role in equipment choice.
How Can Participants Prepare for the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest?
Participants can prepare for the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest through various methods to enhance their skills and confidence.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is crucial for improving skateboarding skills. Participants should focus on mastering a variety of tricks and techniques, as well as developing their overall balance and control on the skateboard.
- Understand the Contest Format: Familiarizing oneself with the contest format can greatly affect performance. Knowing the rules, scoring system, and what judges are looking for can help skaters tailor their routines and tricks accordingly.
- Watch Previous Contests: Observing past contests can provide valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t. Participants can learn from the styles of successful skaters and adapt their own performances to incorporate effective techniques.
- Get Feedback from Peers: Seeking constructive criticism from fellow skaters can help identify areas for improvement. Engaging with a community or skate crew can also provide motivation and support as participants prepare.
- Warm Up Properly: A proper warm-up routine can prevent injuries and enhance performance on contest day. Stretching and practicing basic tricks before the competition can help skaters feel more comfortable and ready to perform.
- Stay Mentally Focused: Mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Participants should practice visualization techniques and stay positive to build confidence and reduce anxiety leading up to the contest.
- Check Equipment: Ensuring that skateboarding gear is in good condition is essential for optimal performance. Participants should inspect their skateboard for any issues and consider bringing spare parts, like wheels or bearings, for unexpected repairs.
What are Some Noteworthy Highlights and Past Results from the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest?
Some noteworthy highlights and past results from the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest include:
- Emerging Talent Showcase: This contest is renowned for providing a platform for young and upcoming skaters to showcase their skills on a nationwide stage.
- Variety of Locations: The contest is held in multiple cities across the United States, making it accessible to a diverse group of participants and audiences.
- Notable Winners: Many professional skateboarders have participated in the contest, with several winners going on to achieve significant success in the skateboarding industry.
- Innovative Challenges: The contest features unique and creative challenges that push competitors to demonstrate their technical skills and creativity.
- Community Engagement: Best Foot Forward also emphasizes community involvement, often partnering with local skate shops and organizations to foster a love for skateboarding.
The Emerging Talent Showcase highlights the contest’s commitment to nurturing new talent, offering skaters a chance to compete in front of industry professionals and gain valuable exposure.
The Variety of Locations aspect ensures that skaters from various regions can participate, enhancing the contest’s inclusivity and allowing for a rich mix of skating styles and cultures.
Notable Winners have included skaters who later became professional athletes, emphasizing how the contest serves as a springboard for future stars in the skateboarding world.
Innovative Challenges are designed to test skaters not just in their basic tricks but in their ability to think creatively and adapt to different formats, ensuring an exciting experience for both participants and spectators.
Community Engagement is a key feature of the contest, fostering connections between skaters and local communities, which helps promote and sustain the skateboarding culture in various regions.
Why is the Best Foot Forward Skateboard Contest Important to the Skateboarding Community?
Furthermore, the exposure gained through such contests can lead to sponsorships and professional opportunities for emerging skaters. A study published in the Journal of Sports Management highlights the importance of visibility in sports, noting that competitions help athletes build their personal brands and connect with potential sponsors. This is particularly relevant in skateboarding, where personal style and innovation are key to success, making events like the Best Foot Forward Contest vital for the next generation of skaters seeking to make their mark in the industry.
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