For those that want complete control over the quality of their skateboard then buying a deck separately is a must. While it is clear that getting a deck and then supplying your choice of trucks is the best option, it is not that easy to know which skateboard decks you should opt for.
This is mainly due to the fact that there is a lot of subjectivity around skateboard decks and you will often find a lot of conflicting information from various users. When a buyer tries to get to grips with all these opinions it usually only ends in frustration and confusion.
To help skaters navigate through this for the first time we have collected together the top ten available decks on the market, taking into account all of their features and their prices, and we have created a guide to choosing between them.
The Key Features
Here are some of the main things you should be looking for in your new skateboard deck:
- Concave. This is the curve between the edges. It is what gives you control over the board and really is up to personal preference. This is one of the features that is argued about by skaters the most, as it is completely subjective and generally each manufacturer will have their own unique concave.
- Width. It is easy to determine the width that you need by the skating that you do. Wider boards are for those using ramps or those who are taller or heavier. Narrower boards are better for tricks and street riding.
- Length. This is related closely to the width. The longer the board, generally, the wider it will be. That means longer boards for vert riders and shorter ones for street tricks.
- Wheelbase. The wheelbase is the distance that the trucks are set apart. While there is a little debate about the perfect setting, a general rule of thumb is that the best skateboard decks will have a wider wheelbase for taller riders and vice versa.
- Graphic or Blank. On our list, we have included both blank decks and those that come with graphics already applied. This means that we have quality options for both those that want to completely start from scratch and for those that want to display the skateboard deck manufacturer they have chosen to use.
Top 10 Skateboard Decks Table
| Picture | Name | Graphic or Blank | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. GIRL Skateboard Deck KOSTON FILLMORE | Graphic | $$$ | 4.9 |
 | 2. Zero Single Skull Deck | Graphic | $$$$ | 4.8 |
 | 3. Baker Brand Logo Deck-8.0 Black/White Skateboard Deck | Graphic | $$$$ | 4.8 |
 | 4. Almost Skateboards Neo Expressionalism Red Skateboard Deck | Graphic | $$ | 4.6 |
 | 5. Moose Blank Skateboard Deck | Blank | $$ | 4.5 |
 | 6. Element Quadrant Thriftwood Skateboard Deck | Graphic | $$$$ | 4.4 |
 | 7. Bamboo Skateboards Hard Good Blank Short Board | Blank | $$ | 4.3 |
 | 8. Blank Decks Warning Skateboard Deck | Blank | $ | 3.8 |
 | 9. Creature Skateboards Gravette Hippy Skull 4 Pro Skateboard Deck | Graphic | $$$ | 3.7 |
 | 10. Blank 7.5" Skateboard Deck | Blank | $ | 3.6 |
What Makes Good Skateboard Decks?
To be able to understand what makes the best decks you need to have a basic understanding of the construction of a skateboard.
Most skateboards, and the majority on our list, are made of North American maple and are set in a series of strips laid on top of each other. It is usual for a board to be 7 layers, or ply, to create the best combination of weight and strength.
Remember – this isn’t always the case and many manufacturers play around with this number to try and get an even better combination.
The Pop of the Deck: When you are searching for the best skateboard decks you will certainly come across the word “pop”. This can often be really confusing for those just starting out with skateboarding.
Basically, the board’s pop is how much spring it has and this will affect how high you can ollie and generally how responsive the board is.
Pro Tip: Almost all of the best skateboard decks will have the same pop when they are new. The way that you can tell a true quality board is how long it will keep this springiness over time. Eventually, all boards lose their pop from bending under the weight of the skater but one that has been made to the highest standards will keep this feature for longer.
The easiest way to check this is to look to trusted reviews of those that have been using the board over a longer period of time; they will all mention how well the pop has held up.
Top 5 Best Skateboard Decks Reviews
1. GIRL Skateboard Deck KOSTON FILLMORE
The Girl Koston Fillmore 8.25 is a great graphic skateboard deck that gives you the chance to have a cool high-quality deck with the ability to then add all of the specifics that you want. The deck is obviously a big part of having a complete skateboard and this one is incredibly durable.
The surface texture of this board has just the right amount of traction without being sticky when you are pushing along.
This deck is also easy to adjust and modify for those new to making their own skateboards and those that have lots of experience. The shape is standard so you can’t go wrong and the overall makeup of the board is very flexible with a great amount of pop.
2. Zero Single Skull Deck
The Zero Single Skull deck comes with the company’s signature skull logo and is available in various colors too. The shiny yet durable material makes this a sleek looking deck for any modifications.
There are also different size options too. This means riders of different sizes and those with different riding preferences can really get the exact deck they want.
It should be noted that this board will hold up to tricks as well as riding around town for short distances too. This is slightly flatter than the standard deck options but it is also something that makes it incredibly easy to work with.
3. Baker Brand Logo Deck Skateboard Deck
Any skater that likes to add their own mods to a high-quality deck will be able to appreciate the design and the make of the Baker Brand 8.0. This is one of the best skateboard decks because it is an incredibly easy shape to work with.
The size is great for all skaters too with the option to add different size wheels and accessories for different kinds of rides. In the world of skateboarding, having a Baker board is always a good thing.
This is a board that comes highly recommended for anyone that wants professional-grade equipment without spending too much money.
4. Almost Neo Expressionalism skateboard
The Almost Neo Expressionalism skateboard is like a beautiful blank canvas for any skater that likes to add his or her own trucks. The deck is a standard size, length, and shape that means it is easy to work with.
It should be noted that this deck does not come with griptape but that is fairly easy to get anywhere, so this shouldn’t be a huge deal. Once the board has been completed, you will be able to feel the benefits of buying such a great deck.
The colors are vibrant and are gender neutral, so any skaters can enjoy having a board that will catch everyone’s eye.
5. Moose Blank Skateboard Deck
The Moose skateboards are completely blank decks that come in different colors so skaters can get exactly the kind of blank canvas they want. This particular deck is made of 7-ply Canadian Maple wood, which makes it the perfectly flexible yet durable combination that you want.
Not only will you be able to add the trucks that you want for your specific style of riding and personal tastes but you will also be able to design the surface of the board too. Whether you will be painting it yourself or adding stickers and decals, it will be one of a kind.
There is nothing better than having a high-quality board that is unique and also easy for the skater to control, which is why this deck is one of the best.
