How Much Does a Skateboard Cost: Complete Price Guide 2024
For many beginners and even some experienced riders, buying a skateboard can feel confusing. Prices range from very cheap to quite expensive, and the reasons are not always clear. If you’re wondering how much does a skateboard cost, you’re not alone. Understanding the price differences, what you actually get for your money, and how to choose wisely will help you avoid common mistakes and get the best value.
Skateboarding is more than just a hobby—it’s a culture, a sport, and sometimes even a lifestyle. Whether you want to cruise around your neighborhood or perform tricks at the skatepark, picking the right skateboard is important. Let’s break down the costs, explain what matters, and give you practical advice so you can shop with confidence.
What Affects The Cost Of A Skateboard?
The price of a skateboard depends on several main factors. Let’s look at each one.
- Type of skateboard – Cruiser, longboard, or trick skateboard.
- Quality of materials – Wood, plastic, or composite decks; steel or ceramic bearings.
- Brand reputation – Well-known brands often charge more.
- Complete vs. custom build – Buying a whole skateboard vs. buying separate parts.
- Where you buy – Local shops, online stores, or second-hand markets.
Knowing these factors helps explain why prices can be so different, even for boards that look similar.
Skateboard Types And Their Price Ranges
Skateboards come in several styles, and each has its own typical price range. Here’s a quick overview.
| Type | Typical Price Range (USD) | Main Use |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Skateboard | $40–$120 | Tricks, skateparks, street |
| Cruiser | $60–$150 | Casual riding, commuting |
| Longboard | $80–$250 | Downhill, long-distance, cruising |
| Electric Skateboard | $300–$2000+ | Motorized, commuting, fun rides |
Most beginners start with a standard skateboard or a cruiser. These are good for learning basic skills and are easier to handle.
Breaking Down The Cost: Complete Vs. Custom Skateboards
When you buy a skateboard, you can get a complete skateboard (already assembled) or build your own by choosing each part.
Complete Skateboards
A complete skateboard is ready to ride out of the box. They are often cheaper than custom builds, especially for beginners.
- Low-end completes: $40–$60. Usually made with cheaper materials, less durable.
- Mid-range completes: $60–$120. Better quality, good for most beginners and intermediate riders.
- High-end completes: $120–$180+. Premium materials, famous brands, often used by serious skaters.
Custom Skateboards
Building a custom skateboard lets you pick your deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape. This can be more expensive but gives you a board that fits your style.
Here’s a sample cost breakdown for a custom build:
| Part | Typical Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Deck | $35–$70 |
| Trucks (set) | $30–$60 |
| Wheels (set) | $20–$50 |
| Bearings (set) | $10–$40 |
| Grip Tape | $5–$10 |
| Hardware (bolts, nuts) | $3–$7 |
A custom build usually costs $100–$230 in total, depending on your choices.
How Quality Affects Skateboard Price
You may notice two boards with similar looks but very different prices. The reason is often quality.
- Deck material: Most boards use maple wood, but cheaper ones may use lower-quality wood or plastic.
- Trucks: High-quality trucks are stronger and lighter, making tricks easier.
- Bearings: Good bearings spin faster and last longer; ceramic bearings cost more but are smoother.
- Wheels: Hard wheels are better for tricks, soft wheels for cruising. Quality affects speed and grip.
Cheap boards can break easily or ride poorly. Spending a bit more on quality parts can save money in the long run.
Credit: stokedrideshop.com
Skateboard Brands: Do You Get What You Pay For?
Some brands are known for their quality and style. Others are cheaper but may not last as long.
Popular brands include Element, Santa Cruz, Powell Peralta, and Zero. These brands usually cost more but offer better durability and performance.
Budget brands often cut corners with materials or finish. If you’re just starting, a budget board is fine for learning. But if you want to advance, investing in a trusted brand can make a big difference.
Where You Buy Matters
Prices can change depending on where you shop.
- Local skate shops: Often have knowledgeable staff, support the community, but prices may be slightly higher.
- Online stores: Offer deals, sales, and wider selection. Be careful with unknown sellers.
- Second-hand markets: Used boards can be cheap, but inspect for cracks or damage.
Online shopping is convenient, but make sure to read reviews and check the seller’s reputation.
Extra Costs: Safety Gear And Accessories
Don’t forget about the extras. Skateboarding can be risky, so safety gear is important.
- Helmet: $20–$60
- Knee pads: $15–$40
- Elbow pads: $10–$30
- Wrist guards: $10–$25
Accessories like tools ($10–$20), backpacks ($30–$80), or stickers ($5–$15) add to your budget.
If you’re on a tight budget, focus first on safety gear. Injuries are much more expensive than pads.
Real-world Examples: Skateboard Costs For Beginners, Intermediates, And Pros
Let’s see how much you might spend at different levels.
| Skill Level | Recommended Setup | Estimated Total Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner | Mid-range complete + basic safety gear | $100–$180 |
| Intermediate | Custom build + upgraded safety gear | $180–$350 |
| Pro | High-end custom + pro safety gear | $350–$700+ |
Many beginners make the mistake of buying the cheapest board possible. These often break or don’t perform well, leading to frustration. Spending a bit more on quality can make learning easier and safer.
Non-obvious Insights: What Most Beginners Miss
- Cheap boards can cost more over time. Many low-cost boards wear out or break quickly. You may end up replacing them often, spending more than if you bought a better board at first.
- The right board improves learning. Quality trucks and bearings make tricks easier and help you progress faster. Poor-quality boards can slow your progress and even cause injuries.
- Second-hand pro boards can be a bargain. Sometimes, used boards from trusted brands offer great performance for less money. Inspect carefully for cracks, worn wheels, or damaged bearings before buying.
Smart Tips For Buying Your First Skateboard
If you’re ready to buy, here’s how to make a smart choice:
- Set your budget. Decide how much you can spend before shopping.
- Start with a mid-range complete. For most beginners, $60–$120 gets a reliable board.
- Don’t skip safety gear. Always include a helmet and pads in your budget.
- Ask for advice. Visit a local skate shop or ask experienced skaters.
- Check reviews. Online reviews can warn you about weak boards or parts.
- Avoid ultra-cheap boards. These often use poor materials and can be unsafe.
Should You Buy Online Or In-store?
Both options have pros and cons.
- Online: More choices, often lower prices, but you can’t try before you buy.
- In-store: Can test boards, get advice, and support local businesses. Sometimes prices are higher, but the service can be worth it.
For your first skateboard, visiting a skate shop helps you understand what fits your style and body size.
Electric Skateboards: Are They Worth The Price?
Electric skateboards are becoming popular for commuting and fun. But their prices are much higher—starting at $300 and going up to $2000 or more.
If you mainly want to cruise and commute, an electric board might be worth it. For tricks or skatepark use, stick with regular boards. Remember, electric boards need charging and maintenance, so factor those costs in.
Skateboard Maintenance: Hidden Costs
Maintaining your board is important for safety and performance.
- Replacing wheels: $20–$50
- New bearings: $10–$40
- Deck replacement: $35–$70
- Grip tape refresh: $5–$10
These costs add up over time, especially if you skate often. Regular maintenance extends your board’s life and saves money.
How To Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality
If you want to spend less but still get a good board:
- Buy last year’s models. Older designs are often discounted but still high quality.
- Look for bundle deals. Some shops include safety gear with the board.
- Check second-hand listings. Gently used boards from trusted brands can be a smart buy.
Avoid buying unknown brands or boards without reviews. Saving money up front can cost more later if you need to replace parts often.
Credit: stokedrideshop.com
Skateboarding For Kids: Special Considerations
If you’re buying for a child, look for boards with smaller decks and softer wheels. Kids’ skateboards usually cost $35–$80. Always include safety gear, and check for adjustable helmets.
Cheap boards for kids can be tempting, but make sure they are sturdy and safe. Kids learn faster and enjoy more with a board that fits their size and skill.
What The Pros Spend
Professional skaters often use custom boards with top-quality parts. They may spend $500–$1000+ per year, including maintenance and upgrades.
For most people, you don’t need to spend this much. A $100–$200 board is enough for learning and having fun.
Credit: onehundredtrail.com
External Resource
For more detailed technical information about skateboard parts and history, you can visit Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should A Beginner Spend On A Skateboard?
A beginner should aim for $60–$120 for a complete skateboard. Add $40–$100 for safety gear. This gives you good quality and safety without overspending.
Are Cheap Skateboards Safe?
Some cheap skateboards use poor materials and can break easily. They may be unsafe for tricks and fast riding. It’s better to spend a bit more for a reliable board.
Is It Better To Buy A Complete Skateboard Or Build Custom?
For beginners, a complete skateboard is easier and cheaper. Custom builds are better for intermediate or advanced riders who want specific features.
How Long Does A Skateboard Last?
A skateboard can last 6 months to 2 years depending on quality and how often you skate. Cheap boards wear out faster, while quality boards last longer with proper maintenance.
What Is The Most Expensive Part Of A Skateboard?
Usually, the deck or trucks are the most expensive parts. High-end decks and pro trucks can cost $70 or more each. Bearings and wheels are cheaper but still affect performance.
Choosing a skateboard is not just about price. The right board lets you learn, enjoy, and stay safe. With this guide, you can shop smart and get the best value for your money. Remember, quality matters more than low price, and safety should always come first.
Happy skating!
