Ever watched someone effortlessly glide through a crowded sidewalk on a tiny, colorful board and thought, “That looks incredibly fun”? Penny boards have revolutionized urban transportation with their compact design and smooth ride, becoming the go-to choice for commuters, campus cruisers, and casual riders alike.
These pint-sized powerhouses aren’t just miniature skateboards—they’re purpose-built cruising machines designed to make everyday riding a joy rather than a chore. The best penny boards deliver that perfect balance of portability and performance that makes you want to ride everywhere, from grabbing coffee to cruising boardwalks.
Quality markers that separate the best from the rest
What truly defines a quality penny board? It starts with the deck composition. Premium boards feature high-grade plastic composites that flex without breaking, providing that perfect bounce that absorbs sidewalk cracks while maintaining responsiveness. The deck should have just enough flex to act as natural suspension without feeling unstable.
“The deck is the soul of your penny board—it needs to be flexible enough to absorb shock but rigid enough to maintain control at speed.”
Cruising-specific features worth your attention
The best cruising penny boards distinguish themselves through several key characteristics:
- Wheel size and durometer: Larger, softer wheels (60-65mm with 78A-83A durometer) provide smoother rides over rough surfaces
- Truck quality: High-quality aluminum trucks with proper bushings deliver stability at speed
- Bearing performance: ABEC-7 or higher bearings ensure longer glides with less pushing
Matching board to environment
Your ideal penny board depends largely on where and how you’ll ride:
| Environment | Recommended Setup |
|---|---|
| Urban commuting | 22″ board, softer wheels, looser trucks |
| Campus cruising | 27″ board, medium wheels, moderate trucks |
| Rough pavement | Any size with larger, softer wheels |
| Smooth paths | Standard setup with harder wheels for speed |
The perfect penny board feels like an extension of your body, responding intuitively to weight shifts and delivering consistent performance across varying surfaces. When evaluating options, consider how the complete package—deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings—works together for your specific riding environment.
Top 3 Penny Boards That Will Transform Your Daily Ride
When it comes to finding the best penny boards for cruising and everyday riding, the perfect board combines smooth performance, durability, and the right price point for your needs. I’ve tested dozens of options to bring you the definitive ranking that will have you gliding through city streets with confidence. Let’s dive into the standout performers that deserve your attention.
Premium Excellence: Penny Australia Authentic
The original Penny Australia Authentic doesn’t just set the standard—it redefines what premium cruising feels like. This 22-inch marvel features:
- Military-grade plastic deck that flexes without breaking, even after years of daily use
- Precision-milled 3-inch aluminum trucks that provide remarkable stability at speed
- 59mm 83A wheels that strike the perfect balance between grip and slide
What truly separates this board from competitors is its proprietary wheel formula that somehow manages to roll faster and smoother over rough surfaces while maintaining exceptional durability. During testing, the board effortlessly handled everything from cracked sidewalks to smooth bike paths without transferring vibration to your feet.
The secret to the Penny Australia’s performance lies in its weight distribution—at just 4.3 pounds, it’s substantial enough for stability but light enough to carry between rides.
At $119.99, it represents significant investment, but riders consistently report 3+ years of daily use without significant wear—making the cost-per-ride pennies on the dollar.
Mid-Range Marvel: Globe Bantam
The Globe Bantam delivers 90% of the premium experience at 70% of the cost. This 24-inch cruiser offers:
- Reinforced composite deck with surprising flex and responsiveness
- Slant reverse kingpin trucks that carve with precision
- 60mm 78A wheels that excel on smoother surfaces
What impressed me most was the board’s turning radius—tight enough for navigating crowded areas but stable enough for longer rides. The slightly softer wheels absorb more vibration than expected, though they may wear faster on rough terrain.
| Feature | Performance Rating |
|---|---|
| Smooth Ride | 8/10 |
| Durability | 7/10 |
| Portability | 9/10 |
| Value | 8.5/10 |
Priced at $84.99, the Bantam hits the sweet spot for riders who want quality components without breaking the bank. The bearings may need upgrading after a season of heavy use, but that’s an inexpensive modification for significantly improved performance.
Budget-Friendly Beast: Retrospec Quip
Don’t let the $59.99 price tag fool you—the Retrospec Quip delivers remarkable performance where it matters most. This 22.5-inch board features:
- High-density plastic deck with surprising durability
- Standard kingpin trucks that perform admirably after minor adjustments
- 59mm 85A wheels that handle smooth pavement beautifully
The Quip makes smart compromises, focusing resources on deck quality and wheel performance while using serviceable but basic trucks and bearings. The slightly harder wheels sacrifice some comfort for durability, making this an excellent option for riders who stick primarily to well-maintained surfaces.
What truly stands out is how easily upgradeable this board is—start with the base model, then gradually replace components as your skills and preferences evolve. Many experienced riders keep a Quip as their “beater board” for situations where they wouldn’t risk their premium setup.
For beginners or casual riders who want to experience the joy of cruising without a significant financial commitment, the Quip delivers exceptional value without compromising the essential features that make penny boarding such a joy.
Finding Your Perfect Penny Board Match
Aligning boards with your riding style
Selecting the right penny board isn’t just about grabbing the flashiest deck on the shelf—it’s about finding your perfect match. The best penny board for cruising should align with your specific riding goals. Are you commuting through campus? Look for a 27-inch Penny Cruiser with softer wheels (78A-85A durometer) that absorb sidewalk cracks. Need something ultra-portable? The classic 22-inch Penny Original offers that iconic nimble feel while fitting in lockers and backpacks.
Your weight and height matter significantly. Riders over 180 pounds typically benefit from boards with aluminum or reinforced trucks, while shorter riders might prefer the control of a 22-inch deck. Terrain considerations should drive your decision too—smooth pathways allow for smaller wheels (54-60mm), while rougher surfaces demand larger options (60-70mm).
The perfect penny board doesn’t just carry you—it becomes an extension of your movement style.
For those seeking versatility, the Globe Bantam offers that sweet spot between portability and stability, with slightly wider decks that forgive occasional missteps without sacrificing that quintessential penny board feel.
Keeping your board rolling for years
Penny boards are remarkably durable, but proper maintenance dramatically extends their lifespan. Establish a simple routine:
Weekly maintenance:
- Wipe down your deck with a slightly damp cloth
- Check and tighten all hardware (particularly truck mounting bolts)
- Inspect wheels for flat spots or debris
Monthly maintenance:
- Clean and lubricate bearings (use skate-specific lubricant, never WD-40)
- Rotate wheels to promote even wear
- Inspect bushings for cracks or compression
For bearings that have seen better days, a 15-minute soak in citrus cleaner followed by thorough drying and proper lubrication can restore surprising performance. Store your board in dry conditions, avoiding extreme temperatures that can warp plastic decks or degrade wheel urethane.
Where quality meets customer confidence
When investing in a penny board, purchasing channels matter almost as much as the board itself. While big-box retailers offer convenience, specialized skate shops provide invaluable expertise and often better post-purchase support.
| Retailer Type | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Local Skate Shops | Hands-on testing, expert advice, community connection | Limited selection, potentially higher prices |
| Brand Direct Sites | Full product lines, warranty guarantees, authentic parts | Shipping costs, no physical testing |
| Major Online Retailers | Competitive pricing, extensive reviews, fast shipping | Potential for counterfeits, limited expertise |
Tactics Boardshop and Skate Warehouse have established reputations for authentic products and responsive customer service. Both offer detailed specifications and maintain relationships with manufacturers for warranty claims.
Before purchasing, verify the return policy and warranty coverage. Quality retailers stand behind their products with at least 30-day return windows and often honor manufacturer warranties that cover deck cracks or truck failures under normal use conditions.
The right penny board becomes a daily companion—choose one that matches your riding style, maintain it properly, and purchase from retailers who value your satisfaction beyond the initial sale.