Types of Skateboards: Which One is Right for You?

Have you ever felt the thrill of gliding down the street, wind in your hair, on a board with wheels? 🛹 If you’re new to skateboarding or looking to switch up your ride, you might be surprised at the variety of options available. From classic decks to cutting-edge electric models, the world of skateboards has evolved dramatically in recent years.

But with so many choices, how do you know which type of skateboard is right for you? Whether you’re aiming to perform tricks at the skate park, cruise along the boardwalk, or zip through city streets without breaking a sweat, there’s a perfect board out there waiting for you. In this guide, we’ll break down the different types of skateboards, helping you understand the unique features and benefits of each. Get ready to discover your ideal ride as we explore classic skateboards, longboards, electric skateboards, and specialty boards, before giving you tips on how to choose the perfect skateboard for your needs.

Classic Skateboards

Street Skateboards

Street skateboards are the most common type of classic skateboards you’ll encounter. They’re designed for urban environments and skateparks, featuring:

• Shorter decks (28-32 inches)
• Narrower trucks
• Smaller, harder wheels

These characteristics make street skateboards ideal for technical tricks and maneuvers. You’ll find them perfect for:

1. Ollies and flip tricks
2. Grinds and slides
3. Quick turns and precise control

Pool Skateboards

Pool skateboards, as the name suggests, are built for riding in empty swimming pools and bowl-shaped structures. Key features include:

• Wider decks (around 32-35 inches)
• Larger wheels for smooth riding
• Steeper kicktails for vertical maneuvers

Vert Skateboards

Vert skateboards are designed for vertical ramps and half-pipes. You’ll notice:

• Wider decks (33-39 inches)
• Larger, softer wheels for grip and speed
• Longer wheelbases for stability

Park Skateboards

Park skateboards are versatile, combining elements from street and vert boards. They’re perfect for skate parks with various obstacles. Features include:

• Medium-width decks (31-33 inches)
• Moderate wheel size and hardness
• Balanced truck width

Here’s a comparison table of classic skateboard types:

Type	Deck Width	Wheel Size	Best For
Street	28-32″	Small, hard	Technical tricks
Pool	32-35″	Medium, softer	Bowl riding
Vert	33-39″	Large, soft	Vertical ramps
Park	31-33″	Medium	All-around use

Now that you’re familiar with classic skateboards, let’s explore longboards, which offer a different riding experience.

Longboards

Cruiser Longboards

Cruiser longboards are your go-to choice for smooth, effortless rides around town. These boards are designed with a longer wheelbase and wider deck, offering you superior stability and comfort. You’ll find cruiser longboards perfect for commuting, leisurely rides, and covering longer distances with ease.

Key Features:

• Longer and wider deck for stability
• Softer wheels for a smoother ride
• Flexible deck for improved shock absorption

Downhill Longboards

If you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking high-speed thrills, downhill longboards are your perfect match. These boards are engineered for maximum stability at high speeds, allowing you to tackle steep hills with confidence.

Characteristics:

• Stiff deck for improved control
• Low center of gravity for stability
• Wider trucks for better traction

Freeride Longboards

Freeride longboards offer you the best of both worlds, combining elements of downhill and freestyle riding. These versatile boards allow you to perform slides, carves, and tricks while maintaining stability at moderate speeds.

Feature	Benefit
Medium-flex deck	Balance between stability and maneuverability
Symmetrical shape	Ride in both directions with ease
Rounded edges	Facilitate smooth slides

Freestyle Longboards

For those of you who love to push your limits with tricks and technical maneuvers, freestyle longboards are the way to go. These boards are designed to be lightweight and maneuverable, allowing you to perform a wide range of tricks and stunts.

Key Aspects:

• Shorter length for improved maneuverability
• Kicktails for easier tricks
• Durable construction to withstand impacts

Dancing Longboards

Dancing longboards are all about fluidity and grace. These boards allow you to express your creativity through a combination of footwork, pirouettes, and cross-stepping. You’ll find dancing longboards to be longer and more flexible than other types, providing ample space for your fancy footwork.

Now that you’re familiar with the various types of longboards, you can choose the one that best suits your riding style and preferences. Each type offers unique characteristics tailored to specific longboarding disciplines, allowing you to excel in your chosen area.

Electric Skateboards

Hub Motor Boards

Electric skateboards have revolutionized personal transportation, and hub motor boards are at the forefront of this innovation. These boards feature motors integrated directly into the wheels, offering a sleek and compact design. Here’s a breakdown of hub motor boards:

Feature	Description
Design	Motors built into wheel hubs
Noise	Quieter operation
Maintenance	Less frequent, simpler
Efficiency	Slightly lower than belt-drive

Benefits of hub motor boards:

• Streamlined appearance
• Lower profile for better ground clearance
• Easier to kick-push when battery is depleted

Belt-Drive Boards

Belt-drive electric skateboards offer a different approach to power delivery. These boards use a system similar to a car’s timing belt to transfer power from the motor to the wheels. Here’s what you need to know:

• Higher torque for better acceleration and hill climbing
• More customizable with the ability to change gear ratios
• Typically louder than hub motor boards
• Require more frequent maintenance due to belt wear

Direct Drive Boards

Direct drive systems represent the latest innovation in electric skateboard technology. They combine the best features of hub motors and belt-drive systems:

1. Powerful performance similar to belt-drive boards
2. Clean aesthetics like hub motor boards
3. Improved heat dissipation for longer rides

While direct drive boards are still relatively new, they’re gaining popularity among enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds.

Now that you understand the different types of electric skateboards, let’s explore some specialty boards that cater to specific riding styles and preferences.

Specialty Skateboards

Penny Boards

Penny boards are compact, lightweight skateboards that offer a unique riding experience. These nimble boards are perfect for cruising around town or campus. Here’s what you need to know about penny boards:

• Size: Typically 22-27 inches long
• Material: High-quality plastic deck
• Portability: Easy to carry and store
• Riding style: Smooth and maneuverable

Carve Boards

Carve boards are designed for riders who love to carve and pump on flat surfaces. These boards allow you to generate speed without pushing, making them ideal for surf-style skating. Key features include:

• Wider trucks for stability
• Flexible deck for enhanced pumping
• Larger, softer wheels for grip and smooth riding

Off-Road Skateboards

Off-road skateboards are built to tackle rough terrain and provide an exciting riding experience beyond paved surfaces. These rugged boards offer:

• Large, pneumatic tires for better traction
• Sturdy decks to withstand impacts
• Enhanced suspension systems for a smoother ride

Fingerboards

Fingerboards are miniature skateboards designed for use with your fingers. They’re popular for tricks and as collectibles. Here’s a comparison of fingerboards to full-size skateboards:

Feature	Fingerboards	Full-size Skateboards
Size	3-4 inches	28-33 inches
Use	Fingers	Feet
Tricks	Table-top	Street/Park
Cost	$5-$200	$50-$300+

Now that you’re familiar with these specialty skateboards, you’ll be better equipped to choose the right board for your specific needs and riding style.

Choosing the Right Skateboard

Considering Your Skill Level

When choosing a skateboard, your skill level plays a crucial role. Beginners should opt for wider, more stable boards, while advanced riders can handle narrower, more responsive decks. Here’s a quick guide:

Skill Level	Recommended Board Type	Key Features
Beginner	Classic skateboard	Wide deck, soft wheels
Intermediate	Versatile skateboard	Medium-width deck, harder wheels
Advanced	Specialized skateboard	Narrow deck, hard wheels

Identifying Your Riding Style

Your riding style determines the type of skateboard you need. Consider these popular styles:

• Street skating: Requires a lighter, more maneuverable board
• Vert skating: Needs a wider board for stability on ramps
• Cruising: Benefits from a longer board with softer wheels
• Freestyle: Demands a versatile board with medium-width deck

Understanding Deck Shapes and Sizes

Deck shapes and sizes greatly influence your skating experience. Here’s what you need to know:

• Concave: Deeper concave offers more control but less stability
• Width: Ranges from 7.5″ to 8.5″ for most skaters
• Length: Typically between 28″ to 32″ for standard skateboards

Selecting Appropriate Trucks and Wheels

Trucks and wheels are crucial components that affect your ride:

• Trucks: Choose based on deck width; looser for tricks, tighter for stability
• Wheels: Harder wheels (99A-101A) for tricks, softer wheels (78A-87A) for smooth rides

Remember, the right combination of these elements will enhance your skating experience and help you progress faster in your chosen style.

Conclusion

Skateboarding offers a diverse range of options to suit your style and preferences. From classic skateboards perfect for tricks and street skating to longboards ideal for cruising and transportation, there’s a board for every rider. Electric skateboards provide a modern twist with motorized assistance, while specialty boards cater to niche styles like downhill racing or freestyle riding.

When choosing your skateboard, consider your skill level, intended use, and personal preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced rider seeking a new challenge, there’s a skateboard out there that’s perfect for you. Take the time to explore different types and find the one that best suits your needs – it’s the first step towards an exciting skateboarding journey.

FAQ’s