Gifts for Skateboarders: Top Picks

Treat your skater to a fresh deck – the board the rider stands on. Most skateboard decks are made of maple wood and composed of three parts:

• Nose: the front of the deck
• Wheelbase: the part of the deck that lies between the trucks
• Tail: the rear of the skateboard, which is usually a little shorter than the nose

Decks are sold without trucks or wheels so a skater can customize the board to their liking. The undersides of skate decks often feature original designs by artists well-known in the skate world.

Pro model skate decks are made in collaboration with professional skaters of all styles. They feature original photographs, custom artwork and graphics, all inspired by pro skateboarders. Surprise your skater with a limited-edition model that’s one of a kind and supports their favorite skate athlete.

Complete skateboards, known as skateboard completes, are prebuilt and ready to ride as soon as they’re unwrapped, making them ideal for new skaters. Whether you choose a trick-ready classic board, an easy-cruise longboard or something in between, it’ll include all of the essentials, from deck and grip tape to bushings, bolts and bearings.

Read up on the different “Types of Skateboards” for various skill levels and skating styles to help you choose the one that’s right for your skater.

Height-adjustable flat bars and round rails allow skaters to work on their grinds and slides wherever they are. Flat bars are ideal for beginners learning to ride rails, while round rails help intermediate skaters graduate to handrails.

Grip tape is a sand paper-type strip that’s glued to the top of the deck to provide secure footing. While traction is the main idea, there are some nuances between different types of grip tape. It comes in many styles, from standout designs to clean, solid colors. Not sure which to get? Read our “Guide to Choosing Skateboard Grip Tape” for more information about this board-riding essential.

The wheels of a skateboard see a lot of action and wear out over time, and a new set of skate wheels is a gift that is sure to be put to good use. Different wheels provide a different experience — smaller wheels are lightweight and responsive, while larger wheels are heavier and roll faster. Read our “Tips on Choosing Skateboard Wheels” to help you land on the right set.

Skateboard hardware keeps the trucks secured to the deck. Hardware includes nuts and bolts and comes in Phillips or allen-head styles, which function the same but require different tools to tighten. Skaters choose from different types, lengths and colors of hardware to create a custom ride that suits their style. Snag a complete package that includes all the hardware and tools they need to finish a personalized setup.

A skateboard’s trucks are the components that the wheels attach to. These T-shaped metal components are mounted on the underside of the deck. The two main types of trucks are standard kingpin and reverse kingpin. They also come in smaller and larger sizes for different purposes.

To learn more about the differences between truck types and sizes, read our "Tips on Choosing Skateboard Trucks".

All-in-one tools provide the necessary attachments to adjust skateboard trucks or swap out wheels. Look for an all-in-one skateboard tool with several socket sizes: a 1/2” socket to work on the wheels, a 9/16” socket to tighten the trucks, and a 3/8” socket to direct the deck bolts. Alternatively, a 1/8” Allen wrench or Phillips head screwdriver lets skateboarders swap out their deck bolts at home or on the move.

Skater shirts are an easy gift, especially if you keep it simple with low-key graphic T-shirts. Look for graphic tees featuring their favorite logo or imagery.

Long-sleeve thermals and button-up flannels are easy to layer for frosty days on and off the board. Thermals capture warmth and fit smoothly under a hoodie or jacket. Flannels offer custom climate control and can be worn open or closed.

Lightweight hoodies work well for early morning and evening rides in mild weather, while heavyweight hoodies are ideal for cold weather. A classic crewneck sweatshirt is a comfortable middle layer over tees and under jackets.

When a hoodie won’t quite cut it, a jacket is great for cold-season sessions. Packable windbreakers offer practical on-the-go layering, and puffer jackets offer breathable warmth on cold days.

Baggy pants give skaters room to move, while there are slimmer-fit styles that are designed specifically for skating with engineered fits and stretch fabrics. Pants and sweatpants with an elastic waistband offer even more freedom of movement. Look for spacious pockets that’ll carry a multitool or chunk of wax.

Wearing shorts depends on personal preference but some skaters like to wear chino or retro styles when the weather warms up.

Skateboard backpacks are designed with riders in mind and feature straps to hold the board for secure, hands-free carrying. With enough room to store a laptop, change of clothes and other necessities, a skate backpack is a useful gift.

Simple, essential and super comfortable, a good pair of socks adds extra cushioning. No-show socks sit beneath the shoe line, and crew socks sit at half-calf. Features like moisture-wicking and odor control are a welcomed bonus.

Trucker hats, snapbacks and bucket hats are all skate staples. Brimmed hats make a great gift for skaters in sunny regions, while wool bucket hats are a must-have for colder weather.

Beanies are low profile and fit snugly to the head, made with ribbed knits that retain warmth. Beanies made out of materials like wool and fleece capture extra warmth, while cotton beanies offer more ventilation.

Small carabiners are a secure way to carry keys on the go. Twist-lock carabiners attach to a belt loop or backpack to keep essential items within easy reach. Larger, heavy-duty carabiners clip onto a backpack to hold a helmet or water bottle.

An adjustable belt is a must-have for any skater. You can’t go wrong with a classic leather belt or sturdy woven number with a buckle that’s also a bottle opener.

Tri-fold and bi-fold wallets offer a slim profile that slides into a back pocket or fanny pack. Velcro closures and zippered pockets keep cash and cards secure without adding bulk. If your skater keeps their wallet on a chain, a slim model with a D-ring attachment is the way to go.