Skateboarding is a thrilling and fun activity for children, but it also comes with inherent risks. That’s why it’s crucial to make sure your child is equipped with the right gear to stay safe while enjoying the sport.
Choosing high-quality skateboard equipment is essential, and with so many brands on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my best picks for top skateboard equipment brands for children. From helmets and pads to skate shoes and clothing, these brands offer the perfect combination of safety, style, and durability.
So, whether your child is a beginner or an experienced skateboarder, keep reading to discover the best equipment brands to help them enjoy the sport safely and confidently.
Helmets for Child Skateboarders
When it comes to skateboarding, safety should always be a top priority, especially for children. That’s why helmets are an essential piece of equipment for child skateboarders.
A high-quality helmet should fit snugly on the head and offer sufficient protection in case of a fall or collision.
Look for helmets that meet safety standards such as ASTM F1492 or CPSC, as they have been rigorously tested to ensure maximum protection.
Additionally, helmets with adjustable straps and pads can provide a comfortable and customized fit for your child.
By investing in a good helmet for your child, you can help prevent serious injuries and ensure they have a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Top Brands for Skateboard Pads
Skateboard pads are another essential piece of equipment to help protect your child while skateboarding. Pads can help prevent injuries to the knees, elbows, and wrists, which are common areas for impact during falls.
When it comes to finding the best pads for your child, there are several top brands to consider.
Look for brands that specialize in skateboard equipment, such as Pro-Tec, Triple Eight, and G-Form. These brands offer a variety of pads in different styles and sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your child.
Additionally, make sure the pads are made with high-quality materials that can withstand repeated impact and provide the necessary protection.
By investing in top brands for skateboard pads, you can help keep your child safe and comfortable while skateboarding.
Best Skate Shoes for Children
Having the right footwear is crucial when it comes to skateboarding, especially for children.
Skate shoes are specifically designed to provide the necessary grip and support for skateboarding, while also being durable enough to withstand wear and tear.
When looking for the best skate shoes for your child, consider brands such as Vans, DC, and Nike SB, which are known for their high-quality and stylish skate shoes.
Look for shoes with reinforced toe caps and padded collars for added protection and comfort. It’s also important to ensure that the shoes fit well and provide enough room for your child’s feet to move comfortably.
By investing in the best skate shoes for your child, you can help prevent injuries and ensure they have a comfortable and enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Choosing Durable Skateboard Clothing
Skateboarding can be tough on clothing, so it’s important to choose durable and high-quality garments for your child.
Look for skateboard clothing made from sturdy materials like denim, canvas, or ripstop nylon that can withstand scrapes and falls.
Brands such as Vans, Element, and Volcom offer a variety of skateboard clothing options for children, including pants, shorts, and jackets. When choosing clothing for your child, consider their comfort and mobility as well.
Loose-fitting clothing can get caught on the skateboard and hinder movement, so opt for clothing that is form-fitting but still allows for flexibility.
Additionally, it’s important to consider visibility when choosing skateboard clothing. Bright colors or reflective materials can make your child more visible to drivers and other skateboarders, helping to prevent accidents.
By choosing durable skateboard clothing, you can ensure your child is protected and comfortable while skateboarding.
Finding Quality Skateboard Bearings
Skateboard bearings are an essential component of any skateboard, as they enable the wheels to spin smoothly and efficiently.
When looking for quality skateboard bearings for your child’s skateboard, there are several factors to consider.
Look for bearings made from high-quality materials such as steel, ceramic, or titanium, which can withstand the impact and pressure of skateboarding.
Brands such as Bones, Bronson Speed Co, and Independent offer some of the best skateboard bearings on the market.
It’s also important to consider the ABEC rating of the bearings, which measures their precision and speed.
A higher ABEC rating indicates a higher level of precision and faster speeds, but keep in mind that a higher ABEC rating may not always be necessary for your child’s level of skateboarding.
By finding quality skateboard bearings for your child’s skateboard, you can ensure they have a smoother and more enjoyable ride.
Top Brands for Skateboard Decks
If you’re on the hunt for the top brands for skateboard decks, look no further! As someone who’s been skating for years, I can tell you that there are a few brands that consistently produce high-quality decks that are perfect for kids of all ages.
First up, there’s Element – a brand that’s been around for over 25 years and is known for its durable and stylish decks.
Another great option is Plan B, which is popular among both beginners and seasoned skaters alike.
And let’s not forget about Girl – a brand that’s all about empowering female skaters and producing high-quality decks that are both fun and functional.
No matter which brand you choose, you can feel confident that your child will be hitting the skatepark in style and with a deck that’s built to last.
Quality Skateboard Trucks for Kids
Looking for high-quality skateboard trucks for kids? As a seasoned skater myself, I can tell you that the right trucks can make all the difference in your child’s skating experience.
Two of the most popular brands for skateboard trucks are Independent and Thunder. Independent trucks are known for their durability and precision, while Thunder trucks are lightweight and responsive.
Both brands offer a variety of sizes and styles to choose from, so you can find the perfect fit for your child’s board. Another great option is Venture trucks, which are known for their smooth ride and reliable performance.
No matter which brand you choose, investing in quality skateboard trucks can help your child improve their skating skills and have more fun on their board.
Best Skateboard Wheels for Child Riders
Choosing the best skateboard wheels for your child can be overwhelming, but fear not! As someone who’s been skating for years, I can tell you that there are a few key things to keep in mind when selecting the right wheels for your child’s board.
First, consider the size. Smaller wheels (around 50-52mm) are great for beginners, while larger wheels (55mm and up) are better for more advanced skaters.
You’ll also want to think about the durometer, or hardness, of the wheels.
Softer wheels (around 78a-87a) are ideal for cruising and carving, while harder wheels (90a and up) are better for tricks and technical skating.
Some of the top brands for skateboard wheels include Spitfire, Bones, and OJ Wheels.
Spitfire wheels are known for their speed and durability, Bones wheels offer a smooth ride and excellent grip, and OJ Wheels are great for cruising and carving.
No matter which brand or size you choose, investing in quality skateboard wheels can help your child enjoy a smoother ride and improve their overall skating experience.
Importance of Safety in Skateboarding
Skateboarding can be a fun and exhilarating activity for kids, but it’s important to prioritize safety above all else.
As someone who’s been skating for years, I can tell you that wearing the proper safety gear can make all the difference in preventing injuries.
This includes a helmet, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards. It’s also a good idea to wear sturdy shoes with good grip and to avoid skating in high-traffic areas or on uneven surfaces.
As a parent, you can help your child stay safe by setting clear rules and boundaries for skating, and by supervising them closely when they’re out on their board.
Encourage your child to practice basic skateboarding techniques in a safe and controlled environment before moving on to more advanced tricks.
Remember, safety should always come first, and with the proper precautions in place, your child can enjoy all the thrills of skateboarding without putting themselves at risk.
Conclusion
Skateboarding can be an exciting and rewarding activity for kids, but it’s important to approach it with safety in mind.
By investing in quality gear and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure that your child has a safe and enjoyable skating experience.
From choosing the right skateboard deck and trucks to selecting the best wheels for your child’s riding style, there are many factors to consider when it comes to skateboarding.
By doing your research and staying informed, you can help your child become a skilled and confident skater while also minimizing the risk of injuries.
So go ahead and encourage your child to explore the world of skateboarding, but always remember to put safety first.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
How do I choose a skateboard for my child?
Choose a skateboard for your child based on their age, skill level, and preferences, ensuring the deck size, trucks, wheels, and bearings are appropriate for their needs.
How to choose a skateboard for an 11-year-old?
When choosing a skateboard for an 11-year-old, opt for a skateboard with a deck width of around 7.5 to 8 inches, suitable for their shoe size. Ensure the trucks and wheels match the deck size, and consider their skating preferences, such as cruising or tricks. Don’t forget to provide proper safety gear, including a helmet and pads.
