A skateboard is a versatile deck with various shapes and sizes, while a penny board is a compact, plastic cruiser board known for its portability.
TL;DR Skateboard Vs. Penny board
Skateboards offer a versatile platform with a wider deck and larger wheels, making them suitable for various riding styles and tricks. They provide more stability and control, which makes them ideal for beginners who want to learn the basics or advanced riders looking to push their limits.
Penny boards are lightweight and compact, perfect for cruising around town or commuting short distances. Their smaller size allows for easy maneuverability, making them convenient for navigating crowded streets or busy sidewalks.
What is a Skateboard?
A skateboard is a type of board with four wheels attached to the bottom, designed specifically for skateboarding. It is typically made from layers of wood pressed together, creating a sturdy and durable deck that can withstand the demands of tricks and jumps.
The design of a skateboard usually includes concave shaping on the deck, which helps riders maintain balance and control while performing maneuvers. The size and shape of skateboards can vary, catering to different styles and preferences. Some skaters prefer wider boards for stability, while others opt for narrower ones for increased maneuverability.
Skateboards also feature grip tape on the top surface of the deck. This rough-textured adhesive provides traction for the rider’s feet, ensuring they remain securely planted during tricks or turns.
In terms of structure, skateboards have two trucks mounted underneath the deck. These metal components connect the wheels to the board and allow for turning by pivoting around a kingpin in conjunction with bushings.
What is a Penny Board?
A Penny Board is a type of skateboard that gained popularity in the 1970s and has since become a favorite among skaters of all ages. It is smaller in size compared to traditional skateboards, making it more portable and easy to carry around. The deck of a Penny Board is typically made from plastic, which adds flexibility and durability to the board.
One key feature that sets the Penny Board apart from other skateboards is its unique shape. The board has a distinct curved design with rounded edges, allowing for smooth turns and increased maneuverability. This makes it ideal for cruising and carving on city streets or crowded sidewalks.
Another notable characteristic of the Penny Board is its compactness. With dimensions ranging from 22 to 27 inches in length, it can easily fit into backpacks or lockers for convenient transportation. Its small size also means that riders have greater control over their movements, making tricks easier to perform.
Skateboard Vs. Penny board – Key differences
| Aspect | Skateboard | Penny Board |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Shape | Varied shapes, often with a double kicktail for tricks | Compact, single kicktail deck with a unique, plastic design |
| Deck Material | Typically made of wood, fiberglass, or composite materials | Made of lightweight and flexible plastic |
| Deck Size | Various lengths and widths, typically longer and wider | Small and compact, typically shorter and narrower |
| Wheels | Range of sizes and hardness levels for different riding styles | Smaller, softer wheels designed for smooth cruising |
| Trucks | Metal trucks, often adjustable for customization | Compact plastic trucks, not adjustable |
| Bearings | High-precision bearings for various riding styles | Standard bearings optimized for cruising |
| Weight | Heavier due to larger deck and sturdier construction | Lightweight and easy to carry |
| Riding Experience | Versatile for tricks, street skating, and skatepark use | Primarily designed for smooth cruising and portability |
| Portability | Less portable due to larger size and weight | Highly portable and easy to carry |
| Versatility | Suitable for a wide range of riding styles and tricks | Ideal for casual cruising and short commutes |
Skateboard Vs. Penny board – Design and Structure Differences
Skateboard Design and Structure
Deck: Skateboards have a varied deck shape, often with a double kicktail for performing tricks. The deck is typically made of wood, fiberglass, or composite materials.
Deck Size: Skateboards come in various lengths and widths, offering options for different riding styles. They are usually longer and wider than penny boards.
Deck Material: Skateboard decks are known for their durability and are designed to withstand the impact of tricks and stunts. They are not flexible like penny board decks.
Wheels: Skateboard wheels vary in size and hardness, allowing customization for specific riding styles. They are designed for traction, stability, and performing tricks.
Trucks: Skateboard trucks are typically made of metal and are adjustable. They offer stability and control while riding and performing tricks.
Bearings: Skateboard bearings are high-precision and designed for smooth rolling, necessary for various riding styles and tricks.
Weight: Skateboards are relatively heavier due to their larger deck and sturdier construction.
Penny Board Design and Structure
Deck: Penny boards have a compact, single kicktail deck made of lightweight and flexible plastic. The deck is usually shorter and narrower than skateboards.
Deck Material: Penny board decks are made of plastic, which provides flexibility and contributes to their lightweight design.
Wheels: Penny boards are equipped with smaller, softer wheels designed for smooth cruising. These wheels offer a comfortable and stable ride.
Trucks: Penny boards have compact plastic trucks that are not adjustable. These trucks are lightweight and contribute to the board’s portability.
Bearings: Penny boards typically use standard bearings optimized for cruising and casual riding.
Weight: Penny boards are highly portable and easy to carry due to their lightweight construction.
Skateboard Vs. Penny board – Pros and Cons
Skateboard Pros
- Versatility: Skateboards are highly versatile and can be used for various riding styles, including street skating, skatepark tricks, and technical maneuvers.
- Customization: Riders can customize skateboards with different deck shapes, sizes, wheels, and trucks to suit their preferences and specific riding styles.
- Durability: Skateboards are built for durability and can withstand the impact of tricks and stunts, making them suitable for experienced riders.
Skateboard Cons
- Size and Weight: Skateboards are larger and heavier than penny boards, making them less portable and challenging to carry around.
- Learning Curve: Learning to ride a skateboard and perform tricks can be more challenging and may require time and practice.
- Terrain Limitations: Skateboards are better suited for smooth, paved surfaces and skateparks, and they may not perform as well on rough terrain.
Penny Board Pros:
- Portability: Penny boards are lightweight and highly portable, making them easy to carry in backpacks or by hand. They are ideal for short commutes and travel.
- Smooth Cruising: Penny boards are designed for smooth cruising and offer a comfortable ride on sidewalks and city streets.
- Beginner-Friendly: They are suitable for beginners due to their stability and ease of use, requiring less skill to start riding.
Penny Board Cons:
- Limited Trick Capabilities: Penny boards are not designed for performing advanced tricks or stunts, limiting their use for riders seeking more technical challenges.
- Terrain Limitations: They may not handle rough or uneven terrain as well as skateboards, which are better equipped for skatepark and street skating.
- Customization: Penny boards have limited customization options compared to skateboards, as their components are more standardized. Riders looking for specialized setups may find this limiting.
Image Credits
Featured Image By – Xvect intern on Freepik
Image 1 By – zlatko_plamenov on Freepik
Image 2 By – Kresina, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
