Differences between a Street Skateboard, Surfskate, Cruiser, and Longboard: Which One Is Best for You?

When you enter the world of skateboarding, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of board types available. From the classic street skateboard to the surf-inspired surfskate, including the comfortable cruiser and the stable longboard, each type of board is designed for a different skate style. In this article, we’ll explore the main differences between these four types of skateboards so you can choose the one that suits you best.

1. Street Skateboard

Street skateboarding is, without a doubt, the most well-known type of board and the one that probably comes to mind when you think of skateboarding. This board is designed for freeride and tricks, and it's the ideal choice for those who enjoy grinding rails, jumping stairs, or simply performing tricks at a skatepark.

Main features of street skateboards:

  • Size: Street skateboardsare usually smaller (from 7.5” to 8.5” wide) to allow greater maneuverability.
  • Trucks: The trucks are harder and narrower, providing better control during quick tricks.
  • Wheels: Generally, street skateboard wheels are smaller (50-54 mm) and harder to provide stability and performance on hard surfaces.

Who is street skateboarding ideal for?

If you're passionate about tricks, ramps, and rails, street skateboarding is the best option. This type of board is designed for those who want to skate freely when it comes to tricks and grinds.

2. Surfskate: The feeling of surfing on asphalt

Surfskate is a relatively new type of skateboarding, but it has quickly gained popularity thanks to its ability to mimic the feeling and technique of surfing on asphalt. Unlike street skateboards, surfskates are specifically designed to simulate movements in the water.

Main features of the surfskate:

  • Size: Surfskate decks are wider and have a shape similar to surfboards, with a larger tail (rear part).
  • Special trucks: Surfskate trucks (like spring-based or springless systems) are designed to allow wide and deep turns, replicating the carving sensation of surfing.
  • Wheels: The wheels are medium-sized (50-55 mm) and made of a softer compound to offer better traction and stability on uneven surfaces.

Who is the surfskate ideal for?

If you're a surfer looking for a way to practice your technique out of the water, the surfskate is the perfect option. It's also ideal for those who enjoy ripping in the streets without needing to be in the ocean.

3. Cruiser: The Board for Daily Rides

The cruiser is perfect for those looking for a skateboard to move around the city or cover short distances comfortably. While it's not designed for tricks, the cruiser is extremely versatile and comfortable, making it an excellent option for daily transportation or skateboarding as a sport.

Main features of the cruiser:

  • Size and shape: Cruisers are typically smaller or medium-sized but have a more flexible shape compared to street skateboards.
  • Trucks: The trucks are generally softer to provide smooth handling.
  • Wheels: The wheels of cruisers are medium to large (52-55 mm) and soft to provide easy sliding on various surfaces.

Who is the cruiser ideal for?

If you're looking for a practical board to cruise around the city comfortably and enjoy skateboarding, the cruiser is perfect. It's ideal for those who want a functional skateboard without the need to perform advanced tricks.

4. Longboard: Stability and Speed on Long Distances

The longboard is the longest and most stable board of all, designed for those seeking speed and smoothness. It is the preferred choice for those who enjoy downhill (riding down hills at high speed) or carving (making wide turns).

Main features of the longboard:

  • Size and shape: Longboards are longer (between 90 and 110 cm) and have an aerodynamic shape, ideal for maintaining stability at high speeds and while carving.
  • Trucks: The trucks of longboards are more open and have a greater angle to offer more stability.
  • Wheels: The wheels are large (55 mm or more) and soft, making them perfect for providing great grip on rough surfaces and for comfortably sliding at high speeds.

For whom is the longboard ideal?

If you enjoy speed, carving, or love going down hills at high speeds, the longboard is the board you need. It is also ideal for those who want to cover long distances with more comfort.

Conclusion: Which is the best for you?

When choosing between a street skateboard, surfskate, cruiser, or longboard, the answer depends on your preferences and needs. If you’re looking to do tricks and grinds, the classic street skateboard is your best option. If you want to practice surf technique on land, the surfskate is ideal. If you need a board to move comfortably around the city, the cruiser is perfect. And if you're passionate about speed and long distances, the longboard is the most stable option. Each type of board has its advantages, and your choice should be based on the type of ride you prefer and the conditions of use. Whether you're looking to perform skate tricks, enjoy a relaxed ride, or simulate surfing, there’s a skateboard that's right for you. Don’t hesitate to explore our online store. We offer a wide variety of street skateboards, surfskates, cruisers, and longboards.

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Ignacio

Ignacio is the bodyboarding expert at Mundo-Surf, with a competitive track record at the national and European levels that makes him a reference in the sport. Passionate about the sea and waves, Ignacio lives and breathes bodyboarding, bringing with him a unique blend of technique, passion, and knowledge.

In addition to his competitive experience, Ignacio has a solid background as a surf instructor, allowing him to pass on his love for the ocean and shape new generations of surfers and bodyboarders. On the Mundo-Surf blog, he shares not only advanced tips and techniques but also the philosophy that inspires him in every wave.

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