How Many Types of Skateboarding Are There? [2023]

Skateboarding is not just a sport or a hobby, it's a lifestyle. There are countless ways to express yourself on a skateboard, and the different types of skateboarding offer unique challenges and experiences. From street skateboarding to downhill racing, each style has its own set of skills and techniques. In this article, we will explore the various types of skateboarding and give you a comprehensive guide to each one. So, let's dive in and discover the thrilling world of skateboarding!

Table of Contents

• Street Skateboarding
• Vert Skateboarding
• Freestyle Skateboarding
• Downhill Skateboarding
• Slalom Skateboarding
• Pool Skateboarding
• Cruising/Transport Skateboarding
• Longboarding
• Freeride Skateboarding
• FAQ
• Useful Links
• Reference Links

Street Skateboarding

Street skateboarding is perhaps the most well-known and popular style of skateboarding. It takes place in urban environments, utilizing various street obstacles such as stairs, rails, ledges, and curbs. Street skateboarders perform tricks and maneuvers on these obstacles, showcasing their creativity and technical skills.

Key Features of Street Skateboarding:

• Urban Environment: Street skateboarding takes place in cities and towns, utilizing everyday street obstacles.
• Technical Tricks: Skateboarders perform technical tricks such as kickflips, ollies, and grinds.
• Creative Expression: Street skateboarding allows for individual creativity and style.

Pros of Street Skateboarding:

• Provides a wide range of spots and obstacles for endless creativity and exploration.
• Gives skateboarders the opportunity to showcase their technical skills and style.
• Encourages the development of problem-solving and adaptability in various urban environments.

Cons of Street Skateboarding:

• Can be challenging for beginners due to the technical nature of tricks and obstacles.
• May require permission to skate in certain areas, as some cities have regulations on skating in public spaces.

Vert Skateboarding

Vert skateboarding involves riding a skateboard on a vertical ramp, typically in a skatepark or on a halfpipe. This style of skateboarding is characterized by high-speed and aerial tricks, which require significant skill and control. Vert skateboarders are known for their ability to perform impressive aerial maneuvers, such as the iconic kickflip.

Key Features of Vert Skateboarding:

• Vertical Ramps: Vert skateboarding takes place on halfpipes or specially designed ramps.
• High Aerial Tricks: Skateboarders perform aerial tricks, including grabs, flips, and spins.
• Speed and Fluidity: Vert skateboarding requires maintaining momentum and flow on the ramp.

Pros of Vert Skateboarding:

• Offers a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping experience for skateboarders.
• Allows for freedom of expression through high-flying tricks and aerial maneuvers.
• Provides a sense of accomplishment and progression as riders conquer more challenging tricks.

Cons of Vert Skateboarding:

• Requires access to a skatepark or ramp specifically designed for vert skateboarding.
• Can be physically demanding and potentially risky due to the height and speed involved.

Freestyle Skateboarding

Freestyle skateboarding combines technical tricks, flow, and creativity. It is characterized by flatground maneuvers, flatland tricks, and continuous footwork. Freestyle skateboarders perform complex tricks that involve balancing on different parts of the skateboard and combining various movements into fluid sequences.

Key Features of Freestyle Skateboarding:

• Flatground Tricks: Freestyle skateboarders perform tricks and maneuvers on flat surfaces.
• Technical Footwork: Complex footwork and balance are key components of freestyle skateboarding.
• Creative Flow: Freestyle skateboarding emphasizes continuous movement and flow.

Pros of Freestyle Skateboarding:

• Provides endless opportunities for creative expression through unique footwork and combinations.
• Develops balance, coordination, and spatial awareness through intricate trick execution.
• Can be practiced anywhere with a flat surface, making it accessible for skateboarders of all levels.

Cons of Freestyle Skateboarding:

• Requires patience and dedication to master the technical aspects of the tricks.
• May not appeal to skateboarders who prefer high-speed or aerial maneuvers.

Downhill Skateboarding

Downhill skateboarding involves riding a skateboard at high speeds downhill. It is an adrenaline-fueled discipline that requires precise control, balance, and quick reflexes. Downhill skateboarders often participate in races or simply enjoy the exhilaration of riding fast on open roads or specialized downhill courses.

Key Features of Downhill Skateboarding:

• High-Speed Riding: Downhill skateboarders reach significant speeds during descents.
• Technical Maneuvers: Riders use sliding techniques to control speed and navigate turns.
• Safety Gear: Downhill skateboarding requires the use of safety equipment such as helmets and slide gloves.

Pros of Downhill Skateboarding:

• Offers an adrenaline rush and an exhilarating sense of speed.
• Enhances overall balance, control, and reaction time.
• Provides opportunities for competitive racing and personal achievement.

Cons of Downhill Skateboarding:

• Requires advanced skills and experience due to the high-speed nature of the discipline.
• May pose potential risks if safety measures are not followed.

Slalom Skateboarding

Slalom skateboarding involves weaving through a series of cones or obstacles arranged in a tight pattern. Skateboarders must navigate the course quickly and with precision, making sharp turns and maintaining control. Slalom skateboarding requires a combination of technical skills, agility, and speed.

Key Features of Slalom Skateboarding:

• Cones and Obstacles: Slalom skateboarding courses consist of cones or obstacles arranged in a specific pattern.
• Precise Maneuvering: Skateboarders must make precise turns and maneuvers to navigate the course.
• Timing and Speed: Slalom skateboarding emphasizes quick reactions and maintaining speed.

Pros of Slalom Skateboarding:

• Focuses on precision, control, and technical skills.
• Provides a challenging and competitive aspect of skateboarding.
• Enhances agility, coordination, and reflexes.

Cons of Slalom Skateboarding:

• Requires specific equipment, such as specialized slalom skateboards and cones.
• May not be accessible to skateboarders who do not have access to slalom courses.

Pool Skateboarding

Pool skateboarding involves riding a skateboard in empty swimming pools or bowls. Skateboarders use the curved surfaces of the pool to generate speed and perform various tricks and maneuvers. Pool skateboarding combines aspects of vert skateboarding and street skateboarding, offering a unique and challenging experience.

Key Features of Pool Skateboarding:

• Empty Pools or Bowls: Skateboarders utilize the curved surfaces of swimming pools or bowls.
• Transition Maneuvers: Riders link tricks and maneuvers on the pool's slopes and walls.
• Fluid Transitions: Pool skateboarding emphasizes maintaining speed and flow between different parts of the pool.

Pros of Pool Skateboarding:

• Utilizes unique and challenging terrain for thrilling skateboarding experiences.
• Encourages creativity in finding lines and incorporating the pool's features into tricks.
• Provides opportunities for a combination of vert and street skateboarding skills.

Cons of Pool Skateboarding:

• Requires access to a suitable pool or bowl to practice this style.
• May present specific challenges for beginners due to the nature of the terrain.

Cruising/Transport Skateboarding

Cruising or transport skateboarding focuses on using a skateboard as a means of transportation or leisurely cruising. Skateboarders typically ride on longboards or cruisers, which offer stability, comfort, and smooth rides. This style emphasizes relaxed and enjoyable skateboarding experiences.

Key Features of Cruising/Transport Skateboarding:

• Longboards or Cruisers: Skateboarders use longer and more stable boards designed for cruising.
• Comfortable and Smooth Riding: This style prioritizes comfort and relaxed riding experiences.
• Leisurely Transportation: Cruising skateboarding serves as an alternative mode of transportation or recreational activity.

Pros of Cruising/Transport Skateboarding:

• Provides an enjoyable and leisurely way to get around or explore the surroundings.
• Promotes relaxation and a laid-back approach to skateboarding.
• Offers stability and smooth rides, ideal for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed experience.

Cons of Cruising/Transport Skateboarding:

• May lack the technical challenges and tricks of other skateboarding styles.
• Requires consideration of local regulations and safety measures when using skateboards for transportation.

Longboarding

Longboarding is a versatile style of skateboarding that encompasses various disciplines such as cruising, downhill riding, freestyle, and dancing. Longboarders use longer and wider boards designed for stability and smooth rides. This style allows for creativity and exploration across different terrain and riding techniques.

Key Features of Longboarding:

• Long and Wide Boards: Longboards offer stability, control, and varied riding options.
• Versatile Riding Styles: Longboarding encompasses cruising, freestyle, downhill, and other styles.
• Smooth and Comfortable Riding: Longer wheelbases and softer wheels provide smooth rides.

Pros of Longboarding:

• Allows for versatile riding experiences across different styles and terrains.
• Offers stability and control, making it accessible for beginners and advanced riders alike.
• Provides opportunities for creative expression and freedom in riding techniques.

Cons of Longboarding:

• Requires consideration of specific longboard designs based on riding preferences.
• May involve a learning curve for more technical maneuvers and tricks.

Freeride Skateboarding

Freeride skateboarding combines elements of downhill and freestyle skateboarding. Skateboarders perform stylish slides, tricks, and maneuvers while riding at moderate speeds. This style focuses on fluidity, control, and mastery of sliding techniques.

Key Features of Freeride Skateboarding:

• Stylish Slides: Freeride skateboarders perform slides and tricks while maintaining control.
• Moderate Speed Riding: Skateboarders ride at medium speeds, emphasizing flow and fluidity.
• Controlled Maneuvers: Freeride skateboarding emphasizes precise technique and slide execution.

Pros of Freeride Skateboarding:

• Offers a blend of technical sliding maneuvers and stylish trick execution.
• Promotes a creative and stylish approach to skateboarding.
• Enhances control, balance, and fluidity in riding techniques.

Cons of Freeride Skateboarding:

• Requires specific equipment, such as slide gloves and slide-friendly wheels.
• May involve a learning curve for beginners who are new to sliding techniques.

FAQ

What is street skateboarding called?

Street skateboarding is simply called "street skateboarding." It refers to skateboarding on urban streets, utilizing various obstacles such as rails, stairs, curbs, and ledges.

What is a technical skater?

A technical skater is someone who excels in performing intricate tricks and maneuvers. They focus on mastering the technical aspects of skateboarding, including flip tricks, grinds, and slides.

What are the different ways to skateboard?

There are various ways to skateboard, including street skateboarding, vert skateboarding, freestyle skateboarding, downhill skateboarding, slalom skateboarding, pool skateboarding, cruising/transport skateboarding, longboarding, and freeride skateboarding.

What is goofy and regular skateboarding?

Goofy and regular are terms used to describe a skateboarder's stance. Regular footed skaters have their left foot positioned towards the front of the skateboard while pushing with their right foot. Goofy-footed skaters have their right foot towards the front while using their left foot to push.

Useful Links

• Check out the latest skateboarding gear on Amazon
• Find a wide selection of skateboarding products on Walmart
• Discover unique skateboarding items on Etsy
• Skateboard Brands™ – Your go-to resource for skateboarding information

Reference Links

• Street Skateboarding – Wikipedia
• Vert Skateboarding – Skateboarding Magazine
• Freestyle Skateboarding – NHS Fun Factory
• Downhill Skateboarding – International Downhill Federation
• Slalom Skateboarding – International Slalom Skateboarding Association
• Pool Skateboarding – The Berrics
• Cruising/Transport Skateboarding – Tactics
• Longboarding – Original Skateboards
• Freeride Skateboarding – Loaded Boards

Remember, skateboarding is all about having fun and expressing yourself on a board. Whether you're cruising the streets or tackling big ramps, there's a type of skateboarding that suits your style. So grab your board, put on your safety gear, and enjoy the ride!

"Skateboarding teaches you how to take a fall properly. If you try to kickflip down some stairs, it might take you thirty tries – and you just learn how to take a tumble out of it without getting hurt." – Bam Margera