70 Awesome Gifts For Skateboarders (For Every Budget)

Skateboarders are very picky about their gear and like to stick to their favorite brands, board sizes or even the skate store they prefer.

Looking for a birthday present, a holiday gift or just want to buy a skateboarder something nice? Well, as a skateboarder, I think I can help you out here. Usually it’s a good idea to talk to the person and learn about what they like.

Buying shoes is risky, helmets aren’t cool, and wheels may be too big/small/hard/soft. Any change to a skaters gear takes time to adjust. Skateboarders don’t want to change anything because it might mean they can’t do a certain tricks anymore, or they have to relearn. Therefore, make sure to check out the ‘What Not To Buy’ section so you are less likely to make a mistake

Let’s look at a couple of gifts ranging from cheap to expensive every skater appreciates.

This post contains affiliate links which could earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you.

70 Gifts For Skateboarders

You’re in luck. Most of these gifts aren’t very expensive and you can even combine them. I don’t recommend buying decks, wheels, trucks or any of that, unless you know what to look for.

Let’s hit it off with a short list by budget before diving into the details.

Our top 3 skateboard gifts for those who are in a hurry:

Gifts for skateboarders under $10 USD:

• Mini Logo bearings
• Skate wax
• Cheaper skate tool
• Skateboard socks
• Spare parts
• Bones Speed Cream
• Stickers

Gifts for skateboarders between $15 and $30 USD:

• Silver Skate Tool
• Bronson G3 bearings
• Shoe Goo (fixes shoes)
• Insoles
• Cap
• Beanie
• Fingerboard

Gifts for skateboarders between $30 and $60 USD:

• Skateboard backpack
• Spitfire Wheels
• Skateboard deck (careful what you buy)
• HandSkate

Gifts for skateboarders $60 USD and up:

• Cruiser skateboard
• Skate Shoes
• Dji OM5 gimball

1. Skate Wax

Wax is a skateboarding must have, especially if they like to skate on streets. Wax helps to make rough surface slick and allows for grinding and sliding on obstacles.

It’s an essential and cheap gift and they come in many shapes and colors (affiliate link to Amazon). There is difference in quality, but crappy wax is always better than no wax at all.

• Budget: $3 to $10.
• Age: All.
• Type of skater: Skaters that like to grind their trucks on curbs or slide rails.

2. Skate Tool

Another gift that a skateboarder will really appreciate is a skate tool. Skate tools range from $6 to $30. Both will do the job, but the latter lasts longer. My advice is to get a skate tool with a re-threader to fix the axle threads (the second one is left is a good choice).

Often skateboards land on the side, resulting in crushed axle nuts. This damages the axle thread and makes it sometimes hard to replace the axle nuts.

A quality tool is something every skater will love and often use. One of the common question in skate parks is ‘bro, do you have a skate tool?’.

If you want to buy a cheap skate tool check out the Zeato skate tool, it’s not the best but it gets the job done. The Silver Skate Tool on the left is awesome and high-quality. The Pig Skate Tool comes with an additional threader which is very useful for street skaters.

• Budget: $6 to $30.
• Age: All.
• Type of skater: All styles, even longboarders.

3. A Visit to a Local Skate Shop

As a kid, I was always super stoked to visit a skate shop. There is something magical about seeing all those decks with awesome graphics, colorful wheels, and gimmicky stuff on the counter.

To make this more exciting, you could personalize this gift. Buy a bunch of stickers, add some socks, create your own custom gift card and wrap it in a gift.

It’s not just the gift, visiting a skate shop is just awesome and a fun activity.

4. Skateboard Lights

For the younger ones Boardblazers offers awesome lights which you can attach to the bottom of a skateboard. Not only do they look amazing, it also makes kids visible if they happen to ride in the dark.

The Skateboard Lights come in all sorts of colors, and even a Crazy Color Changing version. Kids seem to LOVE them and they aren’t even that expensive. Check out Boardblazers Skateboard Lights on Amazon.

• Budget: $20
• Age: 6-12 ( I admit, I have a set on my cruiser)
• Great for: Younger skaters

5. Dakine Backpack for Skateboarding

Not essential, but very handy. A skateboard backpack has two straps on the front, which can carry a skateboard. This way, the gritty grip tape from a skateboard deck won’t come into contact with anything.

The better quality backpacks can be used for both work and school and have a special laptop compartment.

Make sure to get a backpack with lots of compartments so there room for storing wax, bearings, hardware, change, a phone, etc. I personally use a Dakine backpack (affiliate link) which is still holding up fine after years of use.

• Budget: $35-$70
• Age: All
• Skateboard style: All styles

6. Bearings

You can’t go wrong with bearings. It’s always something a skater needs an appreciates. Make sure to buy the right bearings. Bones Reds and Bronson Speed Co. G2 are the ones we recommend. They aren’t the most expensive bearings, but last for quite some time.

Bronson is a bit more expensive, but last longer. Reds are cheaper and no skater dares to say they’re crap. Check and compare prices (affiliate link) on Amazon.

Skaters love new bearings, one of the few gifts that will positively affect their skating abilities.

• Budget: $15-$20
• Age: All
• Style: All styles.

7. Nike SB Shane

While buying shoes is tricky because skaters usually stick to a certain shoe, the Nike SB Shane are usually very much appreciated. Not only do they look good, they offer extreme board feel and control. If the skater in question wears Nike skate shoes, this is a great gift.

8. Skate Socks

Socks? Really? Yes, really! Skateboarders love comfy skate socks from their favorite brand. I always wear skate socks when I skate. Not only because they feel comfortable but also because it looks nice. Even though skateboarding isn’t a fashion show, it doesn’t hurt to look good when you ride around a skate park.

Some of the more expensive brands like Huff offer awesome socks but are a bit overpriced. Usually you can get a value pack of Independent socks or Element for the same price.

9. Shoe Goo & RipCare

Skateboarding is an expensive activity and shoes are one of the biggest reasons. Shoes wear from pushing and suede rips from friction with grip tape. This is where Shoe Goo and RipCare come in. They allow you to fix your shoes and skate them for another good 20 to 40 hours.

It’s inexpensive and works like a charm (Amazon affiliate link), something every technical skater needs and appreciates.

• Budget: $5-$10
• Age: 10+
• Great for: Street Skateboarding, Skate park

10. Insoles

Often overlooked, but insoles make a huge difference. Skating involves lots of impacts, especially when jumping off huge stairs. Proper insoles prevent injuries and strain.

Skateboard brand insoles are often overpriced, so I recommend Dr. Scholes insoles. It comes with gel pads that absorb shocks and plastic on the side that reduces impacts when landing with both on your feet on the side of a skateboard (primo).

You can cut them according to size and adjust the shape a little so they fit the shoes. Dr. Scholes insoles work with all skate shoes and are cheaper and better than skate brand insoles.

• Budget: $20-$25
• Age: 15+
• Great for: All styles.

11. Stickers

I don’t know what the deal is with stickers, but most skateboarders love stickers! I have a bit of an obsession with them myself since I was a kid. They just look awesome and I have a huge box full of ‘m. There are some vintage stickers on eBay are listed for ridiculous prices.

Some skates love to decorate their board or helmet with stickers and others (like me) like to collect them. When I buy a new deck, I make sure that there is a free sticker inside, without a stick it’s just not the same.

Make sure to get stickers that actually represent real skateboard brands, like this 100-sticker value pack (affiliate link).

• Budget: $5-15
• Age: 9-99
• Great for: All types of skaters

12. Spare Parts

Hardware (bolts & nuts) and especially axle nuts are a cheap and useful gift. Axle nuts wear quite fast because of impacts and once you remove them, it’s hard to get them back on. I always carry an extra set of 1″ hardware and a couple of axle nuts, just in case.

Buy 1″ Allen hardware. They will fit every skateboard setup. Maybe combine spare parts with other gifts if you really can’t afford much. It still will be a very useful gift (affiliate link to Amazon).

• Budget: $3-$9
• Age: 12-99
• Great for: All types of skaters

13. Griptape

Grip tape is the sandpaper-like material that makes your feet stick to your skateboard. It also allows for those rad tricks. I know the kids at my local skate park appreciate a sheet of colorful griptape.

Older skaters usually like plain black griptape, but the younger ones LOVE themed prints. Jessup is the cheapest of them all, but one of the most popular griptape out there.

Don’t forget to look at Mob grip tape and Grizzly, they offer a wide selection of different designs (Amazon affiliate link).

• Budget: $6-$15
• Age: 12+
• Great for: All types of skaters

14. Paint Pens

Some skaters love to customize their grip tape and cut the sheets in all kind of shapes, use different colors or get creative with paint pens.

Paint pens: paint pens are effective but should be applied carefully. The grip tape can damage the pens, but it’s certainly doable. Look for brands like Testors or any brand that offers quality paint pens.

• Budget: $8-$12
• Age: 9-16
• Great for: All types of skaters

15. Fingerboard

There is something magical about fingerboards and handboards. Great to theorize about the next tricks you want to learn, or just to pass some time. I personally dig my handboard just sitting on my desk. I don’t play with it, but it just makes a great prop.

Even fingerboards quality varies greatly. Tech Deck is great for beginners but it’s still just plastic. Only buy expensive wooden fingerboards if you know someone is really into fingerboarding! 70 bucks for a fingerboard is really just a waste of money.

I got this Tech deck value pack that comes with a pre-assembled board, and parts to assemble two other fingerboards. Lots of wheels, tiny screws and nuts, and a skate tool for smurfs. Pretty rad and not too expensive and pretty frustrating to assemble. Check prices on Amazon (affiliate link).

• Price: $5 – $25
• Age: 5+
• Style: All

16. Skate Park Tickets

If there is an skate park in your area which requires an entrance fee, this could be a rad gift. Skateboarding is a great exercise and good for your mental health. Basically you give them a really healthy present which they actually enjoy.

• Budget: check your local park
• Age: 9-99
• Great for: All types of skaters

17. Knick Knacks

A bag or box with small stuff every skater loves. A cheaper skate tool, 1″ hardware, axle nuts, stickers, a gift card. Something with a personal touch and lots of goodies are awesome to get. A mixed bag with small gifts is great for smaller budgets. Grab a few items from this blog until you hit your budget.

• a skate tool
• Stickers
• Thrasher Magazine
• Skate Wax
• Stickers
• etc

Wrap it in grip tape and laces and make it stand out. You might want to glue the grip tape, I could have done a better job. It’s the idea that counts.

• Budget: $5-$30
• Age: 9-99
• Great for: All types of skaters

18. Recycled Skateboard Coasters

Let’s have some tea and biscuits, cheerio! These are great for the aged skateboarder and I often get questions from guests where I got these coasters.

I love my coasters. Etsy is full of crafty people that create rad art and woodwork from recycled skateboards.

Keep in mind that working old skateboards requires a huge amount of time and effort, not to mention skills. This is expensive stuff, perhaps great for older skaters, not so much for kids.

I got these coasters from Focused and they weren’t even that expensive, relatively. Focused also offers coffee tables up to $6000, probably a bit excessive for a gift. Check out Etsy or use Google if you want something specific. Keep in mind that the bigger the project, the longer it takes. Amazon also offers affordable coasters.

• Budget: $15 – Your limit
• Age: 25-50+
• Great for: Older skaters

19. Spotify, Apple Music Subscription

Skaters are humans just like you and me, and we all love music! I see many skaters wearing air pods and listening to music while skateboarding.

I don’t wear my Air pods during a sesh because it’s too distracting and I want to make it out in one piece. It really depends on the person. Check out some of the Spotify Subscriptions on Amazon.

• Budget: Subscription based
• Age: All ages
• Great for: All types of skaters

20. Thrasher Magazine Subscription

While magazines may seem like a relic from the past, Thrasher Magazine is still a very popular magazine. I recently organized a skateboarding contest and handed out prizes. There was a Thrasher magazine left, so I gave it to a random skater. The look on his face was priceless, ‘Really? Can I have this? Wow, that’s awesome. Thanks so much!’.

If you buy an annual subscription, it often comes with some goodies.

• Price: $8 for a single issue
• Age: 9-99
• Great for: All types of skaters

21. Laces & Tricktape

An extra pair of laces is always appreciated and one of the cheapest gifts you can buy a skateboarder. Perhaps combining laces with Trick tape (suede patches) and other small gifts might be an idea. A sheet of grip tape, Shoe Goo, suede patches and laces will are really useful.

• Budget: $2 – $10
• Age: 10 – 20
• Great for: Street skateboarders

22. Tony Hawk Pro Skater 1 & 2 Remake

This is a super fun video games for when you can’t go out and skate. The soundtrack is superb and the action is non stop. This is an arcade type of skateboard game which doesn’t require any knowledge of skateboarding. Great for a rainy day or to play with friends.

• Budget: $30 – $40
• Age: 12 – 99
• Great for: All

23. SkaterXL

SkaterXL is a video game that comes as close to real skateboarding as it can get. It’s specifically designed for skateboarders that love to do technical tricks. This is not a video game for casual skateboarders as mastering the tricks and controls is quite hard.

• Budget: $20 – $30
• Age: 12 – 99
• Great for: All

24. Skateboard Gift Card

Tons of web shops offer gift cards. Skateboard shops like CSS and Tactics both offer gift cards in a wide range. Be aware that skaters often like to buy stuff in their local shop to support the business.

• Budget: $5 – $250
• Age: all
• Great for: All skateboarders

25. Signed Deck

This is a tricky one and often hard to come by unless you are willing to spend a lot on eBay. Prices range from 20 bucks to 2000 bucks depending on the skateboarders, rarity, and type of deck that was signed. Signed old school original decks can be extremely pricey and are only for collectors, not your average skateboarder.

• Budget: $20 – $2000
• Age: 18 and up
• Great for: Collectors and older skateboarders

26. T-Shirt From a Skate Brand

A shirt of your skateboarders favorite brand is always appreciated. Pay attention to the brand they wear or the trucks they skate. Often T-shirts from Independent trucks, Spitfire, or Santa Cruz are a safe choice.

• Budget: $20 – $50
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

27. Skate Brand Cap

Many skateboarders wear caps, and it’s not just to block out the sun. A cap is part of skateboarders fashion and often much appreciated. Like with all appearal, make sure to know the brands they love before you buy.

• Budget: $15 – $40
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

28. Skate Brand Beanie

Similar to caps, many skaters wear beanies and not even when it’s cold. Why that is, I don’t know but it will be reasonable to assume it just part of skateboard fashion and culture. An extra beanie is always welcome so your skateboarders can finally wash his old beanie or throw it in the trash. Make sure to buy a beanie from a brand the skater in question appreciates.

• Budget: $15 – $40
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

29. Disposable: A History Of Skateboard Art

A great gift for skateboarders that are into art and the culture of skateboarding.

Renowned skateboard artist Sean Cliver has meticulously curated an awe-inspiring compilation encompassing more than 1,000 skateboard graphics spanning from the early ’80s to the turn of the millennium.

Even decades after its initial publication, the captivating graphics and narratives contained within this collection continue to evoke the same provocative allure as the day they were first conceived.

• Price: $45
• Age: 14 and up
• Great for: Skaters interested in art and culture

30. Skate The Card Game

Skate: The Card Game is a trick-taking game with an element of push your luck. The goal is to land five tricks drawn from the stack before your opponents do. Super fun game for more experienced skateboarders.

https://sheltonshiregames.com/

• Price: $45
• Age: 14 and up
• Great for: Intermediate and experienced skateboarders

31. Santa Cruz Windbreaker

If you live in an area which is rather chilly or windy, windbreaker is perfect to protect you from the elements. This is both a functional and fashionable gift and really improves the enjoyment of a skate session when you don’t live in sunny California. Available on Amazon

• Budget: Varies
• Age: All
• Great for: Street skateboarders

32. Skateboard Grind Rail

A great gift for skateboarders who want to practice tricks like boardslides and grinds at all levels. The height is adjustable making it beginner friendly and is fairly easy to move around. Set it up near a piece of grass or carpet so you can safely bail when you’re not going to make it.

They come in flat, oval, and round bars. Round bars are a bit more difficult to master and oval or flatbars are a safer choice. Check out the MR Skate Rail Skateboard Ramp Grind Rail on Amazon

• Budget: $60 – $110
• Age: 12 and up
• Great for: Street skateboarders

33. Independent Trucks Spare Parts Kit

YSpare parts are a skateboarders friend and can save a skate session instead of having to go home or to the shop to buy new parts. Since trucks are expensive it’s always a good idea to carry around parts than can replace some of the components which are likely to break. Not an overly expensive gift but surely a welcome one. Check price on Amazon

• Budget: $20 – $35
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

34. Revbalance 101 v2 – Balance Board Sports Trainer

For the skateboarder who wants to improve their skills, a jib training board is a great gift idea. These boards are designed to simulate the feeling of balancing on a skateboard, allowing skateboarders to practice their tricks and balance in a safe and controlled environment year round.

Available on Amazon

• Budget: $150 and up
• Age: 16 and up
• Great for: Street skateboarders

35. Graw Jump Ramps 5.9″ Wooden Launch Ramp

While many skateboarders just build their own ramps, you could opt for a more durable launch ramp that’s easy to transport. Ramps are great to practice tricks, especially if there isn’t a skate park around.

There are many ramps available on Amazon but be sure to pick one that can carry the weight of the skateboarder. The cheaper ones are often for kids under 125 LBS so read the description. I recommend the Graw Jump because it’s very easy to move and doesn’t take up too much space.

• Budget: $60 – $100
• Age: 10 and up
• Great for: Street skateboarders

36. Phone tripod

A basic tripod makes it easier to record other skateboarders and yourself. By placing the tripod in position and practicing tricks in fromt of it, skateboarders can learn and improve their tricks and style. A great gift that isn’t too expensive.

• Budget: $15 and up
• Age: 12 – 99
• Great for: All skateboarders

37. Skateboard Ice Cream Scoop

Came across these, made by Epiclyajustin on Instagram. Justin makes awesome stuff from recycled skateboard and works commission based. He’s a busy man so you might want to contact him on time.

• Budget: unknown
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

38. Snow Skate

For those who are lucky enough to snowboard in the winter and skateboard in the summer, a snow skate is the perfect combination of both sports. Some snowskates are extremely expensive and perhaps a bit much as a gift, but there are reasonably priced ones out there.

• Budget: $40 – $500
• Age: 12 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

39. Hydroflask

Can’t go out skateboarding without bringing some water, or energy drink for that matter. A quality hydroflask keeps the water cool and fresh. Obviously a hydroflask is also great for school or work. A hydrated skater is a happy skater.

• Budget: $20 – $50
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

40. Skateboard Rack

A place to store skateboards so they don’t get in the way. Great for those who often trip over skateboards but also a nice way to display a skateboard on a kids bedroom wall. If you’re a bit handy, consider making your own. Many types available on Amazon

• Budget: $20 – $70
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

41. Bronson Bearing Cleaning Set

Skateboard bearings get dirty and need to be cleaned once in a while, depending on how often you skate. A cleaning set helps to bring new life to bearings and saves you from having to buy a new set every 3 to 6 months. Make sure to include a bottle of bearing cleaner fluid (or nail polish remover) and Bones Speed Cream. Check for prices on Amazon

• Budget: $15 – $30
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

42. Bones Speed Cream

On the subject of cleaning bearings, you need a bit of silicon lube to make bearings spin properly again. Just a drop or two is enough to make bearings perform as if they are new. Check Amazon for availability.

• Budget: $7 – $15
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

43. Handskate

A handskateis a fun prop that makes a nice addition to your desktop but also ‘practice’ tricks when you can’t skate. Great for skaters with a huge imagination or just a great prop to display and remind you that you really need to go out and skate. Available on Amazon

• Budget: $25
• Age: 10 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

44. Landyachtz Dinghy

Many skaters like to cruise around but a regular skateboard isn’t suitable for smooth ride because of the harder wheels. A cruiser like the Landyachtz Dinghy allows you to smoothly ride over cracks and small obstacles and offers a comfortable ride.

A cruiser skateboard isn’t exactly cheap, so if you’re on a tight budget this might not be an option. The

• Budget: $180
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

45. Dji OM 5 Handheld Smartphone Gimbal

Skateboarders love to create video clips and post them on Instagram. The Dji OM is a great gimbal for your phone which really improves the quality of recordings (if you use it right).

Compact and conveniently-sized, the DJI OM 5 is skateboarders companion that helps to create incredible skateboard clips. It’s also a great tool to record yourself while skateboarding and see what you’re doing right and what to improve. Easy to fold and tuck away, lightweight but sturdy.

• Budget: $100
• Age: 12 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

46. Spitfire Classics

Spitfire Classics is widely regarded as the best option for technical street skateboarding. They are extremely durable and loved by most skateboarders. A safe size to buy is 53mm with a hardness of 99A or 101A. Excellent wheels for skate parks and street and a very awesome gift for any skateboarder that loves to do tricks.

• Budget: $40
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

47. Tickets to A Contest

This depends on where you live but tickets for the Battle of the Berrics, the X-Games, or Tampa Am/Tampa Pro are great events. There are tons of other contests that or worth visiting so you need to do a bit of research to find an event near you. A great gift to make some awesome memories!

48. Guitar Hanger

A guitar hangar is great to store a skateboard and pretty cheap. Maybe it’s more a gift for parents who don’t want to risk breaking their necks while accidentally stepping on a skateboard. I intentionally mentioned a guitar hanger because they are way cheaper than when you search for skateboard hanger, it’s basically the same thing.

• Budget: $10
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

49. Skater trainers

This is not a gift for experienced skateboarders but for those who are want to practicing tricks. They help to keep a skateboard in place and prevent it from making sudden moves. Skater trainers should only be used for a short while to get a bit of a feeling for certain tricks. Easy to attach to the wheels and also easy to take off.

• Budget: $20
• Age: 8 – 12
• Great for: All skateboarders

50. Sk8ology Wall Mount with U-Bracket

I love the Sk8ology wall mounts for displaying my collector decks. They are easy to install and look great on a (bedroom) wall. Pretty cheap and they are easy to install, available on Amazon.

• Budget: $10
• Age: 10 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

51. OJ SuperJuice Wheels + Bearings

If a cruiser is a bit out of your budget, consider cruiser wheels and bearings like the OJ SuperJuice combined with Bones Reds bearings. Cruiser wheels allow for skating longer distances and also offer a comfortable ride. If you add bearings it’s easier to swap them around for a skateboarder. Not having to also remove the bearings saves a lot of time.

• Budget: $40 – $60
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

52. Skateboard Keychain

If you still don’t know what to get, you probably will have more like getting something custom made over at Etsie. Etsie has a ton of cool keychains, even made from skateboards.

• Budget: $10
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

53. Bracelet from Recycled Skateboards

Etsie offers a variety of bracelets made from recycled skateboard decks usually finished in dual layers of specialist varnish to add protection and make them shine. Prices vary depending on where they ship from but you should be able to get nice a bracelet under $25 USD. Here’s one example made by Greencrowcreations.

• Budget: $25
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

54. Skateboard Decoration Flex Silicone LED Neon Sign

Another great wall deco, a neon light in the shape of a skateboard! It’s not a traditional neon light and consumes minimal electricity. They don’t emit noxious gases or mercury and generate minimal heat. There’s no need to refill gas and they can last up to 50,000 hours, or approximately 5-10 years. Available on Etsy.

• Budget: $50
• Age: 10 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

55. Recycled Skateboard Pen

I came across these awesome pens on Etsy which are hand crafted from recycled skateboard decks. These unique pens are crafted from multiple broken skateboards, with each pen blank constructed randomly to ensure each pen’s distinctiveness. They are built using a slimline pen kit, and ink refills can be easily found.

56. Skateboard Guitar Pick

There are many skateboard themed guitar available on the web. From printed guitar picks to handmade picks from recycled skateboard decks (search on Etsy). Check out these guitar picks on Amazon.

• Budget: $10
• Age: 16 and older
• Great for: Skateboarders who play guitar

57. Skateboarding is Not A Crime Metal Sign Wall Decor

The phrase “Skateboarding Is Not A Crime” was trademarked in 1997 by NHS, INC, a company known for distributing various skateboard brands. Although the original speaker of the phrase remains unknown, it has become a widespread sentiment within skateboarding culture.

The phrase is widely used online, in magazines, on bumper stickers, skateboards, and t-shirts. Skateboarders often employ the saying in defense of their sport, particularly when facing opposition from law enforcement, security guards, or anyone disapproving of skateboarding. A metal sign is available on Amazon which makes a great wall decoration.

• Budget: $40
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

58. Skate Bearing Necklace

Another not too expensive gift which is actually pretty cool. Not that hard to make yourself or if don’t feel like doing the work you can order them on Etsie for $15 USD.

• Budget: $15
• Age: 14 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

59. Skateboard Rings

Another one by Epiclyajustin. Justin creates awesome rings made of used skateboard decks. All hand crafted and made with a lot of love. Contact @Epiclyajustin on Instagram.

• Budget: commission based
• Age: 16 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

60. Skate Trivia Volume One

Skate Trivia Volume One is a treasure trove of 250 questions, spread across five unique categories. These questions have been meticulously curated and validated by a panel of established skate industry veterans, which includes renowned personalities like Lance Mountain, Steve Caballero, Mark Whiteley, Jim Thiebaud, Aaron Meza, Ed Templeton, Bryce Kanights, among others. Available on Etsy.

• Budget: $20
• Age: 16 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

61. Air Pods

Many skaters love to listen to music while they skate to get into ‘the zone’. Music helps skaters to get stoked and feel energized for a great skateboarding session. This is a pretty expensive gift so if it’s way above your budget, there are many other cheaper gifts to choose from. Available on Amazon

• Budget: $130 and up
• Age: 16 and older
• Great for: All types of skateboarders

62. Bones Hardcore Bushings

Bushings allow for a skateboard to turn and pivot and are essential. bones offers aftermarket bushings that are reliable and behave predictably. Great for skateboarders that ride in skate parks for maximum performance.

The tricky part of this gift is that you need to know the weight of the rider. For kids Bones hardcore Soft bushings are fine, anyone over 150 LBS should go for Bones Hardcore Medium bushings. Go for the hardest bushings if over 230LBS.

• Budget: $15
• Age: 7 and older
• Great for: All skateboarders

63. Independent Hollow Trucks

Only consider skateboard trucks when a skateboarder is looking for a new setup or the old trucks need to be replaced. Independent Trucks are the most durable trucks you can get but make sure to get the right size and double check if the person you are gifting them to really needs new trucks. Check prices and sizes on Amazon.

• Budget: $55
• Age: 12 and older
• Great for: All types of skateboarders

64. Thunder Polished Hollow Trucks

The same can be said for Thunder Trucks, only buy them when it’s absolutely needed. Thunder trucks are great for technical skateboarding and pretty on par with Independent trucks. Make sure the skateboarder who you are gifting them to actually likes the brand. Check prices and sizes on Amazon.

• Budget: $65
• Age: 16 and older
• Great for: All types of skateboarders

65. Triple 8 skateboard Helmet

Not every skateboarder will appreciate a helmet but definitely buy one for a kid who is just starting to learn skateboarding. Helmets save lives and young kids should always wear a helmet! Check Amazon for sizes and prices .

• Budget: $50
• Age: All
• Great for: Skateboarders who don’t mind wearing helmets

66. Knee Pads

This is a great gift for skateboarders that are older or ride a lot of bowl and or vert. Knee pads allow you to slide and absorb impacts. As an older skater myself I thank my younger self for wearing them often back in the day.

• Budget: $50
• Age: All
• Great for: Skateboarders who don’t mind wearing knee pads

67. Elbow Pads

Another great gift for bowl and vert skaters. Elbow pads prevent swellbows but not all skateboarders will appreciate them. Make sure to buy the right size and if the person you want to gift them to actually needs them.

• Budget: $30
• Age: All
• Great for: Skateboarders who don’t mind elbow pads

68. Skateboard Deck

This is a very though one because many skateboarders prefer a certain shape, brand or size. I would just simply ask what skateboard deck you should get. Sure it takes away the surprise but you have a 90% chance to buy the wrong deck!

• Budget: $60
• Age: All
• Great for: Those who know which deck to buy

69. Prime8 Ratchet Skate Tool

This is a high quality skateboard tool that makes assembling and fixing a skateboard a breeze. This tool is extremely durable and offers all a skater need to maintain and fix their skateboard. Check Amazon for availability.

• Budget: $20
• Age: All
• Great for: All skateboarders

70. Skate DVD, Movies, Documentaries

If all else fails buy a DVD like the movie Mid 90’s or see if you can pick up some Transworld skate DVD’s.

Skateboard Gifts to Avoid

Some products may seem like a good idea, but skateboarders usually have a strong preference when it comes to gear. Buying a set of trucks, for example, may please some, but others won’t appreciate them because they require a long time to break in.

Same goes for decks. Skaters usually prefer a shape or brand and stick to it. Only buy these gifts when you’re absolutely sure. Another idea is to check out what they are skating and see if some parts need replacement. In that case, a new deck or a set of trucks is a great gift.

The age also plays a part. An older skater, let’s say 30+, will appreciate a re-issue old school deck but a 16-year-old usually can’t relate.

Buying a helmet can be a good idea, and wearing one is always recommended. Few skaters will actually wear them. If you bought a QUALITY skateboard and are looking for a complimentary gift for a kid, please do buy a helmet.

Let’s look at a few gifts that might or might not be a good idea. Sometimes you can get away with it but you need to know exactly what to buy.

1. Amazon skateboards
2. Penny boards
3. Scooters
4. Trucks
5. Wheels
6. Shoes
7. Skater trainers
8. Helmet
9. Pads
10. Ceramic bearings

1. Amazon, Walmart, & Toy Skateboard Skateboards

By Amazon skateboards, I mean unknown brands. These are often mass produced in China and very cheap. You can recognize them by their overwhelmingly positive reviews and often are listed as Amazon’s Choice.

The reviews are fake and when you take a closer look, you will see lots of complaints buried by 5 star bot reviews.

Not all Amazon skateboards are bad, just make sure to buy from a reputable skateboard brand like Birdhouse, Santa Cruz, Flip, etc.

Avoid Amazon skateboard ‘brands’ like:

• Minority
• White fang
• Merkapa
• Hikole
• Puente
• Cal 7
• Krown (wolf)
• KPC Pro
• Beleeve
• Yohaner

A moment of silence for all the kids that get a crappy skateboard from their parents….

Moving on.

2. Penny Boards

Penny Board is a brand, and while real penny boards are okay, there are many rip offs. A plastic skateboard isn’t great for tricks and often very uncomfortable to ride. Recently one of these sellers on Amazon contacted me asking me to promote their crappy boards for a fee. I politely declined their offer.

3. Skateboard Trucks

This is a tricky one. Experienced skateboarders don’t like new trucks because it takes a long time to get used to them. Skaters are very dogmatic about gear and new trucks are probably not on their wish list.

The only time it’s safe to buy skateboard trucks is when you know the exact size they need, someone just started skateboarding (under a year) or when their trucks are actually broken. This is the only time a skateboarder replaces their trucks.

4. Skateboard Wheels

Another tricky gift that could go very right or very wrong. Skateboard wheels come in lots of sizes and shapes. Not to mention the variations in hardness (durometer). If you don’t know what type of skateboarder they are, there is a big chance you’re buying the wrong wheels.

Check out their current skateboard wheels before you buy something that is useless.

5. Anything Scooter Related

Gifting a scooter to a skateboarder is like giving an Apple fan an Android phone. Don’t buy scooter brand stuff, or worse, an actual scooter. The thing is, many skateboarders dislike scooters for many reasons. Don’t want to go into it too much, but something you should be aware of.

‘Well, actually, Brad loves skateboarding. Maybe he also likes a scooter!‘. Could be, but the chances are slim.

Only recommended when you really dislike a person and don’t want to be invited to the next birthday party.

6. Skate Shoes

Often skaters like a certain brand or shoe type that is just right for them. There are many types of shoes for skateboarding and you probably will buy the wrong pair. If you really want to buy skate shoes, make sure you know what they currently skate and find out if they like their shoes.

My advice would be to buy the exact same skate shoes they are currently skating to avoid buying the wrong pair.

Some skaters love shoes that offer lots of support and other like flexible shoes, less durable shoes. Proper skate shoes are made of quality suede, so avoid canvas shoes, they are gone in a day.

7. Skater Trainers

Skater trainers are advertised as tools to help you learn tricks, while this is true to some extent it also can slow down progress. Only suitable for absolute beginners and not for those who already know how to properly ride a skateboard.

8. Skateboard Helmet

I wish skaters would appreciate helmets and it would keep many out of the ER. The truth is, most skateboarders don’t like helmets, mainly because they feel it makes them look like a dork.

I would advise only buying a helmet is someone is just starting out, or as an additional gift if you bought them a skateboard. Young kids should always wear a helmet!

9. Knee Pads / Elbow Pads

Many skaters don’t like to pad up and finding protective gear that fits properly isn’t easy. This would require to measure the limbs and I’m not sure how you would do this unnoticed. Again, if it’s a young child, please go buy protective gear, but a 16-year-old probably will frown upon pads.

10. Bones and Bronson Ceramic Bearings

Expensive ceramic bearings are a waste of money, cheaper bearings work just as well, and you’re just flushing money down the drain. Get a set of Bones Reds or Bronson G2 and leave the rest of the money for another gift.

Pay Attention When You Want to Gift a Skateboard

All skateboards look alike to the untrained eye, but there is a huge difference in quality and performance. A $40 Amazon skateboard seems appealing, but the reality is these boards are unsafe.

Buy a complete skateboard from a reputable brand, and even those have their cons. The best skateboard is the one you assemble yourself. Custom quality parts that work well together.

Create your Own Custom Skateboard Gift

Without too much effort, you could create a skateboarding survival kit, or perhaps a gift card from a local skate shop with a few stickers and some wax.

Gift cards may seem boring, but skaters LOVE to visit skate shops and pick out items. Perhaps you could go together and have a nice day out. And while you’re at it, get yourself a quality skateboard!

Final Thoughts

It’s the thought that counts, but why not buy something every skater will appreciate. The right gift also depends on your budget, the age of the skater and their preferred style. Street skaters require different gear and appreciate the right shoes more than bowl skaters, for example.

Only gift wheels if you really know what they like to skate. Same goes for shoes and skateboard decks. Maybe it will be less of a surprise if you ask upfront, but it will be very much appreciated. This way, you don’t get the wrong size, shape, or brand.

So here a list of the best and worst skateboard gifts imaginable. There is this saying ‘never look a horse in the mouth’ and after all, it’s the thought that counts when it comes to gifts. Often you want to gift something you personally like, but I think this list will help you on your way.

Skaters aren’t easy to please, they rather skate their worn shoes and chipped decks, replacing gear is something a skater does a a last resort.