Choosing a street skateboard, also called a cruiser, is often the best choice when you want to get around the city comfortably without giving up the possibility of doing tricks. To put it simply, let’s say it’s a cross between classic or freestyle skateboarding and longboarding.
Perfect for any situation, the cruiser is equipped with wide rubber wheels perfect on any type of road, with the awareness of carrying a light skate that can also be stored in a special backpack.
Usually, the deck varies from 27 to 31 inches, but lately, the so-called 22-inch mini-cruiser is becoming increasingly popular. The mini cruiser is a small street skateboard, usually with a plastic deck, also known as a Penny board. Fun and laughter are guaranteed!
How to choose a cruiser skateboard
Choosing the right skateboard can be a daunting task. This is because there are so many brands and models out there. But, what do you need?
1. Wheels
The wheels on a board are important. They allow you to get more air when riding down the street.
What size wheels should you buy?
It’s easy to go too big. This means you’ll hit stuff harder but also slow you down. If you don’t know the right size, try getting an adult wheel. If you don’t have any, you can try a 7-inch or 9-inch.
If you want to buy a beginner skateboard, then go for a 7-inch wheel. It’s soft and you’ll be able to ride longer before you need to buy bigger wheels.
2. Size
How tall are you?
The shorter you are, the more maneuverable you’ll be on the board. You may find yourself leaning forward more. This gives you more control, but you can still fall off the skateboard easily.
If you’re taller, you might need a smaller board. You’ll be able to pull off trickier moves.
3. Deck
What kind of deck should you use?
Skateboard decks come in different sizes, shapes, and materials. A thicker deck will be more durable but heavier. So, you’ll need to balance weight with durability. A soft board is more flexible and lighter.
4. Grip
The grip is also a key component of a skateboard. What’s the difference between grip tape and grip paint?
Grip tape is a plastic tape that you can wrap around your skateboard. It helps you hold onto the board. It also helps with traction and grip. Grip paint is a type of clear coating. It comes in different colors and makes your board glossy.
5. Construction
What materials should the board be made of?
A higher-quality skateboard will be made of thicker, stronger wood. Look for one with solid construction.
An aluminum deck is a lighter option. It’s not quite as durable as a wooden deck. However, it’s easier to clean and maintain.
6. Wheels
Which type of wheels should you buy?
There are two main types of skateboard wheels. Risers and street wheels. Risers are a little bit more expensive. They’re softer and give you more control.
Street wheels are a bit cheaper. They’re usually made from polyurethane. These are the wheels you’ll see in a skatepark.
7. Bearings
What kind of bearings should you buy?
Bearings are the ball inside the wheel. The better the bearings, the smoother the ride.
8. Size
What size should your skateboard be?
If you want to learn how to skateboard, then you’ll need to get a small board. This is because you’re going to learn more and need more control. You can always buy a bigger board once you’re ready to skate longer distances.
9. Fun Factor
How fun does it look?
Does it have cool designs and colors?
If you want to buy a stylish board, you’ll probably spend more money on it. This could help you stand out from the crowd.
If you want to get a cheap board, you can pick one up for $20 or less.
10. Maintenance
How easy is it to maintain?
Can it be taken apart and put back together?
It’s really easy to clean and maintain a wooden board. All you need to do is wipe it down after you ride.
Aluminum boards need a little more care. If you want to clean them, you’ll need to use a rag and alcohol.
11. Extras
What extras should you buy?
Should you buy a kicktail or no kicktail?
Kicktails are great. They allow you to lean forward and pull off tricks.
You can get a basic skateboard for around $20. It will work perfectly for learning.
You can get a fully decked-out board that’s good for tricks for around $30.
12. Warranty
What warranty should you buy?
Does it come with a warranty?
Warranties give you peace of mind. If something happens to your skateboard, the manufacturer will take care of it.
13. Other
Is it a cruiser?
Do you need to worry about speed?
This question can be answered by checking out the board’s sticker. It’ll tell you what speed it’s designed for.
The advantages of the “cruiser.”
We’ve already shown you the many benefits of street skateboarding, but we want to do more. Here are the main advantages of owning a street skateboard:
Easy to carry: Take it everywhere with ease. It is small, weighs little and, if you don’t have the trouble of holding it in your hand, you can always buy a very comfortable “skate backpack,” perfect for taking your cruiser anywhere. And the good news is that you can easily take it on vacation too!
Perfect in the city: It’s like cycling, only more fun! You can find yourself with friends, go downtown and enter any store in comfort, being a light skate that does not impede movement, unlike the longboard.
Possibility to do tricks: Not only can you use it to get around town or go to school, but also to have fun with some tricks. Try, fail and try again; you will become a champion.
Great price: Yes, even for the cruiser and the mini-cruiser, we start from very low prices; skate is a great start and very beautiful. Go Skate Now!
Here we must make a premise. The cruiser is a perfect skate in terms of everyday use in the city.
Of course, if you have to travel great distances or focus on speed without worrying about weight and bulk, then the longboard is the skate for you.
However, consider that the smaller the deck, the more difficult it is to maintain stability. The longboard may therefore seem slightly easier, but I assure you it’s just a matter of getting used to. Oh, I forgot: it is absolutely forbidden to buy a longboard for children as it is too heavy and long.
If, on the other hand, your goal is to have fun in skateparks, then you’d better get a classic skateboard built specifically to make numbers and charm people.
