Large stack of skateboards making you wonder which skateboard to pick

What’s a Good Skateboard Brand? A Guide for Beginners

If you’re new to skateboarding and looking for the best skateboard brand, you’re in the right place. With so many options, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. A good skateboard brand balances quality, durability, and performance while fitting your budget.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • The top five skateboard brands
  • How to start with a budget-friendly setup
  • When and how to upgrade parts
  • Where to get quality skate clothing to match your board

Top 5 Skateboard Brands

While many brands make great skateboards, these five consistently deliver high-quality decks, trucks, and wheels trusted by beginners and pros alike.

1. Santa Cruz Skateboards

Santa Cruz is one of the oldest and most respected brands in skateboarding. Known for their iconic graphics, high-quality decks, and smooth ride, they’re a solid choice for any skater. Their complete setups are great for beginners, but as you progress, you can upgrade individual parts to customize your board.

2. Element Skateboards

Element is a go-to brand for new skaters because of its durability and affordability. Their decks are designed to withstand hard landings, and they offer complete setups that are perfect for those just starting out. Plus, they focus on eco-friendly materials, making them a great choice for sustainability-conscious skaters.

3. Powell Peralta

Powell Peralta has been a staple in skateboarding since the 1980s. Their boards are built with cutting-edge technology, like their Flight Decks, which are lighter and stronger than traditional decks. They also offer great beginner completes with solid trucks and wheels.

4. Baker Skateboards

Baker is one of the most popular brands in modern skateboarding. Known for their stylish, durable decks and legendary team of pro skaters, Baker boards are perfect for those looking to progress quickly. While they don’t sell complete setups as often, their decks are worth the investment.

5. Zero Skateboards

Zero is known for its hardcore street skating influence and rugged deck construction. If you’re into pushing limits, their boards can handle heavy tricks and rough terrain. They also offer beginner-friendly complete skateboards at a reasonable price.

Start Cheap and Upgrade as You Improve

Many beginners think they need the most expensive skateboard to get started, but that’s not true. The best approach is to buy an affordable complete skateboard from a reputable brand and upgrade individual parts over time.

How to Save Money on Your First Skateboard

  • Choose a complete setup – A pre-built skateboard from a top brand is usually cheaper than buying each part separately. Brands like Santa Cruz and Element offer great beginner completes.
  • Avoid off-brand boards – Cheaper, non-skate brands found in big-box stores may look like a bargain, but they break easily and don’t perform well.
  • Check for sales and used gear – Local skate shops sometimes have sales on decks, trucks, or wheels, and slightly used gear can be a great way to save money.

When and What to Upgrade

Once you’ve been skating for a while, you’ll start noticing which parts wear out first or what could improve your setup. Here’s a simple upgrade path:

  1. Wheels & Bearings – Softer wheels for smoother rides, harder wheels for street skating. Bearings affect speed; better ones make your ride smoother.
  2. Trucks – Stronger, lightweight trucks help with grinds and turns. Upgrade when your stock trucks start feeling loose or unresponsive.
  3. Deck – When your first board chips or loses pop, replace it with a high-quality deck from one of the top brands listed above.
  4. Grip Tape & Bushings – These are minor upgrades that can make a big difference in control and comfort.

Get the Right Skate Clothing to Match Your Board

Now that you know what makes a good skateboard brand, it’s time to complete your look with high-quality skatewear. Strife Apparel makes durable, stylish clothing designed for skaters who push themselves every day.

At Strife Apparel, we believe in resilience, creativity, and giving back to the skate community. Our limited-run shirts and hats are made for skaters by skaters, ensuring you get gear that holds up to the streets.

Ready to skate in style? Check out Strife Apparel now and grab a shirt that represents your passion.

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