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Real Decks Review

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real-skateboards-deck-graphics-closeup

⭐ ~4.5/5 – Real Skateboards, founded in 1991 by Tommy Guerrero and Jim Thiebaud, has become a staple of the Deluxe Distribution lineup and a long-standing pillar of skate culture. Known for consistent R1 construction, reliable pop, and a wide range of shapes, Real decks earn strong praise for durability and feel, though some budget models may chip quicker. Their iconic graphics and sustainable Renewal series add to their appeal, offering dependable performance at a fair price.

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Check out Real skateboard decks on Amazon!
Construction & materials:


Ply / wood: Typically made from 7-ply Canadian (hard-rock) maple.

Glue / press: R1 Construction, even-pressure press and a specialized glue formula for long-lasting strength and less pressure crack risk.

Manufacture: Many Real decks are pressed at BBS woodshop in Mexico.

Takeaway: Real decks combine classic, reliable 7-ply maple with a tested press method, delivering durability, solid pop, and consistent performance, making them a strong all-around choice.
Ride characteristics (pop, concave, durability):

Pop: Real decks deliver a crisp, snappy pop that stays quite strong with normal use.

Concave / shape: They usually have a medium-to-slight concave with traditional popsicle or more tech-oriented shapes (e.g., the Low Pro II tight concave).

Mainly they have 4 types of Constructions:

Real Full
Real Full decks keep their width farther into the nose and tail, giving the board a “fuller” outline than a standard popsicle shape. Instead of tapering early near the front bolts, they stay wider about 1/8″ longer, offering more surface area and stability throughout the deck’s length.

Real Low Pro II
Low Pro II decks sit lower thanks to a slight rocker in the nose and tail, making the kicks closer to the ground. This reduces the effort needed to pop and adds responsiveness. A tighter concave boosts strength and control, making this shape ideal for technical street skating.

Real R1
R1 decks use equal-pressure press molds and include two X-Band plies for added stiffness and consistent pop. They remain a 7-ply maple build but are noticeably stronger and more durable than standard constructions.

Real Slick
Slick models have a ribbed polymer bottom that reduces friction on ledges and rails, helping the board slide easier with less wax. The coating also protects the graphic and keeps the deck feeling stiffer for longer.

Durability: Real decks are built to last, especially those using the R1 construction, which combines an even-pressure press with X-Band cross-banding. This design increases stiffness, provides consistent pop, and makes the deck more resistant to breaking. From experience, these decks hold up very well under regular skating.

However, some budget or recycled models (such as the Renewal series) may not maintain their pop as long or be as durable, so they can wear out faster under heavy use..

Takeaway: Real decks strike a great balance, they’re poppy, well-shaped, and long-lasting. Whether you skate street, park, or more relaxed lines, they offer reliable performance without being overly high-end or fragile.
Sizing & fit:

Real offers a wide size range from around 8.0″ to 8.5″+, letting skaters choose between tech-friendly narrow decks or stable, wide setups. Wheelbases and shapes vary slightly by model but stay consistent enough for predictable feel. Overall, sizing fits most skaters well, from beginners to experienced riders.

Graphics, finish & availability:

Real Skateboards offers iconic, clean graphics ranging from classic logos to pro-model and eco-friendly designs. Prints are sharp and consistent, with durable finishes that protect both the board and the artwork. Some models, like the Real Slick, feature special coatings to enhance slides and maintain stiffness. The brand’s decks are widely available through major skate shops and online retailers, ensuring most sizes and styles are easy to find. Overall, Real combines visual appeal with practical durability, making their boards both stylish and reliable.
Real Skateboards deck concave close-up showing curvature and control
Real Skateboards deck bottom after use showing wear and scratches
Real Skateboards deck used during skateboarding tricks and action
Price & value:

Real Skateboards decks typically range from €60–€90 for standard models, with limited or pro editions reaching €160+. For this price, you get durable 7‑ply maple construction, consistent pop, and reliable performance, not just graphics. Their boards strike a strong balance between quality and affordability, making them a solid choice for both beginners and experienced skaters. Popular models like the Classic Oval or Easy Rider series deliver excellent value for everyday street or park use.
How Real compares to other brands:

Real Skateboards is a core skate brand with deep roots in the sport’s history, founded by influential skaters and built around authentic street performance rather than trend-driven marketing. Unlike brands that chase new materials or proprietary technologies, Real focuses on tried-and-true 7-ply maple construction and consistent deck feel, which appeals to skaters who value reliability and a classic ride. Its deck shapes and graphics strike a balance between traditional and contemporary styles, making it equally respected by longtime enthusiasts and newer riders. Compared to mainstream brands like Element or Plan B, Real feels more grounded in skate culture and less commercial, while still delivering dependable pop and durability

Innovation-focused companies such as Almost push advanced construction, Real’s strength remains its stable performance, strong pro team presence, and genuine reputation within the skate community.
Pros ✅Cons ❌
Consistent Performance:
Real decks offer reliable pop and responsiveness		Budget Model Durability:
Some lower-priced or recycled-wood decks may chip faster or lose pop sooner.
Durable Construction:
7‑ply maple with R1 press and X-Band plies ensures strength and longevity.		Weight:
Heavier than ultra-light or carbon-fiber boards, which may affect technical tricks.
Variety of Shapes:
Options like Real Full, Low Pro II, and Slick cater to different skating styles and preferences.		Concave Variability:
Tighter concave on certain models may feel uncomfortable for skaters used to standard popsicle shapes.
High-Quality Graphics & Finish:
Sharp, durable prints with clean finishes, including special coatings on some models.		Limited High-End Options:
While solid, Real is not as specialized as boutique or pro-level boards in some niches.
Good Value:
Competitively priced for the quality and performance offered, appealing to both beginners and pros.		Risk of Counterfeits:
Popular models are sometimes faked, so buying from reputable retailers is essential.
Final Verdict

Real Skateboards consistently delivers decks that combine performance, durability, and style. Their 7‑ply maple construction with R1 press ensures strong pop and long-lasting strength, while a variety of shapes like Full, Low Pro II, and Slick cater to different skating styles. Graphics are clean, durable, and visually appealing, and most models are widely available at reasonable prices. While some budget or recycled decks may chip faster and certain concaves feel tighter than standard, these are minor drawbacks compared to the overall quality. Real decks strike a balance between reliability and versatility, making them suitable for beginners and experienced skaters alike. For anyone seeking a dependable, well-built skateboard that performs well across street, park, or ramp, Real is a strong choice.

Ready to ride?
Check out the latest Real decks on Amazon and grab yours today: [Shop Real Skateboards on Amazon]