Skateboarding has come a long way since its inception in the 1950s and continues to evolve. As new tricks are invented, different types of skateboards have been created to accommodate different styles of skating. There are now many types of skateboards, each with its unique characteristics and suitability for different types of skateboarding.
Today, we will uncover the 15 types of skateboards in 2023 and explain their uses. We will be taking a look at longboards, cruisers, mini-cruisers, downhill boards, flatland boards, old school boards, carve skateboard, and more, so make sure to read till the end!
History Of Skateboards
The first skateboards were born out of a need for surfers in the 1940s in California to find something to do when the waves were not cooperating. What started as a few boards with roller skate wheels and rudimentary handlebars has since evolved into one of the most popular sports today.
With its roots in surfing, skateboarding quickly spread around the world in the 1960s, and a number of manufacturers opened up shops to produce skateboards that looked like small surfboards.
Skateboarding has come a long way since then, and today it is recognized as an extreme sport. In the last few decades, the skateboard industry has grown exponentially, with new and innovative designs being developed every year.
15 Different Types Of Skateboards
Before we start the list, remember that there are way more than 15 types of skateboards available, but we will only cover 15 here. So, let’s dive into the list!
1. Longboard Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Great for cruising, carving, and long-distance travel
- Larger size allows for more stability and easier tracking
Longboard skateboards are a fascinating form of transportation that allows riders to glide effortlessly along the pavement and experience an exhilarating sense of freedom. These specialized boards are longer and wider than traditional skateboards, making them more stable and easier to balance on.
With their larger size, longboards can be used for a variety of activities, including cruising, downhill racing, freeriding, and carving. Riders can customize their longboards with different styles of trucks, wheels, and bearings to suit their individual riding style and preferences.
2. Cruiser Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Shorter than longboards and great for commuting
- Easy to carry around and store
Cruiser skateboards are made for easy riding and cruising around town. These boards are wider and shorter than standard skateboards, making them more stable and easier to control. Cruisers are usually outfitted with bigger and softer wheels that provide a smoother ride and can handle rougher surfaces.
These boards offer a smooth and comfortable ride, perfect for commuting or leisurely cruising. And their unique shapes and designs make them a stylish accessory to any outfit.
3. Mini-Cruiser Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Smaller than regular cruisers and more portable
- Lightweight and easy to store
A mini-cruiser skateboard is perfect for those looking to get the best of both worlds, the stability, and maneuverability of a longboard, with the easy portability of a traditional skateboard. These boards are smaller than standard cruisers and ideal for riders who want to practice tricks in tight spaces or carry something around wherever they go.
With their lightweight designs and small size, these mini skateboards are perfect for getting around town quickly and with ease.
4. Downhill Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Designed for speed and performance
- Typically have wide skateboard decks and large wheels
Downhill skateboards are designed for speed and stability, making them the perfect choice for riding steep, downhill terrain. With their wide decks and large wheels, downhill skateboards give riders the stability and control they need to navigate steep hills, sharp curves, and tight corners.
Downhill skateboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so riders can choose the board that best suits their riding style.
5. Double Kick Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Double kicktail design for tricks on flat surfaces
- Easy to maneuver and control
A double Kick Skateboard is the ultimate ride for any skateboarder looking to take their skills to the next level. These boards are designed with a raised tail on both ends and offer unparalleled versatility and control. These skateboards are perfect for performing tricks and jumping, all thanks to the double kick design.
A good thing is that they are also great for beginners who want to learn the basics of skateboarding. The double kick design allows for easy turning and maneuvering, making it easier for new riders to get the hang of things.
6. Street Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Designed for riding on pavement and urban terrain
- Short decks and smaller wheels for maximum maneuverability
Street skateboards are designed for street skating, skating in skate parks, or riding on flat surfaces and performing tricks like ollies, kick flips, and grinds. Street skateboards are usually outfitted with a short, narrow skateboard deck for greater control and maneuverability when performing tricks.
They also come with harder wheels that provide greater grip and stability when grinding on rails or ledges. With its flexible design and small size, a street skateboard is perfect for performing tricks in tight spaces and navigating city streets.
7. Old School Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Classic shape and design for retro style
- Narrower wheelbase for improved control
Old school skateboards are more than just a mode of transportation; they represent a unique era of skate culture that will never die. These vintage boards capture the essence of freedom and rebellion that was so prevalent during the 70s and 80s.
From the wooden decks to the metal trucks, every detail on an old school skateboard is a representation of a bygone era. Skating on one of these boards is a true experience that transports you back in time to a simpler era. The wide wheels and heavy trucks give you stability and speed, allowing you to easily take on the toughest terrain.
8. Electric Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Electric powered for long rides
- Smooth acceleration and braking
Electric skateboards or e-skateboards are the real deal for anyone looking for a convenient and futuristic way to commute. They perfectly blend traditional skateboarding and modern technology, offering an unparalleled riding experience.
The boards are powered by an electric motor that is typically controlled by a remote control, with some more advanced models allowing the rider to control the board using their smartphone.
Unlike traditional skateboards, an electric skateboard provides a smooth and stable ride, and you don’t have to put in as much effort to maintain momentum. They are also eco-friendly, eliminating the need for fossil fuels and reducing your carbon footprint.
9. Waveboards
Top Highlights
- Casterboard design for side-to-side motion
- Two caster wheels for quick maneuvering
Waveboards are a new type of skateboard that is quickly gaining popularity among the younger crowd. With two or four wheels that are connected to a central frame, waveboards offer a unique and fun riding experience.
They allow riders to move side-to-side while maintaining their balance, allowing them to perform tricks like spinning and rolling. Waveboards are incredibly light, making it easier for riders to maneuver and control the board.
10. Freestyle Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Designed for performing tricks
- Larger decks and wider skateboard wheels for improved control
Freestyle skateboards are designed for doing tricks and stunts like kickflips and grinds. A freestyle skateboard is typically smaller and more flexible than a traditional skateboard, allowing for more dynamic tricks and turns.
The boards are equipped with soft wheels that provide greater grip and control when performing stunts. Freestyle skateboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing riders to choose the one that best suits their style.
And don’t forget that freestyle skateboarding is all about style, and riders can often be seen incorporating dance-like movements into their routines.
11. Penny Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Smaller, narrower design
- Comes in a variety of colors and designs
Penny skateboards are small cruiser skateboards that are growing increasingly popular among young skaters. Penny boards typically feature small plastic or fiberglass decks with metal trucks and hard plastic wheels.
The boards are lightweight and easy to carry around, allowing you to take your skills on the go. They are perfect for carving up the streets or doing tricks in tight spaces, like skateparks or staircases.
And don’t be fooled by their small size; penny skateboards are incredibly durable and can handle just about anything you throw their way. And with so many different designs and colors available, you can easily find the perfect penny skateboard to fit your personal style.
12. Pintail Longboards
Top Highlights
- Tapered shape for more stability
- Large wheels for greater speed and control
Pintail Longboards are the envy of skateboards everywhere. Their sleek design is catered to long rides and optimal cruising ability. These boards are built for the ultimate ride, with a wider area to stand on, lightweight, and easier turning ability.
The long, pointed shape of a pintail longboard is stylish and serves a purpose in its stability and ability to carve through turns. They are perfect for beginners wanting to embark on a journey, as well as experienced riders looking for a smooth ride.
13. Onewheel Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Motorized skateboards with a single wheel
- Advanced balancing technology for improved control
Onewheel Skateboards are one of the most exciting types of skateboards on the market. They have an unparalleled ability to mimic surfing on land, providing a thrilling ride for riders, young and old.
With their unique design, riders can carve around tight turns, effortlessly climb hills, and glide over all kinds of terrains without breaking a sweat. It is not the name that is exciting it is the riding experience that these onewheel boards can provide.
14. Vert Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Designed for performing tricks in the air
- Highly durable and lightweight construction
Vert skateboards are designed specifically for performing tricks on ramps and half-pipes. They feature wide decks and trucks to provide stability when riders are performing tricks in the air. These boards also come with harder wheels that allow riders to gain more speed and momentum, making it easier for them to launch off the ramp and pull off those hard-to-reach stunts.
Vert skateboards can be used by experienced riders to push their limits. But that doesn’t mean beginners can’t have fun with these boards; the larger decks provide more stability and control, making them perfect for those just starting out.
15. Nickel Skateboards
Top Highlights
- Smooth board with a classic design
- Lightweight construction and responsive wheels
Nickel skateboards are the perfect combination of classic and modern design. They feature a sleek, minimalist look that is both stylish and functional. Nickel boards have a lightweight construction, with responsive wheels that make it easy to maneuver around tight turns and obstacles.
Despite their small size, nickel boards are incredibly durable and can handle all kinds of tricks and stunts that you throw at them.
Read more: How To Wrap A Skateboard?
Types Of Skateboards: Final Thoughts
Skateboarding has truly evolved over the years. Today, there are so many different types of skateboards that it can be hard to keep track of them all. From penny skateboards to motorized onewheel boards, there is a skateboard for every rider’s personality, style, and skill level. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, there is no limit to the possibilities when it comes to skateboarding in 2023!
Let us know in the comments if you still have any questions left.
Goodbye & Keep Skating Like A Pro With SkatersDen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which skateboard is better for beginners?
For beginners, the best skateboard to start with is a penny board. They are small and lightweight, making maneuvering and performing tricks in tight spaces easier. Not to mention, penny boards are incredibly durable and come in various trendy designs and colors, perfect for expressing your style!
If you want to take your skateboarding to the next level, consider a pintail longboard for more stability and speed.
Q: How much does a skateboard cost?
The price of a skateboard can vary depending on the type and brand. Generally speaking, you can expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $400 for a complete skateboard. Of course, you can always purchase individual components such as decks, trucks, and wheels to customize your own setup.
Q: Are all types of skateboards safe?
Most skateboards are safe to use once the rider is familiar with their board and has mastered basic riding techniques. However, some boards, such as electric skateboards, can be dangerous if not used properly. Read the user manual, adhere to any safety guidelines before using your board, and always wear safety gear when riding.