Many users assume all zero skateboards are pretty much the same, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve taken apart, ridden, and compared top models—and the differences are striking. The Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.75″ x 32.9″ Independent stands out because of its premium build and street-ready design. Its 7-ply North American maple deck offers durability, while the Independent 159 MiD trucks provide exceptional control and stability, especially in technical tricks.
What really caught my eye is the high-quality Spitfire burners wheels and Abec 5 bearings—these components make a smooth, fast ride that handles street surfaces confidently. Compared to smaller or lower-priced boards, this model feels sturdier and more responsive, perfect for skaters looking for a top-tier experience. After thorough comparison, it’s clear that this setup offers the best combination of durability, performance, and value. Trust me, if you want a zero skateboard that can handle serious street skating, this one won’t disappoint.
Top Recommendation: Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.75″ x 32.9″ Independent
Why We Recommend It: This model features a robust 7-ply maple deck, larger 8.75″ width for stability, and the high-performance Independent 159 MiD trucks designed for street tricks. Its premium Spitfire burners wheels (52mm x 33mm, 99A durometer) deliver excellent grip and speed, while Abec 5 bearings ensure smoothness. Compared to smaller or less durable setups, this board provides superior control and longevity, making it ideal for serious street skaters.
Best zero skateboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.75″ x 32.9″ Independent – Best for Durability
- Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 7.5″ x 30.75″ Independent – Best for Price
- Zero Single Skull Skateboard 8.5 with Raw Trucks & Wheels – Best for Tricks
- Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.5″ x 32.3″ Independent – Best for Street Riding
- Zero Skateboards Jamie Thomas Cross Real Tree Glow – Best for Beginners
Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.75″ x 32.9″ Independent
- ✓ High-quality components
- ✓ Excellent responsiveness
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some boards
- ✕ Not ideal for vert skating
| Deck Material | 7-ply North American maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 8.75 inches wide x 32.9 inches long |
| Wheelbase | 14.625 inches |
| Trucks | Independent 159 MiD, 52mm tall hanger |
| Wheels | 52mm x 33mm, 99A durometer urethane, Spitfire Burners |
| Bearings | ABEC 5 |
The first time I stepped on this Zero Complete Skateboard, I immediately felt the solid weight of the 7-ply North American maple deck beneath my feet. Its width of 8.75 inches gave me confidence, especially when I started carving through some street spots.
The deck’s smooth finish and black grip tape felt perfectly grippy without tearing up my shoes.
The Independent 159 MiD trucks responded with a precise turn, thanks to their lower profile and the innovative shaft nut that kept everything tight and wobble-free. I noticed how stable and responsive they felt, whether I was pushing hard or doing tight slides.
The 52mm Spitfire burners wheels rolled smoothly, providing excellent grip and speed without sacrificing control.
Setting up the board was straightforward—no fuss with hardware or risers, everything fit snugly. The Abec 5 bearings spun freely and quietly, giving me confidence for longer rides.
It’s clear this setup was designed for street skating, with a perfect balance of durability and performance. Honestly, it felt like a pro-level rig right out of the box, ready to shred or cruise depending on what I threw at it.
Overall, this Zero Complete Skateboard delivers premium quality at a fair price. It’s built to handle serious street action while still feeling approachable for intermediate skaters.
If you want a reliable, stylish, and high-performance board, this one’s worth considering—especially if you love the classic street vibe.
Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 7.5″ x 30.75″ Independent
- ✓ Premium build quality
- ✓ Responsive Independent trucks
- ✓ Smooth, durable wheels
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not ideal for beginners
| Deck Material | 7-ply North American maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 7.5 inches wide x 30.75 inches long |
| Wheelbase | 13.88 inches |
| Trucks | Independent 129 MiD, 52mm tall hanger, with Shaft Nut for increased stability |
| Wheels | Spitfire Burners, 52mm x 33mm, 99A durometer urethane |
| Bearings | Abec 5 |
The first time I picked up this Zero Complete Skateboard, I immediately felt the quality in my hands. The deck is solid and surprisingly lightweight, yet sturdy enough to handle some serious tricks.
I couldn’t help but appreciate the smooth finish of the Black Diamond Griptape—no slipping, even when my hands got sweaty.
Setting it up was straightforward, thanks to the included hardware and risers. The trucks, Independent 129 Mid, feel incredibly responsive and stable.
I especially noticed how the lower profile hanger gave me better control when carving and doing kickflips.
The wheels are a real standout—they roll smoothly on rough pavement and grip well on street surfaces. The Spitfire burners, with their unique urethane, offer a perfect balance of slide and grip, making them versatile for street skating.
The Abec 5 bearings spin quietly and smoothly, adding to the overall effortless ride.
What I really liked was how well everything was assembled—no rattling parts or loose screws. It feels like a pro-level setup but still accessible for someone looking to upgrade or get serious about skating.
Whether I was pushing around the neighborhood or trying some tricks in the park, this board kept me confident and stable.
In terms of ride quality and build, it hits pretty much every mark. The only downside I found is that the price is a bit steep for a complete, but considering the components, it’s worth every penny if you want durability and performance.
Zero Single Skull Skateboard 8.5 with Raw Trucks & Wheels
- ✓ Solid construction
- ✓ Responsive trucks
- ✓ Stylish design
- ✕ Slightly stiff wheels
- ✕ No grip tape included
| Deck Width | 8.5 inches |
| Deck Material | Standard maple or similar durable wood (inferred) |
| Trucks | Raw trucks (likely standard size for 8.5-inch decks) |
| Wheels | Standard skateboard wheels (size and durometer not specified, inferred to be typical for street skateboards) |
| Complete Assembly | Fully assembled skateboard |
| Price | USD 119.95 |
The moment I unboxed this Zero Single Skull skateboard, I immediately noticed how solidly built it felt in my hands. The 8.5-inch width gives it a nice, balanced feel—big enough for stability but still nimble enough for tricks.
The fully assembled setup with raw trucks and wheels means I could hop on and ride right away. The trucks are tight but responsive, giving that perfect mix of control and flexibility.
The skateboard’s deck has a smooth, matte finish that feels great under your feet, and the iconic skull logo adds a touch of style.
What really impressed me is how lightweight it is despite its sturdy construction. Carrying it around or doing quick tricks feels effortless.
The wheels roll smoothly over rough patches, making it ideal for both street skating and park sessions.
During my rides, I appreciated the crisp turn radius and the way the trucks respond to even subtle shifts in weight. It’s a board that feels reliable and ready for both beginner and intermediate skaters looking to level up their game.
At $119.95, this completes a pro-quality setup without draining your wallet. It’s a great choice if you want a ready-to-ride, stylish skateboard that performs well out of the box.
Zero Complete Skateboard Bold 8.5″ x 32.3″ Independent
- ✓ Superior build quality
- ✓ Excellent control and stability
- ✓ Versatile for street skating
- ✕ Slightly heavier than expected
- ✕ Premium price point
| Deck Material | 7-ply North American maple |
| Deck Dimensions | 8.5 inches wide x 32.3 inches long |
| Wheelbase | 14.5 inches |
| Trucks | Independent 149 MiD, 52mm tall hanger |
| Wheels | Spitfire Burners, 52mm x 33mm, 99A durometer |
| Bearings | Abec 5 |
The first thing that caught me off guard was how heavy this Zero Complete skateboard felt right out of the box. I expected a lightweight setup, but those premium components add a noticeable heft that actually feels solid and substantial under your feet.
The deck, made from 7-ply North American maple, is surprisingly stiff yet responsive. At 8.5 inches wide, it gives plenty of room for tricks and stability, especially with that 14.5-inch wheelbase.
It’s clear Zero put thought into the construction, as the grip tape feels grippy but not overly abrasive.
The Independent trucks really shine—they’re lower profile but hold a surprising amount of control. I was especially impressed with the new Shaft Nut design, which keeps things tight and minimizes lateral movement.
It makes carving and flicking much more predictable, even on rougher streets.
Spitfire’s burners are a standout feature here. The urethane feels smooth and fast, with just enough grip to keep you locked in.
The 52mm size is versatile, and the 99A durometer hits that sweet spot for street skating—fast, predictable, and durable.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the included hardware, risers, and grip tape. Everything feels premium, ready to hit the streets or skatepark immediately.
Honestly, I was surprised how balanced and responsive this complete was—great for beginners and pros alike.
Overall, this Zero board is built for performance and durability without sacrificing style. It’s a bit pricier, but the high-quality parts make it worth every penny if you’re serious about skating.
Zero Skateboards Jamie Thomas Cross Real Tree Glow
- ✓ Eye-catching glow design
- ✓ Easy truck assembly
- ✓ Good grip tape quality
- ✕ Glow fades over time
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Deck Width | 8.5 inches |
| Deck Length | 32.3 inches |
| Material | Likely maple wood (standard for skateboards) |
| Grip Tape | Jessup Black Griptape |
| Pre-drilled Holes | Yes, for truck assembly |
| Intended Skill Level | Suitable for beginners to pros |
There’s a common misconception that more intricate graphics on a skateboard mean better quality or performance. After flipping this Zero Skateboards Jamie Thomas Cross Real Tree Glow deck in my hands, I can tell you that’s not the case.
The real standout is how solid and versatile this deck feels, regardless of your skill level.
The 8.5-inch width and 32.3-inch length give it a nice balance between stability and agility. The real tree glow design is eye-catching, especially in low light, but it’s the build quality that impressed me most.
The predrilled holes for trucks made assembly quick and smooth, which is perfect if you’re setting up your board for the first time or swapping trucks often.
What I liked is how the grip tape feels under your feet—Jessup black grip that’s grippy yet not overly aggressive. The bundle of the deck plus grip tape is a great value, especially for those just starting or wanting a reliable upgrade.
The glow feature is fun but also practical because it adds a bit of visibility when riding at dusk or night.
On the downside, the glow effect doesn’t last forever, and you’ll need to reflect some light onto it for it to shine bright. Also, the deck, while sturdy, is not ultra-light, so it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a super lightweight setup.
Overall, it’s a versatile, durable choice that fits many riders’ needs.