Choosing a Complete Skateboard: What Makes the Globe Goodstock Stand Out
When selecting a complete skateboard like the Globe Goodstock, buyers should understand that 'complete' means different things across brands. The Goodstock features Globe's proprietary 7-ply maple construction and comes with their stock components, which positions it as a mid-range option rather than a custom-built setup. This specific configuration offers consistency but limited customization compared to assembling individual parts.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- The 7-ply Canadian maple deck on the Goodstock provides a balance of durability and pop, suitable for beginners learning fundamentals and intermediate riders practicing tricks without excessive deck flex.
- Stock component quality matters: Globe outfits the Goodstock with their own trucks, wheels, and bearings, which perform adequately for general riding but may need upgrading for specialized styles like technical street skating or smooth park transitions.
- Deck width and concave profile are fixed in complete setups; the Goodstock's dimensions will suit average foot sizes but may not accommodate riders seeking very wide or narrow platforms for specific disciplines.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Quality indicators for completes include branded components rather than generic parts—Globe uses their own trucks and wheels. Check for precision-milled baseplates on trucks and bearings with removable shields for maintenance. The deck should have clean, symmetrical concave with evenly distributed ply layers showing no visible gaps in the sidewall.
Skateboards Market Context
Market Overview
The complete skateboard market is segmented into entry-level 'toy store' boards, mid-range completes like the Globe Goodstock, and premium completes with professional-grade components. Mid-range completes dominate online sales, offering better construction than department store boards while remaining affordable for casual and developing skaters.
Common Issues
Common problems with complete skateboards include poorly tuned stock bushings that affect turning responsiveness, lower-grade bearings that require frequent cleaning, and wheels that may be too hard or soft for local pavement conditions. Some completes also use weaker adhesives between plies, leading to premature delamination.
Quality Indicators
Identify quality by examining the deck's construction—7-8 ply maple is standard for durability. Look for branded, precision-machined trucks rather than cast generic ones. Quality completes use bearings with ABEC ratings (5-7 is typical for mid-range) and wheels with durometer ratings appropriate for intended use (99A-101A for street, lower for cruising).
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade B Interpretation
A Grade B authenticity rating with 10% estimated fake reviews indicates generally trustworthy feedback with minimal manipulation. For the Globe Goodstock's 4.40 adjusted rating, this suggests genuine satisfaction among verified purchasers, though shoppers should still scrutinize overly vague 5-star reviews.
Trust Recommendation
Focus on the verified purchase reviews that mention specific riding experiences—like how the board handles on rough pavement or during ollie practice. Given the 154-review sample size, look for patterns in feedback about component durability over time rather than isolated praise about unboxing aesthetics.
Tips for Reading Reviews
For skateboard reviews, prioritize comments about deck pop retention, truck responsiveness after breaking in, and wheel wear patterns. Be skeptical of reviews that don't mention riding duration or conditions, as skateboard performance reveals itself through use, not initial impressions.
Expert Perspective
The Globe Goodstock Complete presents as a solid mid-market option with its 4.40 authentic rating reflecting consistent satisfaction. Globe's reputation for durable deck construction suggests this board will withstand typical beginner-to-intermediate use. The component package offers functional parity, though serious skaters will likely upgrade trucks and bearings as skills progress. The high percentage of verified purchases (all six analyzed reviews) strengthens confidence in the feedback regarding ride stability and out-of-box readiness.
Purchase Considerations
Consider whether Globe's stock component specifications match your riding style—their wheels typically suit street and park riding. Weigh the convenience of a complete against building a custom setup; the Goodstock saves assembly time but offers less tailoring. For UAE buyers, consider local pavement conditions when evaluating wheel hardness and truck tightness preferences.
Comparing Alternatives
Shoppers should compare the Goodstock's specifications against completes from brands like Santa Cruz, Element, or Enjoi, particularly regarding deck concave profiles and truck geometry differences.
