My kid skateboards. When he started out he asked for a board for Christmas. I didn't understand that there are different types of skate styles that each have their own types of board. I spent a lot of money on a longboard only to find out later that he wanted the kind you do tricks on. Longboards are mainly for commuting/traveling distances. If the kid wants to do "ollies" and jump down staircases then s/he needs the other kind. We bought our first "real" board at Zumiez. I suggest that you go there and explain what you want to be able to do with the board. They have all the types. For a trick board expect to spend about $125-$150 for the complete board (wheels, trucks, bearings and the deck with grip tape. You may be better off giving the child a gift certificate and then letting him/her select each of the components.

What kind of board did they suggest for you at Bethesda Boards?

Thank you so much! That site is great (Tactics)- really appreciate it!

We had a great experience at Bethesda Boards in Bethesda.

You can find good sales on a nice selection of boards at Tactics and Evo. My DS always seems to end up with Element or Santa Cruz boards and you can get something nice for $100 or less. If you want to buy in-store, try Zumiez.

https://www.tactics.com/completes

For sizing, it may be a personal preference especially if you're talking about a teen and not a little kid. My tiny DD rides a 43 inch longboard with a wide wheelbase. If in doubt, I would go with something middle of the road.

NP. My son is about 5'9 and 130 lbs. Should I go with a 7.5, 7.75 or 8.0?

We have the powell dragon skateboards from amazon. They have been just fine. The Cal 7 ones posted above look good too.

If you don't need anything special, amazon. We got this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0765M281G/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

But check your kid's size and see about what dimension of a board you need.

Don't forget elbow and knee pads!

Where is a good place to buy a skateboard for my DS? I know nothing about them - he doesn't know what kind he wants but this is what he wants for Christmas. Does not have to be fancy but don't want to get a piece of junk. Any advice?