Remember the rad graphics and classic shapes of skateboarding’s golden age? Those iconic decks aren’t just museum pieces anymore! Today, reissue decks let you ride history under your feet. But with so many brands bringing back old favorites, how do you pick the perfect one? It can feel overwhelming trying to match a vintage vibe with modern performance.
Finding a reissue that looks just right *and* skates well for your style is the real challenge. You want that authentic feel without sacrificing quality. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This guide cuts through the confusion.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for in a reissue deck, understanding the differences in shapes, concave, and construction. Get ready to find the deck that truly honors the past while powering your future sessions!
Top Reissue Skateboard Decks Recommendations
- The Santa Cruz Malba Crash Test Reissue deck features OG early 80's Malba shape, graphics and concave. This first time reissue also comes with wheel wells. Hand Screened and Numbered at NHS! This reissue has the original 80's mounting hole pattern. This board measures 10.03" x 29.35" with a 16.35" wheelbase.
- 7 ply North American Maple pressed individually using epoxy - making a strong, responsive deck with long lasting pop and consistent concave and kick.
- In the late 70s and early 80s, Santa Cruz led the charge from flat decks with little or no concave to the infamous tech concaves of the late 80s. Early 80s concave is based off of this evolution, with defined, mellow side-to-side concave and slight tail kick that was found on Santa Cruz's Street Skate, RS/C, and pro models like the Malba Tombstone.
- Santa Cruz Skateboards Roskopp Face Reissue Deck: Iconic Rob Roskopp Face neon yellow artwork on a 9.5" x 31" board with a 14.75" wheelbase
- NHSb2b.com Exclusive: This board is not available on NHSskateDirect.com
- SC Skate Tech Construction: 7-ply North American Maple, individually pressed with epoxy for durability and responsiveness
- Old School Concave: Comfortable side-to-side concave and continuous tail kick for easy foot placement on various board types
- Deck Width = 9.625" / Deck Length = 29.75"
- Wheelbase = 15.125" / Deck Nose = 3.5" / Deck Tail = 6.88"
- Truck Hole Pattern = Long 4 - 2.5" Old School Truck Hole Pattern
- Shape 157 / Concave SP3
- Deck Only, Griptape Not Included
- Deck Width = 10" / Deck Length = 30"
- Wheelbase = 16.25" / Deck Nose = 3" / Deck Tail = 5.95"
- Truck Hole Pattern: LONG 4 - 2.5" OLD SCHOOL TRUCK HOLE PATTERN
- Shape 265 / Original Concave SP0
- Deck Only, Griptape Not Included
- Deck Width = 10" / Deck Length = 30"
- Deck Width = 10" / Deck Length = 30"
- Wheelbase = 16" / Deck Nose = 3.125" / Deck Tail = 6.63"
- Truck Hole Pattern = Long 4 | 2.5" Old School Truck Hole Pattern
- Shape 166 / Concave SP3
- Deck Only, Griptape Not Included
- Deck Width = 9.9" / Deck Length = 31.03"
- Wheelbase = 15.37" / Deck Nose = 4.68" / Deck Tail = 6.78"
- Truck Hole Pattern: SHORT 4 - 2.125" TRUCK HOLE PATTERN
- Shape 175 / Concave K21
- Deck Only, Griptape Not Included
- Epoxy-Pressed 7-Ply Maple: Durable and Responsive
- Long-Lasting Pop and Consistent Deck Shape
- Retro Concave Design: A Nostalgic Ride
- Comfortable Concave and Tail Kick for Easy Foot Placement
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Reissue Skateboard Decks
Reissue skateboard decks bring back the classic looks and shapes of skateboarding’s golden eras. These decks honor legendary designs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. If you love old-school style or want a unique ride, a reissue deck is a great choice. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a reissue deck, look closely at a few important features. These details affect how the board feels and performs.
Shape and Concave
- Shape: Reissue decks often feature wider shapes than modern street decks. Look for shapes like the classic “fish” or “pool shape.” These boards were designed for ramps and cruising.
- Concave: Concave refers to the side-to-side curve of the deck. Older decks usually have a much flatter concave compared to today’s steep curves. A flatter concave offers more foot space and a stable feel, which is great for cruising.
Wheelbase
The wheelbase is the distance between the inner mounting holes for the trucks. Reissue decks often have a longer wheelbase. A longer wheelbase makes the ride smoother, especially at high speeds. It also gives you more stability when carving.
Important Materials and Construction
The quality of the wood directly impacts the deck’s strength and pop. Most high-quality decks use the same basic material, but the construction process matters.
Maple Wood Plies
Almost all good skateboard decks use Canadian Maple wood. Manufacturers usually stack seven thin layers, or “plies,” of maple together. These plies are glued using strong epoxy resin.
Glue Quality
The glue holding the layers together is very important. Better glue creates a stronger bond. This stronger bond helps the deck resist delamination (when the layers start peeling apart).
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all reissue decks are made equal. Some small details separate a great deck from a mediocre one.
Pressing Technique
How the deck is pressed into its shape affects its strength. High-quality manufacturers use precise molds. This ensures the concave and nose/tail kicks are consistent across the board. Poorly pressed decks might warp over time.
Graphics and Finish
The graphics are a huge part of a reissue deck’s appeal. Look for high-quality screen printing. A good finish protects the wood and the artwork from moisture and minor scrapes. Cheaper decks might use simple heat transfers that peel easily.
Weight
While old-school decks are generally heavier than modern street decks, a good reissue deck should not feel overly heavy. Lighter decks are easier to maneuver. Manufacturers achieve lower weight by using thinner, carefully selected maple veneers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Who should ride a reissue deck? The answer depends on what you want to do on your skateboard.
Cruising and Carving
Reissue decks truly shine when used for cruising. Their wider platforms and longer wheelbases offer a stable and comfortable ride on sidewalks and boardwalks. If you want a relaxed, nostalgic ride, this is your deck.
Vert and Pool Skating
These decks were originally designed for the large ramps and empty swimming pools of the 70s and 80s. Their shape gives you excellent foot placement for pumping and carving on curved surfaces.
Street Skating (Limited Use)
If you plan on doing modern flip tricks (like kickflips or heelflips), a reissue deck might feel awkward. Their wider noses and tails, combined with flatter concaves, make flicking the board difficult. They are generally too stiff and wide for technical street tricks.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Reissue Skateboard Decks
Q: Are reissue decks strong enough for daily riding?
A: Yes, most quality reissue decks use strong maple and epoxy glue, making them durable enough for cruising and light park use.
Q: Can I use modern trucks on a reissue deck?
A: Yes, you can, but you need to match the truck width to the deck width. Since reissues are often wider, you might need wider trucks than you usually use.
Q: Do reissue decks have good “pop”?
A: They have less “pop” than modern street decks because they have flatter kicks and sometimes thicker construction. They are better for carving than popping ollies high into the air.
Q: How does the concave of a reissue compare to a modern deck?
A: Reissue decks have a much flatter, mellower concave. Modern decks have steep curves to help direct your feet for flip tricks.
Q: Should I buy a reissue deck if I am a beginner?
A: A beginner focused on cruising will enjoy the stability of a reissue. A beginner wanting to learn technical street tricks should start with a standard, narrower popsicle shape.
Q: What size wheels work best on a reissue deck?
A: Since these decks are often used on rougher surfaces or ramps, slightly larger and softer wheels (around 56mm to 60mm) usually work best for a smooth ride.
Q: How do I know if the reissue is an accurate reproduction?
A: Look for brands that have licensing agreements with the original companies or professional riders from that era. Authentic reproductions stick closely to original dimensions.
Q: Will a reissue deck feel heavy?
A: They generally feel heavier than very light street decks, but this extra weight adds to their stability when riding fast.
Q: Do I need special hardware for a reissue deck?
A: You use the same standard mounting hardware. However, because the decks can be thicker, you might need slightly longer hardware bolts sometimes.
Q: Where should I ride my new reissue deck?
A: These decks are perfect for cruising local streets, riding skateparks with large bowls or vert ramps, and showing off that cool retro style!