Skateboarding is an excellent activity for children and teenagers alike. It helps to improve their balance, coordination and builds their confidence. However, purchasing the best skateboard for a 12-year-old can be quite challenging. There are several factors to consider, including safety, durability, and the right size.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive buying guide along with reviews of the top 10 best skateboards for 12 year olds. Whether your child is just starting out or is already a seasoned skateboarder, we have researched and selected a range of quality skateboards that are suitable for various levels of experience. So, let’s dive in and explore the best skateboards for 12-year-olds!
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboards for 12 year olds, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
Last update on 2024-12-23 at 14:25 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Skateboards For 12 Year Olds
Overview of Skateboards For 12 Year Olds
Skateboarding is one of the most popular outdoor activities among kids and teenagers. Children who are 12 years old are at a perfect age to start skateboarding. At this age, they are fearless and have lots of energy, making it easy for them to master the skills needed to ride a skateboard. To get started with skateboarding, 12-year-olds will need to have a skateboard that is specifically designed for their body size and weight.
To choose the perfect skateboard for 12-year-olds, parents should look for one that is durable, easy to maneuver, and has a quality deck. Skateboards that have a shorter deck and smaller wheels are ideal for younger riders as they allow for easy control and stability. To keep their child safe while skateboarding, parents should also invest in a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. With the right skateboard and safety gear, 12-year-olds can enjoy outdoor activities and learn a new skill.
Finally, it’s important to select a skateboard that fits the child’s personality, style, and preferences. There are a variety of skateboard designs available on the market, so be sure to consider the child’s taste and interests. Besides that, skateboarding is a fantastic way to develop skills such as balance, coordination, and endurance. It also helps the child to improve their self-esteem, build confidence, and stay active. Overall, a skateboard can be a great gift for a 12-year-old and is a great way to encourage them to stay active and have fun while staying outdoors.
Reasons for Buying Skateboards For 12 Year Olds
Skateboarding is a great way for kids to stay active and have fun. As children grow and develop, their interests often change, but skateboarding is a timeless activity that can provide a challenge and sense of adventure regardless of age. Here are some key reasons why parents should consider buying skateboards for their 12-year-old children.
Physical fitness
Skateboarding is a great way to promote physical fitness for 12-year-olds. Skateboarding requires a lot of physical movement, including balancing, jumping, and turning. These movements engage various muscles in the body, including the legs, core, and arms, providing a full-body workout.
Additionally, skateboarding offers cardiovascular benefits as it raises the heart rate, improving endurance and stamina. Furthermore, skateboarding can also help improve coordination, balance, and reflexes, which are all important skills for physical fitness. By regularly engaging in skateboarding, 12-year-olds can maintain a healthy weight, increase muscle strength, and improve overall physical health.
Encourage outdoor activity
Encouraging outdoor activity amongst children is becoming increasingly important, especially in a world where technology is becoming more prevalent. Skateboarding, in particular, is an excellent activity that not only keeps kids active but also has a range of benefits. These benefits include developing gross motor skills, improving balance, and enhancing coordination. Skateboarding is also an excellent way to get children to spend more time outdoors, breathing in fresh air, and enjoying the natural environment.
Investing in a skateboard for 12-year-olds may seem like just an accessory, but it can have an enormous impact on their mental and physical well-being. Not only does it encourage children to get out of the house and enjoy the great outdoors, but it can also help them socialize with other kids who share the same interest. It gives them a sense of belonging and can even potentially lead to lifelong friendships, all while learning new skills and keeping fit. Overall, buying skateboards for 12-year-olds is a fantastic way to encourage outdoor activity and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Improves balance
Skateboarding is a great way to improve balance for both kids and adults. Riding a skateboard requires constant adjustments to maintain balance, which can help strengthen the muscles and improve coordination. For 12-year-olds, skateboarding not only improves their physical abilities but also boosts their confidence and builds their self-esteem.
As kids grow older, they tend to spend more time sitting down and become less active. Skateboarding is an excellent way to get them moving and developing their balancing skills. Skateboarding can also be a fun activity for the whole family, encouraging everyone to be more active and enjoy outdoor activities. Overall, skateboarding can provide numerous benefits for 12-year-olds, including improving their balance and coordination, boosting their self-confidence, and encouraging a more active lifestyle.
Develops coordination skills
Skateboarding requires a lot of physical coordination, especially for a 12-year-old who is still developing their gross and fine motor skills. When a child learns to balance on a skateboard, they are using their whole body to maintain stability and control. This means they have to develop coordination between their limbs, muscles, and brain to make quick adjustments while riding.
As a child improves their skateboarding skills, they also develop hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and reaction time. They have to make split-second decisions about when and how to turn, jump, or stop. All of these movements require precise timing and coordination, which can be challenging but also rewarding. Overall, skateboarding helps 12-year-olds improve their physical coordination, which can benefit them in other areas of their life, such as sports, academics, and everyday activities.
Buyer’s Guides
When it comes to skateboarding, safety is a top priority. It’s important to choose a skateboard that is not only age-appropriate for a 12-year-old, but also durable enough to support them as they progress in their skills. Here are some key factors to consider.
Size and weight of the skateboard
When purchasing skateboards for 12-year-olds, it is essential to consider size and weight due to safety concerns. A board that is too big and heavy may be difficult to control, resulting in an increased risk of accidents and injuries. On the other hand, a board that is too small and light may not provide enough stability, making it challenging to maintain balance and stability while riding.
Moreover, the size and weight of the skateboard impact the child’s overall experience and ride quality. A board that is the correct size and weight allows the child to maneuver smoothly and perform tricks without feeling weighed down or unstable. Therefore, it is crucial to select a skateboard that suits the child’s size and weight to ensure a fun and safe skating experience.
Quality of the deck and wheels
The quality of the deck and wheels is crucial when purchasing skateboards for 12-year-olds because it affects the overall durability, stability, and safety of the board. The deck’s quality will determine its ability to withstand the weight and pressure of the rider and any tricks or stunts they may attempt. A high-quality deck can ensure a smoother ride, better balance, and enhanced performance. Similarly, the wheels will also make a difference in the skateboard’s stability and grip, affecting how easy it is to maneuver and control the board. Low-quality wheels can lead to instability, making the rider prone to accidents and injury.
Moreover, as 12-year-olds are still growing, it is crucial to invest in a high-quality skateboard that will last them longer. Purchasing a low-quality board may seem cost-effective initially but can end up being more expensive in the long run due to frequent replacements and repairs. Therefore, it is essential to opt for a high-quality skateboard with sturdy wheels, which will ensure the safety and durability of the board, empowering 12-year-olds to learn and improve their skills and tricks.
Level of skill and experience of the child
Skateboarding requires a certain level of skill and experience, and this should be an essential consideration when buying a skateboard for a 12-year-old child. Kids of varying ages and experience levels will require different types of skateboards. A beginner skateboard for a younger child may be slower, wider, and shorter, making it easier for them to learn the basics. In contrast, an experienced skater may require a narrower, lighter skateboard that allows them to execute more complicated tricks and manoeuvres. Thus, choosing the right skateboard for a child’s skill level can help them learn at their own pace, scale up gradually, and avoid potential accidents.
In addition to their skill level, children possess varying abilities and body masses. Skateboards that are too big or too small can hinder skill acquisition and expose the child to potential injuries. As such, it is crucial to consider their size, weight, and height and match it to the skateboard’s dimensions, grip type, wheel type, and weight capacity. A properly sized skateboard will enable the child to undertake their desired tricks confidently, avoiding unnecessary falls and mishaps. Ultimately, it is essential to select the right skateboard for a child’s skill level and also consider their size and weight for a fulfilling and safe skating experience.
Safety gear and equipment
Safety gear and equipment are necessary to prevent serious injuries while skateboarding. For 12-year-olds, who are still growing and developing, it is important to consider protection for their growing bodies. Protective gear such as helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads can prevent broken bones, concussions, and other injuries that can affect their overall health and well-being. Before purchasing a skateboard for a 12-year-old child, it is important to invest in proper safety gear to ensure their safety while enjoying their new activity.
In addition to safety, using protective gear can create good habits for young skaters. Making safety gear a regular part of their skateboarding routine can encourage them to prioritize their safety when participating in any physical activity. This can prevent future injuries and allow for the enjoyment of skateboarding without the added stress of parents worrying about their child’s safety. Investing in high-quality safety gear is a smart choice for anyone who wants to enjoy skateboarding while minimizing the risk of unnecessary injuries.
Purpose of the skateboard (cruising, tricks, etc.)
It is essential to consider the purpose of the skateboard before buying one for a 12-year-old, as different types of skateboards are designed for different activities. For instance, if the child is interested in cruising, a longboard or a cruiser board would be ideal, as they have soft and larger wheels that make them excellent for traveling longer distances. Whereas, for performing tricks, a more traditional skateboard with concave decks and smaller wheels would be more suitable as it provides better control and maneuverability.
By considering the purpose of the skateboard, it will not only help the child enjoy the sport better but also ensure their safety. With the appropriate skateboard, the child can learn and practice tricks more efficiently without any risk of injury. Therefore, taking the time to understand their interest and the intended use of the skateboard will ensure a superior experience and a safer skating experience for the child.
Brand reputation and reviews
Brand reputation and reviews play a crucial role in the decision-making process when buying skateboards for 12-year-olds. By considering the brand reputation, you can ensure that you are investing in a high-quality and reliable product that will last for a long time. Reputable brands typically use high-quality materials and manufacturing processes to create durable and safe skateboards.
Reviews from other customers can also provide valuable insights into the quality of the product and the overall customer experience. Reading reviews can help you identify any potential issues or concerns that other customers have had with a specific skateboard, allowing you to make a more informed decision. Furthermore, positive reviews from satisfied customers can provide reassurance that you are making a good purchase and that your child will enjoy the skateboard for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size skateboard should I get for my 12 year old?
For a 12 year old, the recommended skateboard size is between 7.5 and 8 inches in width. The size of the skateboard mainly depends on the height and shoe size of the child. If the child is taller and has larger feet, they would require a wider skateboard. A smaller deck size is suitable for younger children, while larger deck sizes can be more comfortable for teenagers.
It is always best to consult with a professional at a skate shop or a skateboarding coach before purchasing a skateboard. They can help you determine the best size for your child’s needs and recommend appropriate safety gear such as helmets and pads. Additionally, a comfortable skateboard can increase learning and confidence in young riders, leading to a more enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Are there any safety concerns or recommendations for skateboards for 12 year olds?
Yes, there are safety concerns and recommendations for skateboarding for 12-year-olds. Firstly, it is recommended that children wear protective gear such as helmets, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards to prevent serious injuries in case of falls or accidents. Additionally, children should ensure that their skateboards are appropriate for their skill level and age, with age-appropriate sizes and weight limits.
Parents or guardians should also ensure that their children are aware of safety rules and guidelines, including proper skateboarding technique, understanding traffic laws, and avoiding hazardous areas. Children should always ride in designated skateboarding areas and avoid riding in crowded or high-traffic areas. By following these safety recommendations, children can enjoy skateboarding while minimizing the risk of injury.
Should I go for a complete skateboard or assemble it myself for my 12 year old?
Yes, switching to slick tires can significantly affect the overall handling and control of a mountain bike. Slick tires have a lower rolling resistance and provide less traction compared to knobby tires. This means that the bike may feel faster and smoother on pavement or hard-packed surfaces but may have reduced grip when cornering or riding on loose terrain such as gravel, rocks, and dirt. Additionally, sudden braking and quick maneuvering may become more challenging, especially in wet or muddy conditions. It is essential to choose the right tire for the intended riding conditions to ensure optimal handling and control.
What are the features and specifications that I should consider before buying a skateboard for my 12 year old?
Final Verdict
If you’re in search of the best skateboards for 12 year olds, you’ve come to the right place. Our comprehensive guide has provided you with the top 10 options that cater to the needs of young skaters and their parents. Remember, the best skateboard for your child depends on their skill level, preference, and budget. One recommendation would be the playshion 39 Inch Drop Through Longboard Skateboard as it provides excellent stability and versatility for both downhill and cruising. Whatever your child’s preferences may be, always prioritize safety when choosing the best skateboard for them.