Welcome to the world of skateboarding, where you can find a plethora of options to choose from. Skateboards come in various shapes, sizes and types. They are not just an object of transportation but also a means for self-expression and individuality.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 24 different types of skateboards available.
Starting with street skateboards that are designed for tricks and stunts in urban settings. These decks have a concave shape which helps riders perform flips and other technical tricks with ease.
Next up are vert skateboards that focus on ramp skating; they have wider tails and noses which allow for more control while in the air.
The old school skateboards bring back nostalgia with their retro designs, while classic longboard skateboards offer stability and comfort for cruising around town.
Drop through longboard skateboards provide stability at higher speeds due to their lower center of gravity making them ideal for downhill riding.
So buckle up your helmet as we explore all 24 variations of skateboard technology!
1. Street Skateboards
Street skateboards are sleek and speedy, perfect for cruising through the city. They’re designed with a narrow shape and smaller wheels, making them highly maneuverable on flat surfaces. The deck is often made of hard rock maple or bamboo to withstand the wear and tear of street skating.
These types of skateboards are ideal for performing tricks such as kickflips, ollies, and grinds on curbs, ledges, rails, and other urban obstacles. Street skateboarders typically use softer wheels that provide more grip to perform these tricks with precision. However, if you prefer high-speed cruising over tricks, street skateboards can still be a great option for your daily commute or joy ride.
Next up are vert skateboards for those who love to fly high in the air off half-pipes and ramps.
2. Vert Skateboards
If you want to catch some air and ride the walls, then Vert Skateboards are what you’re looking for. These skateboards have a larger deck size with steeper concave and higher kicktails that make it easier to perform tricks on vert ramps. The wheels are also bigger and harder than street skateboards, allowing for more speed and stability while riding up the ramp.
Vert skating requires a lot of skill and confidence as it involves skating at high speeds on steep ramps, performing aerial tricks such as 360s, spins, grabs, flips, and grinds. It’s an adrenaline-fueled experience that challenges your limits and pushes you to improve every time you step onto the board.
Now let’s take a look at old school skateboards which are known for their retro designs and unique shapes.
3. Old School Skateboards
Let’s check out the rad and retro Old School Skateboards with their funky shapes and vintage vibes. These boards are a throwback to the early days of skateboarding, when riders would make their own decks by cutting up planks of wood.
The designs are quirky and unique, often featuring wide noses and tails, pointed tips, and concave shapes for added control. Old School Skateboards are perfect for cruising around town or hitting up your local skatepark.
They may not be as versatile as other types of skateboards, but they sure do turn heads with their old-school coolness. And don’t let their vintage appearance fool you – these boards can still handle some serious tricks and stunts.
As we move on to classic longboard skateboards, keep in mind that these boards offer a smooth ride with plenty of stability.
4. Classic Longboard Skateboards
You’re going to love cruising on a classic longboard skateboard, with its smooth ride and stable platform. These boards are typically longer than other types of skateboards, ranging from 36 to 60 inches in length. The wheels are larger and softer which makes them perfect for riding over rough terrain or cruising around town.
One of the main benefits of classic longboard skateboards is their maneuverability. They have a wider turning radius which allows you to carve effortlessly and make sharp turns. Moreover, these boards offer excellent stability due to their low center of gravity, making them ideal for beginners who want to learn how to ride without worrying about losing their balance.
Additionally, they are great for commuting as well since they provide a comfortable ride that won’t wear you out even after several miles. As you become more experienced with longboarding, you might want to try drop through longboard skateboards for an even smoother and faster ride.
5. Drop Through Longboard Skateboards
Get ready to experience a smoother and faster ride with drop through longboard skateboards, as they have a unique design that will make you feel like gliding on the road. The trucks of these boards are mounted through the deck rather than on top of it, which lowers the center of gravity and thus provides a stable ride at high speeds. Additionally, this design makes pushing easier because your feet are closer to the ground.
To give you an idea of what to expect when riding a drop-through longboard skateboard, take a look at this table:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Deck | Lowered |
Trucks | Mounted through deck |
Stability | High |
Speed | Fast |
Pushing Effort | Easy |
As you can see from the table above, drop-through longboard skateboards are designed for speed and stability. However, if you want even more stability and control while going downhill or carving turns, then double drop longboard skateboards might be worth considering.
6. Double Drop Longboard Skateboards
If you’re looking to take your longboarding skills to the next level, brace yourself for an exhilarating ride with the ultimate stability and control provided by double drop longboard skateboards – a game-changer in the world of downhill cruising.
These boards feature a lowered platform that is dropped twice between the trucks, creating a flush surface with the ground. This design allows riders to be closer to the pavement, providing better balance, more grip on turns and slides, and lessened wind resistance.
Double drop longboards are perfect for speed enthusiasts who want to carve through steep hills while feeling confident and safe. The low center of gravity makes them ideal for high-speed turning and sliding maneuvers, while also being highly stable at high speeds.
As you gain more experience riding this type of skateboard, you’ll feel comfortable pushing yourself even further than before.
Now let’s move onto cruiser longboard skateboards – a perfect match for those who love leisurely rides along city streets or beach promenades!
7. Cruiser Longboard Skateboards
Cruising through city streets or beach promenades has never been more enjoyable than with a cruiser longboard skateboard – perfect for taking in the scenery while effortlessly gliding along.
These boards are designed to be smooth and stable, making them ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a comfortable ride. The deck is usually wider than a traditional skateboard, providing plenty of space to move your feet around and find your optimal stance.
Cruiser longboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all share one thing in common: they’re built for cruising. They typically have larger wheels than other types of skateboards, which helps them roll over cracks and bumps with ease.
If you’re looking for a board that’s easy to ride and can handle any terrain you throw at it, then a cruiser longboard is definitely worth considering. And if you’re ready to kick things up a notch, then it might be time to try out the next type of board on our list: downhill longboard skateboards.
8. Downhill Longboard Skateboards
When you’re ready to feel the rush of wind in your hair and the thrill of speed, grab a downhill longboard skateboard. These boards are designed for maximum velocity and stability as you race down steep hills with confidence.
With their longer decks and wider trucks, downhill longboards provide a smoother ride at high speeds and allow for more controlled turns. They also typically have larger wheels made of softer materials that help absorb shock from rough terrain.
Downhill longboard skateboarding requires skill, practice, and proper safety gear such as a helmet, gloves, and knee pads. As you gain experience, you can experiment with different riding styles like tucking or drifting to optimize your speed and control on descents.
Once you’ve mastered downhill skating, it’s time to move on to another exciting type of skateboarding – freestyle skateboarding – where you’ll learn how to perform tricks while cruising around town or at the park.
9. Freestyle Skateboards
If you’re looking for a skateboard that can help you show off your tricks and style, then freestyle skateboards are perfect for you. These boards are designed to give you the freedom to move around and perform various stunts without any limitations.
Unlike downhill longboard skateboards, which are built for speed and stability, freestyle skateboards prioritize maneuverability. Freestyle skateboards come in different shapes and sizes, allowing riders to experiment with their skills and creativity.
Here’s what you need to know about these boards:
- Freestyle skateboards have a shorter length than other types of boards, making them easier to control.
- They usually have a pointed nose and tail that allows the rider to perform tricks such as flips, spins, and grinds.
- The wheels on freestyle skateboards are smaller than those on longboards or cruisers, allowing riders to make tight turns.
- The trucks on these boards are typically looser than those found on other types of skateboards, giving the rider more flexibility in movements.
- Freestyle decks often have grip tape patterns that help the rider keep their feet in place while performing tricks.
Now that you know what makes freestyle skateboards unique from others, let’s take a look at cruiser skateboards.
10. Cruiser Skateboards
You’ll love cruising around on a cruiser skateboard, which is known for its versatility and ability to handle various terrains.
Did you know that according to a recent survey, over 50% of skateboarders prefer using cruisers as their go-to mode of transportation?
Cruiser skateboards have larger and softer wheels than traditional skateboards, allowing for smoother rides on rough surfaces like cracked sidewalks or bumpy roads.
The deck is also wider and longer, providing more stability and comfort for longer rides.
Cruiser skateboards come in different shapes and sizes, from classic pintails to modern drop-through designs.
They are great for commuting, running errands, or just leisurely riding around the neighborhood.
Plus, they offer a fun way to exercise while enjoying the outdoors.
If you’re looking for something even more compact than a cruiser skateboard but with similar features, stay tuned for our next topic: mini cruiser skateboards!
11. Mini Cruiser Skateboards
Get ready to cruise with maximum style and ultimate convenience on these mini cruisers! These skateboards are smaller versions of cruiser skateboards, making them ideal for shorter commutes or cruising around town. They typically have a length between 22-27 inches and a width of 6-8 inches, which makes them compact and easy to carry around.
Mini cruiser skateboards have soft wheels that measure around 60mm in diameter. This allows riders to easily navigate through rough terrains such as pavements or cracks on the road. Additionally, they have a kicktail that enables riders to perform tricks such as ollies or kickflips.
Mini cruisers come in various designs, ranging from retro-style graphics to colorful patterns that will make you stand out from the crowd. So hop on your mini cruiser and get ready for some fun cruising!
Now it’s time to talk about pool skateboards – the perfect type of skateboard for those who love riding in backyard pools and other smooth surfaces.
12. Pool Skateboards
Now that you’ve explored the world of mini cruiser skateboards, it’s time to dive into a different type of skateboard: pool skateboards. These boards are specifically designed for skating in backyard pools or empty swimming pools that have been drained out.
When you’re riding a pool skateboard, you’ll feel the difference immediately. The deck is wider and more stable than other types of skateboards, giving you more control as you ride through the deep end of a pool.
Here are three key features to look for when choosing a pool skateboard:
- Wide Deck – A wider deck provides stability and balance while riding in the deep end.
- Rounded Tail – A rounded tail allows for quick turns and smooth transitions.
- Large Wheels – Larger wheels provide better speed and momentum when dropping into a steep section.
With these features in mind, you can choose a pool skateboard that fits your style and helps you ride with confidence.
So now that we’ve covered pool skateboards, let’s move onto park skateboards and explore what makes them unique!
13. Park Skateboards
Let’s take a look at what sets park skateboards apart and how they can enhance your experience on ramps and in skateparks.
Park skateboards are designed for tricks, stunts, and high-speed maneuvers on smooth surfaces such as concrete or wood. They have a shorter length than other types of boards, ranging from 28 inches to 32 inches, making them easier to control and maneuver in tight spaces.
One of the key features of park skateboards is their concave shape. This means that the middle section of the board is curved upwards towards the edges, creating a pocket for your feet to grip onto when performing tricks. The nose and tail are also slightly angled upwards, allowing for better pop when executing ollies or kickflips.
Overall, park skateboards are built to withstand hard landings and provide excellent responsiveness so that you can execute your favorite tricks with ease.
As you’ve seen, park skateboards are an essential tool for any skater who wants to explore the world of ramps and skateparks. However, if you’re looking for something more versatile that can handle different terrains with ease, then a freeride longboard skateboard might be just what you need. Let’s dive into this exciting topic in our next section!
14. Freeride Longboard Skateboards
If you’re looking for a versatile board that can handle various terrains, a freeride longboard skateboard might be just the ticket. These boards are designed to provide riders with stability at high speeds while also allowing them to execute slides and tricks with ease.
The decks are typically longer and wider than standard skateboards, providing ample space for foot placement and stability. Freeride longboards are perfect for riders who want to explore different terrain types or experiment with new tricks.
They offer excellent control and maneuverability, making it easy to navigate through tight turns or downhill slopes. With their unique features like drop-through trucks, concave deck designs, and grippy wheels, these boards are sure to give you an exciting ride every time.
And if you’re ready for even more carving action, the next section about carving longboard skateboards will surely pique your interest!
15. Carving Longboard Skateboards
You’ll love the thrill of carving on a longboard skateboard designed specifically for this purpose. Carving longboards are an excellent choice for riders who want to experience the joy of surfing or snowboarding on land.
These boards are typically longer and more flexible, allowing you to make deep, smooth turns that mimic those you would make while riding a wave or carving down a mountain.
Here are three reasons why you should consider getting a carving longboard:
- You can carve at high speeds: Carving is all about making deep, sweeping turns while maintaining your speed. With a carving longboard, you can achieve high speeds while still keeping your balance and control.
- It’s a great workout: Not only is carving fun, but it’s also an excellent form of exercise. It requires core strength and balance, which means that every time you ride your board, you’re getting in some quality exercise.
- You can customize your setup: Carving longboards come in many different shapes and sizes, which means that you can customize your board to fit your style and preferences. Whether you prefer a longer board with more flex or something shorter and stiffer, there’s sure to be a carving longboard out there that’s perfect for you.
As much fun as it is to carve on a longboard skateboard, some riders prefer something with even more versatility – enter the dancing longboard skateboard!
16. Dancing Longboard Skateboards
Get ready to bust some moves on your board with a dancing longboard skateboard! These boards allow you to glide and flow like a ballroom dancer on wheels. They’re designed specifically for freestyle riding and performing tricks such as spins, slides, and flips.
With their longer length and lower center of gravity, dancing longboard skateboards provide stability and flexibility for riders to showcase their creativity. They come in various shapes, sizes, and flex levels that cater to different rider preferences. Some boards have symmetrical shapes that allow riders to perform tricks in both directions, while others have asymmetrical shapes that offer more control when carving or sliding.
The grip tape on these boards is also specially designed with patterns or cutouts that help riders feel the foot placement during spins or pirouettes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider looking for a new challenge, the dancing longboard skateboard will take your skills to the next level.
Electric skateboards are also becoming increasingly popular among riders who want more speed and convenience. They offer an alternative way of transportation without having to push manually or worry about hills.
17. Electric Skateboards
Electric skateboards are gaining popularity due to their speed and convenience. With a motorized board, you can effortlessly travel around town without breaking a sweat or worrying about hills. These boards typically have a top speed of 20-30 mph, making them faster than traditional longboards.
Electric skateboards also offer the ability to go further distances with ease, as well as the option to control speed and braking through a remote control. Many electric skateboards come equipped with features such as regenerative braking, which charges the battery while slowing down, and LED lights for increased visibility at night. Additionally, some models even have swappable batteries that allow riders to extend their range by carrying extra batteries on longer rides.
It’s no wonder why more people are turning towards electric skateboards for transportation or leisure purposes. As fun as cruising around town on an electric skateboard can be, sometimes you want something more rugged that can handle off-road terrain. That’s where off-road skateboards come in – designed with larger wheels and sturdier decks that can handle dirt trails or uneven pavement.
18. Off-Road Skateboards
If you’re looking to take your shredding game to the next level, nothing beats carving up the rough terrain on an all-terrain skateboard. Off-road skateboards are designed to tackle any surface, from gravel and dirt paths to rocky trails and even sand.
These boards typically feature larger wheels with deep treads for better traction and stability, as well as wider decks for added control. Off-road skateboarding is not just a fun way to explore nature and challenge yourself; it also provides a great workout that engages your core, legs, and arms.
Plus, it’s a unique way to socialize with like-minded people who share your passion for adventure sports. So if you’re ready to get off the beaten path and experience the thrill of off-road skating, consider investing in an all-terrain skateboard today.
As you move on from off-road skateboards onto egg skateboards, get ready for a whole new world of possibilities. These unique boards feature an unusual shape that resembles an egg or teardrop.
This design allows the rider to perform tricks that would be impossible with traditional boards since they have no nose or tail. Whether you’re into bowl riding or street skating, egg skateboards offer endless opportunities for creativity and self-expression.
19. Egg Skateboards
You’re in for a whole new level of skateboarding with egg skateboards, offering endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. These unique boards are shaped like an egg, with a wide center and tapered ends.
Here are four reasons why you should consider giving egg skateboards a try:
- Versatility: Egg skateboards can be used for cruising, carving, and even some basic tricks. The shape of the board allows for smooth turns and easy maneuverability.
- Stability: The wide center of the board provides stability while riding, making it easier to balance and control your movements.
- Comfort: The egg shape also offers more foot space than traditional skateboard shapes, providing extra comfort during longer rides.
- Style: Egg skateboards stand out from the crowd with their unique shape and offer a fun way to express your individuality on the streets or at the park.
Now that you know why egg skateboards are so great, it’s time to move onto our next topic: fishtail skateboards.
20. Fishtail Skateboards
Get ready to ride the waves of style with fishtail skateboards. These types of skateboards are popular for their unique shape that resembles the tail of a fish, providing not only a cool appearance but also practicality in terms of control and maneuverability.
The fishtail skateboard is wider at the back than it is at the front, allowing you to have more surface area to stand on while still being able to make sharp turns. Fishtail skateboards are perfect for cruising around town or carving up hills due to their stability and balance. They’re also great for experimenting with different tricks because they offer more control over your board than other types of skateboards.
If you want a skateboard that’s both stylish and functional, then a fishtail skateboard might be just what you need!
Now, let’s move onto the next type of skateboard – the double-kick popsicle skateboard.
21. The Double-Kick Popsicle Skateboard
With its versatile design and ability to perform a variety of tricks, you’ll want to get your hands on a double-kick popsicle skateboard. This type of skateboard is characterized by its symmetrical shape with a kicktail on both ends. The nose and tail are also slightly curved upwards, allowing for easy maneuvering and control.
The double-kick popsicle skateboard was originally designed for street skating but has since become popular among skaters of all styles. Its unique shape allows for a wide range of tricks, including ollies, flip tricks, grinds, and slides.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced skater looking for a new challenge, the double-kick popsicle skateboard is definitely worth trying out.
When it comes to carving down hills at high speeds, however, the double-kick popsicle skateboard may not be the best option. That’s where the carve skateboard comes in – with its longer deck and wider trucks designed specifically for smooth turns at high speeds.
22. The Carve Skateboard
If you’re looking to take your carving skills to the next level, the carve skateboard is a fantastic option with its longer deck and specialized trucks for smooth turns at high speeds.
The carve skateboard is specifically designed for cruising and carving, making it perfect for those who want a fun and comfortable ride. Its long deck provides more stability and foot space, allowing riders to comfortably shift their weight during tight turns.
Its specialized trucks allow for smooth turning at high speeds, designed with a unique geometry that allows for increased lean angles, giving riders the ability to make sharp turns without sacrificing stability.
Additionally, many carve skateboards come with soft wheels that provide a smooth ride on rough terrain.
When it comes to finding the perfect skateboard for cruising and carving, few options can compete with the carve skateboard. However, if you’re looking for something even more compact and maneuverable, you might want to consider trying out a penny board instead.
23. Penny boards
Now that you’re familiar with the carve skateboard, let’s move on to a different type of board – the penny board. If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight skateboard that can easily fit in your backpack, then the penny board might just be exactly what you need.
Penny boards are typically made with plastic decks which makes them incredibly durable and long-lasting. They have small wheels and trucks that are perfect for cruising around town or even commuting to work or school. The small size of these boards also makes them easy to maneuver, so you can weave in and out of crowds effortlessly.
As we move on from penny boards, let’s take a closer look at off-road skateboards. These types of skateboards are designed specifically for rough terrains like dirt paths, gravel roads, or rocky trails. So if you’re someone who loves adventure and exploring new areas, an off-road skateboard might just be your new favorite toy!
24. Off-Road Skateboard
The off-road skateboard is perfect for tackling rough terrains, but have you ever wondered if it’s possible to ride one on a beach? Well, the answer is yes!
Off-road skateboards are designed with wider and bigger wheels that provide excellent grip and stability in any terrain. Moreover, their decks are made of durable materials, such as bamboo or fiberglass, which makes them resistant to wear and tear.
If you want to take your off-road skateboard to the beach, keep in mind that sand can be a tricky surface. However, with some practice and patience, you can master riding on sand dunes or even wet sand. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Adjust your stance: Ride with your feet slightly apart and parallel to each other to maintain balance.
- Lean back: Shift your weight towards the tail of the deck when going uphill or on loose sand.
- Avoid sharp turns: Turn gradually without making sudden movements that could throw you off balance.
Now that you know how versatile an off-road skateboard can be, let’s dive into the anatomy of a skateboard.
Anatomy of a Skateboard
Get ready to discover the inner workings of your trusty skateboard and how each component contributes to the smooth ride you love.
First things first, let’s talk about the deck – it’s the board that you stand on. Decks are typically made out of seven layers of maple wood glued together, which makes them sturdy and durable. The size and shape of a deck can vary depending on what kind of skating you’re into. For example, if you’re a street skater, you’ll want a smaller deck that’s easier to maneuver with.
Next up is the grip tape, which covers the top surface of your deck and keeps your feet from slipping off while riding. Grip tape is usually made out of sandpaper-like material and comes in various designs and colors.
Beneath the grip tape are trucks – these metal components attach to either end of the deck and hold the wheels in place. You can adjust truck tightness with a skate tool to control how easily your board turns or pivots when riding.
Finally, there are the wheels themselves – they come in different sizes and durometers (hardness ratings) for specific types of skating surfaces or tricks.
With all these components working together seamlessly, it’s no wonder skateboarding feels like flying sometimes!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve now explored the 24 types of skateboards that exist in this world. From the classic street skateboard to the off-road skateboard, each type has its own unique characteristics and purpose.
As you delve deeper into the anatomy of a skateboard, you realize that it’s not just a piece of wood with wheels attached. It’s a symbol of freedom, creativity, and self-expression. When you step onto a skateboard, you’re not just riding; you’re soaring through life on your own terms.
Skateboarding is more than just a hobby or sport – it’s a way of life. So whether you’re cruising down the boardwalk on your longboard or shredding in the halfpipe on your vert skateboard, always remember why you started skating in the first place.
Keep pushing yourself to new heights and never stop exploring all that skateboarding has to offer.
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!