The age-old debate between choosing a skateboard or a penny board is more relevant today than ever, as urban transportation and leisure activities evolve. While both boards offer unique advantages for cruising the city streets or performing tricks at the skatepark, they cater to distinctly different needs and preferences. This article, focusing on “Skateboard vs Penny Board” aims to dissect the nuances between these two popular forms of skateboards, helping you make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, skill level, and personal style.
Table of Contents
What is a Skateboard?
Skateboards are versatile, design for various skateboarding styles from street to ramp, park, and freestyle. Traditionally longer than penny boards, skateboards provide a sturdy platform made of wood with customizable trucks and wheels. This makes them ideal for performing tricks and handling complex maneuvers. Skateboarding enthusiasts often favor these boards for their adaptability and the high skill ceiling they offer, making them a staple in the skateboarding community.
What is a Penny Board?
Originating in the 1970s, penny boards have gained fame for their compact, plastic design, making them a convenient choice for quick commutes and easy storage. Typically measuring 22 to 27 inches, these boards are lighter and more maneuverable in tight spaces compared to traditional skateboards. Penny boards are particularly appealing to young urbanites who need a portable solution for short daily commutes or as a fun tool for casual cruising around town.
Differences in Design and Build – Skateboard vs Penny Board
When comparing the design and build of skateboards and penny boards, the differences are quite pronounced. Skateboards are generally constructed from durable maple wood and are equipped with wider decks that provide greater stability and space for foot placement. In contrast, penny boards are made from a special plastic, offering resilience and flexibility unique to their smaller, more nimble design. These material choices directly influence the board’s longevity and performance in different environments.
Performance and Riding Experience
The performance of a skateboard versus a penny board varies significantly due to their design. Skateboards, with their larger decks and better stability, are suited for a wide range of activities from street skating to technical tricks. On the other hand, penny boards, with their smaller size and lighter build, offer ease of carrying and quick maneuverability, ideal for weaving through city crowds and short commutes. However, they might not perform as well in trick-heavy scenarios due to their limited foot space and flexibility.
Portability and Convenience
In terms of portability and convenience, penny boards often outshine skateboards. Their smaller size and lighter weight make them exceptionally easy to carry around or stow away under a desk or in a locker. This makes penny boards an excellent choice for those who use public transportation as part of their commute or have limited storage space at home or work. For students and city dwellers, the penny board is a practical companion for everyday urban travel.
Cost Considerations
Discussing the cost, penny boards are generally more affordable than skateboards, which can be customized and, depending on the components, might end up being quite costly. Penny boards offer a cost-effective solution for those new to skateboarding or seeking a secondary, more portable board. However, it’s important to consider long-term durability and the potential need for replacements when choosing a cheaper option.
Pros and Cons
Weighing the pros and cons is crucial in the decision-making process. Skateboards are durable and versatile, suitable for various skating disciplines and providing a high degree of control and stability. However, they are bulkier and often more expensive. Penny boards, while highly portable and budget-friendly, lack the stability needed for complex tricks and are less durable due to their plastic construction.
Skateboard:
Pros
- Versatile for various skate styles.
- Stable, wider decks suitable for beginners.
- Highly customizable components.
Cons
- Bulky and heavy, less ideal for travel.
- Higher cost with customization.
Penny Board:
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Convenient for quick, short commutes.
- More affordable, good for casual use.
Cons
- Not suitable for tricks or rough use.
- Less durable plastic build.
How to Choose the Right Board for You
Choosing the right board requires assessing your primary needs: Are you commuting short distances or are you planning to learn complex tricks? For practical daily transport in a city, a penny board might be ideal. However, if you’re keen on skateboarding as a sport and hobby, a skateboard offers greater versatility and growth potential. Consider your budget, storage options, and long-term interest in skateboarding when making your choice.
Popular Models and Brands
Several brands stand out when looking at popular models of skateboards and penny boards. For skateboards, brands like Element and Plan B offer quality and reliability. In the realm of penny boards, Penny Australia is synonymous with high-quality plastic cruisers. Exploring these brands can provide insights into the range of options available and what might suit your skateboarding style and needs best.
Conclusion
Deciding between a skateboard and a penny board hinges on personal preferences, lifestyle needs, and what you’re looking to get out of the board. Whether you opt for the flexibility and tricks of a skateboard or the compact convenience of a penny board, both boards offer unique advantages that cater to different segments of the urban adventurer. Understanding these differences will help you make the best choice for your urban mobility and recreational fun.
What is the main difference between a skateboard and a penny board?
The main difference lies in size and material. Skateboards are typically larger and made of wood, offering stability for tricks and versatility in skate styles. Penny boards are smaller, made of plastic, and are better for quick commutes and easy portability.
2. Can you perform skateboard tricks on a penny board?
Penny boards are not ideal for performing complex skateboard tricks due to their small size and plastic construction. They are designed more for cruising and commuting.
3. Are penny boards good for beginners?
Yes, penny boards can be good for beginners who primarily seek a board for commuting or casual riding due to their lightweight and easy-to-handle nature.
4. Which board is better for children?
For young children, penny boards are often recommended because they are lighter and easier to manage. However, for older children interested in skateboarding as a sport, a traditional skateboard might be more beneficial.
5. How durable are penny boards compared to skateboards?
Skateboards tend to be more durable due to their wooden construction. Penny boards, while sturdy, can wear out quicker if frequently used on rough surfaces due to their plastic build.
6. Are skateboards worth the extra cost?
If you are serious about skateboarding, investing in a skateboard is worth the cost because it offers more versatility, better performance for tricks, and typically, longer durability.
7. Can penny boards be customized like skateboards?
Penny boards offer limited customization options compared to skateboards. Skateboards allow for extensive customization, including wheels, trucks, and bearings to suit different styles and preferences.
8. Which board is easier to carry on public transport?
Penny boards are easier to carry on public transport due to their compact size and lighter weight, making them ideal for commuters who use buses or trains.