Skateboarding is a versatile sport that offers a wide array of skateboard types, each designed to cater to specific riding styles and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skater, understanding the different types of skateboards can help you choose the right board for your needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the various types of skateboards for every skater:
1. Standard Skateboards
Overview:
Standard skateboards, often referred to as street or trick skateboards, are the most common type. They are specifically designed for performing tricks, stunts, and maneuvers on streets, skate parks, and other urban environments.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide and 28 to 32 inches long.
- Shape: Concave deck with a slight curve in the middle for better control and foot placement.
- Wheels: Small (50-54mm), hard wheels (durometer 95-101A) to provide a smooth ride on hard surfaces and better performance for tricks.
- Trucks: Low to medium height to ensure stability and ease of performing tricks.
Ideal For:
- Street skating
- Performing tricks and flips
- Skate parks and urban environments
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Highly versatile for tricks and street skating.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Wide range of designs and customizations.
Cons:
- Less stable at high speeds.
- Not ideal for long-distance cruising or rough terrains.
2. Cruiser Skateboards
Overview:
Cruiser skateboards are designed for comfortable riding and commuting. They offer a smooth and stable ride and are ideal for getting around town or casual riding.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Wider than standard skateboards, usually 7 to 10 inches wide.
- Shape: Variety of shapes, often featuring a kicktail for easy maneuverability.
- Wheels: Larger (55-65mm), softer wheels (durometer 78-85A) for a smooth ride on rough surfaces.
- Trucks: Medium height, providing a balance between stability and easy turning.
Ideal For:
- Commuting and transportation
- Casual riding
- Navigating through city streets and sidewalks
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Comfortable for longer rides.
- Smooth ride on various surfaces.
- Easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Cons:
- Not suitable for performing tricks.
- Bulkier than standard skateboards.
3. Longboards
Overview:
Longboards are designed for cruising, carving, downhill racing, and freeriding. Their longer and wider decks provide more stability and comfort for long rides.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 33 to 59 inches long and 8.5 to 10 inches wide.
- Shape: Various shapes, including pintail, drop-through, and drop deck, each offering different riding experiences.
- Wheels: Large (65-75mm), soft wheels (durometer 75-85A) to ensure a smooth ride on various terrains.
- Trucks: Higher trucks for better maneuverability and stability at high speeds.
Ideal For:
- Long-distance cruising
- Downhill racing
- Carving and freeriding
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Extremely stable and smooth.
- Ideal for high speeds and long distances.
- Versatile for different riding styles.
Cons:
- Larger and heavier than other skateboards.
- Less suitable for performing tricks.
4. Old School Skateboards
Overview:
Old school skateboards have a retro design inspired by the original skateboards of the 1970s and 1980s. They are characterized by their wide decks and distinctive shapes.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 8.5 to 10 inches wide and 28 to 32 inches long.
- Shape: Wider nose and tail with a flat or slightly concave deck.
- Wheels: Medium to large (55-65mm), softer wheels (durometer 78-85A) for smooth rides on rough surfaces.
- Trucks: Wider trucks to provide better stability.
Ideal For:
- Bowl and pool skating
- Vert ramps
- Casual cruising
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Stable and comfortable.
- Retro aesthetic and design.
- Good for transition skating.
Cons:
- Less versatile for street tricks.
- Bulky compared to standard skateboards.
5. Mini Cruisers
Overview:
Mini cruisers are smaller versions of cruiser skateboards, offering a compact and portable option for skaters. They are easy to carry and perfect for quick rides around town.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 6.5 to 7.5 inches wide and 22 to 28 inches long.
- Shape: Small and narrow, often with a kicktail for easy turning.
- Wheels: Medium (55-60mm), soft wheels (durometer 78-85A) for a smooth ride.
- Trucks: Small trucks that match the deck size.
Ideal For:
- Quick commutes
- Portability and easy storage
- Beginners and young skaters
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Highly portable and lightweight.
- Smooth ride on various surfaces.
- Easy to store and carry.
Cons:
- Less stable at high speeds.
- Limited space for foot placement.
6. Downhill Skateboards
Overview:
Downhill skateboards are specifically designed for high-speed downhill racing. They are built to provide maximum stability and control at high speeds.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 37 to 43 inches long and 9 to 10 inches wide.
- Shape: Drop-through or drop deck design for a lower center of gravity and better stability.
- Wheels: Large (70-75mm), soft wheels (durometer 75-85A) for a smooth ride and better grip at high speeds.
- Trucks: Wide trucks with a low angle to ensure stability.
Ideal For:
- Downhill racing
- High-speed cruising
- Freeriding with speed
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Extremely stable at high speeds.
- Designed for precision and control.
- Excellent grip and smooth ride.
Cons:
- Limited versatility for other styles of skating.
- Larger and heavier, making them less portable.
7. Freestyle Skateboards
Overview:
Freestyle skateboards are designed for performing tricks and maneuvers on flat surfaces. They have a specific shape and design to support technical tricks and footwork.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide and 27 to 30 inches long.
- Shape: Symmetrical shape with a double kicktail for performing tricks.
- Wheels: Small (50-55mm), hard wheels (durometer 95-101A) for better control on smooth surfaces.
- Trucks: Low to medium height for stability and ease of tricks.
Ideal For:
- Technical tricks and maneuvers
- Flatland skating
- Dance and footwork
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Great for technical tricks and footwork.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Symmetrical design for versatility.
Cons:
- Less stable for high-speed riding.
- Smaller wheels may struggle on rough surfaces.
8. Electric Skateboards
Overview:
Electric skateboards are equipped with motors and batteries, allowing riders to travel at high speeds without pushing. They are great for commuting and long-distance travel.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Varies depending on the design, usually similar to longboards or cruisers.
- Shape: Various shapes depending on the brand and model.
- Wheels: Medium to large (70-90mm), softer wheels for a smooth ride.
- Motor: Electric motor with variable speeds and controls.
- Battery: Rechargeable battery with varying ranges.
Ideal For:
- Commuting and transportation
- Long-distance travel
- Riders looking for an effortless ride
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- No need for pushing, great for long distances.
- Can reach high speeds.
- Convenient for commuting.
Cons:
- Heavier and more expensive.
- Requires charging and maintenance.
9. Penny Boards
Overview:
Penny boards are small, plastic skateboards that are lightweight and portable. They are known for their bright colors and are popular among younger skaters and commuters.
Key Features:
- Deck Size: Typically 22 to 27 inches long and about 6 inches wide.
- Shape: Compact, with a kicktail.
- Wheels: Medium size (59mm), soft wheels (durometer 78A) for a smooth ride.
- Trucks: Small, matching the compact deck size.
Ideal For:
- Quick, short commutes
- Young skaters
- Portability and easy storage
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Smooth ride on various surfaces.
- Durable plastic construction.
Cons:
- Less stable at high speeds.
- Limited space for foot placement.
Conclusion
Choosing the right skateboard depends on your riding style, preferences, and intended use. Whether you’re looking to perform tricks, commute, cruise, race downhill, or just enjoy a smooth ride, there’s a skateboard designed to meet your needs. Here’s a quick recap of the key points:
- Standard Skateboards: Best for tricks and street skating.
- Cruiser Skateboards: Ideal for commuting and casual riding.
- Longboards: Perfect for cruising, carving, and downhill racing.
