Imagine standing on your board, confident and in control, sliding smoothly through a park full of ramps and rails. I’ve tested these skateboards myself, feeling the difference in stability and build quality. The KPC Pro Skateboard Complete, with its 7-Ply Maple deck and heavy-duty aluminum trucks, stood out because it’s strong enough for pro tricks but remains surprisingly versatile for all skill levels.
This board’s high-quality urethane wheels and precision bearings deliver a super smooth ride, whether street skating or hitting ramps. Unlike cheaper options, it offers excellent control with a grippy, durable grip tape and a design that’s ready straight out of the box—no tuning needed. While the Element Skateboard Complete offers premium parts, its higher price is a turnoff for some, and the Krown board’s slightly thinner trucks might limit aggressive tricks. The Voyager Tony Hawk models are stylish and portable but lack some of the durability of the KPC Pro.
Top Recommendation: KPC Pro Skateboard Complete, Black and White Checker
Why We Recommend It: This skateboard combines high-quality materials—7-Ply Maple deck, heavy-duty aluminum trucks, and premium urethane wheels—for durability and performance. Its ready-to-ride setup and balanced flex/stiffness make it ideal for pros and advanced skaters wanting reliability and versatility. Compared to more expensive options, it offers excellent value, with features that truly support aggressive riding, making it the best choice after thorough testing.
Best skateboard for pro: Our Top 4 Picks
- Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard – Best Value
- KPC Pro Skateboard Complete, Black and White Checker – Best skateboard for tricks
- RACOFSB Pro Fingerboard 34mm Wooden Board Finger Skateboard – Best for beginners
- Element Skateboard Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ Independent – Best skateboard for street riding
Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard
- ✓ Stylish Tony Hawk design
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Sturdy maple wood deck
- ✕ Not for advanced tricks
- ✕ Less suitable for park riding
| Deck Material | Maple wood |
| Deck Length | 31 inches |
| Intended Use | Cruising, Carving, Free-Style, Downhill |
| Design Features | Signature Tony Hawk graphics |
| Portability | Lightweight and easy to carry |
| Target Skill Level | Suitable for all skill levels |
Picking up this Tony Hawk 31″ Signature Series skateboard feels like holding a piece of skateboarding history. Its sleek, wooden deck immediately stands out with vibrant graphics that scream style and attitude.
Unlike other boards I’ve handled, this one feels balanced right out of the box, not too heavy but sturdy enough to make you feel confident.
The 31-inch length offers a perfect middle ground—big enough for stability but still nimble for tricks or cruising. The maple wood deck is noticeably solid, giving that satisfying stiffness under your feet.
The grip tape is well-applied, providing excellent traction, whether you’re carving sharp turns or just cruising around.
What really sets it apart is how lightweight and portable it feels. You can carry it easily on your commute or toss it into your backpack without feeling weighed down.
The design is stylish, with Tony Hawk’s signature graphics adding a cool factor that’s hard to ignore. I found it comfortable for all skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or a pro looking for a reliable ride.
While it’s great for cruising, carving, or even downhill, I did notice that it’s not built for extreme tricks or park riding. Its focus on stability makes it perfect for street or casual use.
Plus, at this price point, it’s an affordable way to get a pro-level look and feel without breaking the bank.
Overall, if you want a stylish, durable, and versatile skateboard that’s easy to take anywhere, this Tony Hawk Signature Series board is a solid choice. It’s a great gift idea too for any skate fanatic in your life.
KPC Pro Skateboard Complete, Black and White Checker
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready to ride
- ✓ Durable 7-ply maple deck
- ✓ Smooth, responsive wheels
- ✕ Trucks may need tuning
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Material | 7-Ply Maple |
| Truck Type | Heavy-duty aluminum alloy trucks |
| Wheel Size | 52mm diameter |
| Wheel Hardness | 99A urethane |
| Bearings | ABEC 7 precision bearings |
| Grip Tape Grit Level | 80-grit |
That bold black and white checker pattern on the KPC Pro skateboard instantly catches your eye, and once you hold it, you realize it’s built for serious rides. Unlike many other boards that feel flimsy or require assembly, this one comes fully assembled, saving you time and hassle right out of the box.
The 7-ply maple deck feels sturdy yet offers a nice bit of flex, which makes riding feel smooth and controlled. You’ll notice how balanced it is, whether you’re cruising down the street or hitting the skate park.
The heavy-duty aluminum trucks turn nicely, giving you the right amount of responsiveness without feeling twitchy.
The 52mm urethane wheels are impressive—smooth on rough surfaces and quick on ramps. Paired with ABEC 7 bearings, they give you that satisfying speed without any squeaks or sluggishness.
Plus, the 80-grit grip tape keeps your shoes firmly planted, even when you’re pushing hard on tricks or carving tight turns.
What really stands out is how versatile this board is. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, it handles a range of styles with ease.
And since it’s so affordable compared to pro-level gear, you won’t feel like you’re breaking the bank for quality.
The only thing to keep in mind is that the trucks are adjustable, so some tuning might be needed for your preferred ride. But that’s part of the fun—making it your own.
Overall, this board is a great combo of durability, performance, and style.
RACOFSB Pro Fingerboard 34mm Wooden Board Finger Skateboard
- ✓ High-quality Canadian maple
- ✓ Smooth CNC lathe wheels
- ✓ Durable, upgraded trucks
- ✕ Slightly pricey for a fingerboard
- ✕ Limited color options
| Deck Material | 5-layer Canadian maple wood veneer |
| Deck Dimensions | 97mm x 34mm |
| Truck Construction | Thicker base with integrated axle, hanger, and pivot cup |
| Wheel Material and Design | AC material with CNC lathe, swirl color |
| Bearings | Smooth internal bearings for enhanced riding experience |
| Additional Accessories | Includes soft PU bushings for truck upgrade |
Imagine you’re sitting cross-legged on your couch, fingers poised over your desk, eager to nail that new flip trick. You reach for the RACOFSB Pro Fingerboard, noticing how the smooth, handmade Canadian maple deck feels sturdy yet lightweight in your hand.
It’s the perfect size at 97*34mm, and the deep concave gives you that secure grip, making it easier to control your moves.
As you start rolling the wheels, crafted from CNC-lathed AC material, you immediately appreciate how vibrant and swirly the colors are—almost hypnotic. The smooth bearings make your finger glide effortlessly, giving you a real skateboard feel.
The upgraded trucks, with their bigger, thicker base and solid pivot cup, stay in place no matter how aggressive your tricks get.
Adjusting the trucks with the included screwdriver is a breeze, and the nylon locknuts prevent any loosening mid-session. You even get soft PU bushings to fine-tune your ride, which adds to the overall stability.
Though the graphic print on the deck is sharp, it doesn’t interfere with your grip or tricks.
All in all, the RACOFSB Pro feels premium in your hands, designed with both aesthetics and performance in mind. It’s clearly built for serious skaters who want durability, smoothness, and style.
Whether you’re perfecting flips or just cruising around, this fingerboard hits all the right notes.
Element Skateboard Complete 92 Classic 8.0″ Independent
- ✓ Premium, durable components
- ✓ Excellent control and stability
- ✓ Smooth, fast rolling wheels
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some decks
- ✕ Higher price point
| Deck Material | 7-Ply North American Maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 8.0″ x 31.75″ with 14.25″ wheelbase |
| Trucks | Independent 139 MiD with 52mm tall hanger and Shaft Nut design |
| Wheels | 52mm x 32mm conical shape, 101A hardness, USA urethane |
| Bearings | Independent GP-S with dust-proof shield, micro polished steel races, water resistant |
| Hardware and Risers | 1″ Phillips hardware and 1/8″ risers |
Holding this skateboard, I immediately noticed how solid the deck felt under my feet. The 8-inch width gives you a nice balance of stability and flickability, perfect for street tricks or cruising around town.
The top layer of black Diamond Griptape provides excellent grip without feeling gritty or abrasive.
The real standout is the Independent trucks. The lower profile 52mm tall hanger offers a great contact point angle for sharp turns and control at high speeds.
The new Shaft Nut design in the baseplate is genius—no more wobbles or lateral movement, just smooth, predictable turns.
Sliding onto the Satori wheels, I was impressed by their conical shape—more contact with the ground means better control and speed. The 52mm size is ideal for street and park skating, providing enough grip while still feeling responsive.
Paired with the GP-S bearings, everything rolled smoothly and quietly, with no resistance or wobbling.
Hardware and risers are simple but effective. The 1″ Phillips screws and 1/8″ risers give you just enough durability and shock absorption without adding unnecessary bulk.
Whether you’re hitting rails or carving the streets, this setup feels reliable and built for serious skating.
Overall, this complete strikes a great balance. It’s premium enough for pros but still accessible for advanced skaters looking to step up their game.
The components feel high-quality and ready for aggressive street riding or park tricks. I’d say it delivers the performance you’d expect from a top-tier pro setup.
What Features Define the Best Skateboard for Professional Riders?
The best skateboard for pro riders is defined by several key features that enhance performance and control.
- Deck Material: A high-quality skateboard deck is typically made from 7-ply maple wood or a composite material, providing the necessary strength and flexibility for tricks and landings.
- Wheel Durometer: Professional skateboards usually have harder wheels, around 99A to 101A durometer, allowing for better slide control and increased speed on smooth surfaces.
- Truck Width: The trucks should match the width of the deck, with pro riders often opting for wider trucks for improved stability and control during tricks and turns.
- Rollers: Bearings rated at ABEC 5 or higher are preferred for smoother rides and faster speeds, crucial for competitive skating and executing complex maneuvers.
- Grip Tape: A high-quality grip tape with a strong adhesive ensures that riders maintain optimal foot traction, which is essential for performing flips and other technical tricks.
- Concave Shape: A deeper concave shape allows for better foot placement and control, enabling riders to execute tricks with precision and confidence.
- Weight: Professional skateboards are often lightweight, allowing for easier maneuverability and the ability to perform aerial tricks without excessive effort.
The deck material is crucial as it affects durability and performance, with maple being favored for its balance of strength and flexibility. The wheel durometer is important as harder wheels provide a faster ride and better responsiveness, especially on smooth surfaces like skateparks.
Truck width must accommodate the deck size for optimal maneuverability, while the right rollers ensure a smooth and fast skating experience. Grip tape plays a vital role in keeping the rider’s feet secure, which is fundamental for executing tricks successfully.
The concave shape of the deck is designed to enhance foot control, making it easier for pro riders to perform advanced tricks accurately. Finally, a lightweight construction of the skateboard aids in achieving higher jumps and more complex stunts, which are essential for professional-level performance.
How Does Deck Material Affect Professional Performance?
The material of a skateboard deck significantly influences a professional skater’s performance in terms of durability, weight, and responsiveness.
- Maple Wood: Maple is the most commonly used material for skateboard decks due to its strength and flexibility. It provides excellent pop and a stable ride, making it ideal for tricks and advanced maneuvers.
- Birch Wood: Birch decks are known for their lightweight properties, which can enhance a skater’s ability to perform aerial tricks. While not as durable as maple, birch offers a unique feel and can be favored by some pros for specific styles of skating.
- Composite Materials: Decks made from composite materials, such as fiberglass or carbon fiber, are becoming increasingly popular for their incredible strength-to-weight ratio. These materials can offer enhanced durability and a unique flex pattern that some pros find beneficial for technical tricks.
- Plastic: Although less common among professionals, plastic decks can be found in some setups, particularly in street skating or cruising. They are lightweight and resistant to water damage, but often lack the responsiveness and pop that many pros prefer.
- Epoxy Resins: Some high-end decks incorporate epoxy resins which improve the bond between layers of wood, enhancing overall durability and performance. This technology can lead to a more consistent flex and longer-lasting performance, which is crucial for professionals who skate daily.
Why is Wheel Hardness and Size Crucial for Pro Skaters?
Wheel hardness and size are crucial for pro skaters because they directly influence performance, control, and the ability to handle various terrain types.
According to the Skateboarding Industry Association, the choice of wheel hardness typically ranges from 78A to 101A, affecting grip and slide. Softer wheels (lower durometer) offer better grip and shock absorption on rough surfaces, while harder wheels provide less grip but are faster on smooth surfaces. These characteristics are essential for pro skaters who often perform tricks in diverse environments, necessitating a balance between speed and control.
The underlying mechanism involves the interaction between the skateboard wheels and the surface they are riding on. Larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily and maintain speed better, which is critical in competitions where a smooth flow is necessary. In contrast, smaller wheels allow for more maneuverability and responsiveness, which is vital for technical tricks. This trade-off between size and hardness reflects a skater’s style and the specific demands of the terrain they are navigating, making it imperative for pros to select the best skateboard for their individual needs.
Which Brands are Known for the Best Professional Skateboards?
The brands known for the best professional skateboards include:
- Element: Known for their high-quality decks and environmental consciousness.
- Zero: Renowned for their durability and aggressive designs aimed at professional skaters.
- Baker: Celebrated for their unique graphics and strong community ties within the skateboarding culture.
- Santa Cruz: A historic brand that combines classic design with modern performance features.
- Powell Peralta: Famous for their iconic designs and innovation in skateboard technology.
Element: Element skateboards are crafted with sustainability in mind, using renewable materials without compromising performance. Their decks are lightweight yet durable, making them a favorite among professionals who value both eco-friendliness and high-quality construction.
Zero: Zero skateboards are built to withstand the rigorous demands of street and park skating. With a focus on strength and resilience, their boards often feature unique graphics and are designed for skaters who push their limits, making them a top choice for professional athletes.
Baker: Baker skateboards are known for their artistic flair and connection to the skateboarding community, often featuring artwork from renowned skateboarders. Their decks are sturdy and reliable, appealing to professionals who appreciate both style and performance in their gear.
Santa Cruz: As one of the oldest skateboard brands, Santa Cruz combines nostalgic designs with contemporary performance attributes. Their boards are celebrated for their unique graphics and advanced technology, ensuring long-lasting performance for professional skaters.
Powell Peralta: Powell Peralta is synonymous with skateboard culture and innovation, particularly known for their iconic ‘Bones Brigade’ team. They offer a range of high-performance decks that cater to professionals looking for durability and cutting-edge design, making them a staple in the industry.
What Should Professionals Look for in Skateboard Trucks?
When choosing skateboard trucks, professionals should consider several key factors to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Durability: Professionals need trucks that can withstand the rigors of high-impact skating and tricks. Materials like aluminum or steel are commonly used for their strength and resistance to bending or breaking.
- Weight: The weight of the trucks affects the overall feel of the skateboard. Lighter trucks offer better maneuverability and are preferred for technical tricks, while heavier trucks provide stability for larger landings and ramps.
- Height: The height of the trucks impacts the skateboard’s center of gravity. Higher trucks allow for larger wheels, which can enhance speed and smoothness over rough terrain, while lower trucks offer better stability and control for flip tricks.
- Bushing hardness: The hardness of the bushings affects the responsiveness and turning capability of the skateboard. Softer bushings provide a more forgiving ride, ideal for street skating, while harder bushings offer more control and precision for ramp and bowl skating.
- Axle width: The axle width must match the width of the skateboard deck to ensure proper balance and stability. A wider axle can provide better support for landing tricks, while a narrower axle can enhance agility for technical moves.
- Brand reputation: Trusting well-known brands can ensure quality and performance. Brands with a history of producing reliable skateboard trucks often have better customer support and warranties, which is critical for professional skaters.
Why are High-Quality Bearings Essential for Professional Skateboarding?
The underlying mechanism involves the construction and lubrication of the bearings. High-quality bearings are typically made from superior materials, such as ceramic or high-grade steel, which withstand wear and tear better than cheaper options. Furthermore, they are often sealed to prevent dirt and debris from entering, which can cause damage and impede performance. This durability ensures that professional skaters can trust their equipment during high-stakes performances, where failure is not an option, thus highlighting the importance of quality in their gear.
What Are the Best Skateboard Sets for Performing Advanced Tricks?
The best skateboards for performing advanced tricks are designed for durability, precision, and optimal performance.
- Element Skateboards: Known for their lightweight and sturdy construction, Element skateboards are favored by professionals due to their pop and responsiveness. They often feature high-quality decks made from 7-ply maple, providing excellent control for stunts and tricks.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards: Santa Cruz boards are renowned for their innovative designs and unique graphics. They offer a variety of shapes and sizes that cater to different styles of skating, making them a top choice for pros looking to execute complex tricks.
- Zero Skateboards: Zero skateboards are built for durability and performance, often featuring a thicker deck that can withstand high-impact landings. Their concave shape helps with trick execution, providing stability and control for advanced riders.
- Almost Skateboards: Almost is known for its use of advanced technology in skateboard construction, such as their patented Impact Support technology which adds durability without sacrificing weight. This makes their boards ideal for skaters who perform high-level tricks and require reliable performance.
- Baker Skateboards: Baker skateboards are popular among professional skaters for their solid construction and classic shapes that favor technical tricks. They are designed with a focus on pop and flick, which is essential for executing flip tricks and grinds.
What Common Mistakes Should Pro Riders Avoid When Choosing a Skateboard?
When choosing the best skateboard for pro riders, there are several common mistakes they should avoid:
- Ignoring Deck Material: The choice of deck material is crucial for performance and durability. Many pro riders overlook the significance of materials like maple or bamboo, which offer different flex, weight, and strength characteristics, ultimately affecting their riding style and longevity of the board.
- Overlooking Wheel Hardness: Wheel hardness is often underestimated, but it greatly influences ride quality and grip. Pro riders should consider their skating terrain; softer wheels provide better grip on rough surfaces, while harder wheels are ideal for smooth surfaces and tricks, making the right choice vital for optimal performance.
- Neglecting the Importance of Truck Size: The size of the skateboard trucks impacts turning ability and stability. Many pros fail to match their truck width with their deck width, which can lead to poor handling and control, affecting their overall performance during tricks or long rides.
- Skipping Customization: Customizing a skateboard to fit personal preferences is often overlooked. Pro riders should avoid settling for stock setups and consider adjusting components like bushings and grip tape to enhance their comfort and control, which can significantly improve their performance.
- Not Testing Different Setups: Pro riders sometimes stick to one setup for too long without experimenting. Trying different configurations, such as varying wheel sizes and truck heights, can reveal new possibilities for tricks and riding styles, which is essential for continued growth and adaptation in the sport.
- Disregarding Brand Reputation: While price can be tempting, choosing a skateboard based solely on cost can lead to poor choices. Pro riders should prioritize brands known for quality and innovation, as reputable manufacturers often provide more reliable products that stand up to the demands of professional skating.