Street skateboards are built for tricks, ramps and skateparks with hard, small wheels. Cruisers are short boards with soft wheels for getting around and portability. Longboards are longer and stable, with big soft wheels and wider trucks for commuting, carving and downhill. Pick by where you ride and how far, not by looks.
Each board type is designed for a different kind of riding.
Side by side
| Street skateboard | Cruiser | Longboard | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length | About 28 to 33 in | About 22 to 32 in | About 33 to 46 in and up |
| Wheels | Small, hard | Medium, soft | Large, soft |
| Trucks | Standard kingpin | Standard | Usually reverse kingpin |
| Strengths | Tricks, parks | Portable, smooth | Stable, carving, distance |
| Weaknesses | Rough ground | Less stable at speed | Heavy, not for flip tricks |
Longboard styles
| Style | Built for |
|---|---|
| Drop-through or drop deck | Stability, pushing, commuting |
| Pintail | Carving |
| Dancing | Footwork, long decks |
| Downhill | Speed, stiff decks |
Safety
Wear a helmet; see skate helmet certifications. Speed builds fast on longboards; learn to stop before hills.
Wheel choice matters most; see wheel hardness and size. Browse longboards and cruisers.
Common questions
Is a longboard easier for beginners?
For rolling and carving, yes. Longboards are stable. For learning tricks, a skateboard is better.
What is a cruiser board?
A short board with soft wheels for smooth rides around town that is easy to carry.
Can you do tricks on a longboard?
Some freestyle and dancing longboards allow tricks, but flip tricks are much easier on a skateboard.
What board is best for commuting?
A cruiser for short trips and carrying; a longboard for longer rides.