Are Palace Skateboards good for skating?
Yes. Palace Skateboards decks use standard 7-ply maple, a popsicle shape and medium concave, which suits everyday street skating. They're also collectible, so many buyers hang them on a wall instead.
Which one you do depends on how you buy. Here's how to decide, and what to check first.
What Palace Skateboards Are Built For
Start with the specs, because they answer most of the questions. Retailer listings describe Palace decks as 7-ply maple with medium concave. Another listing describes the shape as a standard popsicle with a slightly wider, squared-off nose and tail and a mellow kick.
That's a conventional build, which is good news for skaters. Nothing about it is a gimmick, and nothing needs special setup. A standard shape means standard trucks, wheels and bearings will fit.
The brand also still runs a real skate team and releases skate videos, including the full-length Palasonic in 2017. That matters, because a brand with active riders has a reason to keep the boards skateable.
How Palace Decks Feel to Skate
I'll be straight about the limits here. I can describe the specs, but how a deck feels depends on your weight, style and setup. Treat any claim of "the best pop" with suspicion, including mine.
What the specs do tell you:
Medium concave gives foot control without a steep, aggressive feel. It's forgiving for beginners and comfortable for most.
A mellow kick suits flat-ground tricks and cruising more than extreme technical flip tricks.
Widths of about 8.0 to 9.0 inches are on offer, and 8.25 inches is often treated as a good all-rounder.
If you're unsure, start at 8.25. Go narrower for quick flip tricks and wider for stability.
Why So Many People Collect Palace Skateboards
Palace decks are attractive objects. The graphics change constantly, many carry in-jokes or the Tri-Ferg triangle, and rider-named models give each design a story. For streetwear buyers, a deck can sit on a wall like a print.
A few collector-friendly details:
Limited runs. Designs rotate, so a deck you like may not return.
Variable stain. On some decks the top-ply colour varies, so no two are identical.
Rider models. Boards tied to a specific team rider appeal to people who follow the team.
A tip if you're collecting: keep decks away from direct heat and damp, which can warp wood. Hang them flat against the wall.
Skate It or Hang It? A Quick Decision Guide
You don't have to choose forever. This is how I'd think about it.
Buy to skate if:
You skate regularly and want a standard, reliable shape.
You're fine with scuffs, chips and worn graphics.
You'd rather buy a complete setup so the parts are matched.
Buy to collect if:
You love a specific graphic and want it kept clean.
You don't plan to apply griptape.
You'd rather buy a second deck for skating.
The sensible middle
Many people buy two. One goes on the wall and one goes on the street. If you can only afford one, buy the design you'd happily see destroyed by skating, because that's what will happen.
Safety and Condition Checks Before You Skate
Skating carries a real injury risk, so a few basics matter.
Check the deck for cracks or warping before riding, especially on older or second-hand boards.
Wear a helmet and protective gear, particularly if you're a beginner.
Inspect trucks and bolts to make sure everything is tight.
Buy from reputable sellers. Palace is widely counterfeited, and a fake deck may not have the same build quality.
For anything beyond basics, a local skate shop can check your setup in minutes.
How to Dress for Skating and Style
If you're buying for style as much as skating, your clothes matter too. A Palace hoodie is the pick for warmth on cold days, and the heavier fleece suits layering. A Palace t-shirt is the lighter, cheaper option for warmer weather or for testing the brand's fit first. Check current listings, since ranges change.
Palace Skateboards FAQ
Can you actually skate a Palace deck?
Yes. Palace decks are made as skateboards first, using 7-ply maple with a popsicle shape and medium concave. They suit regular street skating, so you can ride one as long as it's in good condition.
Are Palace decks worth collecting?
Many buyers think so, because designs rotate and rider models have a story. Value on resale varies, so don't buy purely as an investment. Buy the graphics you like and treat any resale gain as a bonus.
What size Palace deck is best for beginners?
An 8.25-inch deck is a safe starting point for most beginners, since it balances stability and control. Narrower decks flip more easily, while wider ones feel steadier. Match the width to your shoe size and comfort.
Should I put griptape on a collectible deck?
Not if you want to keep it display-ready. Griptape covers the top and is hard to remove cleanly. If you want to both ride and collect, buy two decks: one to hang and one to skate.
How do I avoid fake Palace decks?
Buy from the official site or trusted shops, and be wary of prices far below retail. Compare graphics, shape and construction against official photos, and ask sellers for detailed pictures before you pay.
Final Thoughts: Palace Skateboards Work for Both
Palace Skateboards are good for skating if you buy a standard size and look after the basics. They're also easy to collect, thanks to the graphics and limited runs. If you only want one, decide whether it's going on the street or the wall. And for everyday wear, a Palace hoodie covers warmth while a Palace t-shirt is the easy first piece.
