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7 Types of Skateboards You Need to Know in 2024 🛹
Are you ready to roll into the world of skateboarding but overwhelmed by the options? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! With so many different types of skateboards out there, choosing the one that’s right for you can feel like trying to land a complicated trick for the first time. Remember that first time you hit the ramp and just knew you were going to fall? Well, this guide is your safety net! We’ll break down seven popular types of skateboards, from the classic street board to the futuristic electric skateboard, so you can find the perfect ride for your needs, riding style, and budget. Let’s get this show on the road – we’ll talk about everything from choosing the right size to the importance of safety!
Quick Answer
Feeling overwhelmed by the different types of skateboards?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Street Skateboards are perfect for tricks and navigating the city.
- Cruiser Skateboards are ideal for smooth and relaxed cruising.
- Longboards come in different styles like Downhill, Freeride, and Cruiser, each with its own unique features.
- Penny Boards are compact and portable for easy transport.
- Mini Cruisers offer the best of both worlds of street and cruiser skateboards.
- Electric Skateboards provide power and speed for an effortless ride.
- Fingerboards are miniature versions of skateboards for practicing tricks with your fingers.
👉 Shop Skateboards:
- Skateboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Penny Boards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Penny Skateboards Official Website
- Electric Skateboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts
- The Evolution of Skateboarding: From Sidewalks to Street to Park
- Skateboard Decks: The Foundation of Your Ride
- Trucks: The Steering System
- Wheels: Grip, Roll, and Bounce
- Bearings: The Heart of Your Wheels
- Griptape: Essential for Control and Style
- Complete Skateboards: Ready to Ride
- Different Types of Skateboards
- Choosing the Right Skateboard for You
- Skateboarding Safety: Protect Yourself
- Skateboarding Etiquette: Respect the Space
- Conclusion
- Recommended Links
- FAQ
- Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
Did you know that the first skateboard was basically a wooden plank with roller skate wheels? 🤯 We’ve come a long way since then! Today, skateboarding is a global sport with different types of skateboards designed for various styles and terrains.
Skateboarding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. 🛹 Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a perfect board out there for you. Finding the right skateboard depends on your riding style and preferences. Let’s dive into the fascinating evolution and diverse world of skateboards!
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
The Evolution of Skateboarding: From Sidewalks to Street to Park
Skateboarding has a rich history that’s as diverse as the boards themselves. It all started in the 1950s when surfers, looking for a way to practice their skills on land, began using planks of wood with roller skate wheels. 🌊🛹 This simple invention quickly gained popularity, and skateboarding started to evolve into an exciting and innovative sport.
By the 1960s, the first skate parks were established, 🏞️ further pushing the boundaries of the sport and encouraging the development of new tricks and styles. The 1970s saw the rise of “street skateboarding,” 🌇 where skaters incorporated their skills into the urban environment, using stairs, ledges, and rails as obstacles.
The 1980s and 1990s brought about new technologies and materials, resulting in boards that were lighter, more durable, and even more responsive. Skateboarding became a global phenomenon, with professional skaters pushing the limits of what was possible on a board.
Today, skateboarding continues to evolve, with new styles, tricks, and innovative designs constantly emerging. From the classic street board to the high-speed longboard, there’s a skateboard for every taste and every level of skill! ✨
Skateboard Decks: The Foundation of Your Ride
The deck is the heart of your skateboard and determines how it feels to ride. It’s where you stand and perform your tricks. The shape, size, and material of the deck are crucial for providing stability, control, and responsiveness.
Skateboard Deck Shapes
The most common deck shape is known as the “popsicle shape,” reminiscent of the traditional popsicle stick. It’s designed for versatility and maneuverability, making it suitable for both street and park skating. But there are also other shapes, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages.
Let’s explore the defining features of a deck:
- Concave: This refers to the curve of the deck from side to side.
- A deeper concave provides more stability and control, making it easier to press the edge of the board when performing tricks.
- A shallower concave allows for more flexibility and freedom of movement, which is preferred for cruising and freeriding.
- Nose and Tail: These are the ends of the deck.
- The nose is the front of the board, and the tail is the rear.
- They are typically designed with an upward curve, known as a “kick tail,” to allow for jumping and popping tricks.
- The size and angle of the kick tail can influence how easily the board flips and pops.
Pop & Snap: Choosing the Right Concave
The concave of a deck is a personal choice, and the best option for you depends on your riding style.
- If you’re focused on street skating and performing tricks, a deeper concave provides more stability and control, allowing you to lock in your foot and execute tricks with precision.
- For cruising, freeriding, and carving, a shallower concave allows more flexibility and freedom of movement.
- If you’re just starting out, we recommend a deck with a slightly deeper concave to make it easier to learn the basics. But we get it, you might want a shallower concave for easy cruising.
Skateboard Deck Materials
Traditionally, skateboards were made of wood (usually Canadian Maple) because of its strength and durability. But today, you can find decks made from a variety of materials, including plastic, bamboo, and fiberglass. Each material has its own unique characteristics:
Material | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Wood | Strong, durable, flexible, good pop | Can be heavy, susceptible to warping |
Plastic | Lightweight, affordable, durable, weatherproof | Less flex and pop than wood, scratches easily |
Bamboo | Sustainable, strong, good flex and pop | Can be more expensive, can be brittle |
Fiberglass | Lightweight, strong, flexible | Not as durable as wood, may be more expensive |
Wood decks are still the most popular choice for many skaters due to their resilience and responsiveness. They provide the right balance of strength, flexibility, and pop for a variety of styles. Plastic decks are a great option for beginners, as they are lightweight and affordable, while offering a durable and weather-resistant solution.
If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, bamboo decks are a great choice. They offer a good balance of strength and flexibility, while remaining a renewable resource.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboard Decks | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Go check out some decks! Browse Skateboard Brands’ Skateboard Deck Shapes guide for more tips on choosing the right deck for you.
Trucks: The Steering System
Trucks are the metal components that connect the deck to the wheels, enabling you to steer and maneuver your board. They are often referred to as the steering system of your skateboard.
Think of them as your car’s steering wheel! 🚗 Without trucks, your skateboard would just be a flat piece of wood.
Here’s a breakdown of the key components of trucks:
- Baseplate: The bottom part of the truck, which bolts to the deck.
- Hanger: The metal piece that holds the wheels.
- Axle: The metal rod that goes through the hanger and holds the wheels in place.
- Kingpin: A large bolt that connects the baseplate to the hanger, allowing the truck to turn.
The hangers are what give your board its turning radius and stability. The angle of the hangers is referred to as the “angle of the truck“.
- A higher angle on the trucks gives you a tighter turning radius, making it easier to perform tricks. A lower angle will give you a wider turning radius, which can be more stable while cruising.
The size of the hangers affects the stability and responsiveness of your board.
- Larger hangers provide more stability and are typically used for longboards and cruisers, while smaller hangers are more responsive and are typically used for street skateboards.
The material of the trucks also plays a role in their performance.
- Aluminum trucks are lightweight and durable, making them a popular choice for street skaters.
- Steel trucks are heavier than aluminum, but they are also more durable and can handle harder landings.
Kingpins come in two sizes: standard and oversized.
- Oversized kingpins provide a smoother turn, while standard kingpins are more responsive.
The best trucks for you will depend on your riding style and your experience level. Let’s break it down:
- If you are a beginner, you might want to start with lighter aluminum trucks with a more standard kingpin to prevent them from being too sensitive.
- For street skating, you’ll likely want lighter aluminum trucks with a tighter turning radius.
- Cruisers benefit from sturdy steel trucks with a wider turning radius, for stability at higher speeds.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboard Trucks | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Wheels: Grip, Roll, and Bounce
Skateboard wheels are made of polyurethane (PU), which comes in various durometers, measured on a scale of A, ranging from 78A to 104A.
- Softer wheels (lower A rating) provide a smoother ride, more grip, and less rolling resistance.
- Harder wheels (higher A rating) offer less grip but provide more speed and roll faster.
Wheel size also affects performance.
- Bigger wheels often go faster and roll over obstacles more easily, but are not as maneuverable.
- Smaller wheels are designed for tricks and maneuverability, and they might need a little more effort to roll smoothly over bumps.
Think of it as this – you wouldn’t use a set of off-road tires on a racecar. You need the right wheel for the right job! 😎
Wheel shape can also vary.
- Conical wheels are designed for rolling, speed, and carving.
- Round wheels provide a more balanced and smoother ride, while square wheels provide extra durability and grip.
Wheel core can be molded from plastic or nylon
- Plastic core wheels tend to be more affordable, while nylon core wheels are more resilient.
Here’s how different skateboard wheels match up to your riding needs:
- Street skateboarding relies on harder wheels with a durometer rating of 98A to 101A for maximum speed and responsiveness.
- Cruisers often use softer wheels, typically around 78A to 85A, for a smoother and grippier ride.
- Longboards use a wider range of durometers, based on the type of riding. Downhill longboards often opt for harder wheels for stability and speed, while freeride longboards often choose softer wheels for carving and responsiveness.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboard Wheels | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Wheel size can also affect the ride! Head over to our Skateboard Gear section for more info on different wheels.
Bearings: The Heart of Your Wheels
Bearings allow your wheels to spin freely and smoothly. They’re like the “heart” of your wheels!
You see, bearings are essentially little steel balls that sit inside a raceway. This raceway allows the balls to rotate freely.
Here’s what you need to know about bearings:
- Bearings are rated by “ABEC” (Annular Bearing Engineers Committee) rating, ranging from ABEC 1 to ABEC 9.
- ABEC 1 bearings are the least precise, while ABEC 9 bearings are the most precise.
- The higher the ABEC rating, the smoother the ride, but they may be more sensitive to dirt and debris.
- ABEC 7 is considered a good balance between precision and durability.
- Size: Bearings are available in different sizes, and you’ll need the right size for your wheels.
- Material: Bearings are usually made of steel but can be made from ceramic for extra smoothness and durability.
Here’s our pro tip: You don’t always need the most expensive and precise bearings. A good set of ABEC 7 bearings will work fine for most riders.
**To keep your bearings smooth and spinning, you’ll want to clean and lubricate them regularly. ** We can give you plenty of tips on how to do that. Ask us, or better still, check out our Skateboard Gear section!
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboard Bearings | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Griptape: Essential for Control and Style
Griptape is a rough, sandpaper-like material that’s applied to the top of the deck. It provides friction, helping your feet stay firmly planted on the board, even when you’re performing tricks.
Think of it as your board’s “shoes”! It allows you to really “feel” the board and maintain control.
Here’s the scoop on griptape:
-
Texture: Griptape comes in various textures, from fine grit to super coarse grit.
- Finer grit provides a more comfortable feel but less grip, while rougher griptape provides more grip but can be abrasive on your shoes.
-
Material: Griptape is typically made of silicon carbide, but some companies offer glass-based griptape, which claims to provide better grip and durability.
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Customization: Griptape can be customized by adding designs or logos. Many skaters prefer a personalized griptape to show off their style and personality.
It’s important to choose the right griptape for your riding style and preferences.
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If you’re a beginner, you might want to start with a medium-grit griptape for a comfortable feel and enough grip.
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If you’re into ollies, kickflips, and other tricks, you may want to consider a rougher griptape for more control and stability.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Skateboard Griptape | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Complete Skateboards: Ready to Ride
A complete skateboard is a board that comes fully assembled with a deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and griptape. It’s a great option for beginners and those who want to get started with skateboarding right away!
Complete skateboards are typically made from:
- Deck: A standard popsicle shape deck, usually made of 7-ply Canadian Maplewood
- Trucks: A type of truck specifically designed for street skateboarding, typically made of aluminum.
- Wheels: Usually hard wheels with a durometer rating of 98A to 101A, designed for speed and responsiveness.
- Bearings: ABEC 7 bearings are commonly used in complete skateboards for their good balance between precision and durability.
- Griptape: A medium-grit griptape is often used for beginners.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Complete Skateboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Want to learn more about complete skateboards? We cover everything from top brands to tips on choosing the right board. Go to our Skateboard Brand Guides section.
Different Types of Skateboards
Skateboards are diverse, serving different purposes and riding styles. Let’s delve into the world of different skateboards:
Street Skateboards: The Urban Explorer
Street skateboards are designed for performing tricks and navigating the urban environment. They are typically smaller with a “popsicle” shape, hard wheels, and a standard truck setup. Perfect for jumping over curbs, grinding on rails, and conquering stairs.
If you’re looking for a skateboard to perform tricks, a street skateboard is the best choice for you.
Cruiser Skateboards: Smooth Sailing on the Streets
Cruiser skateboards are designed for cruising around town and enjoying a comfortable ride. 🏄 They offer a relaxed and smooth riding experience on sidewalks, streets, and even paved paths. They’re built for comfort and stability. Think of it as the laid-back cousin of the street skateboard!
They have wider decks, softer wheels, higher trucks, and typically have a kicktail for extra maneuverability.
Cruiser boards are great for taking a leisurely ride to the park, shopping, or just cruising around your neighborhood.
Longboards: Speed, Stability, and Style
Longboards are the biggest and most stable skateboards, known for their speed and smooth rides. The longboard is actually the OG skateboarding! They were originally developed for downhill racing and cruising.
Here’s a breakdown of the main types of longboards:
Downhill Longboards: Thrilling Descends
Designed for downhill racing and speed, downhill longboards are typically built with wider decks, larger wheels, harder wheels, and low trucks to provide stability and control at high speeds.
Prepare for adrenaline-pumping, exhilarating rides down steep hills!
Freeride Longboards: The Dance of Carving
Freeride longboards are designed for carving and turning on paved roads and streets. A real “dance” on wheels! They are typically shorter than downhill longboards, featuring larger, softer wheels, and higher trucks for easier carving and responsiveness.
If you want to carve, drift, and ride with smooth flow, a freeride longboard is a great choice.
Cruiser Longboards: Easy Riding and City Cruising
Cruiser longboards are perfect for longer rides, cruising around town, and navigating the city. They are typically longer and wider than street skateboards, but shorter and narrower than downhill or freeride longboards. They feature softer wheels for a smooth ride, lower trucks for stability, and sometimes a kicktail for extra maneuverability.
If you are looking for a longboard that can handle both the city streets and the park, a cruiser longboard is the right option.
Penny Boards: Compact and Portable
Penny boards are compact, portable, and playful skateboards known for their iconic plastic decks. A miniature version of a cruiser skateboard designed for easy transportation and quick rides.
They are popular among beginners, teenagers, and those who want a small and easy-to-carry skateboard.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Penny Boards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Penny Skateboards Official Website
We have a whole article on Penny skateboards! We detail its history, components, and limitations. Go check it out! Penny Skateboards
Mini Cruisers: The Perfect In-Between
Mini cruisers are small, compact, and maneuverable skateboards, like a smaller version of a cruiser skateboard. They are great for commuting, cruising around town, and even for performing a few tricks, making them a versatile choice.
If you want a board that’s easy to carry and fun to ride in a variety of settings, a mini cruiser is a good choice!
Electric Skateboards: The Future of Riding
Electric skateboards are powered by batteries and motors, providing a boost of speed and power. They are perfect for cruising, commuting, and exploring long distances.
Electric skateboards are a great choice for those who want a more effortless and efficient ride, without having to push off with their feet.
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Electric Skateboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Looking for an electric ride? Check out our Skateboard Brand Guides section!
Fingerboards: Miniature Skateboarding Magic
Fingerboards are tiny skateboards designed for finger tricks. They are popular with skaters who want to practice tricks without the hassle of a full-sized skateboard.
Fingerboarding allows you to hone your skills in a smaller, more manageable setting. It’s an amazing way to bring the world of skateboarding indoors!
👉 CHECK PRICE on: Fingerboards | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
Did you know that fingerboarding is a competitive sport with its own competitions and community? It’s a whole world within the world of skateboarding!
Choosing the Right Skateboard for You
Choosing the right skateboard is crucial! It’s like choosing the right pair of shoes.
You want a board that feels comfortable, fits your riding style, and supports the tricks you want to learn.
Here are a few tips for choosing the right skateboard for you:
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Consider your riding style:
- Street skating? You’ll need a standard-sized board with a popsicle shape.
- Cruising around town? Consider a cruiser or mini cruiser board.
- Long-distance riding? A longboard will provide the comfort and stability.
- Downhill racing? A downhill longboard is the perfect choice for speed lovers.
- Freeride carving? Look for a freeride longboard designed for smooth turns and carving.
- Fingerboard tricks? A fingerboard is a great option for practicing indoors.
-
Think about your experience level: Are you a beginner, intermediate rider, or an expert skater?
-
Consider your budget: Skateboards come in a variety of price ranges, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
Skateboarding Safety: Protect Yourself
Skateboarding is fun, but it’s also important to be safe. Always wear protective gear, including:
- Helmet: A helmet is essential for protecting your head in case you have a fall.
- Knee pads: Knee pads provide cushioning for your knees, which can be important when learning tricks.
- Elbow pads: Elbow pads help to protect your elbows in case you fall forward.
- Wrist guards: Wrist guards help to prevent wrist injuries.
Skateboarding Etiquette: Respect the Space
Skateboarding is a community, and it’s important to respect the space you share with other skaters. Here are a few tips for good skateboarding etiquette:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Look out for other skaters, pedestrians, cars, and obstacles.
- Don’t drop in on other skaters: Dropping in is a common way to show respect in skateboarding.
- Respect other people’s property: Don’t skate in areas where it’s not allowed, and clean up after yourself.
Skateboarding is an amazing way to express yourself, stay active, and have a lot of fun. Just remember to be safe, be respectful, and most importantly, have a blast!
Conclusion
Skateboarding is a vibrant and exciting sport filled with different styles and possibilities. From the classic street skateboard to the innovative electric skateboard, there’s a board out there for everyone! The key is to choose a board that matches your riding style, experience level, and budget.
Remember, safety comes first, so always wear protective gear and be aware of your surroundings. And don’t forget that skateboarding is a community, so be respectful of others and have fun!
Now, go ahead, grab your board, practice your tricks, and enjoy the ride! 🎉
Recommended Links
- Skateboard Decks: | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Skateboard Trucks: | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Skateboard Wheels: | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Skateboard Bearings: | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Skateboard Griptape: | Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Etsy | Skateboard Brands Official Website
- Complete Skateboards: | Amazon | Walmart | [eBay](https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40