Best Skateboard Brands for 2025 (10 Expert Picks)

Introduction

When it comes to finding the best skateboard brand, there’s a lot more to consider than just flashy graphics. Quality, innovation, performance, and even sustainability are essential factors that set one brand apart from another. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a board that’s easy to control, or a pro skater searching for something with top-notch pop and durability, the right brand can make a difference in your skateboarding experience.

In this article, we’ll cover the top 10 skateboard brands of 2024. From iconic names that have been around for decades to brands bringing innovative design and sustainability to the forefront, we’ve rounded up something for every skater. And as an extra, we’ve added an honorable mention for a brand you might not know yet, but should definitely keep on your radar. Furthermore, if you're looking for the best skateboard size as well, check out our guide to skateboard sizes to find the perfect fit before choosing a brand!

So, let’s dive in and find your perfect ride!

In a glance

The best skateboards brands for 2024 to keep it short are the following:

1. Santa Cruz
2. Creature
3. Real
4. Baker
5. Anti-Hero
6. Plan B
7. Jart
8. Girl
9. Chocolate
10. Alien Workshop

 

Santa Cruz

 

Santa Cruz is one of the oldest and most iconic skateboard brands in the industry, and for good reason. With a reputation built on quality and innovation, Santa Cruz decks are known for their pop, sturdiness, and adaptability to different styles. Santa Cruz offers a wide range of sizes and shapes, appealing to everyone from beginners to pros.

Performance and Design

Santa Cruz, one of the oldest skateboard brands, boasts a reputation for quality. Here's what sets them apart:

Universal Appeal: Santa Cruz caters to skaters of all levels with a diverse range of skateboard sizes and shapes. From beginners to professionals, their decks are designed to adapt to different preferences.

Poppy and Sturdy: The boards feature an optimal pop, enhancing trick performance, and their durable maple material with Quad X technology ensures a longer lifespan.

Lightweight: Despite intricate designs with multiple layers, Santa Cruz skateboards remain light, suitable for skaters of all ages.

Components and Specifications

Understanding the catalysts behind Santa Cruz's performance:

Deck Variety: With responsive and sturdy decks in various shapes and styles, Santa Cruz offers options for street, park, or any preferred skating location.

Durable Trucks: Santa Cruz trucks, often original or in collaboration with other brands, boast durability. Skaters can customize turning flexibility with different bushing hardness levels.

Quality Wheels and Bearings: Urethane wheels calibrated for grip and smooth turns, along with lubricated bearings, contribute to a smoother, faster, and more precise ride.

 

Our recommendation

Buy Santa Cruz Flier Hand Large Complete Skateboard 8.25" from our shop

 

Creature Skateboard

Founded by Jim Thiebaud in 1994, Creature Skateboards aimed to elevate the quality of skating gear. The brand quickly gained recognition for finely detailed boards, both structurally and aesthetically. Creature expanded its product range, offering decks suitable for cruising, street and park skating, and downhill rides, catering to skaters of various levels. Notably, Creature's unique horror-inspired graphics set it apart in the industry.

Features of Creature Skateboard

Creature Skateboards capitalizes on its graphics as a distinctive feature. Pioneering horror-style themes in skateboard design, Creature's products showcase skulls, blood, and eerie creatures, striking a balance between art and edginess. Constructed primarily with sturdy maple wood, Creature skateboards are known for their durability, excellent pop, and slight flex, making them ideal for diverse skateboarding setups.

A notable aspect of Creature's manufacturing process is the handcrafting of boards, resulting in symmetrical and precise deck cuts that enhance overall ride performance.

Performance Evaluation

Creature Skateboards excel in performance, offering:

• Safety: Quality grip tape ensures security and stability for various skating styles.
• Shape: Creature skateboards feature excellent concavity, enhancing trick performance like powerslides.
• Pop: Utilizing high-quality raw materials, Creature skateboards deliver impressive pop for executing tricks.

Buying Guide for Creature Skateboard

Considerations when buying Creature Skateboards:

• Deck Quality: Creature invests in seven-ply maple skateboards, ensuring durability. Various sizes cater to different preferences.
• Board Shape and Aesthetics: Creature utilizes Everslick technology for long-lasting graphics. The brand provides a board shape guide for different age groups.
• Finishing: Precise and aligned deck cuts contribute to a better riding experience.

 

Our recommendation

Buy Creature Everslick Deck 8.43 from our shop 

 

Real Skateboards

Performance

Real Skateboards has gained a reputation for providing a versatile experience suitable for skaters of all ages and skill levels. The brand offers a diverse range of designs, catering to both beginners and advanced skaters. Smaller decks at around 7 inches are perfect for young kids, while larger designs at 8 inches and above provide enhanced control for adults.

What sets Real apart is its heavy-duty construction, ensuring longevity even under intense usage. It takes hundreds of hours for chips to appear on a Real deck, highlighting the brand's commitment to durability.

Moreover, Real Skateboards are known for their excellent pop, contributing to the execution of impressive tricks. This blend of sturdiness and responsiveness makes Real a preferred choice for many skaters.

 

Components and Specifications

Decks

The durability and responsiveness of a skateboard often hinge on the deck. Real Skateboards employs a unique R1 construction for its decks, incorporating a ribbed polymer into each of the seven maple layers. This results in a consistent ride quality and a significantly extended skateboard life.

Trucks

Real's skateboard trucks, included in the complete skateboard package, feature a heavy-duty aluminum body capable of withstanding rigorous usage, mirroring the reliability of their decks.

Wheels and Bearings

Real Skateboards manufactures its own wheels in various sizes and hardness levels, contributing to overall functionality and ride quality. The bearings, with an ABEC 5 rating, strike a balance between precision and speed without overburdening the skater.

 

Our recommendation

Buy Real Deck Spectrum Distortion 8.5 IN from our shop 

Baker Skateboards

Durability and Longevity

Synonymous with durability, Baker Skateboards, crafted from resilient Canadian Maple Wood, resist warping, splitting, or cracking, ensuring longevity under high-impact tricks. Ideal for riders seeking a deck that withstands the test of time.

Versatile Design

Baker Skateboards offer flexibility with various sizes, shapes, concaves, and tail options, catering to diverse skating styles. Whether conquering the streets or perfecting tricks in the park, Baker's range suits every rider's preference.

Impressive Performance

Crafted through rigorous processes, Baker Skateboards deliver high-performance levels. Featuring a good pop for tricks like ollies and flips, these boards provide impressive traction for a stable ride, suitable for skaters of any skill level.

Distinctive Style Statements

Renowned for unique designs and graphics, Baker allows riders to showcase their style. Collaborating with top designers ensures a diverse range, making Baker a go-to for those who want their skateboard to be an extension of personal expression.

 

Trusted Industry Brand

With over a decade in the business, Baker Skateboards is a trusted name. Sponsoring top skaters worldwide, Baker solidifies its reputation for quality, style, and performance. Choosing Baker means aligning with a brand that stands the test of time.

 

Our recommendation

Baker Brand Logo Deck-8.0 Black/White Skateboard

 

Anti-Hero 

Embarking on a skateboarding journey entails a commitment to the skating experience, and three months ago, our team skater took the plunge with an Anti-Hero skateboard deck. The ensuing experience has been nothing short of impressive. Here's a detailed breakdown of their encounter.

 

Looks: Aesthetic Brilliance

Opting for the "Nothing's Free" deck, the skater was immediately captivated by the detailed eagle design. Priced at $45, the graphic exuded inspiration, making a solid 10/10 impression upon the initial impact. However, as expected, normal wear took its toll over time.

Pop: Springy and Responsive

Initial skepticism about skateboard pop faded away as the Anti-Hero deck turned our skater into a firm believer. The wood's exceptional response outshone their previous DGK and Habitat decks. Even after three months, the pop remains impressive, earning a commendable 8/10.

Durability: Defying the Norm

This is where the Anti-Hero deck truly shines. While our skater's previous decks typically lasted a month, this one tripled that lifespan. It never broke, snapped, or cracked. The only reason for a replacement was the worn-down tail—a testament to its excellent durability. A perfect 10/10 in this department.

Shape: Tail and Concave Harmony

The tail's bluntness and the slightly pointy nose, coupled with the preferred steep concave, created a shape that resonated perfectly with our skater's style. The concave was ideal, offering the control and feel they crave. Another solid 10/10 for the shape.

Overall Verdict: A Skater's Delight

Anti-Hero skateboard decks deliver exceptional durability, impressive pop, and captivating looks—all within the standard price range. The pop retains its vigor, and the tailored shape enhances the overall skating experience. Whether you're a seasoned skater or just starting, Anti-Hero proves to be a reliable companion.

Our recommendation

Buy Anti Hero Complete Grimple Full Face - Blue 8.25 IN from our shop

6. Plan B Skateboards

Plan B is well-known in the pro-skateboarding community and has earned a solid reputation for its durable, high-performance decks. Founded by skate legends, Plan B focuses on providing advanced designs that hold up well for street and park tricks.

Performance and Durability

Plan B boards are constructed with resin epoxy, making them lighter and longer-lasting than traditional decks. They’re responsive and offer good pop, perfect for riders who are focused on performance.

Plan B skateboards are known for their high-quality construction and performance, making them a popular choice among skaters.

• Durability: Made from seven plies of maple wood, ensuring long-lasting use. 1
• Pop: Generally responsive with good pop, though some users report a drop-off in pop after a few weeks. 3
• Slide Performance: The BLK ICE series offers enhanced slide capability, making it great for tricks. 1
• Variety: Available in various sizes and designs to suit different skating styles.

BuyPlan B Rose Petals Joslin 8.375'' Skateboard from our shop

 

7. Jart Skateboards

Jart is a European skateboard brand that prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendly manufacturing. They create quality decks with minimal environmental impact, perfect for skaters who want to support a green-minded brand without sacrificing performance.

Build and Eco-Friendly Focus

Jart decks are made from sustainable materials and offer consistent performance with impressive durability. Their boards are crafted with precision and are well-suited for all skill levels.

Jart skateboards are well-regarded for their quality and performance, appealing to a wide range of skaters from beginners to professionals.

• Durability: Made from high-quality American maple wood, ensuring longevity
• Variety: Offers different concave styles for personalized control and comfort.
• Sustainability: Environmentally friendly production practices are emphasized.
• Reputation: Known for their good price-to-quality ratio in the skate community

Buy Jart X Akbar 8.25'' LC Deck from our shop

8. Girl Skateboards

Girl Skateboards is a brand with a unique personality, known for its stylish graphics and community-oriented vibe. Popular with street and park skaters, Girl decks offer great pop and stability, and they’ve become a cultural icon in skateboarding.

Creative Design and Reliable Performance

Girl’s boards are built to last and are known for their responsive feel, making them perfect for technical tricks. Girl’s collaborations and fun designs make them a popular choice for skaters who appreciate both form and function.

Girl skateboards are well-regarded for their quality and performance, appealing to a wide range of skaters.

• Durability: Made from high-quality maple wood, known for its longevity. 
• Pop: Generally provides good pop, though some users note it may lose pop faster compared to other brands.
• Concave: Offers a favorite concave shape among many skaters, enhancing control and comfort. 
• Pro Models: Features various pro models that cater to different skating styles and preferences.

Buy Girl Malto Blood Bath Complete Skateboard 7.75" from our shop

 

9. Chocolate Skateboards

Chocolate, Girl’s sister brand, is equally respected for its top-notch decks and unique, art-driven graphics. Chocolate’s boards offer excellent control and are ideal for skaters who like a touch of creativity in their setup.

Artistic Style and Quality Construction

Chocolate skateboards are built to deliver solid pop and durability, and the brand’s dedication to artistic graphics makes each board stand out. These decks work well for any skill level, from beginner to advanced.

Buy CHOCOLATE COMPLETE SKATEBOARD EIGHTBALLER RAVEN TERSHY 7.875" from our shop

10. Alien Workshop

Alien Workshop has carved out a unique spot in the skateboarding world with its extraterrestrial-inspired designs and innovative technology. Known for quality and durability, Alien Workshop decks are a great choice for skaters looking for both style and performance.

Unique Design and Sturdy Build

Alien Workshop’s boards are sturdy, with a responsive feel that makes them ideal for street and park skating. Their edgy graphics add a layer of individuality that appeals to skaters who want a standout board.

Alien Workshop skateboards are recognized for their unique graphics and solid performance, appealing to a wide range of skaters.

• Durability: Made from high-quality maple wood, ensuring longevity and resilience.
• Design: Known for innovative and artistic graphics that stand out in the skate community. 
• Variety: Offers a range of sizes and complete setups suitable for different skill levels.
• Heritage: Established in the 1990s, it has a strong reputation and history within the skateboarding culture. 

Buy Alien Workshop Spectrum Full 8.5'' Twin from our shop

 

*Honorable Mention: Hydroponic Skateboards

While not as widely known as the main brands, Hydroponic Skateboards is a European brand gaining a following for its durable decks and unique graphics. Hydroponic’s boards are designed for everyday use, and they’re especially popular with riders who like a board that’s both functional and stylish.

Hydroponic is a notable skate and surf brand based in Mataró, Spain, recognized for its commitment to quality and local culture.

• History: Founded in 2002 by friends inspired by their time in Australia, Hydroponic aimed to create a brand that reflected European trends, distinct from American influences. Over the years, it has grown into a household name in Spain's skate community, expanding its product range from clothing to skateboards and accessories.
  
  
• Products: Hydroponic offers a wide variety of skateboards, longboards, and streetwear. Their skateboards are made from seven plies of Canadian hard rock maple, glued with strong epoxy resin, which provides durability and a responsive pop. They also feature a diverse range of designs, including collaborations with popular cultural icons.
  
  
• Market Presence: The brand has established three flagship stores in Barcelona and is expanding its distribution across Europe and Asia, aiming to reach a broader audience while maintaining its local roots.
  
  
• Sustainability: Hydroponic emphasizes eco-friendly practices, using recycled materials for their products and sourcing energy from renewable sources for their operations.
  

Overall, Hydroponic is well-regarded for its quality products and unique approach to skate culture, making it a significant player in the local and expanding European market.

Buy HYDROPONIC SKATE SAVAGE BLACK/ WHITE 8" from our shop

Conclusion

Ultimately, choosing the best skateboard brand comes down to your personal style, needs, and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to Santa Cruz’s classic appeal, Creature’s bold graphics, or Jart’s sustainable focus, each of these brands offers something unique to enhance your ride. Now it’s time to get out there, find your perfect board, and enjoy the thrill of skateboarding!