How to Find the Best Skateboards for 5 Year Olds

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Gavin only feels inner peace when he's riding his board. It's a place for him to escape when he's having a bad day. He wishes other people could discover how much potential there is for self-discovery in skateboarding, which is why he's here to help you.

Bottom Line Up Front

My top pick for the category of Best Skateboard for 5-Year-Olds goes to the Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0” Complete Skateboard.

Overall, this is a top-class skateboard for 5-year-olds. It features a perfectly sized (7.0”) 7-ply Canadian Hardrock Maple deck, premium lightweight AWS Logo Trucks, AWS 53 mm Polyurethane Wheels with 99a Durometer, Soft 85a Bushings, and fast AWS ABEC-7 Bearings.

The Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0” Complete Skateboard features classic black and white AWS alien-inspired graphics, and is suitable for boys and girl

Quick Overview: Best Skateboards for 5-Year-Olds

Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0″ Complete Skateboard

Deck Dimensions: 29.5” (L) x 7.0” (W)
Deck Materials: 7-Ply 100% Canadian Hardrock Maple
Trucks: AWS Logo
Wheels: AWS 53 mm Polyurethane with 99a Durometer
Bearings: Fast and Durable AWS ABEC-7
Wheelbase: 13.5 Inches

Blind Round Space Youth First Push Soft Top Complete Skateboard

Deck Dimensions: 28.2” (L) x 6.75” (W)
Deck Materials: 7-Ply Birchwood with Extra Stiff Epoxy Resin Glue
Trucks: Lightweight Tensor Alloy
Wheels: 51mm Polyurethane
Bearings: ABEC-1
Wheelbase: 12 Inches

Almost Reflex Youth First Push Soft Wheels Black 7 Complete Skateboard

Deck Dimensions: 28.95” (L) x 7.0” (W)
Deck Materials: 7-Ply Birchwood with Extra Stiff Epoxy Resin Glue
Trucks: Lightweight Tensor Alloy
Wheels: 51mm Polyurethane
Bearings: ABEC-1
Wheelbase: N/A

ReVive Lifeline Red 7.25″ Youth Complete Skateboard

Deck Dimensions: 29.25” (L) x 7.25” (W)
Deck Materials: 7-Ply 100% Canadian Hardrock Maple
Trucks: Bullet
Wheels: Force 51 mm Polyurethane
Bearings: Independent
Wheelbase: N/A

What Size Skateboard Does My 5-Year-Old Need?

Skateboard manufacturers put loads of research and development into kids’ skateboards and make them in three sizes to cater to all age groups. Kids grow and develop at different rates, so choosing the correct size can prove tricky.

A Micro Deck is the smallest skateboard deck available and ranges from 6.5”-6.75”. A Micro Deck is designed for kids who are between 4-5-years-old. At this age, they generally have a smaller than one shoe size and are around 3ft 4” or shorter.

A Mini Deck is a standard-sized skateboard deck and measures 7”. A Mini Deck is designed for kids who are between 6 and 8-years-old. At this age, they generally have a 2-5 shoe size and are between 3ft 4”- 4ft 4” tall.

A Mid Deck is the largest-sized skateboard deck for kids and measures between 7.25” and -7.375”. A mid-deck is designed for kids who are between 9 and 12-years-old. At this age, they generally have a 6-8 shoe size and are between 4 ft 5” and -5 ft 2”

How to Choose a Skateboard for your 5-Year-Old

Now that you know what size skateboard your 5-year-old needs, you will need to ensure you purchase them a quality set-up. At this age, there is no need to spend hundreds of dollars on a skateboard, but you do need to buy something decent that will not hinder their progress.

A few things to consider when purchasing your5-year-old a skateboard:

Do Not Buy Your 5-Year-Old an Adult or Full-Sized Skateboard

Buying a full-sizes or adult skateboard is possibly the biggest mistake guys make when purchasing a skateboard for their 5-year-olds.

As parents, we have the idea that our kids should grow into things, simultaneously allowing our hard-earned cash to go further. A skateboard is not simply a skateboard, and a full-sized adult board will only harm your 5-year-olds progression.

Sure, they can have fun and fool around, but the board is simply too big and heavy to allow them to start doing tricks and learn the basics needed to become an accomplished skater.

Generally, kids that skate on adult boards get to a point where they cannot improve anymore. They get bored and frustrated, which often results in them leaving the sport in pursuit of an activity that they can master.

The Deck

You must purchase a skateboard with a quality deck. Decks that are made from Canadian and North American Maple are an ideal choice for all skateboards.

Skateboards suffer severe abuse at the hands (and feet) of 5-year-olds, and will probably be dropped and dented numerous times, so it needs to be robust. Maple Decks usually feature a 7-ply or 9-ply construction strong enough for your 5-year-old.

The Trucks

An average set of budget-friendly yet quality trucks will be fine for your 5-year-old. Modern skateboard trucks are made from premium materials and are more than strong enough for your kid. Once they progress to a stage where they are pulling off different types of grinds, you may want to upgrade to a premium set of trucks.

The Wheels

At this age, there is no need for high-performance premium skateboard wheels. An entry-level series from a reputable skateboard wheel manufacturer will do the job. Softer wheels will deliver more grip, and wider wheels offer more stability and control.

The Bearings

Quality Bearings are a must when purchasing a skateboard for your 5-year-old. The better the bearings then the better the skating experience. Quality bearings such as ABEC-3 and ABEC-5 will keep your 5-year-old skating faster for longer.

Should I get My 5-Year-Old a Complete or DIY Skateboard?

A quality Complete Skateboard from a reputable brand is good enough for almost all 5-year-olds, particularly if they are just learning how to skate.

Complete Skateboards are supplied fully assembled and ready to go. They are equipped with a robust and durable deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, anti-slip grip tape, and hardware. I recommend that you check the trucks and bushing before skating because they may need to be adjusted to suit your 5-year-old.

How to Get Your 5-Year-Old Stoked on Skateboarding

We would all like our kids to be the next Tony Hawk or Sky Brown, but the truth is that some kids are not into skating or other types of board sports. As parents, we have no control over this, but what we can do is at least allow them to give the sport a go.

Below are a few tips to get your 5-year-old stoked on skateboarding:

Purchase a Decent Kids Skateboard

Skateboard manufacturers spend large amounts of energy and finances developing the best skateboards for kids. Investing in a decent board is the first step to getting your 5-year-old stoked on skateboarding.

Provide a Safe Skating Environment

Start by skating on grass or a soft synthetic surface. 5-Year-Olds will fall at some point, so a soft surface is key. Do not skate where there are other skaters, where your 5-year-old can get in the way, causing a collision and getting hurt.

Training Wheels

Training wheels can be an excellent tool when learning to skate. They are helpful in the initial stages, where the board can shoot from underneath their tiny feet.

This typically happens a couple of times before they find their balance and some stability. Skateboard Training Wheels are also helpful when first learning tricks. They keep the board in place and allow the skater to focus on the trick in mind and nothing else.

Make it All About Them

Dedicate some time each week to teaching your 5-year-old how to skate. Make this time all about them, and spend it showing the basics. Stay close to them at all times, making them feel like it is a team effort.

I would even recommend leaving your board at home or inside the house during these initial sessions, we are all kids inside, and it is easy to get distracted by our own skating needs. Focusing on them will make them feel important, and they will instinctively want to improve and please you.

Make it Fun for Them

Always ensure that this time with your 5-year-old is a fun time. Kids tend to develop at different rates, so you must display patience and refrain from getting frustrated. This can be extremely damaging to a 5-year-old. The more fun they are experiencing, the more inclined they will be to continue.

Encourage Them

In many ways, encouragement is what skateboarding and all board riding are really about, and you can never encourage your 5-year-old too much. No matter how insignificant the improvement or accomplishment, each accomplishment must be greeted with massive bearhugs, fist bumps, and high fives.

If you are similar to me and get great pleasure from cheering your mates on when they pull off a rad trick or catch a great wave, you are in for a real treat when your 5-year-old starts shredding 🙂

Best Skateboards for 5-Year-Olds

Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0″ Complete

Alien Workshop Skateboards (AWS) is based in Dayton, Ohio, and was founded by pro skaters Mike Hill, Neil Blender, and Chris Carter in 1990.

The brand has truly been around the block, attracting interest from the Burton Snowboarding Company, Pacific Vector Holdings, Tum Yeto, and legendary skateboarder Rob Dyrdek. Today Alien Workshop Skateboards operates as an independent skateboarding company, primarily focusing on amateur skateboarders.

The Abduction White 7.0” Complete Skateboard is an exceptional skateboard with a robust and flexible 100% Canadian Maple deck. Just like all quality skateboards, it features a popsicle shape, mellow concave, double kicktail, and steep kicks.

But what sets this complete skateboard apart from its competitors is the quality of the components and hardware. It has premium lightweight AWS Logo Trucks, AWS 53 mm Polyurethane Wheels with 99a Durometer, Soft 85a Bushings, and fast AWS ABEC-7 Bearings.

Pros

Quality Complete Skateboard from Alien Workshop Skateboards
29.5” x 7.0” 7-Ply 100% Canadian Hardrock Maple
Classic Popsicle Shape
Double Kicktail with Steep Kicks
Mellow Concave
Premium AWS Logo Trucks
AWS 53 mm Polyurethane Wheels with 99a Durometer
Fast and Durable AWS ABEC-7 Bearings
Soft 85a Bushings
Cool Black and White Alien-Inspired Graphics
Suitable for Boys and Girls
Reasonably Priced

Cons

I cannot find a Suitable Con at this time

Blind Round SpaceYouth First Push Soft Top Complete Skateboard

Blind Skateboards are based in El Segundo, California, and was founded by Mark Gonzales in 1988. Blind Skateboards has a long history in the industry and the pro skating scene.

Initially, Mark Gonzales was involved with Vision Skateboards but left to create the Blind Skateboards under the World Industries Skateboarding umbrella. Today the brand is owned and distributed by Dwindle Distribution and continues to produce excellent skateboards for kids.

The Round Space Youth First Push Soft Top Complete Skateboard is specially designed for 4-5-year-olds. The soft top deck is great for young kids and allows them to skate without shoes on. It measures 28.2” x 6.75” and features a popsicle shape, a double kicktail, and steep kicks. Except for the bearings, the rest of the hardware is solid. It is equipped with quality Tensor Alloy trucks and Blind 51 mm polyurethane wheels.

Pros

Outstanding Kids Skateboard from Blind Skateboards
7-Ply Birchwood with Extra Stiff Epoxy Resin Glue
Single Deck Press
Classic Popsicle Shape
Double Kicktail with Steep Kicks
Mellow Concave
Lightweight Tensor Alloy Trucks for Maximum Control
Blind 51mm Polyurethane Wheels with 83a Durometer
12.0” Wheelbase
Simple yet Effective Graphics Displaying the Company Logo
Suitable for Boys and Girls

Cons

ABEC-1 Bearings would love to see ABEC-3 or ABEC-5
Expensive
This Skateboard will get Outgrown Quickly

Deck Dimensions: 28.2” (L) x 6.75” (W)

Almost Reflex Youth First Push Soft Wheels Black 7 Complete Skateboard

Almost Skateboards are based in El Segundo, California, and was founded by professional skaters Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song in 2003.

Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song need no introduction, and you can be sure that any products that display their names are world-class. The company has earned a justifiable reputation for creating top-quality skateboard decks using modern and innovative designs, their designs include 7-ply, 8-ply, and carbon fiber.

The Reflex Youth First Push Soft Wheels Black 7 Complete Skateboard features a quality 28.95 x 7.0” deck. The deck is made from 7-ply 100% Birchwood and has a classic popsicle shape and a mellow concave. It features a double kicktail, with steep kicks.

The deck is wonderfully complemented by quality Tensor trucks and 51mm Polyurethane Wheels. It is the perfect size skateboard for a 5-year-old, and strong enough to deal with any abuse they may throw at it.

Pros

Quality Complete Skateboard from Almost Skateboards
7-Ply Birchwood with Extra Stiff Epoxy Resin Glue
Classic Popsicle Shape
Double Kick Tail with Steep Kicks
Single Deck Press
Mellow Concave
Lightweight Tensor Alloy Trucks
51mm Polyurethane Wheels with 83a Durometer
Eye-Catching Graphics
Suitable for Boys and Girls
Reasonably Priced

Cons

ABEC-1 Bearings would love to see ABEC-3 or ABEC-5 Bearings

ReVive Lifeline Red 7.25” Youth Complete Skateboard

ReVive Skateboards is an American Skateboarding Company founded by Andrew Schrock and Bryan Ayms in 2009. All ReVive skateboard decks are made by Pennswood Skateboard Manufacturing (PSM) in Pennsylvania. PSM is a small woodshop that produces quality all-American decks for smaller brands and skating teams.

The ReVive Lifeline Red 7.25” Youth Complete Skateboard is an excellent skateboard for 5-year-olds, and at 29.25” x 7.25”, it can be skated for a couple of years. It is super strong, surprisingly light, and features a classic popsicle shape, double kicktail, and medium kicks.

Overall, this is a great skateboard and comes equipped with lightweight Bullet Trucks, quality Force 51 mm PU Wheels, and smooth Independent Bearings.

Pros

Excellent Complete Skateboard from
29.25” x 7.25” 7-Ply 100% Canadian Hardrock Maple
Classic Popsicle Shape
Double Kicktail with Medium Kicks
Mellow Concave
Durable and Lightweight Bullet Trucks
Quality Force 51 mm Polyurethane Wheels
Independent Bearings
Vintage Red and White Life Bolt Graphics Displaying the Company Logo
Premium Jessup Grip Tape
Suitable for Boys and Girls

Cons

Expensive

Safety Gear

Quality Protective Skating Gear is an absolute necessity, and 5-year-olds should never be allowed to skate without it. There are numerous options available but I strongly suggest that you purchase all safety gear (especially the helmet) from a reputable skateboard company, displaying their logo.

There is a high probability that the company did not physically manufacture the safety gear, but they will ensure that the quality is well above industry standards before branding and selling it to you. Piece of mind is priceless, and you can be sure you are purchasing a quality product.

Helmet

A quality helmet is the most important piece of safety gear and should be worn at all times, regardless of your experience or expertise.

Unfortunately, there are way too many serious skateboarding-related injuries around the world. Many of these injuries could be prevented by wearing a helmet. You should never allow your 5-year-old to skate without a helmet.

Wrist Guards

If you had to speak to a large group of lifelong skaters. Every single one of them will tell you that they have injured their wrists once or multiple times in their skating career.

It is an injury that is common in skateboarding, which is why your 5-year-old should always wear wrist guards when skating. Even if they are skating on grass or a soft skating surface.

Knee Guards

When purchasing knee guards for your 5-year-old, you must purchase a set that fits snuggly. Knee guards that are too big can be ineffective, and in some cases cause unnecessary injuries. A bang on the knee is never fun, so make sure your 5-year-old is properly protected.

Elbow Guards

Falling directly onto your elbow can be extremely painful, and in some cases debilitating. It is an injury that takes a long time to heal and can keep you off the board for months. Ensure your 5-year-old always wears elbow guards when skating.

Additional Tips

Never let your 5-year-old skate in the presence of other skaters, particularly adult skaters. This will eliminate the chance of them possibly causing a collision and getting seriously injured.
Wear a helmet when you skate with your 5-year-old. If your child always sees you wearing a helmet they will be more inclined to wear one themselves. You will be creating a positive habit and setting a good example.
Never leave skateboards lying around the house, whereby your 5-year-old can access them when no adult supervision is available. Many skateboarding injuries occur when young children are unsupervised and do not wear their safety gear.
Safety gear is an excellent way to prevent injury but simultaneously gives your 5-year-old additional confidence. They realize that they are protected and cannot get seriously injured, so are more inclined to push the limits. This can be extremely beneficial to their skateboarding progression.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: What is a Good Age for a Kid to Start Skateboarding?

Answer: Kids can generally start skateboarding from around 4-5 years old, and in some cases even earlier. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stipulates that kids under 5 should never skateboard (as a father I feel I need to include this).
But if your kid is up for it and it is done in a safe environment, there is no reason not to start skating, regardless of their age.

Question: Can a 5-Year-Old Ride a Skateboard?

Answer: 5-Year-olds can ride a skateboard, providing they are wearing safety gear, in a safe environment, and under constant adult supervision.
Their little bodies are still fragile, so you want to keep them safe and prevent injury. Start on a soft skating surface where there are no obstructions, you may be surprised at how quickly they improve.

Question: What Skateboard is Best for Beginners?

Answer: A complete skateboard from a reputable manufacturer is perfect for beginner skateboarders. Complete skateboards come fully assembled from the factory and include trucks, wheels, bearings, grip tape, and hardware. Once you gain some experience, you should consider a DIY skateboard with upgraded hardware.

Question: What is a Good Skateboard Brand?

Answer: Fortunately, there are numerous quality skateboard brands around, producing superb skateboards, skating apparel, and skating accessories. The best skateboard brands (amongst others) are:
• Santa Cruz
• Powell Peralta
• Blind
• Girl
• Birdhouse
• Almost
• Zero
• Sector 9
• Evolve Electric
• Magneto

Conclusion: How to Find the Best Skateboard for 5-Year-Olds

This guide has featured four outstanding complete skateboards for 5-year-olds. Each option is a quality set-up and an ideal skateboard to get your 5-year-old ripping. My top for the category of Best Skateboard for 5-year-olds goes to the Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0” Complete Skateboard.

It is a top-class skateboard for any 5-year-old and is made by a reputable skateboarding brand with loads of heritage. The 29.5” x 7.0” deck is a perfect size for 5-year-olds and is made from robust and durable 7-ply 100% Canadian Hardrock Maple.

The deck features a classic popsicle shape, mellow concave, double kicktail, and steep kicks. It is equipped with premium lightweight AWS Logo Trucks, AWS 53 mm Polyurethane Wheels with 99a Durometer, Soft 85a Bushings, and fast AWS ABEC-7 Bearings.

The Alien Workshop Abduction White 7.0” Complete Skateboard features classic black and white AWS alien-inspired graphics and is suitable for boys and girls.