How to Choose the Best Skateboard Backpack of 2024

Many skateboarders use backpacks to carry their boards. If you want to travel around with your skateboard, then you are going to want a skateboard backpack. Of course, you already know this. But you may not know which skateboard backpack to buy. There seem to be a million options out there.

Unfortunately, we can't tell you what the best skateboard backpack is. We wish we could because let's be real, it would be a lot easier to simply write the name of a single skateboard backpack than an entire guide about a bunch of them. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as the "best" skateboard backpack because everybody has different needs and preferences.

So in this guide, we are going to guide you through the process of how to choose the best skateboard backpack for you.

What You Can Expect From This Review

Here at Skateboard Authority, we're all about putting skateboard gear to the test, noting all strengths and weaknesses as we go.

For this review, our team of skateboarders has gotten our hands on over 100 skateboard backpacks. We've looked at each one, fully testing and reviewing several of them. Based on months-sometimes years-of using these skateboard backpacks, we're going to take you through everything you need to consider when choosing the best skateboard backpack for you. That means diving into all the different components of the skateboard backpack and explaining what works best for a variety of situations. Throughout this review, we'll also provide skateboard backpack recommendations that are, once again, based on our rigorous testing.

Now, we understand that you're a busy person and may not have time to read every single word of this guide. So, we've recommended ten skateboard backpacks below that cover a wide range of use cases. Keep in mind that everybody has different needs and lifestyle, so your future favorite may not have made the list. That's why we recommend that you read the full guide, or at the very least, skim it while enjoying your chocolate tea.

A Preview of Some Great Skateboard Backpacks

What is a Skateboard Backpack?

Before we get going on this guide, let's make sure we're on the same page about what a skateboard backpack is. Of course, you can shove a skateboard into whatever you have on hand and call it a skateboard backpack. We're not going to stop you.

That said, we define a skateboard backpack as a bag that has been specifically designed to hold a skateboard. In another way, a skateboard backpack is designed for a skateboard first and a camera, travel, school, hiking, makeup, etc., bag second.

On the other hand, you can have a bag that just so happens to be able to hold a skateboard. Take a school backpack, for example, they're designed for holding books, but many of them have skateboard straps too. See the difference?

What to Consider Before You Buy a Skateboard Backpack

Finding the perfect skateboard backpack can be as overwhelming as finding the right shade of gray. There are just so many options to choose from.

The best way to overcome this is to think through a few considerations, which we have listed below. If you're able to think through these points and clearly understand your needs, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect skateboard backpack for you. So let's get into it.

Use-case

You may be thinking to yourself that "Obviously, I'm planning on using my skateboard backpack to carry my skateboard. Duh!", maybe not, but something along those lines. But we challenge you to dig a little bit deeper here. Consider:

Your Commute

It's worth spending time thinking about the challenges of your commute and how your bag will meet those challenges. Take public transportation for example. If you ride the subway to work, school, the skatepark, or wherever else where you need to bring your skateboard backpack along, a challenge may be limited legroom and space. If that's the case, you'll want a bag that's compact enough to not crowd your legs, annoy your seatmate, take up a whole extra body's worth of space or accidentally whack people in the face while you're standing.

Or maybe you take a bus that has plenty of legroom, but your bus stop is over a mile away from your destination. You'll want a bag that's comfortable enough and not that heavy to carry that distance.

If you ride a bike to work or school, you'll want something with solid weather resistance.

Now, make sure you think about all of the ways you get to the office, coworking space, school, coffee shop, skatepark, and so on.

Your Workspace

You may work at a traditional office, a coworking space, a coffee shop, your father-in-law's attic, and so on. These days you can work from anywhere. Different skateboard backpacks work better or worse for different workspaces. For example, if you regularly work at a coffee shop it's nice to have a skateboard backpack that stands up on its own. That way, it wouldn't slide down the table legs to the floor and get in everyone's way. It's nice to have a skateboard backpack that is small enough to easily slide beneath your desk. If you go to school, you'll probably appreciate a skateboard backpack that's comfortable enough to carry between classes.

Also, consider the dress code at your work. Some workplaces have a dress code and prefer more professional messenger bags or briefcases over skateboard backpacks. That's important to keep in mind unless you want to be radical and break the rules.

Additional Applications

A skateboard backpack can do more than hold a skateboard so consider any secondary applications you would like to use it for. They may include:

You may find yourself in other scenarios outside of the ones on this list, but we hope that we've sparked your imagination. Of course, skateboard backpacks won't work for every single occasion. Activities like long-term travel will likely require that you pick up a separate skateboard backpack. But some versatility is a bonus, so look out for:

Size

You should take into consideration not only the size of the skateboard backpack but the size of its compartments, sleeves, and pockets.

Compartment size

This goes without saying, but make sure to choose a backpack that has a skateboard compartment that will fit your skateboard. You don't want a compartment that is too small, and you don't want anything too big, either. Your skateboard may move during transit, which increases the possibility of damage.

Unfortunately, this isn't as simple as it sounds. The advertised skateboard compartment size can vary from company to company. To be safe, it is probably best to size up. If the skateboard compartment size ends up being too big, you can always stick your skateboard inside a case or an additional padded sleeve first.

On a similar note, if you plan to put your skateboard inside a separate case before putting it into your bag, make sure you consider that when looking at the size of the compartment. If your additional protection is too bulky, it may not fit inside.

Bag size

By our definition, a good skateboard backpack should be able to hold your skateboard as well as other accessories that you may want to carry. For example, you may want a skateboard backpack that can hold your lunchbox, change of clothes, skateboard gear, some books as well as your laptop and camera. As we mentioned earlier, larger capacities do tend to make for more versatile backpacks, but they can be a pain to carry around.

Or you may want a skateboard backpack that will hold your skateboard, your gear, and nothing else. If that is the case, you can even size down to a smaller backpack. Smaller backpacks tend to be convenient and easier to carry around.

Style

We probably don't need to tell you that aesthetics is a key factor when it comes to choosing a skateboard backpack. You'll likely use it frequently, maybe even daily, so you should love how it looks. Luckily, there are so many high-quality skateboard backpacks that you should be able to find one that's not only your style but also durable with thoughtful organization and adequate skateboard protection.

We're not here to tell you what a fashionable skateboard backpack looks like, beauty is in the hands of the beholder after all, but we've noticed the most common styles you're likely to come across, such as:

Materials, Durability, and Craftsmanship

We suggest investing in a backpack that's made from high-quality materials with excellent craftsmanship. In your search for a skateboard backpack, you'll probably come across materials like

We're not going to take a deep dive into all of these fabrics in this guide. As a general rule of thumb, Ballistic and Ripstop Nylon as well as CORDURA branded fabrics are going to be your most durable.

Leather and canvas skateboard backpacks look classy and professional, although they'll be heavier and more susceptible to weather than the synthetic options. For that reason, we don't generally recommend them for travel or if your commute involves a lot of walking. But if you'll be driving to and from the skatepark, a leather or canvas skateboard backpack could be ideal and fashionable enough to impress your friends.

Backpacks made from Tarpaulin or TPE Fabric Laminate will be highly water resistant but will also pick up marks and scratches quite easily.

Of course, the durability of your skateboard backpack will depend on how often you'll be using it. Daily use is going to be tougher on your backpack than if you skate at home and only go to the skatepark occasionally.

Also, consider zippers and hardware. They may seem like a small thing, but a broken zipper or buckle can render some backpacks inoperable. Do your best to avoid unbranded zippers and hardware (we've had some bad experiences). Nifco, Woojin, Duraflex, YKK, and ITW are all solid brands when it comes to hardware on backpacks like buckles and strap adjustment sliders. Note that zippers come in sizes on a scale from one (small) to ten (large). We'd recommend looking for something above a #5 for all exterior zippers, although #8 - 10 will treat you the best. Smaller sizes work fine for internal pockets.

Simbow Skateboard Backpack

The Simbow Skateboard Backpack feels like it has been built to withstand a tornado. That’s to say, it’s super durable with exceptional craftsmanship. The exterior of the pack is made of some durable high-density fabric that has been finished with a DWR coating for water and abrasion resistance. While the massive zippers can be a little sticky around the corners, they will (probably) last you decades to come, with a 1-year warranty blanket. We wouldn’t be surprised if you passed your Simbow Skateboard backpack down to your favorite grandchild.

Check price on amazon

Budget

You should keep your budget in mind. If you can afford it, we suggest investing in a skateboard backpack that will last you for years instead of continually needing to replace a cheaper one. In the long run, purchasing a more expensive, yet higher-quality backpack will probably save you money. Plus, it'll have a better environmental impact, keeping broken backpacks out of the landfill. As the saying goes, "Buy nice or buy twice." Of course, this requires that you have the initial money to invest in a pricier bag, which we understand not everyone has.

Expensive doesn't always translate to durability. Sometimes, you're paying for style, brand, or clever marketing. A good rule of thumb is to look for brands that proudly back their gear with generous warranties. That means that a brand makes quality products that they're happy to guarantee.

YYST Skateboard Backpack Carrier

The YYST Skateboard Backpack strap has a very simple design. It is very easy to use, is super lightweight for travel. It enables you to easily access your skateboard if you don't want a backpack. You can fold away or wear while skating. After using it for a while, you wouldn't even know that it is there.

Check price on amazon

Choose the Right Skateboard Backpack for You.

While searching for the best skateboard backpack, you'll probably run into the same mode of carrying again and again. There are different pros and cons to each mode which we will discuss below, but it's one of those things that's a personal preference. Maybe you're a huge fan of external skateboard backpacks, although you can't put your finger on why. If that's the case, don't let us stop you from buying an external skateboard backpack. You do you.

First of all, as we've read thus far, there are a ton of skateboard backpacks on the market these days, so, you have a ton to choose from.

Two straps evenly distribute weight better than a single strap, meaning backpacks are likely going to be more comfortable to carry over a long distance than other styles.

GoRide Sling Single Strap Electric Backpack

The GoRide Sling Single Strap Electric Skateboard Backpack is globally popular, but it is more than a fashion statement. Overall, we’ve been impressed with how well it’s been holding up. Though it lacks our preferred amount of strap keepers for a backpack you use while cycling, the aerodynamic, sleek design makes riding a breeze and looks good in and out of the saddle.

Check price on amazon

Glassify Skateboard Backpack

The Glassify Skateboard Backpack has a clean, thoughtful design. It feels like the designers really took their time creating the backpack, putting in thoughtful details like the metal key clip and highly water-resistant bottom. The backpack itself is large for a tote, meaning you can load it up with a ton of your gear. That said, it will get heavy. Keep in mind that the carry isn’t especially comfortable. While wide, the shoulder strap isn’t well-padded.

Check price on amazon

BURTON Kilo 2.0 Backpack

If you’re a photographer, videographer, or otherwise like to carry around camera equipment, then you’ll probably like what the BURTON Kilo 2.0 Backpack has to offer. The bag is made from durable, weather-resistant materials. However, it can get quite heavy carrying it on long-distance travel

Check price on amazon

Choosing a Skateboard Backpack That Will Protect Your Skateboard and Fragile Gear

Arguably, one of the most important aspects of a skateboard backpack is how well it protects your skateboard. Here's what you should look for:

Padding

Padding will protect your skateboard backpack from other items in your backpack. Some of us prefer to stick our skateboard in a separate case before putting it in a backpack, which means it's not as important to have a heavily padded internal sleeve. Having padding in your backpack gives extra peace of mind when you don't use a skateboard case and you are carrying it by itself. Skateboard backpacks have more than just padding. In fact, we think that too much padding can lure you into a false sense of security.

Eastsport Skater Multipurpose backpack

The most sophisticated-looking backpack on our list, the Eastsport skater multipurpose backpack will be at home at whatever professional events you have on the docket. We’re digging the organization, which falls toward the more complex end of the spectrum. The backpack has a military cameo that has a durable build, clever detailing, and a sleek aesthetic.

Check price on amazon

False Bottom

A false bottom is exactly what it sounds like. The skateboard compartment ends before the bottom of the backpack. It suspends your skateboard off the bottom of the backpack. This is important because if your backpack hits the ground abruptly, your skateboard won't smack the ground as well, which goes a long way in protecting your board. Unless you can guarantee that you will never drop your skateboard backpack or place it on the ground with a little too much oomph, then you're going to want a false bottom.

Not all false bottoms are the same. Some backpacks will have a very small one which is the same as having none at all. We recommend having a false bottom that sits approximately an inch minimum off the bottom of the backpack.

Soft Lining

We appreciate skateboard backpacks that have a soft lining, which will help prevent your skateboard from scratching up. We don't think this is as necessary as a false bottom or padding, but it's just one of those things that's nice to have.

Weather Resistance

A little bit of weather and water resistance is nice to have after all, skateboards don't perform so well when they are wet. But you don't need anything overkill. We tend to look for backpacks that are water-resistant and designed to hold up in ordinary weather such as hot or cold. Here's what to look for when scrutinizing a skateboard backpack's weather resistance.

Coatings

Weather resistance is almost always achieved through some kind of coating. Whether that be DWR (durable water repellant) coating, waxed canvas, polyurethane, or something else. These coatings will wear off with time, reducing the water resistance of your bag, but there are some things you can do to help with longevity. These care tips differ based on the coating and specific backpack, so ensure to look into and follow the specific care tip for your backpack.

Weather-resistant zippers

For example, there are water-repellant zippers on the market, such as YKK AquaGuard zippers, which repel water with a polyurethane coating. The water-repellent zippers tend to be stiffer and harder to zip, so we only recommend a backpack with these if you need that protection. Some skateboard backpacks only have these water-repellant zippers in the skateboard and gear compartments, which is nice as it'll protect your expensive equipment, but not slow down access to other areas.

You'll also find backpacks with a strip of fabric over the zipper track called a fabric welt, which gives the backpack more water protection.

Roll-tops

As zippers tend to be the first place water will leak through a backpack, choosing a skateboard backpack with a roll-top will help add water resistance to that compartment (as long as the fabric is water-resistant too).

Rain shells

Some skateboard backpacks may include a raincoat that you can throw over your backpack when you need serious weather protection. They're usually small enough to stick in your backpack without taking up too much space. This comes in handy if you get caught in a storm on the way home from the park. Looking for a skateboard backpack with a rain shell or buying one separately is great if you need hefty water protection sometimes, but not always. Or if you stay at a location with unpredictable weather.

Eggboards Skateboards Backpack

If you’re looking for a laptop bag that’s highly weather-resistant then the Eggboards Skateboard backpack should be on your radar. It has inner compartments which are zipper protected. Rain will simply bead and run off of this material. Plus, there’s also welted fabric over the zipper of the main compartment for even more water resistance.

Check price on amazon

Congratulations. You're Ready to Choose the Best Skateboard Backpack for You!

You made it to the end our guide. Congratulations on becoming an official Skateboard Backpack expert! Hopefully you know enough to go out into the world and find the best skateboard backpack for you. If you do find The One, take a picture of it, tag us @skateboardauthority on Instagram. If you haven't already guessed, we love checking out and obsessing over skateboard backpacks. If you need more information be sure to contact us.

We'd like to close this guide by reminding you that there is no such thing as the best skateboard backpack. Remember, it all comes down to personal preference and use-case. Of course, you'll also want to check out the quality, weather protection, style, and organization. So, good luck, and happy shopping!

---

Rex Anthony

Rex is one of the guys behind Skateboard Authority. He has been Skateboarding for more than 10 years now. During his free time, you will find him grinding some rails at the skate park. He write articles that help you level up your skateboarding skill to give you the confidence to take on more challenges like the pros.