How do you choose the best skateboard ramps for at-home skating?
Home skateboard ramps are a great way for skateboarders to practice their skills in a comfortable setting, whether that’s their backyard or a community skatepark. They provide a convenient alternative to skating in public skate parks, allowing skateboarders to ride whenever they want, without having to worry about details like crowds or opening hours.
They come in a wide range of different shapes and sizes, suitable for an equally wide range of riders. From little kickers to half pipes, there’s something for literally everyone, no matter how skilled or inexperienced you are. They can be made of various different materials, including wood, plastic, or metal, depending on things like where you want to keep the ramp and how hard you’re going to push it.
While you can build your own ramp from scratch, it’s a pretty tricky process that requires a lot of tools and technical know-how. It’s often a lot easier to simply build a kit or one that’s readymade – they’ll still need some basic tools to set them up, but it shouldn’t be too difficult at all.
If you’re looking for the perfect ramp, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, here are some of our favourite options currently available on the market.
The 15 best portable ramps for skating at home, on the street and in the garden
1. Keen Ramps – Quarterpipe Skateboard Ramp (2’ ft x 4’ ft)
First up – the Skateboard Quarterpipe Ramp by Keen Ramps is a high-quality ramp designed for skaters, BMX bikers, and scooter riders. It features a sturdy galvanized steel coping rail for smooth grinds, a top-tier Baltic birch wood skating surface, 3/4” sanded pine sides and a top deck for stability.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Easy to assemble with pre-drilled holes and weatherproof screws
- Beginner-friendly with a less steep radius
- Suitable for multiple activities including skateboarding, BMX biking, and scootering
Cons
- More expensive than a lot of options
2. Skateboard Ramps Launch Pad
Next, a far more affordable option. This skateboard ramp pack includes two in-line launch ramps made from durable polymer construction, perfect for beginners. The ramps feature a textured anti-slip surface and tapered leading edge for a smoother transition. Non-slip rubber feet ensure the ramps stay securely in place on any flat surface, making them ideal for daily use.
Pros
- Heavy-duty polymer construction for durability
- Non-slip rubber feet for secure placement
- Wide compatibility with various activities and ages
Cons
- Not great for more experienced skaters
3. Ramptech Quarterpipe Ramp (2′ Tall x 8′ Wide)
For those serious about creating a home setup, this quarterpipe features perfect grip surfacing, heavy-duty design with galvanized steel coping, and weatherproof materials. It’s easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions and suitable for use anywhere, from DIY home skateparks all the way to backyards.
Pros
- Perfect grip and high-quality construction
- Easy to assemble with step-by-step instructions
- Wide range of ramps and accessories available
Cons
- Not for those just getting into the sport
4. Freshpark Professional Wedge Ramp
This awesome, multipurpose ramp can be used by skateboarders, BMX riders and scooters, allowing for use by the whole urban action sports community. While it’s incredibly sturdy, unlike a lot of the other options on this list, it also quickly folds up, allowing you to take it to whatever skating spot you like.
Pros
- Foldable, meaning you can take it where you like
- Not too big – usable by pros and beginners alike
- Modular, can be attached to other ramps and rails
Cons
- None at this price
5. Ramptech Spine Ramp (2′ Tall x 4′ Wide)
Another option from Ramptech, this spine is an ideal addition to any home setup or community skatepark. Made from high quality, high-friction ABS plastic, it can be left out in the elements without degrading for long periods of time – unlike wooden ramps.
Pros
- Relatively compact
- Highly versatile for practising a range of tricks
Cons
- More aimed at advanced skaters
6. OC Ramps Launch WR
OC Ramps provides pro-level launch ramps designed by actual skaters, perfect for mastering your skateboarding game at home. The ramp kit is easy to assemble with pre-cut and pre-drilled materials, requiring only basic DIY skills to set up. Exceptional quality materials ensure a long-lasting ramp that stands the test of long term heavy riding.
Pros
- Easy to assemble with pre-cut and pre-drilled materials
- High quality, highly durable
- Suitable for all levels of riders and various setups
Cons
- Needs some DIY skills to build
7. Landwave 4-Sided Pyramid Skateboard Kit
The LandWave skateboard ramp system allows you to create your dream ramp setup at home, with easy assembly and no tools required. Made in the USA, this kit is versatile for use with skateboards, BMX bikes, inline skates, and even RC cars. With one flat deck and four ramps, you can set it in a wide range of different ways for endless fun.
Pros
- Easy assembly with no tools required
- Versatile for use with different types of riding
- Multiple assembly possibilities with four ramps and one deck
Cons
- No significant flaws
8. INFIDEZ Wooden Large Skateboard Ramp
For those of you looking for a sturdy ramp that’s simple, strong, and doesn’t break the bank, this ramp from INFIDEZ will be just perfect. Made from wood, this sturdy ramp can be set up in just 30 seconds, and will support loads up to 400 lbs.
Pros
- Easy to set up
- Highly affordable
- Strong
Cons
- It’s hard to complain at this low of a price
9. ELEVATE OUTDOOR Mini EZ-Link Skateboard Ramp
The multi-configuration skateboard ramp set is made from high-impact polypropylene and is great for tricks on skateboards, scooters and bikes. It’s extremely strong, with a weight capacity of 600 lbs. and includes four mini ramps and two mini tabletop connectors. With ten setup options, assembly is easy with included support pieces and screws.
Pros
- Multi-configuration ramps for versatility
- Made from durable high-impact polypropylene
- 600 lb. weight capacity for user and equipment
Cons
- Not a style of ramp that all will enjoy
10. Ten-Eighty Skatepark Set with Grind Rail
Next, this versatile option from Ten-Eighty is a fun and versatile addition to any extreme sports setup. The included kicker ramps, tabletop, and square rail provide versatile trick options, whether you want to practice jumps or grinds.
Pros
- Great design will be a sweet addition to any backyard
- Smooth radius and slip-resistant finish for safe riding
- Wide design makes it stable for all kinds of riders
- Multiple trick options facilitated by a kicker ramps, tabletop, and square rail
Cons
- Weight capacity may not be suitable for heavier riders or extreme tricks
11. Landwave Skateboard Starter Kit
Another awesome option from Landwave, this ramp can either be used alone or connected to other Landwave items to create the ultimate home park setup. With two ramps and a single deck, you’ll be able to make a versatile range of different setups, depending on how experienced you are and what kinds of tricks you want to practice.
Pros
- High-quality plastic can be left outdoors without degrading
- Modular – can be attached to other Landwave items
Cons
- Potentially not advanced enough for more competent skaters
12. Ramptech 5-0 Skate Table (2′ Wide x 4′ Long)
This modular, heavy-duty skateboard ramp from Ramptech is the definition of sturdy. Made from heavy-duty, powder-coated steel, it will handle all you can throw at it, and then some more. While it’s strong, it’s also highly portable; it’ll fit in most cars, and you can drag it to your favourite skating spots, using it to jump gaps that were previously outside your reach.
Pros
- Incredibly durable
- Modular – can be attached to other Ramptech designs
Cons
- Single angle might be difficult for beginners
13. G35 PRO Graw Jump Ramp
This option is one of the simplest ramps on this list, but also one of the most effective. Made almost entirely from a single piece of wood, it’s incredibly simple to set up, and surprisingly strong. It’s got a pretty sharp angle to help shoot you up for some popping airs, but it’s also small enough that you can carry it around with you in the passenger seat of your car.
Pros
- Strong and simple, manufactured from a single piece of wood
- Can be used for multiple sports
Cons
- None at this price
14. ELEVATE OUTDOOR Wave Skateboard Ramp Set
This awesome little ramp from ELEVATE is multifunctional, allowing riders to practice both pumping and jumps. It can be attached to other ramps by ELEVATE, or used on its own; it’s a fun tool with which to develop your trick repertoire, allowing you to work on balance in a non-threatening setting.
Pros
- Beginner friendly
- Modular – can be used with other ramps by ELEVATE
Cons
- Not so suitable for more advanced skaters
15. Andjoor Skateboard Ramp
Finally, another highly affordable ramp option for a wide range of different uses. It comes flat pack, but assembles without any metal fixings using a clever cutout system – easy for anyone, even with the most basic DIY skills. It’s also not too big, making it a great first ramp for those just getting into skating.
Pros
- Affordable – one of the cheapest options on the list
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Maybe not big enough for some riders
What first-time buyers and beginners need to know about choosing the right skateboard ramp for home skating
There’s a lot to process in that list, and beginners (and pros) might be a little overwhelmed by the sheer variety of choices. If that sounds familiar, then don’t stress – we decided to put together a short beginner’s guide to help with the process of choosing a skateboard ramp.
With so many options available on the market, it’s important that you’re aware of the main factors that you should be thinking about. Whether you’re just getting into skateboarding, or you’re looking for that next perfect addition to your community skatepark, read on for a brief overview of the main factors to consider.
Main types of ramps
First of all, let’s go through the basic varieties of skateboard ramps that are available. There are a few main types, each with its own unique uses and benefits.
Mini ramps
Mini ramps aren’t always that mini, but they are generally smaller than quarter and half pipes. They tend to have gentle transitions and a wide flat bottom, making them great for getting to grips with ramp riding. While they can be found in a wide range of different sizes, if you’re getting one for your backyard, chances are you’ll be choosing one on the smaller side of things.
Kickers
Next, kickers are typically smaller, freestanding ramps that are used alone, as opposed to in pairs like in mini ramps. Kickers can come in all shapes and sizes, but their main purpose is to help skaters get air and practice a wide range of tricks.
Depending on the size, they can be quite portable; some of the options on this list can be fully folded up and put in the back of a car, allowing you to take them to any spot you want. As a result, kickers are one of the most versatile styles of ramp.
Pipes
Finally, the infamous ramps that you’re most likely to have heard of – quarter and half pipes. Both ramps will have a 90-degree vertical transition on each side, of varying heights. The main difference between the two is that a quarter pipe will have a wide flat bottom between the two sides, whereas a half-pipe will have much less of a gap in the middle (hence the name – half-pipe).
These kinds of ramps are much less likely to be suitable for a home setup – they’re big, expensive, and take up a lot of space. They’re awesome for practising airs and grinds, but you can get your fix at the local skatepark and get something smaller at home.
Size
Once you’ve worked out what kind of ramp you want, you can think about sizing. There will be two main things to consider here – skill and how much space you have.
You don’t want to get something that’s too big for your current skill level, as it might be intimidating and stop you from using it so much. Going the other way shouldn’t be so much of an issue – more advanced skaters can practice on any size ramp, simply changing the tricks they work on depending on the ramp.
You also want to make sure that the ramp fits in the space you’ve dedicated to it. If it’s too big for the space, it might feel unsafe to use it, and you could end up just leaving it there unused for some time to come.
Materials
The material you choose is also important – skateboard ramps are typically made of wood, metal, or plastic. While wooden ramps are popular, if you’re planning on leaving them outside long-term, it’s important to note that the wood will eventually start to rot.
Plastic ramps won’t have that issue, and they can also be lighter, making them easier to transport. However, they’re often not as solid as wooden ramps, and some people don’t like them as much.
Portability
If you’re looking for a ramp that you can take around with you, going from spot to spot with it, then you’ll want to get something that’s small and light enough to transport. A few of the options on this list fold down, making them easy to throw in the back of a car – often, the plastic options are the lightest.
Quality
While you probably don’t want to spend too much on a ramp, it’s important that you get something that’s high-quality. Not only will it make the ramp more enjoyable to use, but it’ll also decrease your risk of injury if the ramp breaks during use. Make sure that you go with a ramp from a manufacturer with experience in the field, with a good collection of positive reviews.
In Conclusion
Hopefully, you’ll feel a little more confident now when it comes to choosing your perfect skateboard ramp. By keeping the factors listed above in mind, and doing some in depth research, you should be able to find a ramp that’s absolutely perfect for your skill level and budget.
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