🥇 ShopSavvy Best Picks

Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.

Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.

Explore Content

More to Explore

BEST PICKS

Best Skimboards for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 7th, 2024

Last Updated: May 20th, 2024

🏄‍♂️Skimboarding is an exciting sport, perfect for both beginners just getting their feet wet and seasoned pros chasing that perfect wave. Whether you're skimming along the shore or tackling tougher breaks, the right board can make all the difference.

We’ve sifted through countless options to highlight the best skimboards for every type of rider in 2024. Let’s dive in and find the perfect board for you!

🥇
Overall Best: BPS 'Gator PRO' Fiberglass Skimboard

BPS New Zealand ‘Gator PRO’ High Performance Fiberglass Skimboard with Padded Carry Bag Made from Recycled Plastics Performance Skimboard with Custom Traction Pads for Kids Adults Choose from 3 sizes Black 44 Inch

When it comes to overall performance, the BPS 'Gator PRO' Fiberglass Skimboard (48 Inch) stands out as our top pick for 2024. Constructed with high-quality fiberglass, this board offers the perfect balance between stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned riders. The 'Gator PRO' excels in various water conditions, from smooth, wet sand skimming to more challenging wave riding, thanks to its robust design and buoyant core.

This 48-inch board is designed to offer a stable and smooth ride, ensuring that users of all skill levels can enjoy it. According to our research, the manufacturer claims that this board's durability is second to none, which justifies its premium price tag. While it might be a higher upfront investment, the longevity and performance it provides make it worth every penny.

While the cost may deter budget-conscious buyers, those looking for a reliable and versatile skimboard will find the BPS 'Gator PRO' to be a stellar choice, offering both high performance and durability in one sleek package.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$229.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the BPS Gator PRO Skimboard? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

🏄‍♂️

What features make the BPS Gator PRO skimboard good for beginners?

If you're just getting into skimboarding, the BPS Gator PRO Skimboard has some nice features that can make things easier for you. One thing that's super helpful is that you don't need to wax it. That's because it comes with diamond-cut traction pads already on both the nose and tail. This means you can just grab your board and go right to the beach without dealing with the waxing mess. It's especially great for beginners who might not be up on all the board maintenance stuff yet. The traction pads cover more of the board compared to a lot of other brands, giving you a solid grip in different conditions. This means you can spend more time figuring out how to ride and have fun, instead of worrying about slipping off. Plus, it has a custom design with a noticeable tail kick and a raised center arch, which our research and professional reviews suggest help you keep control and try out tricks more easily. People seem to really like how this board is put together too. From what we've seen, many folks—whether they're just starting or moving up to the next skill level—appreciate how easy it is to use and how it's built to last. That's pretty much in line with what the manufacturer says as well, which speaks to its reliability and craftsmanship. In short, if you're a beginner or even an intermediate rider, the BPS Gator PRO Skimboard's easy-to-use features and performance-focused design make it a smart pick. You can get right into skimboarding without a lot of prep, which is great if you'd rather spend your time riding waves instead of just setting up your gear. So, if you're aiming for a simple, fun skimboarding experience, this board might be a good bet.

🏄‍♂️

What are the size options for the BPS Gator PRO skimboard?

The BPS Gator PRO skimboard comes in a few different sizes, so you can find what suits you best. You can choose from Small (30 inches), Medium (35 inches), and Large (40 inches), according to the manufacturer's details. These options should cover a wide range of ages, weights, and skill levels. The board is made from high-quality fiberglass, which helps with durability and responds well in the water. If you're after something that's easy to maneuver, a smaller board might be your go-to for tricks. But if you're looking for more stability and floatation, especially if you're a beginner or want to ride waves, a larger board could be better. One thing that makes the Gator PRO stand out is the pre-installed full diamond-cut traction pads. The manufacturer makes a point about these pads, which means you don't need to deal with wax – a nice little bonus. They're strategically placed on the nose and tail to help with grip, which is really handy. According to our research, people find these traction pads improve both performance and safety, as it helps them keep their feet in the right spot. It's great for building confidence and stability, no matter if you're just starting out or already hitting advanced tricks. The board also features a custom-designed nose grip and a tail with a raised kicker and center arch, enhancing its performance for spins and tricks. This is particularly good if you're into adventure and want good control. Overall, whether you're into flat water or wave riding, the Gator PRO seems to be a solid choice without the extra hassle of prepping with wax. It's designed for seamless and fun skimboarding.

🏄‍♂️

How does the BPS Gator PRO skimboard perform for tricks and spins?

The BPS Gator PRO skimboard, particularly the Black 44 Inch model, seems to be a solid pick if you're into tricks and spins. From what we've gathered, it's built with high-performance fiberglass, which gives it that nice balance between being nimble and stable. That can really help you feel more confident when you're working on your spins and tricks. One thing folks seem to love is how lightweight it is. That makes it pretty easy to maneuver, which is exactly what you want when you're trying to nail quick movements and aerial spins. If you're a more advanced rider, you might find it adds an extra layer of ease when attempting technical tricks. Our research also points out that this board holds up under different conditions, whether you're dealing with strong waves or a calmer surface. It seems like a lot of skimboarders appreciate this adaptability, as it lets them focus on their technique without worrying too much about changes in the environment. And hey, there's a bonus: it comes with a padded carry bag made from recycled materials. Not only is that eco-friendly, but it’s also pretty handy for transporting your board and keeping it safe when you're not using it. A lot of people seem to like the bag's durability and how easy it makes moving the skimboard around. So, between the top-notch materials, the lightweight build, and the carry bag, the BPS Gator PRO might just be a great fit if you're looking to enhance your trick and spin game.

View All Answers for

🥈
Runner-up: Zap Skimboards: Fuse X Model

If you're in search of exceptional performance, the Zap Skimboards Fuse X Model is an outstanding runner-up. Crafted entirely from high-grade carbon fiber, this skimboard delivers unparalleled stiffness and sensitivity, enhancing your take-off speed and overall control. The Fuse X is equipped with Gatorskin glass, a feature that greatly increases the board's stiffness and agility, making it a favorite among advanced riders.

Available in multiple sizes, this board can accommodate various heights and weights, providing a customized riding experience. We found that experienced skimmers particularly appreciate the responsiveness and maneuverability this board offers. However, its advanced features and higher price point make it less suited for beginners who are just getting started in the sport.

In summary, if you are an experienced rider seeking a top-notch performance skimboard, the Zap Skimboards Fuse X Model is a worthy investment, offering superior control and speed for a thrilling ride.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

💸
Budget Pick: Morey EVA Wooden Skimboard

For those new to skimboarding or looking for an economical option, the Morey EVA Wooden Skimboard is an excellent budget-friendly choice. This board is crafted from durable wood and features a slight crescent tail, providing solid control and a longer lifespan compared to other budget options.

Designed specifically for beginners, this skimboard offers stability and ease of use, allowing newcomers to the sport to get the hang of the basics without frustration. According to the manufacturer, the board's ability to withstand beginners' learning curves makes it a reliable option. However, it's worth noting that it is more suited to sand skimming rather than wave gliding.

All in all, the Morey EVA Wooden Skimboard offers great value for its price, making it a fantastic starting point for those who want to dip their toes into the world of skimboarding without breaking the bank.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$69.99 at DICK'S Sporting Goods

Best for Beginners: Zap Skimboards - Classic Series Wedge Small Skimboard

The Zap Skimboards Classic Series Wedge Small Skimboard (40") is tailor-made for beginners eager to dive into skimboarding. Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures that newcomers can easily handle and maneuver the board as they learn the ropes.

At 40 inches and a half-inch thick, this board offers just the right amount of size and thickness for mastering basic moves. Available in assorted colors, it adds a touch of personalization to your learning experience. According to the manufacturer, the manageable size and solid build help novices quickly pick up essential skills.

While this board is perfect for starting out, keep in mind that as your skills improve, you might need to upgrade to a board with more advanced features. Nonetheless, the Zap Skimboards Classic Series Wedge Small Skimboard serves as an excellent stepping stone for those ready to embark on their skimboarding journey.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best for Intermediate to Experienced Riders: Wave Zone: Fishhook Complete Skimboard

For intermediate to experienced riders looking for a blend of performance and affordability, the Wave Zone Fishhook Complete Skimboard is a stellar option. This mid-level board boasts impressive buoyancy, maneuverability, and a unique fishtail design that enhances sensitivity and control.

Sized at 51 1/2 inches by 20 3/4 inches and featuring a weight limit of 200 lbs, this board caters well to progressing riders. The fishtail and side wings provide great control and allow for varied stances, making it easier to execute more complex tricks. According to the manufacturer, this board strikes a great balance between performance and price, offering plenty of bang for your buck.

While it may not deliver the same high-end performance as elite models, the Wave Zone Fishhook Complete Skimboard is an excellent choice for those looking to advance their skills without making a hefty investment. It provides a responsive and thrilling ride, making it a favorite among those looking to take their skimboarding to the next level.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Get ShopSavvy

ShopSavvy is totally free and works on all popular phones and browsers