Ever wondered what cool tricks you can pull off on a penny board? Sure, they might not be your go-to for major vert tricks, something like a wicked Benihana or a death-defying McTwist, but trust me, there are some killer stunts you can shred out. In this post, we’ll explore the world of plastic skateboards, specifically penny boards, and discover how much they can surprise you with their versatility. So, get ready and unleash the potential of those 22″, 27″, and 32″ penny boards and take your skateboarding to another level.
What is a penny board?
A penny board is a small skateboard typically characterized by its compact size, plastic deck, and lightweight design. It is designed for cruising and short-distance transportation rather than for performing tricks or complex maneuvers, making it a popular choice for commuting, leisurely rides, and casual cruising.
Pennyboards are a popular choice for people looking for a convenient and fun way to get around town for short distances. They are not ideal for performing tricks or for serious skateboarding, as their small size and plastic deck make them less suitable for those purposes. Instead, they are designed for relaxed, casual riding and are a great option for beginners.
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What tricks can you do with a pennyboard?
Here are some tricks these penny boards can handle: from beginner-friendly maneuvers to more technical moves, you’ll be stoked to see what you can pull off (no matter the size of your board). Ready to step up your penny-boarding game? Let’s shred it and roll through some tricks!
1. Hopping curbs
This trick is an essential part of any skateboarder’s arsenal. Hopping curbs on a penny board might take some getting used to, but once you’ve nailed it, there’s no stopping you. Trust me, it’s the equivalent of shooting the first Death Star in Star Wars; it changes the drifting cruiser game.
With the pennyboard’s compact size and light weight, hopping curbs has become an everyday excitement. It requires you to master the balance of applying enough pressure to the kicktail to raise the board off the ground. The key to landing a successful curb hop lies in staying centrally balanced and smoothing those motions.
2. Hippie jump
Now we’re getting funky! The hippie jump is a sweet basic trick that’s great for any penny board rider looking to add some exciting flare to their repertoire. And yes, overcoming your fears is part of the ride!
With this trick, natural gravity becomes your ally. Your board keeps moving forward as you leap over an obstacle, and presto, you’ve done a hippie jump! It may look wild, but with some adrenaline pumping through your veins, you’ll catch the rhythm in no time. Just remember: practice on smaller obstacles first before you take a crack at those big rails.
3. Fakie kick turn
Not to be confused with those eighties hair bands, the Fakie Kickturn is a slick trick in penny board stunts, exposing their nimbleness. To perform this trick, you’ll ride backward (fakie), quickly turn your upper body 180 degrees, and have your board follow suit.
It’s like pulling off a sick dance move—smooth and effortless to look at once you get the hang of it. So whether you’re on a 22″, 27″, or 32″ Penny board, this trick is doable.
4. Manual
Next on our list is the Manual—not a mechanical handbook but one bossed-up trick that takes you into the world of two-wheel balance. If you’re into feeling like you’re floating on air, this is the trick for you!
Executing a flawless manual means finding that sweet balance spot while rolling down the street. You’ll need to apply pressure to your tail (for a kicktail manual—we’ll save nose manuals for another day). Think of yourself as the king of balance, only on your skateboard for a joy-filled ride. From cruising to kickflip manuals, this trick can take your penny board stunts to another level.
5. Staple gun
No, this isn’t about office supplies. The staple gun, while it sounds wild, is quite a fun trick that you can pull off on your penny board. Ideal for ledges, curbs, and small banks, it adds a zip of exhilaration to your ride.
Doing the staple gun requires an ollie-like movement. Riding towards a low platform, pop your board onto the curb, leaving your front foot on the board and your back foot on the ground. Pull back your board with your front foot, hop back on, and ta-da—you’ve just popped a staple gun! This trick underlines that the penny board is not a toy but an arsenal of awesome fun.
With the list above, compliment your cruising style with some stellar tricks. And remember to keep your skateboarding wheels tuned right for perfect rides. It takes practice, dedication, and a bit of bravery, but it’s well worth the effort—trust me, I’ve been there. Whether you’re on a 22″, 27″, or 32″ Penny Board, a mad trick list is just around the corner. So go ahead, get out there, and start tearing it up!
6. The shove
The shove it is the fire and brimstone of penny board tricks—all about flash, energy, and attitude, like an on-stage Mick Jagger. This trick adds a 180-degree flair with the board flipping under you before you land back onto it with precision.
The trick involves face-forward riding, bending your knees, kicking your board sideways with your back foot, and keeping your body squarely above your board. Even though it’s a basic trick for many skateboarders, nailing this on a Penny board is a solid choice due to its plastic build and smaller size.
7. Nose revert
This trick’s all about adding a lovely twist to your cruising without requiring the long nose of a regular board to pull it off. A nose revert on a penny board is quite the sight and ensures a solid flair in your riding style.
It involves leaning forward while adding pressure to the board’s nose with your front foot. You must turn your body 180 degrees midway and allow your penny board to follow, making it a smooth and stylishly cool trick to master on your skating journey.
8. Bean plant
Want to push for something more? Ready to make the park your stage? Then it’s time to master the bean plant—a trick that requires popping your board while holding the nose and ensuring a clean landing—that’s got a reputation as the “showstopper.”
Despite looking tough, this trick can be done on a Penny board, albeit trickier on the smaller 22″ model. Much like a Sean White skateboarding game, it requires some serious but fulfilling commitment.
9. No comply
This trick’s got some serious zing in the world of penny-boarding. The no comply can be pulled off on any penny board and adds style and substance to your ride.
It involves stepping off with your front foot while gently pushing your board forward using your back foot. The board spins 180 degrees, and all you have to do is jump back on. It’s a bit of a challenge, for sure, but oh, so worth the effort!
Dos and don’ts of penny board tricks
Before you dive into penny board tricks, let’s check out some essential dos and don’ts to ensure that you’re having a fun time while staying safe, too.
| DOs | DON’Ts |
|---|---|
| Start with small and easy tricks | Push your limits too quickly |
| Use a helmet and pads | Forget about safety |
| Set moderate speed | Try tricks with too much speed |
| Balance your weight correctly | Lean too much forward or backward |
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Additional penny-board trick tips
Before you hit that pavement with your penny board, here are some extra pearls of wisdom to ensure that you’re fully prepared:
- Understand your board: Knowing your Penny board’s particulars—like size, weight, and balance—before attempting tricks can greatly improve your performance.
- Practice on soft ground: Practicing on grass or carpet can decrease the risk of hurtful falls when learning new tricks.
- Stay patient and persistent. Mastering these tricks will require time and practice. The key is to try and not be discouraged by initial failures consistently.
Reflections on tackling penny board tricks
From my own experience, I’ll tell you that learning tricks on a penny board is just like the plot of a Jackie Chan film—challenging at first but rewarding in the end. In my early days, I was thrown off balance by even the slightest maneuvers, but gradually, I warmed up to it.
“Penny board tricks are all about balance, timing, and a solid dose of boldness. So put on that helmet, slide into your kneepads, and let’s push off into the world of gnarly – yet totally doable – Penny board tricks.”
Like skating on a longboard, penny board tricks require balance and coordinated movement, and it’s wild how much skill you can develop with these compact beasts of boards. I’m not claiming to be an expert, but the more I practiced, the better I got, something that can happen to anyone with determination and enjoyment of the sport. After all, it’s skating we’re talking about, so why not have some fun with it?
Advantages and disadvantages of penny board tricks
When it comes to pulling tricks on a penny board, like most things in life, there are both advantages and drawbacks. It’s always a wise choice to weigh the pros and cons before diving headfirst into this adventure.
Advantages
- Pulling off tricks on a penny board can spice up your cruising experience, making each ride much more enjoyable.
- Learning and practicing tricks can enhance agility, balance, and board control.
- Tricks are also a unique way to express your personality and creativity on the board.
Disadvantages
- Nailing these tricks requires time, practice, and patience. You may not master them instantly, which may feel discouraging.
- There is always a risk when attempting tricks, especially the more complex maneuvers.
- Compared to regular skateboards, there are fewer tricks you can pull off on a penny board.
It’s important to counterbalance these disadvantages by practicing safely, using appropriate gear, and acknowledging your skill limitations to avoid unnecessary risks.
If you are a visual learner, check out the video below from YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
As an intermediate skateboarder, I’ve always been curious about exploring new tricks and techniques, especially on penny boards. Over time, I’ve encountered several commonly asked questions. Now, let’s dive into some of those frequently pondered queries.
How different is pulling tricks on a penny board compared to a regular skateboard?
Despite their compact size, penny boards pack a punch when it comes to tricks. Sure, it might be more challenging due to the size, constraints, and material, but that’s where the fun is! It’s all about leveraging the board’s agility and lightness. To master pulling tricks on penny boards, you must understand and adjust to the board’s unique features.
What is the easiest trick to start with on a penny board?
Hopping curbs is a relatively easy trick on a penny board. It’s a fundamental skateboarding trick that involves pushing the skateboard’s tail down while lifting the front. Starting with this will also help you get comfortable with the board’s balance and response.
Can I upgrade my penny board for better trick performance?
Absolutely! Tweaking your board to find the perfect setup for you is all part of the skateboarding journey. Upgrading to a bigger penny board can make learning tricks easier. Also, considering different wheels and parts for your penny board can greatly improve your ride and trick performance.
Final thoughts
I hope this rundown has motivated you to roll your sleeves, strap your helmet, and cruise into the exciting world of penny board tricks. It’s about balance, commitment, and having fun charting your trick list on these compact boards. And hey, remember to factor in the board size when you experiment with the tricks!
So, which trick are you eager to try first on your penny board? 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’ve found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my other tips and tricks on skateboarding. Thanks for reading, and always remember to keep pushing those boundaries, one trick at a time!
Key takeaways
This article shed light on the world of penny board tricks and gave insights into how you can add more to your cruising than just rolling around. Here are some key takeaways:
- Pennyboards, despite their compact size, offer a range of tricks from beginner to advanced levels.
- Tricks not only add a fun element to your cruising but also help improve your agility and balancing skills.
- Remember to practice safely, use proper protective gear, and start slow before moving to difficult stunts.
- Exploring various board setups can enhance your trick possibilities and overall skateboarding experience.
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