Penny Boards & Plastic Cruiser Skateboards

Penny Boards – Compact Cruiserboards for Daily Escapades

Explore our collection of Penny Skateboards and plastic skateboards. Distinct from conventional skateboards, plastic skateboards have unique characteristics. While some enthusiasts appreciate the portability of Penny boards, others favour standard-sized wooden decks. If you're contemplating whether a plastic cruiser suits you, the essentials are outlined below for your understanding.

Defining a Penny Skateboard

A Penny board is a lightweight skateboard crafted from plastic, well-suited for smooth rides and effortless control. Thanks to its compact and narrow deck, it excels in swift commutes, nonchalant city cruising, or simply relaxing with friends. Unlike full-size skateboards, Penny boards are so compact they can fit in your backpack, all while offering an enjoyable ride on paved surfaces.

Penny Skateboards, an Australian brand established in 2010, creates compact plastic cruiser skateboards reminiscent of the designs made popular in the 1970s. Nowadays, the term “Penny board” often broadly describes any small plastic cruiser, although it initially referred solely to the brand’s own creations. The brand achieved global acclaim following a boom in popularity in the early 2010s, setting the standard for this type of skateboard.

Due to this acclaim, numerous non-brand variants are casually referred to as penny boards, even though the more precise label would be “plastic cruiser skateboard” or a similar name. These alternatives often mimic the basic design and experience of the original models. Many skaters observe that Penny Skateboards uphold a reputation for consistent quality, with a dedicated following associating the brand with excellence.

Dimensions of a Penny Board

The original Penny Skateboards are 22 inches in length and 6 inches in width, making them particularly portable, easily fitting into a backpack or for city excursions. The plastic deck eliminates the need for griptape, preventing wear on clothing or bags.

This compact size provides Penny boards with a shorter wheelbase and standing platform, enhancing their dynamism. Even minor foot movements can alter the board’s balance and facilitate turning, while the reduced wheelbase enables very sharp carving. Although Penny boards are not designed for high-speed runs, they are perfect for quick trips and agile cruising.

Skateboarders seeking added stability might prefer larger versions, such as the 27-inch Nickel, which offer a broader deck and an extended wheelbase, yet retain the lightweight and portable nature.

As you gain insight into penny skateboard dimensions, it's time to understand how to cruise safely.

Suitability of Penny Boards for Children

Penny boards promise ample amusement for children; however, they should be regarded as a fun, recreational item rather than high-performance skateboards. The compact size means that riders stand with their feet close together, making balance more challenging.

Children aiming to enhance their skateboarding abilities might find greater benefit from a standard kids' cruiserboard or a regular kids' skateboard. Irrespective of the type of board, always ensure children use suitable protective gear while riding.

Learning to Roll on a Penny Board

If you're new to Penny boards, start by mastering the basics. Position your front foot near the bolts at the front of the plastic deck, slightly angled for improved control, and propel off with your back foot using brief, controlled strides. Keep your knees slightly flexed to maintain your balance and control. Penny boards are very responsive, allowing small weight adjustments to produce acute, quick turns. Always wear protective gear as you practise.

Stopping Techniques on a Penny Board

Given their soft wheels for smooth gliding, mastering safe stopping on Penny boards is crucial. The primary technique is foot braking: gently dragging your back foot along the ground to slow down. For more rapid stops, stepping off and jogging it out is another option. Trial and experience will guide you to the method that feels most intuitive and effective.

Performing Tricks on a Penny Board

Penny boards are primarily intended for cruising rather than technical tricks. While you might practise basic manoeuvres, carve, and enhance your balance, advanced tricks like kickflips are generally not attempted on a Penny board by most people. However, riders often enjoy experimenting to refine their control and savour an agile, playful ride.

Executing an Ollie on a Penny Board

Though challenging, you can attempt ollies on a Penny board with patience and practice. The flexible plastic deck makes this manoeuvre more difficult than on a traditional wooden skateboard. If mastering the ollie is your aim, it's advisable to initially learn the skill on a regular skateboard before transitioning to a penny board. Be prepared for an exceptionally steep pop angle due to the short, flexible deck, which can complicate timing and control.