It’s not surprising skateboarding has been around for so long – it’s fun, it’s a great cardio exercise, and it’s the perfect activity for muscle development. More to the case, it can take you from point A to point B through the neighbourhood, campus, or even around the city.
Still, if you’re new to this sport, and you haven’t mastered the balance, stability, moves, or tricks quite yet, choose to skate in comfort with cruising. For that, you will need a particular type of skateboard known as a cruiser. What’s typical for it is that it’s longer than your regular skateboard but shorter than a longboard which is better for lengthier trips. If you want to make the most of it, you need to have the right cruiser skate deck designed for smooth rides so be careful with the shopping.
Cruiser Deck Sizes
As mentioned, cruiser boards are smaller boards but, in terms of the exact size, they usually go from 25” to 30” long, and for stability, from 7” to 10” wide. These are great for riders of smaller stature, and those who like to weave through the busy pavements and city streets.
These boards are highly reactive, manoeuvrable, and provide smooth rides even on uneven ground. Because of the length, you might know them by the name mini cruisers. One great example is the Landyachtz Dinghy. Bigger and heavier riders might opt for one of the longer cruiser skate deck models that are up to 120 cm long.
The pintails with a length ranging from 80 to 110 cm are the longer board options that are meant for truly comfortable cruising thanks to the nice foot platform. A near example here is the Z-Flex with its lower trucks that make push cruising a piece of cake.
The drop-throughs are decks in a length ranging from 88 to 109 cm and what’s typical for them is the long wheelbase measuring from 68 to 81 cm. As such, they’re ideal for long and stable cruises – even if at a higher speed. Still, due to the wheelbase design, they may not be as responsive as the aforementioned counterparts and they do come with the added weight. Sector 9 and Arbor have some awesome designs in this category.
Cruiser Deck Flex
This property is about how much shock absorption the cruiser skate deck can handle – the more flex there is, the more absorption you can expect. This is perfect if you want to relieve some of the stress your knees and ankles endure, which can come in handy with longer rides.
Also, boards that are more flexible have greater balance, so they’re ideal for beginners who are just getting the hang of it. Keep in mind, though, if it’s speedy rides you’re after, then you’re better left with the stiff alternative.
Some companies design their decks with small flex, and others with different levels of flex which are suitable for riders who want to choose the right amount for their weight. Then, there are also those that design their boards stiff to offer great board responses. Decide based on your preference, as well as what it is you would like more for your rides, and if possible test the flex out to see whether it really is what you like.
Sometimes, people forget that the cruiser deck is just as important as the trucks and wheels. After all, it is the foundation that everything else is built on. The rest of the skateboard components can be swapped out and upgraded, but the deck is what you’re stuck with.
Cruiser Deck Materials
If you’re still new to the sport, you probably won’t want to be overspending on a cruiser board. However, keep in mind that going too cheap could interfere with your performance. Not to mention it could also be to the detriment of your safety!
Cheap plastic can’t handle the wear and tear all too well, so if you plan on destroying the board after a few rolls through the city, then be prepared to spend more soon after. Canadian maple wood is a high-quality option that can endure whatever you put it through, and is naturally known for its stiffness.
Cherry wood is another choice if you prefer to invest in a top-notch cruiser skateboard and it’s notable for its medium-density and fine texture. In case you still prefer plastics but care about your performance and safety there’s the grade A plastic alternative which is much thicker and more enduring than regular plastic.
Some designers go as far as using 100% recycled plastic for this, making it an ideal choice for any skater who cares about the environment. The more durable the material, the higher the price but if you do your homework you may find skate stores that offer great deals. Word of advice is not to buy the first thing that comes your way – do your own research, read reviews, and you’d get your perfect cruiser deck.
