Skateboarding is a fun sporting activity. As a beginner taking up the sport, finding the right skateboard can be a hustle. To many non-skaters, all skateboards look the same; a board on four wheels, right? However, there are different types of skateboards, each different skateboard style is designed for a particular use.
Our article discusses the different types of skateboards, their use, and each board’s pros and cons.
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Types of Skateboards Styles
If you can’t decide what style is right for you, read below to learn more about each one:
Popsicle Skateboard
Commonly referred to as the standard skateboard, the popsicle skateboard has a symmetrical popsicle stick shape with a double kicktail that provides optimal maneuverability. It is the most common type of skateboard and is primarily used for technical tricks. The cost of a popsicle skateboard ranges from $70-$130, depending on the board’s quality.
The popsicle skateboard is the best skateboard for a beginner since it works well for skate parks, street skating, and many other skateboarding styles.
Why Should You Get One?
- It’s a good skateboard if you’re looking to learn new tricks and are up for a challenge.
- It’s cheaper than a longboard.
- It’s easy to carry around and store.
What Shouldn’t You Get One?
- It is harder to learn how to skateboard using the popsicle skateboard.
- Skateboard parts need to be repaired more frequently.
- It’s not suitable for long-distance cruising.
Longboards
Longboards are skateboards that are 35-60 inches long and up to 10 inches wide. Their width and length provide a better balance compared to standard skateboards. Longboards have larger and softer wheels that enable them to go faster, have strong shock absorption capabilities, and can be used on different terrains.
Longboards are the skateboard style that maybe includes the most different variations. Longboards can be shaped quite differently depending on what you are going to use them for. Some of the more popular styles of longboarding that require a differently shaped longboard are:
- cruising,
- downhill racing,
- freestyle,
- dancing,
- bombing hills,
- traveling,
- simulating surfing etc…
You can use one longboard for all of these but if you are going to get serious about one of these styles then make sure you get a longboard that is designed especially for the style you have chosen. The cost of longboards ranges between $90-$150, depending on the board’s quality.
Why Should You Get One?
- You can use it for long-distance cruising.
- It’s comfortable, stable, and beginner-friendly.
- It can be used on different terrains.
What Shouldn’t You Get One?
- It’s heavy, hence not convenient to carry around.
- It’s not suitable for performing tricks.
- It’s costly compared to popsicle skateboards.
Cruisers
Cruisers are portable skateboards that are shorter and lighter than longboards. They have soft wheels to cope with rough terrains, and their deck length allows them to make tight turns and easily avoid obstacles.
Cruisers are usually used to travel short distances. The cost of longboards ranges between $50-$100, depending on the quality.
Why Should You Get One?
- It’s easy to carry around and store.
- It can make tight turns and dodge obstacles.
- It can be used on different terrains.
What Shouldn’t You Get One?
- It’s less comfortable compared to longboards.
- It’s not suitable for long-distance cruising.
- It’s not ideal for performing tricks.
What Should You Avoid When Buying a Skateboard?
Skateboarding can be a dangerous activity as you’re prone to falling a few times. It’s therefore critical that you buy a high-quality skateboard to ensure your safety.
When buying a skateboard, avoid a skateboard with any plastic component like trucks, decks, or wheels. Instead, opt for plywood-based decks, metal alloy trucks to facilitate turning, and polyurethane wheels.
Have you settled on a skateboard and are looking to purchase one? Check out our cruiser skateboard Canada collection to purchase all your skateboarding equipment.