Looking to kickflip your way into the skateboarding scene? You’ll need a trusty board from a top-notch brand. Whether you’re grinding rails or cruising the streets, the right skateboard can make all the difference.
Top Skateboard Brands for Thrilling Rides
When you’re ready to invest in a high-quality skateboard, knowing the top brands in the industry is a must. These brands not only promise durability and performance but also bring innovation and style to your skateboarding experience.
Element Skateboards are synonymous with quality. Founded in 1992, Element has been at the forefront of skateboard manufacturing. They offer a wide range of designs for different skateboarding styles, from street skating to half-pipe tricks. Their boards are known for their robust construction and eye-catching graphics.
Plan B Skateboards is another big name that deserves your attention. Professional skateboarders, such as Ryan Sheckler, are often seen riding Plan B decks, which indicates the brand’s high performance and reliability. Their boards are famed for their responsive control and precision, making them ideal for skaters looking to push their limits.
- Girl Skateboards brings a distinct aesthetic to the table. Launched in 1993 by Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, they’ve made a mark with their creative designs and top-notch materials. Their decks offer a great mix of flexibility and strength, suitable for every skill level.
For those looking for innovation, Almost Skateboards is the go-to brand. Co-founded by skate legends Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song, Almost is known for its use of unique materials like Impact Support and Uber Light technology that provides a lighter and stronger deck.
- Zero Skateboards is a brand that’s become well respected for its bold graphics and an edgy attitude. With a commitment to strength and longevity, Zero’s decks are fantastic for those who indulge in heavyweight tricks.
Picking a brand that resonates with your skateboarding aspirations is crucial. Quality, design, and brand reputation should drive your choice as much as individual style and preference. Whether you’re looking for something classic, innovative, or ultra-tough, the market has a variety of options to keep you glued to your board and ready for the next trick.
1. Powell Peralta: The Pioneers of Skateboarding
When you’re on the hunt for a skateboard that delivers on heritage and quality, Powell Peralta stands out as a seminal force in the skateboarding world. Founded in 1978 by George Powell and Stacy Peralta, this brand has been pivotal in the evolution of skateboarding culture. They’ve consistently produced decks that are not just tools for the sport but true pieces of iconic artwork.
The brand gained prominence in the 80s, thanks to their innovative designs and the legendary Bones Brigade, a team featuring skateboarding giants like Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen. Powell Peralta’s innovation didn’t stop there. They’re credited with the development of the modern skateboard deck as we know it, incorporating pioneering technology such as the use of maple laminate and the introduction of the kicktail.
Renowned for their durability, Powell Peralta decks are constructed from high-quality materials which ensure they withstand the rough and tumble of skateboarding. The graphics, bold and often brimming with nostalgia, tap into the retro vibes many skaters love. Plus, the performance of their products is top-notch, a fact that keeps Powell Peralta firmly at the apex of skate culture.
If you’re eyeing a board that embodies the spirit of skateboarding, Powell Peralta offers a line of models that cater to various skate styles. Whether you’re a street skater or a ramp rider, there’s a Powell Peralta board designed with your needs in mind. From re-issues of classic designs to modern takes on the skateboarding staple, Powell Peralta continues to innovate while delivering quality and style.
Furthermore, Powell Peralta is not just about nostalgia; they’re actively involved in the skate community, supporting events and up-and-coming skaters. Their commitment to the sport extends beyond the manufacturing of skateboards, highlighting the brand’s dedication to fostering the growth of skateboarding culture globally. This level of engagement is a testament to their status as not just influencers but also stewards of the skateboarding world.
2. Santa Cruz Skateboards: Iconic Graphics and High Performance
When you’re on the lookout for a brand that marries bold visuals with superior ride quality, Santa Cruz Skateboards should be at the top of your list. Established in 1973, Santa Cruz has lasted the test of time, becoming one of the most recognizable names in the skateboarding scene. Famous for their eye-catching graphics, including the classic “Screaming Hand” designed by artist Jim Phillips, Santa Cruz decks are a staple at skate parks worldwide.
Beyond the vibrant designs, Santa Cruz is committed to high-quality craftsmanship. They offer a diverse range of decks that cater to different skating styles, ensuring a versatile lineup that appeals to skaters of all skill levels. Their decks are constructed with North American maple and are known for their resilience and ability to withstand the rigors of skateboarding. Whether you’re tackling vert, street, or cruising, a Santa Cruz skateboard provides the durability and control needed for a top-notch experience.
The brand’s influence extends beyond their products. Santa Cruz Skateboards actively promotes skate culture by sponsoring a team of world-class skaters. These athletes not only represent the brand in competitions but also contribute to the design and testing of new products, ensuring that each release meets their high standards.
In the realm of skateboarding apparel, Santa Cruz isn’t lagging behind either. They offer a full line of clothing and accessories that embody the skateboard lifestyle. Their unique aesthetic makes Santa Cruz merchandise highly sought after by enthusiasts who want to represent their passion off the board as well.
Santa Cruz’s commitment to the skate community is evident not just through their remarkable products but also through their continued support of events and competitions. By fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and athleticism, they continue to cement their status as a beacon in the skateboarding industry.
As you explore the offerings from Santa Cruz Skateboards, prepare to be impressed by the perfect blend of form, functionality, and enduring influence in the skate world.
3. Element Skateboards: Environmentally Conscious and Innovative
Element Skateboards stands out as a beacon for sustainability within the skateboarding community. With its beginnings in 1992, Element has dedicated itself to eco-friendliness and social responsibility. They’re not just about making some of the best skateboards out there; they’re about making a positive impact.
When you choose an Element deck, you’re not just getting a high-quality product, you’re supporting a brand that values the planet. Element’s commitment to the environment is evident in their use of sustainable materials and practices. For example, they utilize wind, water, and solar power to produce their boards. Their innovative approach extends to the “Featherlight” construction, which promises both strength and lightness, ensuring agility and durability on the ramps.
Element’s impressive catalog spans a wide variety of designs and sizes, addressing the needs of skateboarders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a street skater or prefer the vert ramps, you’ll find an Element deck that matches your style and abilities. And when you’re carving up the skatepark, you’ll be the center of attention with Element’s striking designs and vibrant graphics.
Supporting a brand like Element Skateboards means you’re part of a wider community. Element actively fosters a culture of inclusivity and progression, with sponsored riders who push the limits of skateboarding. By investing in one of their decks, you’ll also be supporting community initiatives, skate camps, and workshops that give back and help grow the sport.
Their commitment doesn’t stop at boards; Element offers a diverse range of clothing and accessories that maintain their ethos. You can kit yourself out with apparel and gear that carry the same environmentally conscious principles, making a statement both on and off your board.
Element’s legacy is built on more than their eco-friendly efforts; it’s their innovation in skateboard technology that truly sets them apart. Their patented designs and collaborations with artists and skaters ensure that your skating experience is exceptional and that you’re riding with a clear conscience.
4. Baker Skateboards: Edgy and Bold Designs
Baker Skateboards burst onto the scene in the late ’90s, bringing with it a raw and uncensored aesthetic that quickly won the hearts of skaters around the globe. Founded by professional skater Andrew Reynolds, the brand epitomizes the rebel spirit of skate culture. With graphics that range from the gritty to the surreal, Baker decks are not only high-performance tools but also canvases for artistic expression.
Quality and Durability matter when choosing a skateboard, and Baker delivers on both fronts. Their boards are made with seven layers of American maple, pressed to perfection, offering the responsiveness and pop that serious skaters demand. Baker’s unique flair is matched by its commitment to strength and longevity, ensuring that your investment withstands the rigors of the skatepark and street skating.
Baker is not just about aesthetics; it’s a brand that resonates with the lifestyle and values of its community. Their team, a mix of seasoned pros and fresh talent, reflects the diversity and energy of skateboarding culture. By engaging with their audience through videos, competitions, and social media, Baker maintains a close relationship with its fans.
Purchasing a Baker skateboard means you’re getting far more than just a piece of wood – you’re becoming part of a legacy. Through collaborations with artists and skaters, the brand continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. You’ll see that every deck’s design is a nod to their unapologetic approach to skateboarding and a statement of individuality.
- Performance: High responsiveness for tricks
- Durability: Seven layers of American maple
- Aesthetics: Bold, edgy graphics
- Culture: Embodies the rebel spirit of skateboarding
Whether it’s a complete setup or a custom build, integrating Baker’s parts into your skateboarding gear ensures that your ride stands out at the park. Their range of wheels, trucks, and bearings complements their decks, offering a cohesive and reliable skateboarding experience.
5. Girl Skateboards: Celebrating Diversity and Female Empowerment
When you’re eyeing the best skateboarding brands, you can’t skip Girl Skateboards. Launched in 1993 by Mike Carroll and Rick Howard, Girl Skateboards stands out for championing diversity and promoting female empowerment within the skate community. Inclusion and innovation are the cornerstones of this brand, ensuring it has a unique place in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
With Girl Skateboards, you’ll find a level of commitment to quality that matches their enthusiasm for societal change. They use only premium materials, constructing decks from strong Canadian maple that resist wear and tear from the toughest skateboarding sessions. You’ll feel the superior ride quality immediately, whether you’re tackling street, park, or ramp skating.
Moreover, Girl’s aesthetic leans into vibrant and whimsical graphics, often collaborating with artists and designers to produce visually striking decks. These designs not only look great but also often carry messages that promote equality and empowerment. Plus, they provide the perfect icebreaker at the skatepark or when you’re rolling around town.
Embracing a Whole Community
What truly sets Girl Skateboards apart is its mission to encourage a diverse range of skaters. They’ve been pivotal in providing gear that appeals to both genders and all skill levels. You’re just as likely to see a Girl deck at a local community event as you are in a professional skate video. It’s this blend of reach and social consciousness that secures their spot on this list.
- Quality Canadian maple construction
- Eye-catching and meaningful graphics
- A brand with a social conscience
By integrating Girl Skateboards into your skate collection, you’re not just getting a high-end product; you’re becoming part of a movement that’s reshaping the culture of skateboarding. Whether you’re performing kickflips or cruising, Girl Skateboards offers the durability and design you need while making a statement about the values you stand for.
Conclusion: Choose Your Perfect Riding Companion
You’ve explored the landscape of top skateboard brands and discovered how Girl Skateboards isn’t just about quality; it’s about making a statement. Picking the right brand means aligning with values that resonate with you—whether that’s innovation, durability, or inclusivity. Remember, your skateboard is more than a tool for tricks; it’s a companion on your journey through the skate world. Choose wisely and ride with pride, knowing you’re part of a community that values diversity and empowerment on and off the ramps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Girl Skateboards?
Girl Skateboards was founded in 1993 by Mike Carroll and Rick Howard.
What is Girl Skateboards known for?
Girl Skateboards is known for promoting diversity and female empowerment, constructing durable decks from Canadian maple, and featuring vibrant, whimsical graphics.
Does Girl Skateboards focus on quality?
Yes, Girl Skateboards is committed to quality, using strong Canadian maple for durable and superior ride quality decks.
Are Girl Skateboards meant for a specific gender?
No, Girl Skateboards appeals to both genders and all skill levels, promoting equality and empowerment in the skate community.
What makes Girl Skateboards unique in the skateboarding culture?
Girl Skateboards is unique for its mission to encourage diversity and reshape the culture of skateboarding, beyond just producing high-end skate products.
