Cruiser skateboards are known for smooth, relaxed rides, perfect for commuting and casual outings. They have longer, wider decks for more stability and easy handling, making them great for new skaters. Their unique designs and graphics let riders show their style, with both comfort and function in mind.
These skateboards come with bigger, softer wheels to glide over bumps and cracks easily. High-quality trucks offer better balance and control, for smooth rides on different surfaces. Brands like Landyachtz and Sector 9 make durable cruisers that hold up under various conditions. Cruisers are versatile, good for daily commutes, cruising around the neighborhood, or just having fun.
Skateboarding’s growth, boosted by its Olympic presence, has highlighted cruiser boards’ many perks. Their design helps riders stay comfortable and less tired on long rides. This guide will cover the essentials of cruiser skateboards, their history, advantages, and tips for choosing the right board.
The History of Cruiser Skateboards
Skateboarding’s story started back in the 1950s and 1960s. It was influenced by the surfing boom. Back then, skateboards were simple: wooden planks with wheels from roller skates. These early versions were the start of today’s top cruiser skateboards.
Early Days of Skateboarding
The roots of skateboarding are linked to the surfers of California. They put roller skate wheels on wooden boards. This let them surf on land. This invention was straightforward but marked the start of cruiser skateboards.
Development of Cruiser Skateboards
In the 1970s, skateboards evolved for cruising. They became wider and shorter for better stability. Innovations like polyurethane wheels made rides smoother and boards last longer. Brands like Elos Skateboards emerged, improving designs with new materials.
Key Milestones in Cruiser Skateboarding
By the 1980s, cruiser skateboards were officially recognized. They stayed popular in the 1990s, even as street skateboarding rose. Cruiser skateboards are known for their unique style and flexibility. They attract many skaters.
| Decade | Development |
|---|---|
| 1950s-1960s | Early skates with wooden planks and roller skate wheels |
| 1970s | Introduction of polyurethane wheels, wider and shorter deck designs |
| 1980s | Recognition of cruisers as a skateboarding category |
| 1990s | Continued popularity despite the rise of street skateboarding |
| Today | Top cruiser skateboards are known for their versatility and timeless appeal |
Cruiser skateboards started with a surf influence and now have many styles. Choosing a cruiser is about culture, creativity, and community. It goes beyond just skating.
Benefits of Cruiser Skateboarding
Cruiser skateboards are great for health, convenience, and lifestyle. More people are choosing them. Knowing their benefits is important.
Health and Fitness Benefits
Cruiser skateboarding is fun and good for your heart. It burns calories and improves balance and muscle strength. Skating strengthens your core and legs.
It also helps you relax and feel happier. Balancing on a skateboard sharpens your mind too.
Convenience and Lifestyle Advantages
Cruiser skateboards are perfect for city travel because they’re easy to carry. They fit well on public transport and in small spaces. Their design helps you enjoy a smooth ride anywhere.
Skateboarding is eco-friendly and cuts down on pollution. It’s a fun way to get places, like work or school. Electric longboards make commuting even easier and more fun. For tips on skateboarding in the rain, visit this guide.
With their simple use and many advantages, cruiser skateboards are great for everyday life.
Choosing the Right Cruiser Skateboard
When picking a cruiser skateboard, think about what you want from your ride. Look at the cruiser’s type, deck size, wheels, and trucks. Also, consider the materials it’s made of. These factors affect how comfortable, stable, and long-lasting your skateboard will be.
Understanding Different Types of Cruisers
There are many kinds of cruiser skateboards, each fitting a different riding style or purpose. You can find mini cruisers, kicktail boards, and longboards. If you need a board for city life, go for something small and light. Longboards are great for speedy and long rides. Penny Boards, which are very small, are fun and easy to carry around.
Deck Size and Shape
Cruiser decks vary in shape and size, catering to different tastes. They are usually 25” to 32” long and 7” to 9.5” wide. If you wear a small shoe size, choose a deck that is about 7”-8” wide. Larger shoe sizes? Look for decks that are 8”-9” wide. Bigger decks mean more stability; smaller decks are easier to handle. Your deck’s shape also affects your ride, and some have special features to improve turning and avoid wheelbite.
Wheels and Trucks
Wheels and trucks play a big role in how smooth your skate is. Cruiser wheels are usually 58 to 65mm wide and quite soft. This makes your ride comfy. Make sure your truck width matches your deck to avoid falls. There are different kinds of trucks for different needs. Some are great for speed, and others are better for sharp turns. You can even add shock pads for a smoother ride.
Material and Durability
What your cruiser is made of makes a big difference. Decks are often made of sturdy woods like maple or bamboo. Brands like Woodsen and Elos Skateboards focus on long-lasting materials. This means their skateboards can handle a lot of use. Choose wheels and trucks made from quality materials for a reliable and smooth skateboarding experience.
Starting with a complete cruiser skateboard is smart if you’re new to this. These boards come ready to ride. They often have soft wheels and stable decks to help beginners learn and enjoy skating.
Maintenance Tips for Cruiser Skateboards
Keeping your cruiser skateboard in top shape is key. Regular cleaning, inspecting, and replacing parts when needed will help a lot. These steps make sure your skateboard lasts longer.
Clean your grip tape with a sanding belt cleaner. This fixes most dirt issues. Clean and lubricate your bearings but avoid WD-40. Use products like Bones Speed Cream for better performance.
Always check and tighten your truck bolts. Loose bolts can lower the deck’s lifespan. Replace bushings every six months for a smooth ride. To stop squeaks, try soaping or waxing the pivot cup and bushings.
Rotate your wheels now and then. This keeps the wear even. It’s very important for skateboards used in sliding. Clean bearings last longer, especially if you often skate in the rain.
Store your skateboard correctly to extend its life. Keep it indoors or in a stable environment. Avoid direct sunlight or placing it on a radiator. Both can warp your board.
If you often skate in the wet, consider a separate setup for those conditions. Dedicated wheels, bearings, and trucks for wet weather can protect your main setup. This keeps your regular gear in great shape.
| Maintenance Tips | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Clean grip tape | As needed |
| Lubricate bearings | Monthly |
| Rotate wheels | Every 2-3 months |
| Check truck bolts | Monthly |
| Replace bushings | Every 6 months |
Brands like Elos Skateboards offer great products and tips on keeping skateboards well-maintained. Regular care enhances the skateboard’s durability. It also gives you a smoother and safer ride.
Top Cruiser Skateboard Models Reviewed
Choosing the right cruiser skateboards is all about knowing what different riders want. Each model comes with unique features for beginners, commuters, and more. Let’s look at some of the top picks for each use.
Best Cruiser Skateboards for Beginners
Beginners need boards that are stable and easy to handle. The Landyachtz Dinghy Classic measures 28.5″ x 8″ and has a 14.6″ wheelbase. This size offers good control and easy steering. Another great choice is the Landyachtz Tugboat. It’s 30″ x 9″ with a 15″ wheelbase, Bear 155mm trucks, and Hawgs Easy 60mm wheels. These boards give a stable and comfy ride, perfect for starters.
Mini cruiser boards under 30” are also great for kids. They’re easy to control, which helps in learning to push and turn.
Best Cruiser Skateboards for Commuting
Commuters should look for cruisers with bigger decks and softer wheels. Take the Loaded Boards Omakase as an example. It’s 33.5″x10″, providing plenty of room for your feet. Its Hawgs Fatties wheels, which are 63mm, make for smooth rides on different surfaces. The Lush Fuel Elite is another great choice with its 65mm Cult Chronicle wheels. These boards combine style and function, ideal for city riding.
Best Cruiser Skateboards for Transportation
Those needing a reliable ride will want a board that’s both stable and agile. Cruiser boards are great for tight turns and crowded places thanks to their shorter wheelbases. The Landyachtz Dinghy Coffin, for example, is 28.2″ x 8.3″ with a 14.5″ wheelbase. It’s great for getting around.
Wooden cruisers like the Skate Avenue 38 offer better balance and comfort for long rides than plastic ones like Penny boards. They’re excellent choices for adults who prioritize practicality and comfort for daily travel.
For more info and tips on choosing the right cruiser skateboard, check out Ultimate Gear Lists.
Cruiser Skateboards: What Are They Good For
Cruiser skateboards are excellent for both traveling and fun. They work well for busy city rides or for exercise. These boards, usually between 30″ to 37″ long, balance stability and maneuverability perfectly. They are equipped with trucks from 109mm to 200mm wide. Plus, their wheel sizes range from 52mm to over 80mm. So, they can easily take on various terrains.
These skateboards encourage an eco-friendly way of life. For those in the city, they are great for quick trips without using cars. They have wheels usually measured at 78a durometer, offering a smooth ride. This makes them perfect for those new to skateboarding. The soft, large wheels, like 60mm Fireball Tinders, improve riding in cities.
Cruiser skateboards introduce people to skate culture. They showcase the fun, adventurous spirit of skating. Their decks, often under 34″ long, come in cool designs. For instance, the Fireball Artist Series sells for $69.95. Many prefer wooden cruisers for the added balance space they offer over plastic boards. For versatility, cruisers with kick tails help with quick moves like ollies.
Cruiser skateboards have many benefits. They boost physical health and are a fun, eco-friendly way to get around. They suit both beginners and experienced skaters. Cruisers are a smart choice for those wanting to enjoy nature and reduce their environmental impact. They are perfect for a lifestyle that values practicality and adventure.
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!