Top 7 Holiday Gift Ideas for Beginner Skateboarders

The benefits? Well, they're always a little easier on your wallet, for one. And the majority of them still come with proper trucks, wheels, bearings, etc. Another obvious benefit is that they're 100% ready to use. The hard part is over! Toss it under the tree, and boom—your job is done. Honestly, there's nothing better than waking up and seeing a brand-new skateboard sitting there. It's literally the gift that keeps on giving. 

2. Extra Parts and Accessories 

When it comes to stocking stuffers, there's nothing quite like skate accessories and parts. The best part is, you can truly never have enough of them! From skate wax to spare bearings and hardware, extra bushings to rails, wheels, socks, speed cream... stickers! 

The list honestly goes on, and pretty much every skate shop on the planet has a few shelves stocked with tons of goodies that any new (or old) skateboarder will love and appreciate. It's often the little things that bring the most joy. All of these items are super affordable, too. Necessities, baby! 

3. Pads and Helmets

One essential item that every new skateboarder should have in their arsenal (well, besides a skateboard itself) is a set of helmet and pads. Falling is an unavoidable part of skateboarding, regardless of skill level. In fact, I'd argue it’s basically guaranteed. While skaters may learn how to fall better as they progress, the reality is that the unforgiving cement always hurts. Having the right protective gear can make all the difference in staying safe on the board for beginners. 

More importantly, having pads on will absolutely provide any new skateboarder with more confidence, which will ultimately speed up their progression. Plus, pads and a helmet are still mandatory at certain skateparks and camps. Better safe than sorry!

4. Skateboarding Shoes 

You could argue this list is sort of categorized between "wants" and "needs" but one thing every skateboarder certainly needs is solid skate shoes! Whether you're just starting out, consider yourself a hometown hero, an aspiring pro—whatever!—the shoes you wear can make all the difference when it comes to skateboarding. 

Personally, I suggest rolling down to your local skate shop and admiring all the options on their shoe wall. There's nothing better than seeing and feeling everything right in front of you. Take a seat, take it all in and leave with confidence knowing you got the right size and fit. There's certainly no shortage of options out there these days, so again, hit your local and find the perfect pair! 

5. Skateboarding Apparel 

I remember flipping through old CCS catalogs as a kid, circling every item I saw, often based on what my favorite pros were wearing or riding. This excitement hasn't faded even into my 30s, and honestly, I hope it never does! Skate fashion has influenced countless subcultures over the decades, and the same holds true today. Skaters love to dress like skaters!

Say what you want, but clothes are always a great gift, especially when they come from your favorite brands or, even better, a local skate shop. The art, logos... all of it. It's a way for new skateboarders to make a statement. How's the saying go? Look good, feel good.

6. Accessible Ramps, Rails and Boxes

We've come a long way from the crusty, makeshift ramps and rails I used to skate in my front yard as a kid, but the mission remains the same! There's nothing like having all your friends over, setting up a kicker ramp, box, or flatbar, and creating a DIY skatepark right outside your house.

Brands like Keen Ramps and Blunt Steel have made it easier than ever to assemble, transport, and store various skateboarding obstacles. And honestly, they’re all pretty reasonably priced considering the amount of stoke they provide! 

Most importantly, for beginners, these moveable ramps and rails offer a perfect opportunity to get comfortable on their board and progress at their own pace, without the crowds and stress of a busy skatepark. Best gift ever! Actually, if any of my friends or family are reading this... I want that rail up there. Thanks! 

7. Skateboarding Lessons

Getting the new skateboarder in your life some skateboarding lessons is the perfect gift! And there's certainly no shortage of skateboarding camps and classes being offered across the globe these days, from local skateparks to private training facilities and everywhere in between. 

The California Skateparks Training Facility in Vista, California (CATF) is a great option if you're in Southern California. It's literally where the Olympians skate! But as I mentioned, there are a ton of coaches and instructors running lessons at public skateparks all over! 

Gaining that much needed confidence as a beginner can be hard, but lessons provide a safe and fun environment to progress at their own pace. Tap the post below to learn more about all the benefits that skateboarding lessons can provide beginners. 

As far as gifts for new skateboarders are concerned, there are tons of other great options out there. Sure. But at the same time, I'd say any of these items here would be a major win for the aspiring ripper in your life! 

Shoot, I'd be stoked on any of these, and I've been doing this for 20+ years! Truly never gets old. Keep these items in mind as you shop around the next few weeks. Hope you and the fam have a great holiday! Enjoy those festive sessions.