The perfect board doesn’t just get you from point A to B—it becomes an extension of your lifestyle.
Standing in the skateboard aisle, staring at the colorful array of options can feel overwhelming. Two contenders consistently rise to the top for daily riders: cruiser boards and penny boards. But which one deserves a spot under your feet? Let’s break down these sidewalk surfers and find the perfect match for your daily adventures.
The boards at a glance
Cruiser boards feature a wider deck (typically 7-10 inches), softer wheels, and a more traditional skateboard shape, though shorter than a longboard. They offer stability, comfort, and that classic surf-inspired feel. Penny boards, meanwhile, are compact plastic wonders with their distinctive 22-inch length, vibrant colors, and remarkable portability that fits easily in backpacks.
Matching boards to lifestyle needs
Your daily routine matters enormously when selecting between these options. Are you navigating crowded campus walkways? Commuting to work? Weekend adventures through park paths? Cruisers excel on longer journeys where stability matters, while penny boards shine in tight spaces and quick trips.
Why your choice matters
The right board transforms mundane travel into something you actually look forward to. A board that doesn’t match your needs might collect dust in your garage, while the perfect match becomes your daily companion. Consider your terrain (smooth pavement vs. rougher roads), storage needs, and riding style before committing.
Remember: the best board isn’t necessarily the most expensive or popular—it’s the one that makes you excited to ride every single day.
The Ultimate Cruiser vs Penny Board Showdown
When it comes to choosing your perfect sidewalk surfer, the battle between cruiser and penny boards can leave even seasoned riders scratching their heads. These compact cousins share DNA but deliver distinctly different experiences on the pavement. Let’s dive into what makes each unique and which might become your new daily rider.
The decision between a cruiser and penny board for everyday riding often comes down to subtle differences that dramatically impact your experience. While both offer portable alternatives to traditional longboards, their design philosophies create entirely different rides. Let’s break down exactly what separates these popular sidewalk surfers.
Size, Construction and Weight Breakdown
Cruiser boards typically measure 28-32 inches in length with widths around 8-10 inches, offering substantially more foot space than penny boards, which usually range from 22-27 inches long with narrower 6-7.5 inch widths. This size difference isn’t just about numbers—it fundamentally changes how each board feels underfoot.
Deck Construction:
- Cruisers: Usually wood (maple, bamboo) with concave shapes
- Penny Boards: Typically plastic (polypropylene) with flat or minimal concave
The weight difference is notable too. A standard Penny Australia original weighs approximately 3.5 pounds, while wooden cruisers from brands like Landyachtz typically weigh 5-7 pounds. This weight variance affects everything from carrying convenience to riding stability.
Ride Feel and Handling Characteristics
| Feature | Cruiser | Penny Board |
|---|---|---|
| Stability | Higher | Lower |
| Maneuverability | Good | Excellent |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Steeper |
| Speed Control | Better | More challenging |
Cruisers deliver a more planted, predictable ride that forgives mistakes and handles rough terrain with greater composure. Their wider wheelbase and deck create a stable platform that inspires confidence, especially for beginners or when navigating busy sidewalks.
Penny boards, with their compact design and responsive trucks, offer unmatched agility for weaving through crowds and executing tight turns. However, this responsiveness comes at the cost of stability—especially at higher speeds or on uneven surfaces.
Durability, Maintenance and Long-Term Value
The plastic construction of penny boards makes them nearly indestructible in normal use conditions. They shrug off water, impacts, and temperature changes that might damage wooden decks. This durability comes with minimal maintenance requirements—simply wipe clean and occasionally check hardware tightness.
Wooden cruisers require more attention. They’re susceptible to water damage, can develop pressure cracks, and may need occasional refinishing. However, they offer significant advantages:
- Customization: Easier to grip tape, paint, or modify
- Component upgrades: More compatible with aftermarket parts
- Repairability: Can often be restored rather than replaced
From a value perspective, quality cruisers from manufacturers like Globe or Sector 9 typically start around $120-180 but can last many years with proper care. Penny boards range from $70-120, with authentic Penny Australia boards commanding premium prices for their proprietary plastic formula and lifetime warranty.
The verdict? Cruisers offer greater versatility and growth potential for most riders, while penny boards excel in portability and maintenance-free durability. Your perfect match depends on prioritizing stability and foot space versus ultimate portability and carefree ownership.
Making the Perfect Match: Cruiser vs. Penny Board for Daily Rides
Terrain Mastery: Where Each Board Shines
Let’s cut to the chase—your riding environment makes all the difference when choosing between a cruiser and a Penny board.
Cruiser boards dominate on varied urban landscapes. With their wider decks (typically 8-10 inches) and softer wheels (78A-85A durometer), they absorb sidewalk cracks and small obstacles that would send smaller boards flying. I’ve watched countless riders effortlessly navigate campus pathways and neighborhood streets on cruisers, maintaining stability even when the pavement gets questionable.
Penny boards excel in smooth, confined spaces. Their compact design (22-27 inches long) makes them perfect for weaving through crowded areas, storing under desks, and carrying into shops. The plastic deck’s flexibility provides surprising shock absorption on smooth surfaces, but becomes less forgiving when the terrain roughens up.
The perfect board isn’t about what’s trending—it’s about what matches your daily route.
For mixed terrain commuting, cruisers offer versatility that’s hard to beat. Their larger wheels roll over small obstacles while maintaining momentum, making them ideal for riders who encounter varying surfaces throughout their journey.
Skill Development: Learning Curves Compared
| Board Type | Beginner Friendliness | Stability | Maneuverability | Trick Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cruiser | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Penny | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
Cruisers offer a gentler learning curve for most beginners. The wider deck provides a stable platform for finding your balance, while the responsive trucks allow for gradual skill development. Most riders can feel comfortable cruising within 2-3 practice sessions.
Penny boards present a steeper initial challenge but reward persistence. Their smaller footprint demands more precise balance and weight distribution from the start. The learning process typically involves more falls, but riders who master Penny boards often develop exceptional balance skills that transfer to other board sports.
For riders with previous skateboarding experience, the transition to either board type happens much faster, though the compact nature of Penny boards might still require adjustment time.
Finding Your Perfect Match
When making your final decision, consider these critical factors:
Commuting distance plays a crucial role. For trips under a mile, either board works well. For 1-3 mile journeys, cruisers provide more comfort and less fatigue. Beyond 3 miles, consider larger longboards or electric alternatives from brands like Boosted or Evolve.
Storage requirements might tip the scales. If you’re constantly carrying your board into offices, classrooms, or stores, the Penny’s compact size offers undeniable convenience. Many riders report that this practical consideration ultimately determined their choice.
Physical build matters more than many realize. Riders with larger feet (Men’s 10+/Women’s 11.5+) often find Penny boards uncomfortably small for extended use, while smaller riders may appreciate the Penny’s lightweight design during longer carries.
For the ultimate everyday ride that balances performance and practicality, cruisers win for most adult riders tackling varied terrain. However, if portability trumps all and your routes feature primarily smooth surfaces, the Penny board’s grab-and-go convenience is unmatched.