Did you ever notice a small skateboard that you ride using your fingers? That’s a fingerboard! They may be tiny, but they can perform big tricks — flips, grinds, and even combos. Fingerboarding is for everyone, and just like skateboarding, there are beginner setups and professional ones.
So what makes a pro fingerboard different? Why do some cost more than others? And how do you choose the right one? Let’s break it all down.
What Exactly Is a Pro Fingerboard?
A pro fingerboard is a high-quality, performance-grade fingerboard made with superior materials. These boards are crafted with real fingerboarding in mind — offering better realism, control, and durability.
Think of it like this:
- Toy fingerboards are great for casual fun.
- Pro fingerboards are made for real fingerboarders who want to progress — just like serious skaters.
1. Pro Decks – What’s the Difference?
The deck is the flat surface where your fingers ride. It’s the heart of every setup.
Toy Fingerboards:
- Usually made of plastic
- Basic shape with little to no grip
- Often come bundled with ramps or stickers
Pro Fingerboards:
- Made of real wood — usually 5-ply maple, like full-sized skateboards
- Available in different shapes and sizes (e.g. street or cruiser)
- Designed with concave (a curved profile) and kicks (upturned ends)
- Often feature detailed graphics or hand-painted artwork
Fun Fact: Many pro decks are handmade in small batches by independent brands or artists.
2. Trucks – Small but Mighty
Trucks are the metal parts under the deck that hold the wheels and allow turning and balance.
Toy Trucks:
- Made of plastic or soft metal
- Feel loose or wobbly
- Not very smooth
Pro Trucks:
- Built from durable metals like stainless steel or alloy
- Include real bushings (rubber rings that help with turning)
- Available in sizes like 32mm or 34mm, to match your deck
- Use real screws and locknuts, just like full-size skateboards
Tip: Matching your truck size to your deck size boosts control and balance.
3. Wheels – Tiny but Essential
Fingerboard wheels are more important than they look — they affect how your board feels and performs.
Toy Wheels:
- Made of hard plastic
- Slippery, with poor grip
- Don’t spin smoothly
Pro Wheels:
- Made from urethane, just like real skateboard wheels
- Provide better grip and a smoother ride
- Often include bearings for longer spin and faster tricks
- Some even squeak realistically during tricks
Note: Choose your wheels based on the surfaces you use — wood, ramps, or tile.
4. Bearings – The Secret to Smooth Spin
Ever notice how some fingerboards spin effortlessly? The secret lies in their bearings — tiny metal rings inside the wheels.
Toy Boards:
- Usually don’t have bearings
- Wheels stop spinning quickly
Pro Boards:
- Use ABEC-rated bearings (e.g. ABEC-7 or ABEC-9)
- Enable longer spins for tricks like manuals and flips
5. Grip Tape – Finger Control That Matters
Like real skateboards have grip tape for feet, fingerboards use grip for your fingers.
Toy Fingerboards:
- May have no grip or just a plastic surface
Pro Fingerboards:
- Use foam or rubber grip tape
- Soft to the touch but offers excellent control
- Some riders customize their grip with stickers or designs
Good grip = better flips, cleaner catches, and more precision.
Why Upgrade to a Pro Fingerboard?
Starting with a toy fingerboard is totally fine. But if you’re serious about learning tricks, a pro fingerboard changes everything.
Here’s why:
- Feels like a real skateboard (only smaller)
- Better control and balance
- Helps you learn tricks faster
- Built to last and looks awesome
- Trusted by real fingerboarders and creators in the community
How to Pick the Right Pro Fingerboard
Here’s a quick checklist when choosing your first pro setup:
Deck Size:
- 32mm – Great for beginners or younger riders
- 34mm / 36mm – Offers more space and stability for tricks
Concave & Shape:
- Medium concave is beginner-friendly
- Street shapes are ideal for flip tricks and technical riding
Trucks:
- Match your trucks to your deck width (32mm or 34mm)
- Choose metal trucks with real bushings for smoother performance
Wheels:
- Urethane + bearings = smoothest roll
- Soft wheels work best indoors; harder wheels for parks and ramps
Complete Setup vs. Custom Build:
- Complete sets are perfect for starting out
- Custom builds let you tailor your setup once you know your style
Brands Worth Checking Out
These brands are known for quality and creativity in the pro fingerboard world:
- Obsius – Artistic, handcrafted decks and premium builds
- Blackriver – Pioneers of the pro fingerboard scene
- Dynamic – Legendary for their realistic metal trucks
- OFB PRO – Top-tier wheels and stylish designs
- Teak Tuning – Great entry point for affordable pro-level gear
Final Thoughts
What makes a fingerboard "pro"? It’s all about the materials, performance, and feel. A pro setup lets you go beyond play — it invites you to create, challenge yourself, and express your style like a real skater.
Whether you’re 8 or 18, fingerboarding is a fun, creative, and limitless hobby. Once you upgrade to a pro fingerboard, you won’t look back.
So go ahead — build your dream setup, learn that next trick, and keep shredding.
Happy Fingerboarding!