Are Walmart Skateboards Good? Big-Box vs Real Skate Completes (2026)
Cheap big-box boards can work for little kids and casual rolling, but many hold beginners back. Here's what to check and what to buy instead.
The Short Answer
It depends on the board. Big-box stores like Walmart sell a range of skateboards, and some are fine for casual rolling or a young child's first try. But many low-cost big-box boards use cheaper components, like non-maple decks, low-grade trucks and hard wheels, that can make learning harder and wear out faster. If you want to learn properly, a complete from a real skateboard brand is usually worth it.
What to Check Before Buying Any Skateboard
| Part | Look For | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | 7-ply maple | Plastic, unknown wood, very thin decks |
| Trucks | Metal trucks from known brands | Flimsy trucks that don't turn smoothly |
| Wheels | Urethane, sized for your riding | Hard plastic-feeling wheels |
| Bearings | Smooth-spinning, sealed | Gritty or noisy bearings |
| Grip tape | Grippy and well applied | Peeling or smooth grip |
| Brand | Established skateboard brands | Toy-style boards for serious learning |
Big-Box Board vs Skate Shop Complete
| Typical Low-Cost Big-Box Board | Skate Brand Complete | |
|---|---|---|
| Pop for ollies | Often weak | Good with maple decks |
| Turning | Can feel stiff or wobbly | Smooth and adjustable |
| Ride quality | Often rough | Smoother |
| Durability | Can wear out quickly | Lasts longer; parts are replaceable |
| Best for | Casual rolling, very young kids | Learning to skate |
Better First Boards
Santa Cruz Complete Skateboard
A factory complete from one of the oldest skateboard brands, fully assembled and ready to ride.
Check Price on AmazonBirdhouse Complete Skateboard
Completes with 7-ply maple decks in widths from about 7.75" to 8.5".
Check Price on AmazonCCS Complete Skateboard
An affordable complete with a maple deck and standard skate components, in many widths.
Check Price on AmazonIf You Already Have a Cheap Board
- Upgrade the wheels and bearings first for a smoother ride; see wheels and bearings.
- Better trucks make turning easier; see trucks.
- When the deck wears out, move to a maple deck; see decks.
More help: beginner skateboards, the skateboard size chart and kids skateboards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Walmart skateboards good for beginners?
Some can work for casual rolling, but many low-cost big-box boards use cheaper parts that make learning harder. Check the deck material, trucks and wheels.
What's wrong with cheap skateboards?
Common issues include weak or non-maple decks, low-grade trucks that don't turn smoothly, hard plastic-feeling wheels and rough bearings.
Does Walmart sell good skateboard brands?
Selection varies by store and online listing. Look for real skateboard brands and maple decks.
How much better is a skate shop complete?
A complete with a 7-ply maple deck, metal trucks and urethane wheels usually rides and lasts noticeably better.
Is a cheap board OK for a young child?
For a very young child just rolling around, a simple board can be fine. For learning tricks, a quality complete helps.