Skateboarding is a growing industry that is gaining popularity among teens and adults alike. A skateboard can bring hours of entertainment, but shopping for one might seem intimidating with the wide range of price tags out there.
Confused about how much you should expect to pay for a skateboard? With the right know-how, you will be able to find an affordable board without expending too much time or money.
In this article, we’ll break down all the important information so you can get an exact answer to your question: how much do skateboards cost? You’ll also learn tips on where to shop and what features are worth paying more for.
Different Types of Skateboards
If you are looking to purchase a skateboard, there are several types available. Cruiser boards, longboards, old school skateboards, mini-skateboards, and mini-cruisers all offer different benefits depending on how you want to use them.
Cruiser Boards
Cruiser boards have shorter decks and are great for cruising around town or flat terrain – although they are not recommended for beginners who need more stability. Decks range from 28 inches to 32 inches in length and less than 8.5 inches wide.
Longboards
Longboards are great for longer trips and downhill rides and racing due to their size (36 inches to 42 inches in length and 8.5 inches to 10 inches in width) as well as their softer wheels which make turns and maneuvers easier.
Old School Skateboards
Old School skateboards have fishtail shaped decks that are vintage inspired with many attractive designs – making them ideal for skating pools, ramps, or carving the street. Their size is also quite large which makes it difficult for beginners but experienced riders find them suitable.
Mini Skateboards
Mini-skateboards are designed with children in mind and usually measure 6.75 -7.25 inches wide, allowing kids an easy entry way into learning tricks with a smaller board first before graduating to larger ones.
Mini Cruisers
Finally, there are the Mini Cruisers that specialize solely in cruising while still being small but offering softer wider wheels than other small skateboard types can provide.
The Cost of Skateboards
Skateboarding is an exciting and rewarding hobby, but it can also be expensive. You need to consider not just the cost of buying the board itself, but all the additional costs associated with bringing together the components that make up your own skateboard.
For street skaters, shoes are especially important as grip tape will quickly wreak havoc on a suede upper. Invest in quality over quantity when it comes to wheels and trucks; premium pieces might have a higher price tag, but they’ll last longer than cheap models that easily flat spot.
Buying second-hand is always an option if you’re looking for ways to save money – just be sure to inspect any board thoroughly before committing to it.
Ultimately, as with any sport or hobby, skating does require some financial outlays – however much you’re able or willing to spend is entirely dependent on your circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the total costs when assembling your own skateboard:
| Skateboard parts | One time Cost |
|---|---|
| Skateboard deck | $35 to $65 |
| Skateboard Wheels | $15 to $50 |
| Skateboard trucks | $20 to $80 |
| Bearings | $10 to $80 |
| Spacers and hardware | $5 |
| grip tape | $6 to $20 |
| Total | $91 to $302 |
Let’s take a look at the cost of any one-time expenses such as safety gear:
| Optional gear | Costs |
|---|---|
| Skate tool | $6 to $30 |
| Helmet | $30 to $50 |
| Knee pads | $40 to $80 |
| Total | $76 to $160 |
Finally, let’s estimate the monthly cost of items such as shoes, pants, and skate park fees. It’s only a rough estimation since the frequency of replacing parts or buying new gear affects this cost.
Skaters tend to replace their shoes every two months and decks every 6 weeks, but the exact timeline might vary. This table gives you an approximate idea.
| Gear | Average montly costs |
|---|---|
| Pants | $10 to $15 |
| Shoes | $20 to $ $50 |
| Skate park fees | $10 |
| Replacing parts (decks, wheels, bearings, etc) | $10 |
| Total | $50 to $85 |
Source:https://www.skateboardershq.com/how-much-does-a-skateboard-cost/
Cost of Skateboard Decks ($35 – $50)
Skateboard decks can cost anywhere from $35 to $50, depending on the quality and brand. It’s recommended to buy decks from a reputable woodshop or company, as they offer higher-quality materials and better construction that will last longer. Bulk purchases also reduce cost but may likely give you warped boards due to how they are pressed.
For around $50 or less, you can get a good deck that will provide great performance for years to come. More expensive models like Powell Peralta Flight decks or Dwindle impact, Santa Cruz VX, and Lithe skateboards incorporate advanced construction techniques for durability – however, these usually carry an increased price tag.
- Blank skateboard deck: $35
- Branded skateboard deck: $50 – $65
- Durable skateboard decks $90 – $200
Branded Decks (‘pro’-models) – $50 to $65
If you’re looking to get the best skateboard deck, then you have to look into branded decks. These are the ones that have been produced by some of the biggest names in the skateboarding industry, so they provide top quality and usually carry some eye-catching graphics as well.
Not only do these branded decks cost more than other decks, but they are also said to have a better shape, providing more concave and ideal for performing tricks with ease.
Blank Decks – $35 to $40
Blank skateboard decks are a great way to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank. They generally cost in the range of $35 to $40, depending on where you buy them from.
Usually, they come with a more mellow and generic shape, perfect for learning how to ride.
Shop Decks – $30 to $40
Shop Decks are one of the more affordable ways to get your hands on a quality skateboard deck. Generally priced between $30 and $40, these decks are available at most skate shops around the country.
The shop either has its own skateboard press to make decks or buys them in bulk and adds its logo. Skating pros have often been known to buy from their favorite shop – a great way to support local businesses!
Carbon Fiber Decks – $90 to $120
A carbon fiber deck tends to be pricier initially, but it will last much longer than a typical 7-ply maple deck. At the higher end of skateboard decks, you can find carbon fiber brands like Santa Cruz VX and Powell Flight Decks that offer multiple layers of fiberglass for increased durability.
These types of decks do not offer as much ‘pop’ as your typical maple deck but will save you some money in the long run if you often break decks due to wear and tear from extreme use. Generally speaking, most specialty stores will sell carbon fiber decks ranging from $90 to $120.
Cost of Skateboard Trucks ($20 – $80)
Skateboard trucks can vary in price, ranging from $20 to around $80. On the lower end of that range, you have CCS or Mini Logo trucks which are not ideal for long-term durability but should last you one or two seasons. Independent Titanium is priced at about 75 dollars, a huge contrast to the other options.
These higher-end trucks perform much better than their less expensive counterparts and respond with more control and help make successful landings on tricks easier. Beginners won’t be able to tell the difference between cheap and more expensive ones, but as soon as your skateboarding skills improve, you’ll feel the difference.
If you want a truck that will last for ages but don’t want to break the bank, consider investing in a decent quality set of trucks that usually costs around $40 – absolutely worth it! Don’t skimp out on this purchase because it takes time to adjust to new trucks and it might be best to invest a little bit more when picking one up.
- Basic skateboard trucks (CCS): $20
- Decent skateboard trucks (Tensor Alloys): $25
- Quality skateboard trucks (Thunder, Independent): $40 – $60
- Most Expensive skateboard trucks (Indy titaniums): $80
Cost of Skateboard Wheels ($15 – $60)
When it comes to the cost of skateboard wheels, you need to know that prices range from $15 to $60. Depending on your budget, style, and needs, you’ll have countless choices in terms of wheels—from Mini Logo at the lower price point ($20) up to higher-end Spitfires priced at around $40.
The difference lies mainly in the quality of materials used in the construction of the wheel. Cheaper plastic mixes such as those found in Mini Logo wheels will wear out faster compared to top-of-the-line polyurethane from companies like Spitfire or Bones.
However, if you get your hands on some premium wheels that can last for years—you may never have to buy new wheels again!
- Blank skateboard wheels: $15
- Decent skateboard wheels (Mini Logo): $20
- Quality skateboard wheels (Bones, Spitfire): $45 -$60
Cost of Grip Tape
Grip tape is an essential part of skateboarding, so it’s important to make sure you’re getting what you pay for. While there isn’t too much difference in grip tape, some have a grittier texture than others and can come with prints, which adds to their cost. A single sheet of grip tape can range from around $6 to $20 depending on the quality.
If you plan on replacing or adding grip tape to decks regularly, then investing in a roll of grip tape may be a good idea. Not only will you save money since it typically costs less than individual sheets, but it also makes it easier and quicker to add or replace the grip tape as needed without having to waste time looking around for the right size and style.
- Brandless grip tape: $5-$6
- Jessup grip tape: $7
- Mob grip tape: $8
- Grizzly Grip tape: $9
- Printed color Grip tape: $15 – $20
Bearings
When it comes to skateboarding, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on bearings. Typically, standard Bones Reds or Bronson G2’s are perfect and will only cost you around $15. If you’re thinking about getting ceramics, the price tag might go up a bit – usually these cost around $100 each.
While there are more expensive options out there, bear in mind that these high-end bearings are mainly for extreme speeds rather than everyday skating. So if your needs aren’t as extreme and all you’re looking for is some decent bearings at an affordable price, then opt for the standard varieties.
- Mini logo bearings: $10
- Bones Reds or Bronson G2: $15
- Ceramic bearings: $90
Hardware is Cheap
Skateboarding hardware is surprisingly cheap. Bolts and nuts can be purchased for as little as $2 to $6, and these are the kind you want if you plan on riding – they come with plastic rings inside which won’t come loose when in motion.
For optimal quality, choose Allen hardware instead of settling for low-grade independent hardware. With such affordable costs and reliable quality, skateboarders don’t have to break the bank just to get all their supplies.
Shoe Costs
Shoe costs are no joke when it comes to skateboarding. Shoes can vary in price from $30 to as much as $100 for Nikes, so the costs of skateboarding can add up quickly with all the flips, shuvits, and ollies.
The grip tape has a tendency to chew through shoes quickly, so be sure to get suede instead of canvas shoes which wear down within a day. Skateboarders often need to replace their shoes every four weeks.
That’s not something the average person needs to worry about though; it’s an ‘edge case.’ Keep in mind that if you’re skateboarding every day, your shoes will definitely wear down faster – so if you want them to last longer, sanding down the new grip tape before riding is essential.
Pants
When it comes to skateboarding, having the right pants is essential. You’ll want some sturdy pants that also feel comfortable – fortunately, if you invest in top-notch brands like 874 Dickies, Cargo Pants, and Volcom, you can be sure they’ll last a while.
Pants in these brands go from $30 to $50; it’s definitely worth spending a bit extra in order to get the great quality that won’t need replacing any time soon.
Protective Gear
It’s important to have reliable protective gear when it comes to skateboarding. Sure, not everyone wears it all the time, but for those who do, having a comfortable and reliable helmet and pads is essential.
Thankfully, there are combo packages out there that will help save you money versus buying everything separately. These combos will give you the protection you need at an affordable price which makes them a great option worth considering!
- Helmets go from $30 to $60
- Knee pads can cost up to $100 (heavy duty), but $40-$60 should do it
- Wrist guards start a $20
- Elbow pads also start at $20
Skate Tools ($6 to $30)
Skate tools are not a requirement for skateboarding but it’s definitely worth having one. They come in all different price points, with the range being from $6 to $30.
And while these options can get the job done on the budget-friendly side of things, investing in a more premium skate tool is ideal if you frequently need to replace and tighten up parts of your board.
Hidden Costs of Skateboarding
Skateboarding can be an expensive hobby, but there are hidden costs that many new skaters overlook. Most people think about skate park fees, the cost of fuel to get to and from a skate park, and replacing parts when they start skating.
However, living near a free public skate park or close enough to walk can significantly cut down on these costs. Also, investing in shoes and laces specifically designed for skateboarding is important since shoelaces tend to break easily.
Beginner Skateboarders Costs
For beginner skateboarders, the costs associated with getting started can really add up. You can expect to replace your deck between 6 and 12 months after getting into skateboarding.
The same goes for shoes – since you won’t be doing any complex tricks yet, they’ll likely last between 6 and 12 months too, though repairs may increase that time by up to 50 hours of skating.
Intermediate Skateboarders Costs
Intermediate skateboarders face a series of hidden costs when it comes to skateboarding. From shoes that need replacing after 4-6 months, to decks that can last up to 6 months depending on the style of skating, these costs can quickly add up.
Bearings should be exchanged every 3-5 months, while wheels must be replaced approximately once a year.
Skilled Skaters Costs
Skilled skaters are well aware of how costly skateboarding can be. Their decks need to be replaced between 2 and 4 months while shoes usually will not last longer than 4 weeks if they’re not fixed in time.
Depending on the surface, skateboard wheels can last up to half a year while bearings typically require replacing every two months, especially if you perform big ollies. All of this adds up to a large financial burden for any pro-level skater.
Cost to Produce a Skateboard
Skateboards have a long and complex production process, which explains why they don’t come cheap. It typically costs between $30 and $35 to manufacture a complete skateboard, yet the final price you pay could be anywhere from $75 to $150.
The deck of a skateboard is where most of the manufacturing cost is spent, as it needs to be specially designed and crafted. This usually involves spending around $8 to $10 for each individual deck. On top of that, wheels typically cost just a few dollars to produce while trucks can range in cost from around $10 upwards depending on the material quality used.
Of course, these are simply estimated prices from sources dating back to 2014 – the production process itself has no doubt changed somewhat since then!
That being said, you can start to understand why skateboarding companies need to pour money into research and development when it comes to producing high-quality products – as well as needing money for marketing campaigns and event organization for their sponsored skaters too.
Recommended Cheap Skateboards
If you’re looking for a cheap skateboard that’s still reliable, then CCS Complete Skateboards should be your go-to option. It comes with a blank deck with Jessup grip tape, decent CCS trucks, bearings, and wheels that are suitable for skate parks and streets. Plus, CCS hasn’t raised its price or replaced the components with cheaper ones.
For those on an even tighter budget, consider buying a used skateboard instead. Make sure it’s in good condition by inspecting it for squeaks and bearing sounds, flat spots on the wheels, and check if there is waterlogging if it’s been left out in the rain.
Also, make sure to closely examine the decks to gauge their pop and inspect the trucks to see if they have any bent or cracked axles.
All in all, CCS offers a great complete setup at a really good price which is ideal as a starter skateboard for those who don’t want to break the bank.
Recommended Pro Setups
If you’re looking for a high-quality skateboard setup, then you’ll be glad to know that there are some amazing options available. There is no ‘one size fits all’ setup, so it’s important to look at what will work best for you and your skating style.
For those who really want to get the highest quality gear for their setup, then we recommend checking out the two pro setups below.
Setup Example 1 ($180)
This is a great setup for skate parks and streets, with a WKND deck ($60), Independent Stage 11 Forged Hollow trucks ($55), Spitfire Classic Wheels 101A ($40), Bronson G2 bearings ($15), spacers ($2), 7/8″ hardware ($3) and Jessup Grip Tape ($6).
Setup Example 2 ($250)
If you’re a technical street skater who wants the best of the best, then this is the setup for you – featuring Santa Cruz VX Deck ($100), Thunder Hollow Lights 2 Trucks($70), Bones STF Wheels($40), Bronson G3 Bearings($30) plus spacers and hardware($5), Mob Grip Tape($8).
Most Expensive Skateboards
Some skateboards are so special and expensive that it’s hard to believe. These Ultra rare collector editions and vanity skateboards can often reach an incredible price tag of up to $45,000.
This is a staggering amount of money but fortunately, many of these pricey boards are being sold at auction and the proceeds go to charity.
Louis Vuitton X Supreme – $59,000
The Louis Vuitton X Supreme skateboard is the most expensive skateboard one can buy, and it comes with an outrageous price tag of $59,000.
Jeffree Star bought this extraordinary skateboard as a present for his boyfriend Nathan Schwandt. Unlike other boards, this one came with a nice box and a skate tool making it worth its cost.
Blowin in the Wind Skateboard – $38,000
The Blowin’ in the Wind Skateboard is one of the most expensive and unique skateboards on the planet, and it’s worth every penny. At an auction hosted by Boards and Bands, this impressive deck sold for $38,000!
It was signed by legendary musician Bob Dylan, who wrote lyrics from the song “Blowing in the Wind” along with Zero Skateboards owner Jamie Thomas.
Deck Set of Skateboards – $35,000
The Bucky Lasek deck set is one of the most expensive skateboards in existence – and it’s worth every penny. This four-deck set was auctioned off for a whopping $35,000 at a Tony Hawk event to raise money for his foundation.
Each deck has handwritten lyrics from Beastie Boy Adam Yauch’s song Bodhisattva Vow and are signed by him too! So if you’re looking for an absolutely premium skateboard experience, this four-deck set might just be what you need.
Tony Hawks Beatles Skateboard – $27,000
Tony Hawk’s Beatles Skateboard is one of the most expensive skateboards in the world, costing an eye-watering $27,000.
The deck features both handwritten lyrics from the song Blackbird by The Beatles and Paul McCartney’s iconic signature – a must-have for any serious collector.
The Supreme Mundi skateboard – $20,000
The Supreme Mundi skateboard may be one of the most expensive skateboards ever made. Designed by artist Adrian Wilson, it is actually a painting palette adorned with the Supreme logo and trucks and wheels for a truly unique look.
This skateboard was created as an artistic statement against the art industry’s snobbery and spite, particularly in relation to skateboarding. The statement was made loud and clear when it sold for a whopping $20,000 on eBay.
The Golden skateboard – $15,000
The Golden Skateboard by Matt Willet and Peter Willet in New York is a true work of art – and mastery. It’s made out of 99.99% electro-plated pure gold, making it one of the most expensive skateboards ever created – at a price tag of $15,000.
All the components of the skateboard, such as trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape have an elegant gold finish that gives off a luxurious look.
Factors Affecting Skateboard Costs
The cost of skateboards is greatly affected by several factors. These include the brand, type, quality, and buying location.
Brand
When it comes to the brand of a skateboard, its popularity can have a major bearing on its price. Generally speaking, popular brands tend to sell more expensive boards than others. However, this may or may not be justified in terms of quality and design. It’s always important to inspect a board closely before making a purchase decision based on the brand name alone.
Type
The type of skateboard also affects price by offering different levels of functionality tailored for different skill sets and purposes. Professional skateboards that are used for competitive tournaments will inevitably cost more than regular boards suitable for recreational use.
Quality
Quality is another influencing factor when it comes to skateboards; pricier models might not be better in terms of durability or performance than cheaper options. So make sure you’re happy with what you’re getting when committing to a certain budget.
Buying location
Lastly, buying location has an effect on the price as well; some shops can have steeper prices due to their high popularity in their respective areas while offering average products at best. All these elements should be taken into consideration when trying to find an appropriate balance between quality and affordability when shopping for your new skateboard!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a skateboard depends on the materials used, the quality, and the style of the board. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater there is a board for every budget. The best way to find out how much a skateboard cost is to do some research and shop around to find the best deal.
Once you have found what fits your needs, you can hit the pavement with confidence knowing that you got your skateboard at an awesome price!
