The Best Trick Skateboards (2024 Guide and Reviews)

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This post has been updated for the best trick skateboards in 2024.

When you're on your skateboard, the world is your playground, and performing tricks is like unlocking new levels of fun and freedom. For skateboarders, there's nothing quite like the feeling of landing a new trick, whether it's a simple ollie or a complex flip trick.

Skateboarding tricks are more than just flashy moves - they're an expression of creativity, individuality, and the pure joy of riding. In this post, we'll explore the world of trick skateboarding and share the best trick skateboards on the market that can help take your skills to new heights.

Our Top 5 Skateboards for Tricks - 2024 Edition

We'll start with our top 5 picks for the world's best trick skateboards. These skateboards have been carefully selected based on their performance, durability, and overall quality. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, these skateboards are sure to help you take your skills to new heights

After our breakdown, we've put together a detailed buying guide to help you understand what makes a complete skateboard a great trick skateboard. That way, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the best trick skateboard for your skill level, style, and preferences.

We'll cover important factors such as the deck width, size and shape, truck type, wheel size and durometer, and deck material. These factors may seem overwhelming at first, but understanding how they can affect your skateboard's performance is key to selecting the right one.

With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose a trick skateboard that will help you perform your favorite tricks and take you to the next level. Sound good?

Time to shred some gnar and pick out the perfect trick skateboard - let's roll!

Our Top Picks - Summary

Image	Product	Features	Price
Editor's Pick	[CCS] Skateboard Complete This is our overall top pick balancing all of our rating factors including customer reviews, price, and performance. At the time of our review, this board was priced very reasonably at just over $62 and had all the makings of a great trick board. Scroll down for our detailed review. Deck Dimensions: 27.75" Long X 7" Wide Wheel Size: 52mm Trucks: 4.3" (small) Durometer: 100A (hard)	9.4	Check Price on Amazon
Budget Option	Minority 32inch Maple Skateboard This is our recommended budget option. At the time of our review, this board was priced at an incredibly low price of 35.99. Considered the specs of this board, it is hard to go wrong! Scroll down for our detailed review. Deck Dimensions: 32" Long X 8" Wide Wheel Size: 52mm Trucks: 5" (small) Durometer: 102A (hard)	9	Check Price on Amazon
Premium Option	Santa Cruz Screaming Hand This is our recommended premium option. At the time of our review, this board was priced at $95-$120 dollars, which is the most expensive board on this list. But looking at the quality details of this board and the iconic design - it is a strong choice. Scroll down for our detailed review. Deck Dimensions: 31.25" Long X 8" Wide Wheel Size: 53mm Durometer: 95A (hard)	9.2	Check Price on Amazon
Runner Up	KPC Pro Skateboard Complete This board is our runner up board. It is a solid board that is affordably priced. At the time of writing this review, it is on Amazon for just under $40.  Deck Dimensions: 32" Long X 7.75" Wide Wheel Size: 52mm Trucks: 5" (small) Durometer: 99A (hard)	9	Check Price on Amazon
Honorable Mention	Stoked Ride Shop Blank Skateboard Complete This is our Honorable Mention Pick. A solid board with rave reviews from fans.This board comes in multiple sizes, and at the time of writing was priced in the $70-90 range. Deck Dimensions: 32" Long X 8" Wide Wheel Size: 54mm Trucks: 5.25" (small) Durometer: 100A (hard)	9.8	Check Price on Amazon

 

The Anatomy of a Trick Skateboard

Trick skateboarding is a sport that requires a great deal of skill, practice, and dedication. Those who participate in it push the limits of what is possible on a skateboard, performing incredible feats of balance, coordination, and agility.

Trick skateboards are specially designed to facilitate these amazing stunts, allowing skaters to perform flips, grinds, and other tricks that are simply impossible on other types of boards.

While trick skateboards are the preferred choice of professional skaters and enthusiasts, they can be challenging to ride for beginners. The smaller size, lighter weight, and harder wheels make them less stable and more likely to cause falls or injuries.

As such, it is recommended that riders have some experience on a skateboard before attempting to ride a trick skateboard. With practice and dedication, however, trick skateboarding can be an incredibly rewarding and exciting sport that pushes the limits of what is possible on a skateboard.

If you aren't quite ready for tricks and want to learn some of the basics first - check out our article here.

The Distinctions between Trick Skateboards and Regular Skateboards

(A great video from Shred Shack)

One of the key differences between trick skateboards and other types of skateboards is their size and weight. Trick skateboards are shorter and lighter than cruiser boards or longboards, which makes them easier to maneuver and pop.

Trick skateboards typically have harder wheels than other types of skateboards, which provide better traction and control on smooth surfaces.

This is important because many tricks involve sliding or grinding on rails, ledges, or other obstacles, and the harder wheels allow skaters to maintain their speed and balance during these maneuvers.

The Importance of Wheel Quality for Successful Trick Skateboarding

When it comes to trick skateboarding, the quality of your wheels can make all the difference. Unlike cruising or commuting skateboards, trick skateboards require a specific set of wheels that are designed for high-performance.

Skateboard wheels play a crucial role in the performance of your skateboard, especially when it comes to trick skateboarding.

Polyurethane, a blend of various types of plastics, is the material used in making wheels. The quality of the polyurethane formula used in the manufacturing process determines the quality of the wheels.

Established brands like Bones and Spitfire are known for offering high-quality wheels that have been perfected over the years. Although these wheels might cost a little more, investing in them is worth it in the long run as they will last longer and offer better performance.

It might be tempting to buy cheaper wheels, but they usually do not have a refined formula, which leads to cracks and other issues.

However, if you are on a budget, Mini Logo is a great option for cheap wheels.

When selecting the best wheels for your trick skateboard, there are several factors to consider, including the diameter, hardness, bounce rate, and shape. It's essential to get the right wheels to improve your skateboarding experience and make it easier to perform tricks.

Wheel Diameter and Performance

So it turns out size does matter after all... when it comes to your wheels, that is. For tricks and street skating, smaller wheels are the way to go, baby!

Why? Because they're more responsive, accelerate faster, and make it a breeze to grind those rails. Plus, with less mass to deal with, you'll be flipping and popping your board like a pro in no time.

So, forget about those bulky wheels, and opt for a slick 52 mm diameter - the perfect size to take your skating skills to new heights!

Of course, we're not just talking about any kind of skating - we're talking about the art of street skating and skate parks. If you're planning on hitting up some vert ramps or bowls, you'll want to choose larger wheels for that extra boost.

It's important you know what type of skating you want to optimize for.

Maximizing Your Skateboard Tricks: Understanding Bounce and Rebound in Wheel Selection

(video by VLskate)

If you're a skateboarder, you know that wheels are key to pulling off sick tricks. But did you know that it's not just about diameter? Bounce and rebound are just as important, which is why harder wheels are the way to go for trick boards.

When you land a trick on hard wheels, they'll snap right back into shape without missing a beat. Soft wheels, on the other hand, take longer to bounce back, making them great for cruising but not so great for landing fast tricks.

And watch out - if you try to do tricks on soft wheels, you're more likely to crash and burn. Landing primo (that's landing on the side of your board with both feet) is a painful reality with low-rebound, softer wheels.

But don't take our word for it - drop your board and hear the difference for yourself. It's all about that low bounce rate, my friend!

Shaping Up Your Skateboard for Tricks: Why Wheel Shape Matters

The shape of your wheels can make a big difference in your trick boarding game, too. Rounded wheels have less friction compared to square wheels, which means they have less contact with the ground.

So, if you want to up your game, here are some wheel shapes you should consider:

• Radial

• Conical

• Classic

Conical and full conical wheels are perfect for skate parks and rails because they lock in perfectly and are easy to unlock. Classic wheels are what you should look for because they are great for performing tricks since they are responsive and have less surface area.

Avoid wide wheels at all costs! They're sluggish and will make it hard for you to perform tricks. So, stick with classic shaped wheels, or one of the shapes we recommended, and you'll be nailing those tricks in no time.

Contact Patch

Let's get real down to the details - we're talking about the contact patch. That's the part of your wheels that touches the ground as you ride.

If you want a more responsive ride, you'll want to go for a narrower contact patch. But beware, less contact area means less grip.

Of course, you won't know which option works best for you until you try it out yourself. So, why not give it a spin and see how it feels?

What the Trucks?

Ah, trucks - the most debated topic in the skateboarding community. In case you don't know, skateboard trucks are the metal T-shaped component that attaches the skateboard deck to the wheels, allowing the board to turn and pivot.

Thunder vs Independent

Some swear by Thunder trucks, while others can’t live without Independent trucks. It all depends on your personal preferences.

When it comes to Thunder trucks, they’re great for technical skating. They have high grinding capabilities and are incredibly responsive. On the other hand, Independent trucks are known for their longevity, making them an economic choice.

Many skaters swear that Independent trucks are perfect for transition and technical skating only, while Thunder trucks are ideal for street skating. However, it really all comes down to personal preference.

High and Low

If you’re all about the flip tricks and want to pop your board, low trucks are the way to go. They sit closer to the board and ground, which creates a tighter center of gravity, making it easier to do tricks.

But if you’re not comfortable with low trucks, go with what feels right for you.

Investing in quality trucks is crucial, but changing the bushings can also make your trucks more responsive, giving you the ability to make last-millisecond corrections.

So, whichever trucks you pick, just remember not to cheap out on this essential part of your skateboard.

Bearings

Skateboard bearings are small, circular metal components that fit inside the wheels of a skateboard. They are what allow the wheels to spin on the axle of the trucks, and they play an important role in determining the overall speed and performance of your skateboard.

Bearings are typically rated on the ABEC scale, which ranges from 1 to 9, with higher numbers indicating a smoother and faster ride.

However, it's worth noting that many skaters believe the ABEC rating is not the be-all and end-all when it comes to choosing bearings, and that other factors, like materials, construction, and lubrication can also have a significant impact on how your board feels and performs.

Bushings

Ah, yes, the mysterious and elusive bushings. These little guys made of polyurethane can make all the difference in your skating experience.

But which ones do you choose? It all depends on your weight, my dear skater.

And once you have your bushings, you'll need to break them in a bit to get them to respond to your moves. It's like a relationship, you know? You need to spend time together and build that connection.

But don't forget about the tightness or looseness of your bushings, which can affect their responsiveness. If you're feeling loosey-goosey, tighten them up. If you're feeling stiff, loosen them up. It's all about finding that sweet spot.

And when it comes to durometer scale, anything around 87A, 90A, or 92A should do the trick. But really, it's up to your personal preference.

Some street skaters swear by Bones Hardcore bushings for their unmatched responsiveness.

So, get to know your bushings, break them in, and find that perfect balance of tightness and responsiveness. It's like a dance, really. A dance on four wheels.

Should You Get a Big Deck?

Ah, the eternal question: what size skateboard is best for tricks? The truth is, there are many factors, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Pop, stiffness, and pressing are all factors that come into play.

Narrower decks are generally more responsive, while wider ones provide better stability. If you're looking to nail technical tricks, an 8-inch deck width is your best bet.

Feeling daring and ready to tackle the ramps and bowls? Then you might want to consider an 8.25-inch wide board.

Of course, these are just suggestions - there's always someone out there pushing the limits with an 8.75-inch deck. But whatever size you choose, we recommend making sure it's made of high-quality maple wood for optimal shredding.

Single Press Decks

Deck quality is everything when it comes to skating. You don't want your board to snap into two just because it couldn't handle your tricks, right?

So make sure you get a single press board, and check the mold and wood quality of your deck. Cheap decks can ruin your day.

Another thing: beware of the dreaded eight-deck press! When multiple decks are pressed at once, it guarantees deformations and a bad quality deck. No one wants that.

Shipping is another issue to keep in mind. Even if your deck is made of high-quality Canadian maple wood, it's at risk of getting waterlogged during transportation.

So, always ask your local skate shop where your deck was made and how it ended up in your local skate shop anyway. Make sure it's a single pressed deck to ensure the best quality possible.

Concave - Is My Deck Crooked?

The curvature of your deck is crucial to your board's response, and you'll find that most skateboards these days are concave.

There are different variations of concave, some mellow and some steeper than your high school math teacher.

We suggest going for a mellow concave deck because it's easier to control and maneuver. It also lets you easily find the right spot to position your feet when attempting tricks.

Plus, who doesn't love a little mellowness in their life?

But if you're a flip trick master and looking for that extra pop, then go for a steep concave. Just be warned, it may not be as comfortable as snuggling up with your favorite pillow.

Nose and Tail

The shape of the tail and nose height can make or break your popping and flipping game. Typically, the nose should be pointier and higher than the tail.

But hey, at the end of the day, it all comes down to your personal preference. So go ahead and try out different nose and tail shapes to find what suits you best. It's all about experience and discovering what makes you tick.

FAQs - For the Curious and Confused

1. What size skateboard should I get for tricks? Narrower decks are generally more responsive, while wider decks offer more stability. We suggest going with an 8-inch wide deck if you want to perform technical tricks. If you want to take it up a notch and try skating in parks, ramps, and bowls, an 8.25-inch wide board is a better option.

2. How can I maintain my trick skateboard? Regular maintenance is important to keep your trick skateboard in good condition. This includes checking the trucks, wheels, bearings, and grip tape regularly, and replacing any worn or damaged parts.

3. How big is too big? When it comes to skateboard deck size, it's not necessarily a matter of "too big," but rather finding the right size that works best for you and your skating style. However, generally speaking, skateboard decks that are wider than 8.5 inches may feel too cumbersome and heavy for most people to perform technical tricks. On the other hand, skateboard decks that are narrower than 7.5 inches may not provide enough stability for skating in parks or ramps. It's important to experiment with different deck sizes to find the one that feels most comfortable and suits your skating needs.

Best Trick Skateboards - Deep Dive Time

Ok, so now that your brain has been Matrixed with all the details about how to pick your board, let's revisit our top 5 and compare all the finer points.

Final Considerations

A beginner skateboard could be enough for your first board, but if you're looking to take your trick game to the next level, you'll need a trick skateboard that's packed with all the right features.

But before you start shredding, make sure you're an expert rider and don't attempt any tricks beyond your skill level - save the vert ramp for when you're ready to grab some air.

And remember, not all trick skateboards are created equal. Stick with a reputable brand that has a solid track record. You want to make sure you're getting quality craftsmanship, high-standard wheels, bearings, and trucks. Don't waste your hard-earned cash on low-quality knockoffs.

Picking a board off of our list above would not be a bad way to go.

Conclusion: You Don't Have to Go Home but You Can't Stay Here

Well folks, we've reached the end of our first skateboard skate sesh. To sum it up, don't be a poser and get yourself a rad trick skateboard.

Remember to wear your safety gear and don't push yourself too hard - unless you want to end up eating asphalt. Keep shredding, dudes and dudettes!