SkateXS Kids Skateboard Review:
The SkateXS beginner skateboard is a fantastic choice for young children looking to start their skateboarding journey, offering an affordable option without compromising on quality.
Its lightweight design ensures that even small kids can easily carry and maneuver it, while its stability provides a smooth and secure ride.
One of the standout features of this skateboard is its customization options—children can choose the color of the wheels, the design of the grip tape, and the graphic on the board.
These personal touches not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also make the board more exciting for young riders.
I recently had the chance to test the SkateXS skateboard with my 6-year-old niece, who had never skated before. We opted for the unicorn graphic, which instantly captivated her, given her fascination with unicorns.
The excitement in her eyes when she saw the skateboard was priceless. Despite being new to skating, she quickly developed a love for it.
I made sure she was properly equipped with safety gear, including a slightly oversized helmet and additional pads for her elbows, knees, and wrists.
This attention to safety, combined with the skateboard’s responsive design and softer wheels, helped her pick up the basics faster than expected.
The SkateXS skateboard’s softer wheels contributed to a smooth ride, even over uneven surfaces, and the board’s stability made it easier for my niece to balance. While turning was initially challenging, she gradually improved and was able to navigate with more confidence.
Although the skateboard is ideal for cruising around the neighborhood or enjoying a day at the skate park, it is less suited for performing tricks due to its design.
The SkateXS skateboard proved to be a great choice for a young beginner, and my niece’s positive experience means she’ll be getting a properly fitting helmet and another skateboard for her birthday.
Deck
SkateXS skateboard’s deck, particularly the blend of bamboo and hard rock maple. However, after putting it to the test, I found the combination to be surprisingly effective. The deck, which consists of two layers of bamboo and five layers of hard rock maple, offers a solid and durable ride.
Despite my concerns about the wheels’ quality, they also proved to be reliable, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable experience for both my niece and my son.
Testing the skateboard on a sunny day, it became evident that the deck maintains its pop and feels exceptionally sturdy, showing no signs of chipping, delamination, pressure cracks, or warping.
The skateboard’s construction allows it to withstand the weight of an adult, though it is clearly designed with younger riders in mind. Although I attempted a few tricks and ended up with some minor injuries due to the board’s smaller size, the overall durability remains impressive.
Additionally, the skateboard’s design includes graphics suitable for both boys and girls, adding a personal touch that enhances its appeal.
The use of bamboo combined with hard rock maple ensures that the deck lasts longer compared to those made with birch or solely hard rock maple, making it a practical choice for growing skaters.
Graphics
One of the standout features of SkateXS skateboards is their kid-friendly graphics, which include designs like pirates, unicorns, and dragons.
These graphics strike a perfect balance between fun and age-appropriate without being overwhelming. The visual appeal is crucial for young skaters, as it can significantly boost their enthusiasm and motivation to skate.
This was evident when my niece’s excitement over the unicorn graphic confirmed that even as an adult, I still understand the impact of having a visually appealing board.
Unlike some brands that opt for more intimidating designs like skulls, SkateXS’s choice of graphics is more in tune with the preferences of both kids and parents, making the skateboarding experience more enjoyable and engaging.
The graphics themselves are high quality and durable, resisting wear and tear from frequent use and maintaining their vibrant appearance with proper care.
The SkateXS wheels further enhance the skateboard’s performance and appeal. The colorful, swirl mix wheels not only look great but also offer excellent grip and stability for younger riders.
Measuring 53 millimeters with a 90A durometer rating, these softer wheels are designed to handle uneven surfaces, small cracks, and pebbles without getting easily obstructed.
This makes them ideal for neighborhood skating where smooth surfaces are not always available. While softer wheels can be less ideal for performing tricks due to their tendency to bounce more, they are perfect for beginners who are still learning to ride.
As kids advance and begin to focus on tricks, the wheels can be replaced with harder ones to improve performance.
SkateXS has thoughtfully designed their boards to cater to young skaters, providing both functionality and fun with their well-chosen graphics and versatile wheels.
SkateXS Trucks
I’m pleasantly surprised by the SkateXS trucks, which are notably lighter than those typically found on complete skateboards.
Many budget-friendly completes, especially those sold on platforms like Amazon, come with cumbersome trucks that impede maneuverability and add unnecessary weight.
In contrast, SkateXS trucks are as impressive as those from more renowned brands, featuring a hollow kingpin that contributes to their lightweight and agile design.
This thoughtful design choice enhances the overall riding experience, making it easier for young skaters to control their board and execute turns with greater ease.
A standout feature of the SkateXS trucks is their kid-friendly bushings, which are specifically selected for younger riders.
These urethane rings are softer than the standard bushings found on many skateboards, even those marketed towards kids.
Softer bushings allow for smoother and more responsive turning, as they compress and rebound quickly, reducing the need for excessive adjustments to return to a straight path.
For those looking for additional customization, there is also the option to upgrade to Bones bushings, which provide enhanced stability and control.
This flexibility ensures that the trucks can adapt to a skater’s evolving needs as they gain more experience.
SkateXS Bearings
The basic version of the SkateXS skateboard comes equipped with SkateXS bearings, which offer commendable performance for young skaters. These bearings are designed to keep rolling smoothly for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent pushing and allowing kids to enjoy a more effortless ride.
This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it gives them more time to get comfortable with their board without the constant need for propulsion.
Since high-impact skateboarding is not typically a focus for young children, these bearings provide more than adequate functionality, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable skating experience while they develop their skills.
Grip Tape
The grip tape on the SkateXS skateboard is a well-balanced feature, coming in a variety of colors while maintaining a texture that isn’t overly gritty.
The primary function of grip tape is to provide traction for the rider’s feet, ensuring they stay securely on the board.
However, too much grit can hinder the ability to adjust foot placement easily, which is crucial for beginners learning to find their stance.
SkateXS achieves an ideal balance by offering a grip that secures feet effectively without making it difficult for riders to reposition as needed.
Additionally, SkateXS provides a personal touch by allowing customization of the grip tape with a name for an extra $10 USD.
This option not only enhances the skateboard’s appeal by making it uniquely theirs but also helps kids develop a stronger connection to their board.
The grip tape’s design supports both secure foot placement and the ability to adjust stance comfortably, which contributes to a more enjoyable and accessible skateboarding experience for young riders.
Upgrades for Enhanced Performance
SkateXS offers several upgrade options to enhance the skateboard’s performance. For improved handling on rougher surfaces, you can opt for Ricta Cloud wheels, which provide a smoother ride compared to the standard wheels.
Additionally, upgrading to Bones Bushings offers a smoother, more stable turn, making it easier for riders to control the skateboard.
These upgrades are ideal for skaters looking for better performance and customization tailored to their needs.
Verdict on SkateXS Skateboards
The SkateXS skateboard stands out as an exceptional choice for kids, with no significant drawbacks noted in my review. Priced at around $120 USD, it may seem steep, but considering the high-quality parts and craftsmanship, it offers excellent value.
Compared to cheaper alternatives that often compromise on safety and performance, the SkateXS setup delivers superior durability, ease of control, and a customizable experience.
For the price, the SkateXS skateboard provides a well-rounded and reliable option for young skaters.
SkateXS Advanced Skateboard Review
The SkateXS Advanced skateboard is designed for kids who are more experienced and interested in learning tricks. This version features Bones 100 wheels, which are well-suited for skate parks and smooth surfaces but less ideal for rough terrain.
It also includes Bones Bushings, Mini Logo Bearings, and Thunder Trucks, all of which contribute to a more durable and responsive setup for technical skating.
While the advanced version excels in skate parks, it is less comfortable on uneven streets. Upgrading the basic model’s wheels can be a cost-effective way to enhance its trick capabilities.
SkateXS Pro Skateboard Review
The Pro version of the SkateXS skateboard is tailored for serious young skaters who frequent street and park environments. It features Spitfire wheels, which offer greater grip and durability compared to the Bones 100 wheels found in the advanced version.
The Pro setup also includes Bones Hardcore Bushings and Bones Reds Bearings, known for their performance and reliability.
While it’s an excellent choice for technical tricks and high-impact skating, the Pro version is less suited for rougher surfaces.
Its high-quality components make it ideal for those looking to push their skateboarding skills further.
Comparing SkateXS to Other Brands
SkateXS distinguishes itself from other brands by offering custom skateboards with a focus on quality and personalization.
Unlike many mass-produced boards that feature inferior parts, SkateXS assembles boards with carefully selected components suited for kids.
This custom approach ensures better performance and safety. While building a skateboard from individual parts is an option, it often requires more knowledge and can be more expensive.
SkateXS provides a convenient and well-crafted alternative, combining quality parts and customization in one package.
Essential Protective Gear
When investing in a SkateXS skateboard, don’t overlook the importance of protective gear. SkateXS offers helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards from the reputable brand Triple 8.
Quality protective gear is crucial for minimizing injuries and boosting a child’s confidence while skating.
Although lower-cost options are available, a good helmet and pads are worth the investment to ensure safety and comfort. Skate shoes are also recommended for better control and connection with the board.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is key to extending the life of a skateboard. Avoid leaving the board outside and store it in a dry place to prevent moisture damage.
Regularly check and adjust the truck bolts, axle nuts, and other components as needed. A basic skate tool can simplify these adjustments.
Routine upkeep, such as tightening loose parts and ensuring smooth wheel rotation, helps maintain optimal performance and safety. Simple care practices can significantly prolong the skateboard’s usability.
Review Transparency
At SkateboardersHQ, we pride ourselves on providing honest reviews based on real experiences. We have tested various skateboards, including those from SkateXS, using our own resources.
Although SkateXS provided us with skateboards for review, this did not influence our objectivity. We aim to offer genuine insights into the product’s quality and performance.
Any purchases made through our links earn a small commission, but this review reflects our true opinion and support for SkateXS products.
Conclusion
SkateXS Kids Skateboard proves to be an exceptional choice for young skaters, combining quality and customization to meet the needs of both beginners and more advanced riders.
The skateboard’s well-thought-out design, featuring kid-friendly graphics, reliable trucks, and durable wheels, ensures a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
Whether opting for the basic model or exploring upgrades like Ricta Cloud wheels and Bones Bushings, SkateXS delivers a setup that enhances control, stability, and performance while maintaining affordability and safety.
Moreover, SkateXS’s commitment to offering customizable options and high-quality components sets it apart from many mass-produced alternatives.
With a range of models catering to different skill levels and preferences, from beginner setups to advanced trick-ready boards, SkateXS provides excellent value and adaptability.
Investing in a SkateXS skateboard not only supports a positive learning experience for kids but also promises durability and fun as they progress in their skateboarding journey.
