Kids Skateboards
Children’s Skateboards: Where Passion Begins
On this page, you have the opportunity to explore our range of skateboards for children and teenagers. We provide complete skateboards suitable for children of all ages and abilities. A child’s initial skateboard experience is often unforgettable. Recognising the potential for sparking a lifelong passion, we've compiled some tips to assist you in selecting the best skateboard for your child.
Essential Information About Children’s Skateboards
A children's skateboard is essentially a smaller edition of a standard skateboard. These come in sizes that are favourable to children, often referred to as mini skateboards, featuring narrower and shorter decks that enhance control. Options vary from beginner-friendly skateboards with softer wheels and bushings to more sophisticated skateboards, catering to older children ready to master tricks.
While the components of children’s skateboards are identical to adult skateboards, they are often adorned with vibrant graphics that appeal to young skaters. Many children begin skateboarding between the ages of 4 and 6, once they have developed adequate balance and motor skills.
Determining the Right Skateboard Size for Children
Selecting the appropriate size of skateboard for your child is crucial. Smaller children will find it easier to manage a skateboard that isn’t overly large. Conversely, a skateboard that is too small might feel unstable and overly energetic.
If your child intends to primarily sit or casually play, the deck width is less significant. However, if they aim to learn proper skateboarding, ensuring the deck size matches your child’s feet and body is imperative.
Ideal Skateboard Sizes for Trick-Hungry Children
For children planning to learn tricks or cruise effectively, consider the following:
- Width: The deck should be proportionate to the child’s feet. A deck that is too broad hinders leaning and steering, whereas a deck that is too narrow complicates balancing.
- Length: The deck should correspond to your child’s leg length, facilitating a natural stance.
Typically, deck width and length are correlated. Narrow decks are usually a bit shorter than wider ones.
For further insights, view our guide: Skateboard Size Guide.
What Sets Children’s Skateboards Apart From Adult Models?
While child-specific skateboards are smaller, they also differ in other ways from those designed for adults.
Wheel Softness
Soft skateboard wheels are ideal for those new to skateboarding. They accommodate uneven surfaces more effectively and minimise the risk of mishaps over pebbles or cracks. You can filter our range of skateboards by wheel softness. Lower durometer values (e.g., 80A) offer excellent softness, whereas higher values (e.g., 100A) offer more speed.
Bushings
Bushings, placed between the skateboard trucks’ hanger and baseplate, influence the ease with which a child can turn or manoeuvre the board. Our skateboards for kids typically feature bushings tuned for young riders. If turning seems too rigid, consider checking the tightness of the trucks.
Adjusting Kids' Skateboard Trucks
The trucks on children’s skateboards might feel looser compared to what adults usually expect, due to the lighter weight of children. However, a loose feel to you does not necessarily equate to a loose feel to your child.
Truck tightness can be adjusted with the nut at the centre of each truck:
- Tightening the nut results in stiffer, less responsive trucks.
- Loosening the nut provides more flexibility and responsiveness.
Soft Top Skateboards Explanation
Some skateboards designed for children feature soft tops, which help to prevent grazes and rashes, particularly for those who prefer sitting or playing on their board. Soft Tops are ideal for very young children and newcomers but may not suit those keen on performing tricks.
Safety Considerations for Child Skaters
Prioritising safety is vital. Selecting the right skateboard is just a part of ensuring safety; protective gear is equally essential:
- A well-fitted helmet is crucial for skaters of any proficiency.
- Elbow and knee pads prevent cuts and bruises, while wrist guards offer protection against common falls.
- Even in smooth areas, it’s crucial to oversee young skaters until they show adequate balance and control.
- Be wary of traffic - cars, bikes, and pedestrians should not interfere with your child's skateboarding pursuits.
Explore our collection here: children’s skateboarding protective gear.