The engineering behind this product’s deck stands out because it combines lightweight durability with a solid feel. Having tested both, I can say the Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid Skateboard 7.80″ x 31” feels balanced—easy to control, with a responsive pop that’s perfect for beginners and intermediate riders alike. The 7-ply birch construction offers strength without adding weight, making tricks and transitions smoother.
When pushing this skateboard, I noticed how the high-quality trucks and versatile cushion hardness improve turning and stability. Its durable wheels roll smoothly over rough patches, reducing vibrations. After comparing it to cheaper alternatives like the Nattork mini cruiser, the Santa Cruz’s superior materials and design clearly deliver more confidence and control. If you want a mid-range skateboard that excels in performance and longevity, I recommend the Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid Skateboard for its well-rounded features and excellent value.
Top Recommendation: Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid Skateboard 7.80″ x 31
Why We Recommend It: This skateboard’s combination of a lightweight, yet strong 7-ply birch deck and high-performance components gives it a major edge. Its responsive trucks with adjustable cushions and high-rebound urethane wheels provide superior handling and smooth rides. Compared to the Nattork mini cruiser, it offers better durability and control, especially for more advanced tricks or longer sessions.
Best mid range skateboard: Our Top 2 Picks
- Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid Skateboard 7.80″ x 31 – Best All-Around Skateboard
- Nattork 22″ Mini Cruiser Skateboard with Light-Up Wheels – Best Versatile Skateboard
Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid Skateboard 7.80″ x 31
- ✓ Lightweight yet sturdy
- ✓ Smooth, durable wheels
- ✓ Easy to turn and control
- ✕ Softer wheels wear quickly
- ✕ Slightly pricier for mid-range
| Deck Material | 7-ply birch plywood |
| Deck Dimensions | 7.80 inches wide x 31 inches long |
| Trucks | Cast aluminum with 85a or 90a cushions |
| Wheels | High-rebound urethane, 83a or 95a hardness |
| Bearings | High-speed precision steel with oil lubrication |
| Grip Tape | Professional grade grit and adhesive |
When I first unboxed the Santa Cruz Classic Dot Mid, I immediately noticed its sleek, classic design with the vibrant dot graphics that scream skateboarding nostalgia. The 7.80-inch width felt substantial enough to provide stability, yet nimble enough for tricks and carving.
As I took it out for a spin, the lightweight 7-ply birch deck felt surprisingly sturdy without feeling bulky. It responded smoothly to my foot movements, thanks to the well-balanced trucks.
The cast aluminum trucks are noticeably strong but keep the weight manageable, making turns feel effortless.
The wheels rolled smoothly over rough pavement, offering good grip and durability. I went for the 83a hardness wheels on my smaller tricks, and they offered a nice balance of grip and slide.
The high-rebound urethane kept my momentum consistent, even after hours of use.
The grip tape is top-notch—gritty enough for control but not too rough on your shoes. The high-speed steel bearings spun freely, making each push feel smooth and fast.
I appreciated how easy it was to get going without much effort, even after a few days of riding.
Overall, this skateboard feels like a well-rounded choice for someone who wants durability, style, and performance without breaking the bank. It’s light enough for beginners but has enough quality features to keep more experienced skaters happy.
The only downside is that the softer wheels might wear faster if you hit rough terrain often, but that’s a small trade-off for the ride quality.
Nattork 22″ Mini Cruiser Skateboard with Light-Up Wheels
- ✓ Fully assembled and ready to ride
- ✓ Illuminating, self-powered wheels
- ✓ Compact and lightweight design
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Not ideal for tricks
| Deck Material | High-quality polypropylene (PP) plastic |
| Deck Dimensions | 21.73 inches long x 5.9 inches wide |
| Wheels | 78 A durometer polyurethane with illuminating lights, self-generating power |
| Bearings | High-performance ABEC-7 bearings |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 220 pounds |
| Assembly | Fully assembled and ready to ride |
Unlike the bulkier skateboards I’ve handled before, this Nattork 22″ Mini Cruiser feels like it was made with ease and fun in mind. Its compact size makes it surprisingly agile, perfect for zipping around the neighborhood or even slipping into a backpack for quick trips.
The first thing I noticed is how ready-to-ride it is right out of the box. No assembly required, which is a huge plus when you’re eager to hit the streets.
The deck is sturdy yet lightweight, thanks to the high-quality PP plastic, so carrying it around is a breeze.
The illuminated wheels are a real game-changer. They glow brightly and add a cool visual effect, especially at night.
Plus, since they’re self-powered, I didn’t have to worry about charging batteries or replacing them. It’s reassuring that these wheels also boost safety by making you more visible in low light.
Riding it feels smooth, thanks to the 78APU wheels and high-performance ABEC-7 bearings. The grip on the deck is solid, giving you confidence on turns or quick stops.
The design is eye-catching, with vibrant patterns that really stand out, and the heat transfer printing holds up well over time.
At just under 24 inches, it’s easy to carry and fits comfortably in most backpacks. It supports up to 220 pounds, so it’s versatile for different riders.
Overall, it’s a fun, practical skateboard that combines style, safety, and convenience in one package.