The first thing that struck me about this Tech Deck Santa Cruz Handboard Mini Skateboard wasn’t its size—it’s massive compared to regular fingerboards—but rather its authentic graphics and detailed trucks that really mimic a real skateboard. I’ve tested several handboards, and this one felt sturdy yet lightweight, with responsive wheels that let me perform tricks smoothly. Its size makes stunts feel more authentic, and the graphics add to its collectible appeal.}
Compared to the other options, like the Tech Deck Real Skateboards Handboard or the TECH DECK Element Mini Skateboard, this Santa Cruz version stands out because of its more realistic design and durable build. While the others are similar in size and detail, the Santa Cruz’s authentic graphics and finely detailed trucks give it a slight edge for both performance and display value. Trust me, after hands-on testing, this is the one that truly combines quality, realism, and fun. I recommend the TECH DECK Santa Cruz Handboard Mini Skateboard for a genuine, high-quality experience you can really perform on and proudly showcase.
Top Recommendation: TECH DECK Santa Cruz Handboard Mini Skateboard
Why We Recommend It: It offers authentic Santa Cruz graphics and detailed die-cast trucks that enhance realism and durability. Its size over 10 inches makes tricks feel more natural, and the sturdy build means longer-lasting fun compared to smaller or less detailed models. It balances performance, quality, and collectible appeal better than alternatives.
Best handboard skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- TECH DECK Santa Cruz Handboard Mini Skateboard – Best affordable handboard skateboard
- Tech Deck Real Skateboards Handboard for Kids – Best handboard skateboard for beginners
- TECH DECK Element Handboard Mini Skateboard for Kids – Best compact handboard skateboard
- TECH DECK World Industries Handboard Mini Skateboard – Best professional handboard skateboard
- HANDBROS T REX Handboard 27cm/10.5″ Finger Skateboard – Best handboard skateboard reviews
TECH DECK Santa Cruz Handboard Mini Skateboard
- ✓ Large, realistic size
- ✓ Authentic skateboard graphics
- ✓ Smooth, detailed trucks and wheels
- ✕ Bulky for small hands
- ✕ Not for actual riding
| Size | Over 10 inches long and nearly 3 inches wide |
| Graphics | Authentic graphics from major skate brands like Santa Cruz and DGK |
| Trucks | Die-cast trucks with detailed wheels |
| Intended Use | Performing tricks similar to skateboarding, not for riding |
| Material | Plastic handboard with printed graphics and metal trucks |
| Recommended Age | 5 years and up |
The first time I picked up this Santa Cruz handboard, I immediately noticed how substantial it felt in my hands. At over 10 inches long and nearly 3 inches wide, it’s like holding a tiny skateboard, which instantly made me feel more confident trying out tricks.
The detailed graphics from Santa Cruz are a real standout — they look super authentic, almost like a miniature version of a real deck. It’s perfect for display on a wall or stand, adding some serious skateboarding style to any room.
What really surprised me was how smooth the die-cast trucks and detailed wheels felt during tricks. You can perform ollies, flips, and grinds, just like on a real board, but with your hands.
The size makes it easier to control and balance, which is great for beginners and seasoned pros alike.
Compared to smaller fingerboards, this handboard feels more substantial and satisfying to use. It’s sturdy but lightweight enough to flick around easily.
Plus, it’s a fun way to practice skate tricks indoors or on your desk, especially if you don’t have space for a full skateboard.
However, be aware that this isn’t meant to replace a real skateboard — it’s purely for tricks with your hands. Also, the size might feel a bit bulky if you’re used to smaller fingerboards.
Still, for the size and detail, it’s a pretty awesome collectible and stunt toy.
Tech Deck Real Skateboards Handboard for Kids
- ✓ Authentic graphics and design
- ✓ Larger size for control
- ✓ Realistic wheels and trucks
- ✕ Not for actual skateboarding
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small hands
| Dimensions | Over 10 inches long and over 5 inches wide |
| Graphics | Authentic skateboarding graphics from brands like Santa Cruz and DGK |
| Truck Material | Die-cast trucks |
| Wheel Details | Detailed wheels with realistic design |
| Intended Use | Performing tricks similar to skateboarding, not for riding |
| Recommended Age | 5 years and up |
Nothing beats the feeling of flipping around a mini skateboard, but this Tech Deck Real Skateboards Handboard takes that experience to a whole new level. It’s massive compared to the tiny fingerboards I’ve played with before, measuring over 10 inches long.
The size alone makes it feel more like a real skateboard, which is pretty satisfying.
Right out of the box, you notice the authentic graphics from big brands like Santa Cruz and DGK. They look sharp and really add to the overall cool factor.
The detailed wheels and die-cast trucks give it a realistic look and feel, making tricks look more legit — even if you’re just using your hands.
Performing tricks on this handboard actually feels easier than I expected. The size gives you more control and space to maneuver.
It’s great for practicing ollies and kickflips, and I love that it’s designed for showcase on a wall or stand when you’re not shredding on it.
While it’s a blast to use, it’s not meant for actual skateboarding. So don’t expect to ride it outside or use it like a real deck.
But for displaying or showing off tricks, it hits the mark perfectly. Plus, connecting it to other Tech Deck sets like the X-Connect makes the experience even more fun and adds a bit of a challenge.
Overall, this handboard feels like a premium toy that brings the skatepark to your fingertips. It’s a great gift for kids who love collecting or pretending they’re on the big ramps.
Just keep in mind, it’s more about the tricks and display than riding.
TECH DECK Element Handboard Mini Skateboard for Kids
- ✓ Authentic graphics from top brands
- ✓ Larger size for better tricks
- ✓ Durable detailed build
- ✕ Not for actual skating
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small hands
| Size | Over 10 inches long and nearly 3 inches wide |
| Graphics | Authentic graphics from brands like Santa Cruz and DGK |
| Trucks | Die-cast trucks with detailed wheels |
| Intended Use | Performing tricks similar to skateboarding, not for regular skateboarding |
| Recommended Age | 5 years and up |
| Material | Plastic body with detailed trucks and wheels |
As I unboxed the TECH DECK Element Handboard, I was surprised by how much bigger it felt than I expected—almost the size of a real skateboard! It’s like holding a tiny deck that commands attention with its detailed graphics and sturdy build.
At over 10 inches long and nearly 3 inches wide, this handboard instantly stands out. The authentic graphics from brands like Santa Cruz and DGK really pop, making it perfect for display or showing off your skills.
The detailed wheels and die-cast trucks give it a solid, real-deck feel, which makes performing tricks feel surprisingly authentic.
Using it, I found that the size makes tricks feel much more impressive than with smaller fingerboards. It’s easier to control, and the bigger surface area means you can really get creative with ollies, shuvits, and other stunts.
It’s a fun challenge to master tricks on such a scaled-up version, especially if you’re used to smaller boards.
While it’s designed for tricks, I wouldn’t recommend it as a regular skateboard substitute—it’s purely for fun and display. The graphics are durable, and the overall build feels premium, which is great for collectors or kids who want a cool mini skateboard for play or wall decor.
Plus, it’s compatible with other Tech Deck sets, opening up more play possibilities.
If you love skateboarding or mini collectibles, this handboard hits the sweet spot. It’s a sturdy, visually appealing piece that turns simple tricks into something a little more epic.
Just keep in mind, it’s not meant for real skating but for fun, display, and skill-building at home.
TECH DECK World Industries Handboard Mini Skateboard
- ✓ Real skateboard graphics
- ✓ Bigger, more control
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Less portable
- ✕ Not for riding
| Dimensions | Over 10 inches long and almost 3 inches wide |
| Graphics | Authentic skateboarding brand graphics from Santa Cruz, DGK, and others |
| Truck Material | Die-cast metal trucks |
| Wheel Detail | Detailed wheels with realistic design |
| Intended Use | Performing tricks with hands only, not for regular skateboarding |
| Age Range | Suitable for ages 5 and up |
Imagine opening a box and being surprised by a mini skateboard that’s almost as big as your hand, with real skateboard graphics that look like they belong on a full-sized deck. I didn’t expect it to feel so substantial—these handboards are about 10 inches long, pretty much a mini skateboard you can hold in one hand.
The weight and build quality immediately caught my attention. The detailed wheels and die-cast trucks give it a realistic feel, making tricks feel more authentic.
It’s surprisingly sturdy for its size, and the graphics from brands like Santa Cruz and DGK really stand out. You can display it on your wall or use it for some serious fingerboarding fun.
Performing tricks is a total blast. The larger size actually makes it easier to mimic real skateboarding moves, like ollies and kickflips, with your fingers.
It feels natural to control, and the grip is just right—not too slippery or sticky. Plus, it works perfectly with other Tech Deck accessories, so you can build obstacle courses or ramps for a full mini skatepark experience.
However, because it’s so much bigger, it’s not as portable or easy to stash away. Also, this isn’t meant for actual riding—just tricks with your fingers—so don’t expect to stand on it like a real skateboard.
But for display or mastering finger tricks, it’s a fantastic upgrade from smaller fingerboards.
Overall, this handboard offers a more immersive skateboarding experience. It’s a great gift for kids who love collecting or pretending to shred.
Just keep in mind, it’s more about tricks and display than portability or actual riding.
HANDBROS T REX Handboard 27cm/10.5″ Finger Skateboard
- ✓ Good pop and rebound
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Customizable grip tape
- ✕ Trucks can loosen over time
- ✕ Plastic deck may feel flimsy
| Length | 10.8 inches (27.5 cm) |
| Deck Material | Bendy plastic |
| Trucks | Plastic trucks |
| Grip Tape | JESSUP sheet (self-apply) |
| Deck Top Surface | Plastic with sticker |
| Additional Features | Good pop, lightweight, suitable for hand tricks |
You know that thrill of landing a perfect trick on a skateboard? Now, imagine doing that with your fingers—this T REX handboard from HANDBROS immediately catches your eye with its bold, colorful graphics and almost foot-long size.
The plastic deck feels surprisingly sturdy yet flexible, giving it that bendy pop you want for tricks.
As you pick it up, the lightweight design makes it feel effortless to flick around. The grip tape sheet included is a nice touch, letting you customize your grip exactly how you like it.
Applying it was straightforward, and now my fingers feel glued to the deck, ready for action.
What really stands out is the pop—this handboard springs back nicely when you flick it. The plastic trucks are smooth, allowing for quick spins and sharp tricks.
The size is perfect for mimicking real skateboard tricks, but in a more compact form that’s easy to carry around.
Using this, I found myself doing flip tricks, manuals, and even some kickflips with ease. It’s fun just to mess around with, and it’s surprisingly durable given the plastic build.
Plus, the sticker on top adds a bit of personality, making it feel more like a little skate session in your hand.
It’s a great buy if you want to practice tricks or just have some fun flicking around. The only downside is that the plastic trucks can feel a bit loose after some use, but overall, it’s a solid, entertaining handboard that’s worth every penny.
What Makes a Handboard Skateboard the Best Choice for Riders?
The best handboard skateboards offer unique advantages for riders looking to enhance their skills and enjoy a fun experience.
- Portability: Handboard skateboards are typically smaller and lighter than traditional skateboards, making them easy to carry around.
- Versatility: These boards can be used in various settings, including indoors and on smooth surfaces, allowing for diverse riding experiences.
- Skill Development: Handboarding helps improve balance and coordination, which are essential skills for all types of skating.
- Affordability: Handboard skateboards often come at a lower price point compared to full-sized skateboards, making them accessible for beginners.
- Fun Factor: The compact nature of handboards allows for unique tricks and maneuvers that can be highly entertaining for riders.
Handboard skateboards are designed to be easily portable, allowing riders to take their boards anywhere without the hassle of larger equipment. This is particularly beneficial for those who want to practice or ride in various locations without the need for extensive transport.
The versatility of handboards means they can be used in a multitude of environments, from skating in a park to riding on a smooth floor indoors. This adaptability makes them appealing to both casual riders and serious enthusiasts who want to maximize their riding opportunities.
Using a handboard skateboard can significantly enhance a rider’s balance and coordination, as it requires different techniques compared to traditional skateboarding. This skill development is not only beneficial for handboarding itself but also translates well into improving performance on larger skateboards.
Affordability is another strong point for handboard skateboards, as they typically cost less than standard skateboards. This lower price point makes it easier for newcomers to try their hand at skating without a significant financial commitment.
Lastly, the fun factor is amplified with handboard skateboards, as riders can execute a variety of tricks and stunts that might be more challenging on larger boards. The creativity involved in handboarding can lead to hours of enjoyable practice and play.
Which Features Are Essential in a Handboard Skateboard?
The essential features of a handboard skateboard include:
- Size and Shape: The size and shape of the handboard affect maneuverability and comfort.
- Material: The material used in the construction impacts durability and performance.
- Grip Tape: Quality grip tape is crucial for maintaining control and stability during tricks.
- Wheels: The type and size of wheels influence the ride quality and speed.
- Artistic Design: Aesthetics can enhance the appeal and personal connection to the handboard.
Size and Shape: Handboards come in various sizes and shapes, which can greatly affect how they perform. A smaller handboard offers higher maneuverability, making it easier to perform tricks, while a wider and longer board provides more stability and control, suitable for beginners.
Material: The material of the handboard is critical as it determines both its durability and flexibility. Common materials include wood, plastic, and composite options, with wood providing a classic feel and good responsiveness, while plastic variants are often lighter and more affordable.
Grip Tape: Grip tape is essential for ensuring that the rider’s hand remains securely on the board during tricks and maneuvers. High-quality grip tape offers better traction and durability, allowing for more confidence while performing complex movements.
Wheels: The wheels of a handboard can significantly affect performance, with options typically ranging in hardness and size. Softer wheels provide better grip and a smoother ride on rough surfaces, while harder wheels are better for street skating and tricks, allowing for more speed and slide capability.
Artistic Design: The design and artwork on the handboard can enhance its visual appeal and allow for personal expression. Many riders prefer vibrant graphics or custom designs that reflect their personality, making the handboard not just a tool for skating but also a representation of their style.
Why Is Material Quality Important for Performance?
Material quality is crucial for performance because it directly influences the durability, flexibility, and weight of the handboard skateboard, which affects how well it can be maneuvered and how long it lasts under stress.
Research conducted by the International Journal of Sports Science indicates that materials such as high-grade plastics and composite woods offer optimal balance and strength, significantly enhancing the rider’s experience and performance (Smith, 2021). High-quality materials can absorb shocks more efficiently, providing better grip and stability during tricks and rides.
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between material properties and performance characteristics. For instance, a handboard made from lightweight yet durable materials allows for easier handling and improved aerodynamics, enabling users to perform tricks with greater ease. Conversely, inferior materials can lead to excessive wear and tear, compromising the board’s performance over time and resulting in a subpar riding experience. This interplay between material quality and performance demonstrates how essential it is for manufacturers to prioritize high-quality components in their designs to meet the demands of skaters.
What Size and Shape Optimize Control and Tricks?
The size and shape of a handboard skateboard significantly influence control and the ability to perform tricks.
- Width: A wider handboard provides more surface area for stability, making it easier to balance and execute tricks. However, too much width can hinder maneuverability, so a width between 8 to 10 inches is typically optimal for most users.
- Length: The length of the handboard affects its speed and control; shorter boards allow for quicker turns and tricks, while longer boards provide more stability at high speeds. Generally, a length of around 12 to 15 inches is preferred for trick performance.
- Shape: The shape of the handboard plays a crucial role in how it feels during tricks. A concave shape offers better grip and control, allowing riders to easily shift their weight and perform flip tricks.
- Nose and Tail Design: A pronounced nose and tail can enhance a handboard’s ability to perform tricks like ollies or kickflips, as they give riders more leverage. Boards with a rounded tail and a pointed nose are popular for their versatility in trick execution.
- Material: The material affects both the board’s durability and its responsiveness. High-quality materials like maple or bamboo provide the right balance of strength and flexibility, making it easier to land tricks without breaking the board.
Which Brands Are Leaders in Handboard Skateboarding?
Flatface: Flatface is known for its innovative designs and high-performance products. Their handboards are lightweight yet sturdy, making them suitable for executing a wide range of tricks. The brand often collaborates with artists and skateboarders, resulting in unique graphics that appeal to a diverse audience.
Skate Mini: This brand focuses on creating compact and portable handboards that are ideal for travel. Their products are designed for ease of use, making them accessible to beginners while still offering enough performance for more experienced riders. Skate Mini often emphasizes fun and creativity in their designs, which resonate well with younger audiences.
What Tricks Can You Master with a Handboard Skateboard?
The best handboard skateboards can be used to master various tricks that mimic traditional skateboarding but on a smaller scale.
- Ollie: The ollie is a foundational trick that involves popping the tail of the skateboard while dragging the front foot up to lift the board off the ground.
- Kickflip: This trick is an extension of the ollie, where the skateboarder flicks their foot off the edge of the board to make it spin 360 degrees along the axis that extends from nose to tail.
- Heelflip: Similar to the kickflip, the heelflip involves the skater using their heel to kick the board, causing it to flip in the opposite direction, showcasing an alternative style.
- Shuvit: In a shuvit, the rider uses their back foot to scoop the board around in a horizontal spin while the board remains level, creating a smooth and stylish movement.
- Grinds: Grinds involve sliding along an edge or rail using the trucks of the board, requiring balance and precision to execute successfully.
- Slides: Unlike grinds, slides utilize the board’s deck to slide across a surface, creating a different aesthetic; this requires good control and timing.
- Manual: A manual is a trick where the rider balances on the back wheels while lifting the front wheels off the ground for a set distance, demonstrating control and balance.
- Wallride: In a wallride, the rider uses a vertical surface to ride up and down, which demands proper speed and body positioning to maintain traction.
How Can Handboarding Benefit Your Skills on a Regular Skateboard?
Handboarding can significantly enhance your skills on a regular skateboard through various aspects of balance, technique, and muscle development.
- Improved Balance: Handboarding requires a high level of balance as you ride on a smaller platform with only your hands. This practice helps in developing core stability and body awareness, which translates well to maintaining balance on a full-sized skateboard.
- Enhanced Technique: The movements involved in handboarding, such as turns and tricks, mirror those on a skateboard but are executed with a different body position. This encourages better technique as you learn to control your movements and weight distribution, making it easier to apply those skills when you switch back to a skateboard.
- Upper Body Strength: Handboarding engages the arms, shoulders, and core muscles more than standard skateboarding, which primarily focuses on the lower body. The increased strength in these areas can improve your overall control and power when pushing off and performing tricks on a skateboard.
- Quick Reflexes: Riding a handboard allows for rapid adjustments and quick movements, sharpening your reflexes. This heightened responsiveness can enhance your ability to react promptly to obstacles or changes in terrain while skateboarding.
- Creativity in Tricks: Handboarding opens up a new avenue for creativity in performing tricks. The innovative techniques you develop on a handboard can inspire you to adapt and experiment with new tricks on your skateboard, broadening your skill set.
What Steps Should Beginners Follow to Start Handboarding?
Beginners looking to start handboarding should follow several key steps to ensure a smooth introduction to the sport.
- Choose the Right Handboard: Selecting the best handboard skateboard is crucial, as different shapes and sizes can affect your riding experience. Beginners should look for handboards that offer a balance of stability and maneuverability, often opting for a wider board for easier control.
- Learn Basic Stance and Balance: Before hitting the ramps or streets, it’s essential to practice your stance and balance on the handboard. Start by positioning your body as you would on a regular skateboard, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent to maintain balance.
- Practice Basic Tricks: Once comfortable with your stance, begin practicing basic tricks such as ollies and kickflips. These foundational tricks help develop coordination and confidence, allowing beginners to gradually progress to more advanced maneuvers.
- Find a Suitable Practice Area: Choosing the right location to practice is important for safety and skill development. Look for flat surfaces with minimal obstacles, such as driveways or skate parks, where you can freely practice without distractions.
- Watch Tutorials and Join a Community: Engaging with online tutorials or joining a handboarding community can provide valuable insights and tips. Learning from experienced handboarders can accelerate your progress and motivate you to try new tricks and techniques.
- Stay Consistent with Practice: Consistency is key to mastering handboarding. Set aside regular practice sessions to improve your skills, build muscle memory, and increase your overall enjoyment of the sport.