Skateboarding for cruising is now a popular way to move around. Normal skateboards are made more for tricking and park riding. But, you can still use them for cruising with some changes. By fitting your board with big, soft wheels (56mm to 65mm) and riser pads, it becomes a good cruiser. This article looks at if a normal skateboard works for cruising and what changes make the ride better.
Tweaking a normal skateboard for cruising can greatly improve how it rides. These improvements make the ride more comfortable and better for short trips. While cruiser skateboards are built for city streets and nearby places, with soft wheels and bendy decks, knowing how to adjust a regular skateboard is useful. It helps you decide if it’s worth the effort and cost.
Key Takeaways
- Normal skateboard use for cruising is achievable with specific components like soft wheels and riser pads.
- The average cost for setting up a cruising skateboard ranges from $115 to $250.
- Adding large, soft wheels (56mm to 65mm) can convert a regular skateboard into a cruiser.
- A typical cruiser setup is ideal for short distances and urban travel.
- Cruiser skateboards offer versatility, allowing for both cruising and basic tricks.
Understanding Skateboard Types
Exploring types of skateboards shows the wide range available. Standard skateboards have a “popsicle” shape for doing tricks. They possess hard wheels suitable for smooth surfaces.
Skateboard variations like the cruiser are known for easy riding. Cruisers are lighter than longboards and have an angled shape for better turns. Their bigger, softer wheels make them perfect for smooth rides on bumpy roads. They’re great for casual rides or commuting.
Longboards date back to the 1950s. Their length provides stability for different riding styles such as downhill races. They have big, soft wheels for comfort on rough ground.
Special-shaped skateboards mix retro designs with cruiser features. Old-school boards excel in pool skating with their unique shape. Mini-cruisers are small, portable and often chosen by beginners for their convenience.
Here’s a quick guide on skateboard types:
| Type | Wheel Diameter | Truck Type | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Skateboards | 50mm – 60mm | Narrow | Tricks, Jumps |
| Cruiser Skateboards | 60mm – 70mm | Wider | Commuting, Leisure |
| Longboards | 60mm – 70mm | Wider | Downhill Racing, Carving |
Todd Huber, a noted skate shop owner, shows the change in skateboards over years. His collection includes many types, highlighting their evolution.
Mini-cruisers have become popular again with students due to their size. Classic longboards remain favored for high-speed fun on slopes.
Pros of Using a Normal Skateboard for Cruising
There are several big pluses to *cruising with a normal skateboard*. By adding softer wheels and shock pads, your regular skateboard becomes great for cruising. This is perfect for city life where you need to quickly adapt and move around.
*Skateboards* are naturally *versatile*. They’re made for tricks, but can also be great for cruising with some changes. Skateboards are usually 31” to 33” long and 7.25” to 8.5” wide. This size is easy to carry and store, unlike bigger longboards.
You can still do tricks and stunts on your skateboard set up for cruising. It keeps its ability to do skateboarding tricks, offering the best of both worlds. This is great for those who don’t want separate boards for cruising and tricks.
Changing to softer wheels and adding shock pads makes cruising more comfortable. Wheels with a durometer of 78a to 85a smooth out bumpy rides. Shock pads also cut down on rough impacts.
On average, a normal skateboard costs less than cruiser boards or longboards. This makes a skateboard that’s good for tricks and cruising a smart pick for those watching their budget.
In conclusion, *cruising with a normal skateboard* mixes adaptability, versatility, and being kind to your wallet. With some adjustments, you get the *benefits of skateboards* for both daily travel and tricks. It’s an outstanding choice for those valuing flexibility in their skateboarding experience.
Cons of Using a Normal Skateboard for Cruising
Normal skateboards can be uncomfortable for cruising because of their smaller, harder wheels. They don’t absorb shocks like longboard wheels, which are larger and softer. This makes riding on rough surfaces harder and may require changes, like adding softer wheels or riser pads to avoid wheel bite.
The deck’s size and shape also matter. Longboards are longer, ranging from 38 to 60 inches, offering more stability. Normal skateboards are shorter, about 28 to 34 inches, making it harder to balance on long rides. They are also narrower, which affects comfort during cruising.
Unlike longboards, standard skateboards don’t have features like longer decks and wider wheelbases for stability. This makes long rides tough, as balancing becomes harder. Also, you might need to customize your skateboard more to make it suitable for cruising, by changing wheel sizes and deck types.
| Aspect | Longboard | Normal Skateboard |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 38-60 inches | 28-34 inches |
| Width | 9-11 inches | 7-10 inches |
| Wheel Size | Larger and Softer | Smaller and Rougher |
| Stability | Higher | Lower |
| Terrain Handling | Smoother on rough surfaces | Not recommended for extremely rough surfaces |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Skateboard for Cruising
When picking skateboards for cruising, you must think about a few key things. The deck size is really important. Cruiser skateboards are usually 25” to 32” long and 7” to 9.5” wide. Your shoe size can help decide the width you need. Skaters who wear Women’s US 6-8/Men’s US 4-6 should go for a deck 7”-8” wide. Those with sizes 9-11/7-9 might prefer 8”-9” wide decks.
The wheels on a cruiser skateboard matter a lot, too. For a smooth ride on all kinds of surfaces, pick wheels that are 58mm to 65mm big. The wheel’s durometer tells you how hard it is. For cruising, 76A to 80A is best. Wheels around 78A are soft, giving you good grip and making bumps less jarring. This makes them great for city rides.
The material and flexibility of the deck also affect how nice your ride is. Wooden cruisers give you a steady ride on bumpy ground. Penny boards, made of plastic, are easy to carry but not as stable. Think about what’s more important to you: being able to take it easily or a smooth ride.
Truck width is also key, as explained in this skateboard buying guide. The trucks should be as wide as the deck to stop you from tipping over when you turn. A wider deck, 7” to 10”, helps you stay steady, especially if you’re going fast. Picking the right size stops the wheels from hitting the deck during tight turns, which can lead to falls.
For new skaters, complete cruiser skateboards are a great choice. They’re easy to use and everything works together well. For going around town or just having fun, look for a board with big, soft wheels. This makes riding over rough spots smoother. Mini cruisers are good for carrying around but might not suit taller kids because they’re short.
Finding the best cruising skateboard means looking at its parts and thinking about what you need. Guides can help you know what to look for. Cruiser skateboards are made for comfy and fun rides. So, choosing the right one is key to enjoying your skateboard.
Comparing Skateboards to Longboards for Cruising
Choosing the right board for cruising involves comparing skateboards and longboards. Longboards, with their longer decks (36″ to 42″), offer stability for long rides. They are great for smooth rides across different terrains or for long trips.
On the other hand, cruiser skateboards are smaller, usually no bigger than 34″. This size makes them nimble, perfect for tight urban spots. Despite their size, these skateboards can be tweaked to better their cruising ability. This makes them a good choice for those who like the classic skateboard feel.
The main difference between the two is the wheel size and type. Longboards have wheels that are bigger and softer (starting at 70mm) This makes them ideal for a smooth and comfy ride over distances. Skateboard wheels are smaller and harder, which is not as forgiving on rough surfaces.
| Feature | Longboard | Skateboard |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Length | 36″ – 42″ | Up to 34″ |
| Wheel Size | 70mm or larger | Smaller and rougher |
| Trucks | Reverse Kingpin (RKP) | Traditional Kingpin (TKP) |
| Stability | High-speed stability | Better for tricks |
| Ideal Use | Long distances & varied terrains | Urban commuting & tricks |
Longboards use Reverse Kingpin (RKP) trucks for stable, high-speed descents. This makes them tops for cruising at speed with control. Skateboards have Traditional Kingpin (TKP) trucks, which are great for fast turns and tricks, making them very versatile.
In the end, deciding between a skateboard and a longboard for cruising depends on your needs: the smoothness and steadiness of a longboard, or the agility and easy carry of a skateboard. Knowing these key differences helps in choosing the right board for you.
Tips for Cruising Comfortably on a Normal Skateboard
To have a great time cruising on a skateboard, you need to make a few changes and pick the right gear. Here are some helpful skateboard cruising tips to make your ride smooth and comfortable:
1. Invest in Cruiser Wheels: Cruiser boards come with big, stable wheels that make riding fast and comfy over short distances. Getting bigger wheels can really improve your cruise and make the ride smoother on different paths.
2. Add Riser Pads: Putting riser pads between your deck and trucks helps avoid wheel bite, which is great with big cruiser wheels. Riser pads give more space, making your ride smoother and less bumpy.
3. Select Suitable Bearings: For a smooth glide, high-quality bearings are key. Choose bearings that have low friction and last long. Brands like Bones and Spitfire are great choices for better cruising.
4. Maintain Your Skateboard: Keeping your skateboard in good shape is important for a comfortable ride. Clean and oil your bearings regularly. This will make your skateboard parts last longer and your rides more fun.
By focusing on these areas, you can turn your regular skateboard into something better for cruising. Remember these skateboard cruising tips to make your skating more fun and efficient. This way, you can really enjoy cruising.
| Product | Specs | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arbor Martillo Artist | 31.5” x 9” | £169.95 | 5 Stars |
| Globe Chromantic Cruiser | 33” long | £104.99 | 4.5 Stars |
| Enjoi Panda Whitey | 8” x 31” | £64.95 | 4 Stars |
| Tony Hawk 180 Wingspan | 8” x 31” | £120 | 4.7 Stars |
Conclusion: Is a Normal Skateboard Right for You?
Choosing the right skateboard depends on your needs, where you plan to skate, and your skill level. A normal skateboard is made for doing tricks and technical moves. But, with bigger, softer wheels and wider trucks, it can be good for cruising too.
Cruiser skateboards, on the other hand, are built for a smooth and easy ride. They have long decks and big wheelbases for more stability. Their soft wheels absorb shocks well, making them great for riding on different surfaces.
When picking a skateboard, think about what you will use it for. If you want to cruise or travel over mixed terrain, consider a cruiser or longboard. These have features like big, soft wheels for a smooth ride. But if you like doing tricks sometimes, a modified standard skateboard could work. Look at what you need and where you’ll skate to decide the best board for you.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!