The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Skateboard for Your Style

Skating’s all about freedom, style, and self-expression. Whether you're just getting started or looking to upgrade your setup, the right skateboard can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll help you pick the board that suits your style, skill level, and terrain—so you can focus on skating.

1. Different Types of Skateboards: Which One is Right for You?

Longboards vs. Skateboards
Longboards are great for smooth rides and cruising. They're perfect for carving and downhill runs, and they give you more stability. Classic skateboards, on the other hand, are shorter and more agile—ideal for tricks and street skating. If you're into pushing limits and mastering ollies on the streets or in the bowl, a traditional skateboard is the way to go.

Cruisers
Cruisers are all about convenience. They’re a bit shorter than a full-sized skateboard but have more room to move around. Think of them as the perfect board for short commutes or just gliding through your neighborhood. Their soft wheels give you a smooth ride, even on rougher terrain. Cruiser boards are great for pump tracks too.

Penny Boards
These small boards are incredibly portable and light. While they don’t have the versatility of bigger boards, they’re great for easy cruising and travel. Penny boards are all about fun, but if you're planning on doing tricks or carving, they might not be the best choice.

2. The Anatomy of a Skateboard: What to Look For

Decks
The deck is where it all starts. If you’re after a board for technical tricks, go for a popsicle-shaped deck (the classic skateboard shape). If you want something more stable for cruising or downhill, look for a wider deck. Materials like maple are durable, while bamboo decks can offer more flexibility and lightness.

Trucks
Trucks connect the wheels to your deck. The width of the trucks should match your deck width for optimal performance. You don’t need to overthink this—just make sure the trucks are sturdy and built to last.

Wheels
The softness of the wheels makes a huge difference in your ride. Soft wheels are better for rough roads or carving, giving you a smoother ride. Hard wheels are faster and better for tricks and park skating. So, pick based on your environment and style!

Bearings
Bearings impact your speed. Higher-quality bearings, measured by the rating 'ABEC', will make your ride faster and smoother. But don’t get hung up on small details—focus on how they feel when you’re skating.

3. Choosing the Right Skateboard for Your Skill Level

Beginner Skaters
If you're just starting out, don’t stress over advanced features. A simple skateboard setup with a sturdy deck and medium wheels will do the trick. Look for a complete setup to avoid the hassle of piecing parts together. For our little skating groms sometimes starting with a little Penny board or an Ookkie learner board is a great way to 

Intermediate/Advanced Skaters
For those who’ve been skating a while, think about what you want to focus on. A more responsive deck or specialised trucks for tricks can make a big difference. You’ll also have a better idea of the right size and features, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what fits your style. Utilise skate shop sales when you can if you're wanting to update your setup or try something new.

4. Terrain and Riding Style: How Your Environment Influences Your Choice

Street Skateboarding
If you’re all about hitting up curbs, ledges, and rails, a classic skateboard setup is ideal. Look for a medium-sized deck with hard wheels—this gives you a good balance of stability and agility. You’ll want a setup that can handle tricks and street terrain, so a lighter, more flexible deck is a good option.

Ramp and Bowl Skating
For ramp or bowl riders, you’ll want something with a bit more stability. A wider deck and softer wheels will help absorb impact when you drop into bowls or perform aerial tricks. Trucks with a tighter turn radius are also key for sharp turns.

General Cruising and Commuting
If your focus is more on easy cruising, whether it's a quick trip to the store or a laid-back park session, a cruiser or longboard is the way to go. These boards are built for smooth, enjoyable rides without the stress of constant tricks or high speeds. Their wider & longer sizes are ideal for beginners too.

5. Skateboard Maintenance: Keep Your Board in Top Shape

Skateboards need care to keep rolling smoothly. Regularly check your trucks, wheels, and bearings to make sure everything’s tight and in good condition. A loose truck or a worn-out wheel can mess with your ride. And don’t forget about cleaning your bearings—keep them free from dirt, and they’ll keep you moving faster.

Upgrading parts as you progress is also part of the game. When you start landing tricks and skating more seriously, it might be time to invest in higher-quality trucks or a stronger deck. Some people prefer to change out their truck bushings for softer or harder bushings depending on their preferences.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best skateboard for beginners?
For beginners, a standard skateboard deck with medium-sized wheels is usually a good place to start. It’ll give you a stable ride while you get the hang of things.

Do I need a special board for cruising?
For cruising, a cruiser or longboard is ideal. These are designed to be easy to ride and great for smooth, relaxing rides.

What's the best skateboard for street skating?
For street skating, you’ll want a board that’s responsive and durable. A classic popsicle-shaped deck is perfect for technical tricks like kickflips and ollies. Go for medium-sized wheels (around 52-56mm), which strike a balance between speed and manoeuvrability on rougher surfaces like footpaths and curbs. Stiff trucks are ideal for precision and control during tricks.

How do I choose the right wheels for street skating?
For street skating, harder wheels (around 99A-101A durometer) are your best bet. They allow for faster speeds on smooth pavement, and they’re great for landing tricks and sliding on ledges and rails. If you're skating on rougher surfaces, consider slightly softer wheels (around 90A-95A) to reduce vibrations and improve control.

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Choosing the right skateboard doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s all about what suits your style, skill level, and where you want to skate. Whether you’re cruising the streets or hitting up the park, there’s a perfect board waiting for you. So, take the time to find your fit, and get ready to skate your heart out! You can always hit us up on Instagram if you have any questions about choosing your perfect skateboard.