A cruiser skateboard is a versatile type of skateboard that has become increasingly popular in recent years. The boards are typically smaller than other types of skateboards, making them perfect for urban riding and tricks. Cruiser skateboards are great for riders of all ages and skill levels, as they provide a stable ride and easy maneuverability. Whether you’re looking to cruise around the city streets or take on some technical tricks, a cruiser skateboard is the perfect choice.
What are Cruiser Skateboards?
Cruiser skateboards, also known as penny boards, are a type of board that is smaller and more maneuverable than traditional skateboards. As the name implies, they are perfect for cruising around the city streets. They usually have a shorter wheelbase than regular skateboards, making them ideal for navigating tight spots and performing technical tricks. Cruiser skateboards come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors, allowing you to customize your board to suit your style.
Brief History of Cruiser Skateboards
Cruiser skateboards have been around for decades, with their roots in the 1970s surf culture. The boards were originally made from the scraps of old surf boards, giving them a unique shape and look. Over time, cruiser skateboards have evolved to become smaller and more lightweight, making them perfect for urban riding and tricks. Nowadays, cruiser skateboards are one of the most popular types of skateboards on the market, and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles.
Cruiser Skateboard Design
Deck
The deck of a cruiser skateboard is a crucial part of the board and plays an important role in performance. Most cruiser decks are made from high-quality hardwood, such as maple or bamboo, with a plastic top layer for extra durability and grip. This combination of materials provides strength and flexibility, making it perfect for tricks and urban riding. The shape of the board also contributes to the rideability of the board, with some boards featuring a concave or kick tail design for extra stability and maneuverability.
Wheels
The wheels on a cruiser skateboard are typically smaller than those on regular skateboards, making them perfect for navigating tight spots and performing tricks. The size of the wheels is typically around 55-60mm, with softer urethane providing better grip and a smoother ride. The wheels are usually wide enough to provide stability, but they are also narrow enough to fit through tight spaces.
Trucks
The trucks of a cruiser skateboard play an important role in the overall performance of the board. The trucks are typically made from aluminum or steel and feature a wide hanger for extra stability. As the wheels on cruiser skate boards are typically smaller than those on other types of boards, the trucks are usually narrower to accommodate them. This gives the board better maneuverability and makes it easier to perform tricks.
Reasons to Choose a Cruiser Skateboard
Maneuverability
Maneuverability is one of the main reasons to choose a cruiser skateboard. Cruiser skateboards are typically smaller and lighter than other types of skateboards, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate through obstacles. The smaller size also makes it easier to perform tricks, as there is less space between the board and ground. The trucks are also typically narrower than those on regular skateboards, allowing the board to turn more quickly and easily.
Transportation
Cruiser skateboards are perfect for getting around the city, as they are small enough to fit on buses and trains. The lightweight design also makes them easy to carry when you need to hop off the bus or train and make your way through a crowded area. The smaller size also means that it’s easier to store your board when you’re not using it, making it the perfect companion for city dwellers.
Convenience
Convenience is another great reason to choose a cruiser skateboard. The smaller size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around with you, making it a perfect choice for city dwellers who want to get around quickly and easily. The boards also come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can find the perfect board that suits your style. Plus, the softer urethane wheels provide a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for those wanting to get around the city in style.
Fitness
Fitness is another great reason to choose a cruiser skateboard. Not only can it be used for getting around the city quickly and easily, but it also provides an excellent full-body workout that can help improve your overall health and fitness. The small size of the board makes it easy to maneuver, allowing you to weave in and out of obstacles while working on your balance and coordination. Additionally, the smaller size makes it easier to perform tricks, giving you a great way to work on your agility and reflexes.
Tips for Riding a Cruiser Skateboard
Proper Stance and Foot Placement
Proper stance and foot placement is essential for riding a cruiser skateboard. To get the most out of your ride, you should always maintain a comfortable stance. Your feet should be placed parallel to the width of the board, slightly wider than shoulder width apart. Your back foot should be positioned further back on the tail end of the board, while your front foot should be positioned closer to the middle.
Starting and Stopping
When it comes to starting and stopping your cruiser skateboard, it’s important to take things slow and practice good control. To start, place one foot firmly on the board and push off with the other. Make sure that you keep your feet parallel to the width of the board while pushing off in order to maintain balance. Once you are rolling, use your feet to adjust your speed and direction. To stop, slowly reduce your speed and then place both feet flat on the ground in order to stop the board securely.
Turning
Turning on a cruiser skateboard requires practice and skill. The key to turning is applying pressure on the nose or tail of the board while maintaining your balance. To turn left, press down with your front foot on the nose of the board and lean your body slightly in that direction. To turn right, press down with your back foot on the tail of the board and lean your body in that direction. It takes practice to perfect this technique, so be patient and take it slow until you get the hang of it.
Riding on Different Surfaces
Cruiser skateboards are designed to be ridden on a variety of surfaces, from smooth concrete and asphalt to rough terrain. When riding on different surfaces, it’s important to pay attention to the board’s grip in order to maintain control. Smooth surfaces like concrete and asphalt provide good grip which allows you to turn more easily, while rougher surfaces like dirt or gravel can cause the board to slip and slide. Be sure to adjust your speed and stance accordingly in order to stay safe and in control when riding on different surfaces.
Maintenance and Care
Cleaning
Cleaning your cruiser skateboard on a regular basis is essential for ensuring its longevity. After each ride, use a damp cloth to wipe away any debris or dirt that has accumulated on the board. For more thorough cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution to remove any built-up grime or grease. Be sure to dry the board completely before putting it away to prevent rusting and corrosion.
Tightening Bolts
It’s important to keep your cruiser skateboard in top condition by regularly checking and tightening the bolts. Over time, the bolts may become loose due to wear and tear, so it’s important to check them every few rides. To tighten the bolts, use a Phillips head screwdriver to turn each bolt clockwise until it is tight.
Replacing Parts
It’s important to replace any worn-out or damaged parts of your cruiser skateboard in order to keep it running smoothly and safely. To replace a part, first remove the old part by using a Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew the bolts. Then, take the new part and secure it in place with the screws you removed from the old part.
Storing
Proper storage is essential for keeping your cruiser skateboard in good condition. Before storing it, be sure to clean the board and dry it completely to prevent rusting and corrosion. Avoid storing the board in a damp or humid area as this could damage the components. If possible, store the board in a cool, dry place where it won’t be subject to extreme temperatures.
Recommended Cruiser Skateboards
Top brands
When it comes to cruiser skateboards, there are several reputable brands that offer quality products. Some of the top brands include Globe, Santa Cruz, and Penny Skateboards. Globe offers a range of cruiser boards designed for both beginners and experienced riders alike. Santa Cruz has been making high-quality boards since 1973, offering classic designs as well as modern features. And Penny Skateboards is known for its stylish and colorful boards, perfect for those looking to make a statement on the boardwalk.
Budget options
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, there are several brands that offer quality cruiser skateboards at an affordable price. Landyachtz is one of the most popular budget brands, offering boards with solid construction and modern features. Another great option is Magneto Skateboards, which offers entry-level boards designed for fast learning and smooth riding. If you’re looking for a quality board without breaking the bank, check out these brands!
Conclusion
Cruiser skateboards are an excellent choice for those looking to cruise the streets or explore a variety of different terrain. These boards offer good grip on smooth surfaces like concrete and asphalt, while also being able to handle rougher terrain with ease. By regularly cleaning, tightening bolts, replacing worn-out parts, and storing the board in a cool dry place, you can ensure that your cruiser skateboard will last for years to come. There are several top brands and budget options available, so you’re sure to find the perfect board for your riding style.
