What Is a Cruiser Skateboard?

Cruiser skateboards are one of the most popular choices for people who want a smooth and comfortable ride. Unlike traditional skateboards used for tricks or longboards designed for downhill speed, cruisers sit in the middle—they’re built for easy riding, portability, and fun. If you’re curious about whether a cruiser skateboard is right for you, this guide breaks down everything you need to know.

What Exactly Is a Cruiser Skateboard?

A cruiser skateboard is a type of board designed for short to medium-distance travel, everyday commuting, and casual riding. Its deck is typically smaller than a longboard but slightly wider than a standard trick skateboard. The key features that make a cruiser stand out include:

• Medium-length deck (around 27–33 inches) for balance and control.
• Soft wheels (usually 78A–85A durometer) that absorb cracks, bumps, and rough pavement.
• Compact size that makes it portable and easy to carry.

In short, cruisers are the skateboards you grab when you want to roll smoothly through the streets without worrying about doing tricks or racing downhill.

How Is a Cruiser Different from a Regular Skateboard?

At first glance, a cruiser may look similar to a standard skateboard. But the differences become clear once you ride:

Feature	Cruiser Skateboard	Regular Skateboard
Deck Shape	Often has a kicktail, wider nose, varied shapes	Popsicle shape with nose & tail
Wheel Type	Softer, larger wheels	Hard, smaller wheels
Purpose	Commuting, smooth rides, comfort	Tricks, skateparks, technical moves
Speed & Comfort	Faster and smoother on rough surfaces	Slower on rough roads, better on ramps

A cruiser is best for getting around town, while a regular skateboard is designed for flip tricks, grinding, and skatepark riding.

Why Do People Choose Cruiser Skateboards?

People love cruiser boards because they combine convenience with comfort. Here’s why many skaters pick them:

• Great for beginners – Stable, easy to control, and forgiving on cracks.
• Perfect for commuting – Many riders use them to get to school, work, or nearby shops.
• Portable – Lightweight and easy to carry compared to a longboard.
• Smooth ride – Soft wheels glide over sidewalks, brick paths, and rough asphalt.
• Versatility – Some cruisers have a kicktail that allows small tricks like ollies or curb hops.

What Size Cruiser Skateboard Should You Get?

Cruiser skateboards come in different sizes, and the right one depends on how you plan to use it:

• Mini-cruisers (22–27 inches) – Extremely portable, great for quick trips and carrying in a backpack. Best for kids, beginners, or riders in crowded areas.
• Mid-size cruisers (28–32 inches) – Balance of portability and comfort. Ideal for commuting or relaxed rides.
• Large cruisers (32–36 inches) – Provide stability and control. Good for longer rides or heavier riders.

👉 Tip: If you want to carry your board everywhere, go with a mini-cruiser. If comfort matters most, choose a mid or large cruiser.

What Are Cruiser Skateboard Wheels Like?

The wheels are what truly make cruisers special. They’re:

• Larger than regular wheels (55–65mm in diameter).
• Softer (78A–85A hardness), which allows them to grip the road and absorb bumps.
• Faster on rough surfaces because they roll smoothly over cracks and uneven pavement.

This is why cruising feels effortless compared to a regular skateboard that might rattle on the same terrain.

Is a Cruiser Good for Beginners?

Yes—cruiser skateboards are perfect for beginners. Unlike trick boards that require balance for flips and grinds, cruisers focus on comfort and stability. Beginners benefit because:

• They’re easier to balance on.
• They roll smoother on rough surfaces.
• They require less pushing effort due to bigger wheels.

Many skate shops even recommend cruisers as the first skateboard for people who just want to ride.

Where Can You Ride a Cruiser Skateboard?

Cruiser skateboards shine in everyday settings. You can ride them on:

• City sidewalks
• College campuses
• Beach boardwalks
• Neighborhood streets
• Smooth bike paths

However, they’re not ideal for skateparks, stair tricks, or downhill racing.

Should You Buy a Cruiser or a Longboard?

This depends on your goals:

• Choose a Cruiser if: You want portability, short-distance rides, or a casual board you can carry anywhere.
• Choose a Longboard if: You want maximum stability, downhill speed, or longer-distance rides.

Think of cruisers as city bikes and longboards as touring bicycles—both are fun, but built for different purposes.

Pros and Cons of Cruiser Skateboards

Here’s a quick breakdown:

✅ Pros:

• Smooth and comfortable ride.
• Portable and lightweight.
• Beginner-friendly.
• Can handle rough terrain.

❌ Cons:

• Not designed for technical tricks.
• Less stable at high downhill speeds.
• Smaller deck compared to longboards.

How Much Does a Cruiser Skateboard Cost?

Prices vary depending on brand, quality, and size. On average:

• Budget cruisers – $50–$80 (good for kids or casual use).
• Mid-range cruisers – $80–$150 (best balance of quality and price).
• Premium cruisers – $150+ (high-quality decks, pro wheels, branded trucks).

Final Thoughts

A cruiser skateboard is the ideal choice if you want comfort, portability, and fun without focusing on tricks. It’s a perfect everyday board for city streets, campuses, and casual rides. If you’re just starting out or want a reliable commuting option, a cruiser could be the best board for you.

FAQs

1. Can you do tricks on a cruiser skateboard?

Yes, but only basic tricks like ollies, manuals, or curb hops. They’re not made for technical flip tricks or grinds.

2. Are cruiser skateboards good for commuting?

Absolutely. Their smooth wheels and compact size make them one of the best choices for daily commuting.

3. How long do cruiser skateboard wheels last?

With regular use, cruiser wheels can last 6–12 months. Softer wheels wear faster but give better comfort.

4. Is a cruiser better than a penny board?

Cruisers are larger and more stable than penny boards. Penny boards are ultra-portable but harder to control, especially for beginners.

5. Can adults ride cruiser skateboards?

Yes—cruisers are suitable for all ages. Just pick the right size deck for your weight and height.