If you are new to skateboarding or are looking to buy a skateboard, you may have come across two popular types of boards: cruiser skateboards and longboards. Although they may look similar, they have significant differences that make each type suitable for different riding styles and situations. In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between cruiser skateboards and longboards to help you decide which one is best for you.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is a Cruiser Skateboard?
- What is a Longboard?
- Shape and Size
- Cruiser Skateboard Shape and Size
- Longboard Shape and Size
- Trucks and Wheels
- Cruiser Skateboard Trucks and Wheels
- Longboard Trucks and Wheels
- Riding Styles
- Terrain
- Speed
- Maneuverability
- Price
- Maintenance
- Safety
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a Cruiser Skateboard?
A cruiser skateboard is a smaller and more compact version of a longboard. It usually measures between 27 to 32 inches in length and 7 to 8.5 inches in width. Cruiser skateboards have a kicktail and are designed for cruising around town, commuting, and performing tricks such as ollies, kickflips, and slides.
What is a Longboard?
A longboard, on the other hand, is a longer and more stable board designed for long-distance riding, downhill racing, and sliding. Longboards typically measure between 33 to 59 inches in length and 9 to 10 inches in width. They are more suitable for carving, cruising, and commuting over long distances than for performing tricks.
Shape and Size
Cruiser Skateboard Shape and Size
Cruiser skateboards come in various shapes and sizes, but most of them have a symmetrical shape with a kicktail. They are smaller and more compact than longboards, making them more portable and easier to carry around. Cruiser skateboards are also more versatile and can be used for commuting, performing tricks, and cruising around town.
Longboard Shape and Size
Longboards come in different shapes and sizes, depending on their intended use. They are usually longer and wider than cruiser skateboards, providing a more stable and comfortable ride. Longboards also have a more diverse range of shapes, including pintails, drop-throughs, and double drops. Each shape is designed to optimize the board’s performance for a specific riding style or terrain.
Trucks and Wheels
Cruiser Skateboard Trucks and Wheels
Cruiser skateboards usually have softer and wider wheels than longboards, providing a smoother ride on rough surfaces. They also have smaller and looser trucks that allow for sharper turns and quicker maneuverability. Cruiser skateboard wheels are usually between 55 to 65 millimeters in diameter and have a durometer rating of 75A to 85A.
Longboard Trucks and Wheels
Longboards have larger and harder wheels than cruiser skateboards, providing more speed and stability on smooth surfaces. They also have larger and tighter trucks that make them less maneuverable but more stable at higher speeds. Longboard wheels are usually between 65 to 75 millimeters in diameter and have a durometer rating of 78A to 82A.
Riding Styles
Cruiser skateboards are more suitable for casual riding, commuting, and performing tricks. They are designed to be more versatile and can handle a wide range of riding styles and situations. Longboards, on the other hand, are more suitable for long-distance cruising, downhill racing, and sliding. They are designed to optimize the board’s performance for specific riding styles and terrains, making them less versatile than cruiser skateboards.
Terrain
Cruiser skateboards are more suitable for riding on flat surfaces and urban environments, such as sidewalks, streets, and parking lots. They can also handle mild inclines and rough surfaces, such as cracks and pebbles, but may not be suitable for steep hills or off-road terrains. Longboards, on the other hand, are designed to handle a variety of terrains, including hills, mountains, and off-road trails.
Speed
Longboards are designed to be faster than cruiser skateboards due to their larger wheels and longer decks, providing more stability and momentum. They are suitable for downhill racing and sliding, where speed and stability are essential. Cruiser skateboards, on the other hand, are designed for casual cruising and performing tricks, where speed is not as important.
Maneuverability
Cruiser skateboards are more maneuverable than longboards due to their smaller size, softer wheels, and looser trucks. They are designed for performing tricks and sharp turns, making them more suitable for urban environments where space is limited. Longboards, on the other hand, are less maneuverable but more stable at high speeds, making them more suitable for long-distance cruising and downhill racing.
Price
Cruiser skateboards are generally cheaper than longboards, with prices ranging from $50 to $150. Longboards, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the quality of the board and its components. However, the price of a skateboard ultimately depends on the brand, materials, and components used.
Maintenance
Both cruiser skateboards and longboards require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. This includes checking the trucks, bearings, and wheels for wear and tear, tightening loose bolts and nuts, and cleaning the board after use. Cruiser skateboards are generally easier to maintain than longboards due to their simpler design and fewer components.
Safety
Skateboarding can be a dangerous activity, and it is essential to wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and gloves, to protect yourself from injuries. Cruiser skateboards and longboards both have their unique safety concerns, such as speed wobbles, wheel bites, and road hazards, and it is important to be aware of these risks and take appropriate precautions to avoid accidents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cruiser skateboards and longboards are two popular types of skateboards that have significant differences in shape, size, trucks, wheels, riding styles, terrain, speed, maneuverability, price, maintenance, and safety. Cruiser skateboards are more suitable for casual cruising, performing tricks, and urban environments, while longboards are more suitable for long-distance cruising, downhill racing, and off-road terrains. When choosing a skateboard, it is important to consider your riding style, skill level, and personal preferences to ensure that you get the right board for you.
FAQs
- Which is better for beginners, a cruiser skateboard or a longboard?
- Both cruiser skateboards and longboards can be suitable for beginners, depending on their riding goals and preferences. Cruiser skateboards are generally easier to maneuver and more versatile, making them a good choice for beginners who want to learn basic tricks and casual cruising. Longboards, on the other hand, are more stable and suitable for long-distance cruising, making them a good choice for beginners who want to focus on cruising and exploring their surroundings.
- Can you perform tricks on a longboard?
- While longboards are not designed for performing tricks, some riders have developed a style of longboarding that incorporates certain tricks, such as slides and spins. However, these tricks require a certain level of skill and experience, and should only be attempted by experienced riders who have mastered the basics of longboarding.
- Can you commute on a longboard?
- Yes, longboards are a popular choice for commuters who want a fast and efficient mode of transportation. Longboards are designed to handle a variety of terrains, making them suitable for commuting on streets, sidewalks, and bike paths.
- What is the difference between soft and hard skateboard wheels?
- Skateboard wheels come in different durometers, which refers to the hardness of the wheel. Soft wheels have a lower durometer rating and are designed for cruising, commuting, and rough surfaces, such as cracks and pebbles. They provide a smoother ride and better traction but are slower and less stable than hard wheels. Hard wheels have a higher durometer rating and are designed for performing tricks and smooth surfaces, such as skate parks and ramps. They are faster and more stable, but provide less traction and a bumpier ride.
- Is it necessary to wear safety gear when skateboarding?
- Yes, it is highly recommended to wear appropriate safety gear when skateboarding, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and gloves. Skateboarding can be a dangerous activity, and wearing safety gear can help protect you from injuries, such as concussions, broken bones, and road rash. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and obey traffic laws and regulations to avoid accidents.
Wanna learn about cruiser wheels? check out our article here.
