All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
When you first step onto a skateboard, the gear you choose shapes the whole experience — from that wobbly first push to cruising confidently down the high street. Picking the right board, trucks, wheels and protective pads affects balance, speed and most importantly, safety. Think of your skateboard like a pair of shoes: the wrong fit ruins your day, while the right kit makes everything click. This guide walks you through where to buy skateboards and protective gear in the UK, what to look for, and how to get the best value without sacrificing quality.
Ebebek might surprise you: while known for family and children’s products, it also stocks playful skateboard options aimed at younger riders. You can often find colorful, compact plastic skateboards such as the Ozbozz Plastic Skateboard 17x5 Inch and novelty designs like the Ozbozz Unicorn Skateboard 17x5 Inch. These lightweight boards are great as first boards for kids because they’re easy to carry and simple to control for short distances.
If you want a shop steeped in skate culture, Slam City Skates is a classic. Based in London and with a strong online presence, they stock decks from core brands, complete setups for beginners, and professional-grade components for skaters pushing tricks. Expect knowledgeable staff and curated brand lines that suit everyone from a young learner to a seasoned street rider.
SkateHut is a go-to for families and newcomers. They offer a wide selection of complete skateboards at entry-level prices and often bundle accessories like helmets and pads. If you’re buying your first board, SkateHut makes it easy to choose a pre-built setup that’s ready to ride right out of the box.
Decathlon is ideal if you like practical, no-frills gear. Their boards and protective items are designed to be functional and durable, often at a lower price point than fashion-led brands. Decathlon’s approachable style suits recreational skaters and those who plan to commute occasionally by board.
For riders who want to cruise or carve rather than do tricks, longboard specialists offer a deep bench of options in wheel size, deck shape and truck geometry. Stores like Longboard Warehouse provide the expertise and broader range you’ll need if you’re after downhill stability or a smooth commuter ride.
Amazon and other large marketplaces offer convenience, fast delivery and a huge selection — from entry-level plastic cruiser boards to branded street decks. Be cautious, though: read reviews, check seller ratings, and compare specs carefully. Marketplaces are great for variety, but specialist shops will generally give better advice and warranty support for high-performance gear.
Plastic cruisers, like the 17x5 inch boards mentioned above, are compact and cheerful — the skateboard equivalent of a city scooter. They’re lightweight and maneuverable, perfect for short hops and small riders. Because they’re small, they work best for kids or as a grab-and-go option for short commutes under a few miles.
Street decks are longer and wider, typically ranging from about 7.5 inches to 8.5 inches across. These decks give you the pop required for ollies and flip tricks and greater stability when landing. If you plan to skate skateparks or learn tricks, choose a deck width that matches your shoe size and riding style.
Longboards are measured more by length than width and often come with larger, softer wheels for a smoother ride. They are the choice for downhill carving, long-distance cruising and comfortable commutes. If you want a fast, stable ride on rough surfaces, a longboard or cruiser with bigger wheels is the way to go.
Deck width is one of the most important specs and it’s always given in inches. Here’s a quick rule of thumb: kids and smaller riders often find 6.5 to 7.5 inch decks comfortable, while teens and adults doing street skating usually prefer 7.5 to 8.5 inches. Wider decks offer more stability; narrower ones are quicker to flip. When in doubt, stand on a deck in a shop or compare to a pair of shoes — if your toes hang comfortably over the edges, you’re in the right ballpark.
Protective pad sets are essential for beginners and younger skaters. A combined knee and elbow pad set, like the Ozbozz Protective Pad Sets Knee - Elbow, provides coverage for the most common impact zones. Look for pads with comfortable straps, hard outer caps for sliding, and breathable liners. Proper fit is key: pads should be snug but not cut off circulation.
A helmet is non-negotiable. Choose a certified skate helmet that sits level on the head and fastens securely under the chin. Helmet sizes are typically given in head circumference, but think in inches: measure the head and match the helmet size to that measurement. Comfort and a snug fit are more important than a flashy design.
Wrist injuries are common for new skaters because instinctively people put their hands out to break a fall. Wrist guards with solid splints can prevent fractures and sprains. If you're starting out or learning tricks, wrist guards are a wise companion to knee and elbow pads.
Wheel size and durometer (hardness) affect grip and speed. Larger, softer wheels (for example, 60 mm wheels) roll smoothly over cracks and rough pavement and are great for cruising. Smaller, harder wheels (about 50 to 54 mm) are better for skateparks and technical street skating because they’re lighter and offer quicker acceleration. Always check wheel specs in inches or millimetres converted to inches; stick with the unit you’re comfortable with.
Bearings determine how freely wheels spin. They’re often rated by ABEC numbers, but real-world performance depends on quality and maintenance. Good bearings make your ride feel smoother and reduce the effort needed to cruise. Keep bearings clean and lubricated to preserve speed and longevity.
Trucks connect your deck to the wheels and dictate how the board turns. Narrow trucks fit narrow decks and give precise control; wider trucks add stability for landing tricks. If you enjoy carving or cruising, consider softer bushings in your trucks for snappier turns.
Beginners often benefit from complete skateboards sold ready-to-ride. They remove the guesswork: deck, trucks, wheels and bearings are matched for balanced performance. If you enjoy tinkering or want to customise your setup, build your board part-by-part. Specialist shops like Slam City Skates offer both complete setups and high-quality components for custom builds.
Skateboards need regular attention: check bolts, trucks and wheels before every ride. Loose hardware can lead to wheel bite or unpredictable handling. Tighten or loosen your trucks to suit your turning preference — looser for carving, tighter for stability when doing tricks.
Clean bearings every few months or after exposure to water or mud. Swap wheels periodically to even out wear, and replace damaged wheels or bearings. A little maintenance keeps your board rolling like new and extends the life of key parts.
Short, plastic cruisers like a 17x5 inch board are a great gateway — they’re light and fun, and often come in playful designs such as unicorn prints that appeal to younger riders. Pair a small cruiser with a kids’ helmet and a knee-elbow pad set for confident learning sessions.
Choose a standard street deck between about 7.5 and 8.5 inches, medium-hard wheels for a balance of grip and pop, and durable protective gear. A quality set of bearings and reliable trucks will help you progress faster and land tricks with more confidence.
Longer decks, larger and softer wheels, and stable trucks make commuting comfortable. If you cover several miles, a board with good roll-over for cracks and pavement makes the journey feel effortless. Add supportive shoes and a backpack stashed with a multi-tool for on-the-go adjustments.
Shopping during seasonal sales, using comparison tools and checking out bundle offers from retailers can help you save. Many stores offer beginner packages that include a board, helmet and pads at a reduced combined price. Also, consider buying slightly used gear from trusted sources for brand-name boards at a fraction of the cost — just check for cracks in decks and worn bearings before you buy.
Brands you’ll encounter often include Ozbozz for children’s novelty boards, Penny for plastic cruisers, Element and Santa Cruz for street decks, and Sector 9 or Arbor for longboards. Each brand has its own feel and target rider; try a few styles to see what suits you.
Local skate shops are community hubs — be friendly, ask questions and try on gear before buying. Skate parks reward respect: give priority to riders already committed to tricks and communicate your intentions. The skating community is welcoming when you show courtesy and a willingness to learn.
Before you click “buy,” run through this quick checklist: board width in inches, wheel size and hardness, helmet fit in inches, quality of pads and wrist protection, and the reputation of the retailer. If you’re buying for a child, consider slightly larger boards to grow into and always prioritise protective gear.
Buying skateboarding gear in the UK doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by defining how you’ll use the board — cruising, commuting, park or tricks — and choose the type that matches. Ebebek and other retailers like Slam City Skates, SkateHut and Decathlon cover the full spectrum from kids’ 17x5 inch plastic cruisers to pro-grade street decks. Pair your new board with solid protective pads, a well-fitting helmet and a basic maintenance routine, and you’ll be set for safer, more enjoyable sessions. Skate smart, keep practicing, and have fun — every push forward is progress.
| Skateboarding | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Ozbozz Plastic Skateboard 17x5 Inch | £ 11,99 | |
| Ozbozz Protective Pad Sets Knee - Elbow | £ 14,99 |
