Skateboard decks are the base of every board. They shape how you ride, balance, and do tricks. But there are different types of skateboard decks. How do you choose the perfect one that can fit your riding style? Do you want a board that’s light and quick for flips? Or one that’s wide and steady for ramps or cruising?
I know picking the right one can feel tough. But don’t worry, you’re not alone! I’m here to break down all the types of skateboard decks so you can find what fits your style best.
In this guide, you’ll learn about each deck type, what it’s made for, and who it suits best. If you’re new to skating or ready to upgrade, this will help you make the right choice.
So, are you ready to find your perfect deck? Let’s dive into the skateboarding decks world.
Top Recommended Skateboard Decks
What is a Skateboard Deck?
A skateboard deck is the flat board you stand on when you are skateboarding. It’s the main part of a skateboard. It holds your weight and connects to the trucks and wheels.
Most decks are made of wood, usually maple. The shape, size, and design of the deck affect how it feels and what it’s good for. If you want to cruise or do tricks, the type of deck you use matters a lot.
Explore The Different Types of Skateboard Decks
In this section, I’ll walk you through all the major types of skateboard decks. This guide will make it easy to understand each deck type. Let’s see what is the best type of skateboard deck!
01. Popsicle Deck: The Standard Skateboard Deck
The popsicle deck is the most common type of skateboard deck. It has a rounded nose and tail, shaped like a popsicle stick. This shape works well for tricks because both ends are the same. It’s great for learning and doing technical tricks. Most pro skaters use this deck because of its balance and versatility.
Here is a quick overview:
- Best for street and park skating
- Great for flips, ollies, and technical tricks
- Sizes range from 7.5″ to 8.5″ wide
Popsicle skateboard deck is the best type of skateboard deck for beginners who want to learn tricks. It’s also called a standard skateboard deck.
02. Cruiser Skateboard Decks: Built for Smooth Rides
Cruiser decks are made for easy and smooth rides. They have many shapes but often include a kicktail for turning and small tricks. These decks are perfect for riding on sidewalks, streets, and rough surfaces. They work best with soft wheels that help roll over cracks and bumps.
Let’s see the overview below:
- Best for cruising and getting around town
- Works well with soft, larger wheels
- Often comes in mid to full-size shapes
If you want a board for daily rides or short commutes, the cruising skateboard decks are a great choice. It’s not ideal for tricks but perfect for travel.
03. Old School Skateboard Decks: Retro Style and Stability
Old school decks look like boards from the 1980s. They have a wide front, narrow tail, and flat nose. This shape gives more space to stand and feels stable under your feet. It’s great for skating bowls, ramps, and pools. These decks are harder to flip due to the shape.
Let’s explore the quick highlights:
- Best for bowls, ramps, and pool skating
- The wide deck offers better balance
- Not ideal for flip trick
Old school skate decks are perfect for skaters who like classic style and solid footing. They also work well for cruising and downhill skating.
04. Mini Skateboard Decks: Small Size for Young Riders
Mini decks are smaller versions of standard decks. They are made for kids or anyone with small feet. These decks help young riders learn to balance and control their board. The light size also makes them easy to carry.
Here is a quick overview:
- Best for kids or small riders
- Easy to carry and control
- Usually under 7.3″ wide
Mini Deck skateboards are great for beginners under age 8 or under 4’5” tall. They’re the best type of skateboard deck for kids starting out.
05. Shaped Skateboard Decks: Unique Shapes for Fun and Style
Shaped decks have creative and custom outlines. Some are wide with sharp edges; others have fun cuts or curves. These boards stand out and add personality to your setup. Some shaped decks still work for street and park tricks, but extreme shapes may make flips harder.
Let’s see the overview below:
- Best for stylish riding and creative setups
- Works for bowls, parks, and cruising
- Sizes vary widely by shape and brand
Shaped deck skateboards are good for riders who want to stand out or feel more control in certain stances.
06. Freestyle Skateboard Decks: Control for Flatground Tricks
Freestyle decks are flat, lightweight, and designed for tricks on flat ground. They often have a symmetrical shape and small wheelbases for fast moves. This type is used in freestyle skating, a style focused on balance tricks and footwork.
Let’s explore the quick highlights:
- Best for flatground tricks and dancing
- Lightweight and narrow for fast moves
- Small wheelbase and dual kicktails
Skateboard freestyle decks are ideal for skaters who want to focus on flow, spins, manuals, and creative ground tricks.
07. Double Kick Skateboard Decks: Great for Tricks on Both Ends
Double kick decks have an upturned nose and tail. This means you can do tricks from either end of the board. They are shaped like a popsicle deck but can vary slightly. This style gives more trick options and works well in the park or street.
Let’s see the overview below:
- Best for tricks in both directions
- The nose and tail are both upturned
- Works well for technical skating
A double kick skateboard deck is good if you want to skate switch, do flip tricks, or ride in both directions easily.
08. Longboard Skateboard Decks: Smooth and Stable Rides
Longboard decks are longer and wider than regular skateboards. They are made for cruising, carving, and downhill skating. The large surface helps with balance and comfort. Some have drop-through mounts or drop decks for a lower ride.
Here is a quick overview:
- Best for long-distance pushing and cruising
- Great for beginners who want stability
- Comes in sizes from 33″ to 46″
A longboard skateboard deck is a solid option if you want a smooth ride and don’t care about tricks.
09. Downhill Skateboard Decks: Speed and Stability for Fast Rides
Downhill decks are made for going fast on hills. They are long, stiff, and stable. Many have a drop platform or W-concave shape to help you grip the board at high speeds. These decks are not for tricks, they’re built for control and speed.
Let’s explore the quick highlights:
- Best for downhill racing and speed
- Wide and stiff for better control
- Designed for high-speed carving
Downhill longboard decks are best for riders who love speed and want full control on steep roads.
Best Type of Wood for Skateboard Decks
The wood in your deck affects how it skates. You want something strong, flexible, and not too heavy. Most decks are made by pressing layers of wood together. This gives the board strength and pop.
Here are the best types of wood used in skateboard decks:
- Canadian Maple: This is the top pick. It’s strong, lasts long, and has great pop. Most pro decks use 7 layers of Canadian maple. It’s a bit heavier, but it’s worth it for the strength.
- Bamboo: Bamboo is light, flexible, and eco-friendly. It feels bouncy under your feet and handles shock well. It’s a good choice for cruisers, but it won’t last as long as maple.
- Birch: Birch is cheaper and softer than maple. It’s good for beginners or budget decks. But it wears down faster and may crack with hard use.
- Hybrid Decks: Some boards mix maple and bamboo or add fiberglass layers. These combos make the deck lighter or stronger, depending on what you need. They’re common in longboards and downhill boards.
If you want performance, durability, and pop? Then go with Canadian maple. It’s strong, trusted, and works for most skating styles.
How to Choose the Right Skateboard Deck for Your Riding Style
Choosing the right deck depends on how and where you plan to skate. Start by thinking about what kind of riding you enjoy.
If you like doing tricks at the skatepark or on the street, go with a popsicle deck. These are light and easy to flip. They’re perfect for ollies, kickflips, and technical tricks.
For cruising around or commuting, pick a cruiser deck or longboard. They have wider shapes and smoother rides. Soft wheels make them roll better over cracks and rough ground.
If you’re into fast downhill rides, look for a stiff downhill longboard deck. It offers more control at high speeds.
The right deck matches your style. Keep it simple, choose the shape that fits how you want to skate.
Would you like a quick chart comparing each deck type by riding style and skill level?
Raleted Article: What Are The Best Skateboard Decks!
Let’s See A Quick Comparison of All Types of Skateboard Decks
| Deck Type | Best For | Trick-Friendly | Size Range |
| Popsicle Deck | Street and park skating | Yes | 7.5″ – 8.5″ |
| Cruiser Deck | Transportation | Somewhat | 8″ – 10″ |
| Old School Deck | Bowls and carving | Limited | 8.5″ – 10.5″ |
| Longboard Deck | Cruising, downhill | No | 35″ and up |
| Mini Deck | Kids and small riders | Yes | < 7.5″ |
| Shaped Deck | Creative riding | Sometimes | Varies |
| Double Kick Deck | Street tricks | Yes | 7.5″ – 8.5″ |
| Freestyle Deck | Flatground tricks | Yes | 7″ – 7.75″ |
| Downhill Deck | High-speed skating | No | 36″ – 40″ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Different Types of Decks Skateboard
What’s the best skateboard deck for beginners?
Popsicle decks are great for tricks. Longboards are better for cruising and learning balance.
Can you do tricks on cruiser decks?
Some basic tricks, yes, but that’s not what they’re built for.
What’s the best wood for decks?
7-ply Canadian maple is the strongest and most reliable choice.
Are shaped decks good for skating?
Yes, depending on the shape. Some are functional, others are mostly for looks. Choose one that matches your style.
On A Final Note
Now you know the main types of skateboard decks and what each one does best. Some are great for tricks. Others are made for smooth rides or fast hills. There’s a deck for every style.
If you’re new to skating, try a popsicle deck. It’s light and easy to flip. For a calm ride, go with a cruiser or longboard. Want more control in a bowl or ramp? An old school deck is a good pick. For downhill speed, use a strong, stable deck.
Test a few. See what feels right. The best deck is the one that makes you want to ride more.
Which skateboard deck do you like best?
Drop a comment below and let’s talk skateboards!
