Have you ever asked yourself, “Should I pick a cruiser or longboard for college?” Maybe the daily hustle to class has you hunting for a quicker, more manageable way to navigate your sprawling campus. Well, here’s where I drop in with some much-needed advice. The ultimate choice between a longboard and a cruiser depends on your unique commuting needs.
As we shred through this topic, you’ll gain insight into the various types of boards suitable for the college landscape, the pros and cons of each, and tips on selecting the skateboard that meshes with your unique style and needs. So, get ready to take your campus cruising to an all-new level.
What is a cruiser skateboard?
Cruiser skateboards are often flat and thinner than a standard skateboard, sporting an array of shapes, typically with broader, pointed, or flat noses and tails. Unlike a regular skateboard, which many use for tricks or vert skating, a cruiser is a killer choice for commuting or transition-style skating, like pools and ramps.
Here’s why the cruiser has stolen my heart:
- They’re portable. Cruisers are generally easy to carry due to their small size and lighter weight.
- They nail short distances. Cruisers are a solid choice if you skate short distances around campus or nearby.
- Styles and sizes are versatile. There’s a cruiser for everyone: mini-cruisers, micro-cruisers, or full-sized.
- Broad applications. Beyond just impromptu races to the lecture hall, cruisers can be used for filming skate videos or simply for the joy of riding the streets.
A worthy and noteworthy model I can’t help but have a soft spot for is the Landyachtz Dinghy. It boasts high-quality components, thus offering a breathtaking cruising experience.
Bones REDS Skateboard Bearings
- High-speed
- Pre-lubricated
- Inexpensive
I may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
What is a longboard?
A longboard, while bearing the semblance of a skateboard, offers a distinct riding experience chalked up to its diverse shapes, sizes, and inverted truck components. This board is about long-distance travel, carving up roads and slopes with little pushing needed to maintain momentum.
Here are my musings on why it could be your weapon of choice:
- They’re built for distance. If your campus is colossal or your pad is a fair trek from campus, the longboard is the skateboard for you.
- They’re good for speed. Have you ever felt like bombing hills at high speeds without setting foot on a roller coaster? Here’s your ride.
- They have a smoother ride, courtesy of the bigger wheels and a longer wheelbase, translating to fewer tricks but a chilled cruising experience.
Free Download: My 20 Essential Skateboard Tricks PDF
Sign up to receive my 20 Flatground Tricks Checklist—a systematic approach to tracking and landing flatground tricks.
Can regular skateboards be converted to cruisers?
Shred the limits and have it your way! It’s entirely possible to turn a standard skateboard into a versatile cruiser.
So, should your pockets feel a little lighter or you’ve got an old skateboard just collecting dust, you’ll reap the same benefits from swapping out old parts for some softer and bigger wheels. Throw in some riser pad wax under the wheel wells, and you’ll be set to fly.
What are the cruisers and longboards best for?
Depending on your needs, each board serves a unique purpose:
- Cruisers have that agility prowess, making the swift trips to class or the cafeteria a breeze. They’re compact, meaning you can stash one away easily when it’s not in use. Additionally, they’re fantastic for street commutes, hitting up the local convenience store, or even a quick tour of grandma’s house. Plus, they will help you make more buddies!
- Longboards, on the other hand, are perfect for those extended campus commutes or off-campus excursions. Not to forget the thrill of bombing down slopes—their forte! They may not be as solvent in maneuverability or ease of storage as their cruiser counterparts, but they remain unmatched for smooth, chill, long rides.
Here’s a table comparing cruisers and longboards based on various characteristics:
| Characteristic | Cruiser Skateboard | Longboard Skateboard |
|---|---|---|
| Deck Shape | Shorter and wider | Softer for a Smooth Ride |
| Deck Size | Typically, 28–32 inches | Typically, 35-45 inches |
| Wheel Size | Smaller, 55-65mm | Larger, 65-75mm |
| Wheel Softness | Softer for a smooth ride | Varies, often softer |
| Truck Width | Usually standard | Wider for stability |
| Purpose | Short-distance commuting | Long-distance cruising |
| Maneuverability | Less maneuverable | More maneuverable |
| Speed | Slower on flat surfaces | Faster on flat surfaces |
| Stability | Less stable | More stable |
| Riding Style | Casual and cruising | Versatile (cruising, downhill, sliding) |
| Deck Material | Varied (wood, plastic) | Varied (wood, bamboo) |
| Price Range | Affordable to mid-range | Mid-range to high-end |
What’s easier for a beginner: cruisers or longboards?
As an all-out fan of everything on four wheels, I’ll say either comes with a struggle when starting. Yet, the key lies in your objective. Want to learn tricks and have some versatility? A wider cruiser might be a good first dip. A longboard could be a gentler start if your sights are set on cruising. But remember, it’s all about the journey, not the destination.
“Skateboarding is not just more than a way to beat the morning rush – it’s a lifestyle. Longboard or cruiser, college campuses have never looked so,rad.”
In my opinion, being a skateboarding enthusiast but not a pro, a cruiser may have a slightly steeper learning curve but wins for its portability and easy fit for short campus rides. One factor I cannot emphasize is that your choice should ultimately serve your unique needs. Whether it be the elegant cruiser or the chilled longboard, get a ride that resonates with you and your campus lifestyle. Here’s a detailed comparison between longboards and skateboards for more insights.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Well, we’ve shredded through quite a bit of information, but fear not, we’re not done yet! Let’s tackle some frequently asked questions on board and on the cruiser to address any lingering queries.
Are there specific skateboards designed for heavy riders?
Absolutely! There are skateboards designed with the specific needs of heavier riders in mind. Often, these boards feature reinforced decks, wider trucks, and larger wheels. They offer better durability, stability, and support, maintaining a killer ride. For more specifics, follow this guide on the best skateboard setup for heavy riders.
Can I use my skateboard for extreme tricks?
Sure, if you’ve got the skills, why not? However, the type of tricks you’ll be able to pull off depends on the type of board you have. Normal skateboards or cruisers, especially those with cocktails, are best suited for tricks. Due to their design, longboards are generally better suited to cruising than tricks.
How about skateboarding for younger students?
Of course! Skateboarding can be a wonderful pastime for all ages, even youngsters. Many professional skateboarders start at a very young age. For those considering, I’ve put together a handy guide on the best skateboard for a 7-year-old.
Does the quality of skateboard bearings matter?
Indeed, the quality of your skateboard bearings does matter, as it impacts the board’s speed and smoothness of ride. However, a common misconception is that the ABEC rating of a bearing directly correlates to its quality, which isn’t always the case. Check out this in-depth look into skateboard bearings for more.
Final thoughts
The optimal skateboard choice for college completely depends on your unique needs. Both cruisers and longboards have their place, blending in amidst the gray concrete and vibrant college life. It’s not just an efficient commuting solution; it’s a lifestyle complete with wind in the hair, four wheels on the ground, and unbridled freedom.
Don’t you love it when the morning rush to classes morphs into an exhilarating ride? Isn’t it incredible? And did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below. I read and reply to every comment. If you found this guide helpful, spread the word and share it with a friend. You can also check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboarding in college. Stay stoked!
Key takeaways
This article covered the exciting debate of whether a cruiser or a longboard is the most efficient ride for a college student looking to inject some thrill into their daily commute. Here are some key takeaways:
- Cruisers are great for their agility and are excellent for shorter campus rides.
- Longboards are perfect for longer rides, offering a smooth cruising experience.
- Regular skateboards can be converted into cruisers by swapping out a few components.
- Both cruisers and longboards have their own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.
- The choice ultimately boils down to personal preference and campus conditions.
EN 
ES 
FR 
DE 
IT