What’s a Penny board? Skateboarding has seen a huge resurgence in popularity over the last decade. While classic skateboard brands remain popular, a new wave of compact cruiser boards has hit the market. One of the most popular is the Penny board.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: A Penny board is a small plastic skateboard, usually 22 inches long and 6 inches wide. Penny boards are known for their plastic deck, waffle-like grip tape, and ease of portability.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Penny boards, from their history and design to tips for riding them safely.
The History of Penny Boards
Origins and Creation by Penny Skateboards
The story of Penny Boards begins with the birth of Penny Skateboards, a brand that revolutionized the skateboarding industry. In 2010, Ben Mackay, a passionate skateboarder from Australia, had a vision to bring back the joy and freedom of skateboarding from the 1970s and 1980s.
Inspired by the retro plastic skateboards of that era, Mackay decided to create a modern version that would capture the essence of those classic boards.
After months of research and development, Mackay introduced the world to the first Penny Board. These boards were made from high-quality plastic, which provided durability and flexibility while maintaining a lightweight design.
The compact size of the Penny Board, measuring around 22 inches long, made it perfect for cruising and commuting in urban environments.
The brand’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship quickly gained popularity among skateboarders and non-skateboarders alike. The unique design, vibrant colors, and smooth ride of Penny Boards made them a hit among people of all ages.
Rise in Popularity and Acquisition by Skateboard Brand
As Penny Boards gained traction in the skateboarding community, their popularity skyrocketed. Skaters around the world were drawn to the compact size and maneuverability of these boards, which allowed them to navigate crowded city streets with ease.
Non-skaters also embraced Penny Boards as a fun and convenient mode of transportation.
In 2013, Penny Skateboards caught the attention of the renowned skateboard brand, Globe International. Recognizing the potential of Penny Boards, Globe International acquired the company and injected new resources to further enhance the brand’s reach and product offerings.
Since the acquisition, Penny boards has continued to evolve and innovate. The brand now offers a wide range of board sizes, designs, and accessories to cater to different riding styles and preferences.
Penny boards have become a staple in the skateboarding industry, with riders of all skill levels enjoying the smooth ride and stylish look that these boards provide.
Penny Board Design and Components
Small Plastic Deck
The design of a Penny board is characterized by its small plastic deck. Made from high-quality and durable plastic materials, the deck is typically around 22 inches long and 6 inches wide. This compact size makes it lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for commuting or cruising around town.
Despite its small size, the Penny board’s deck is designed to provide stability and control. It has a slightly concave shape, which helps to keep the rider’s feet securely in place while riding. The plastic material used in the deck also offers flexibility, allowing for a smooth and responsive ride.
Soft Wheels for a Smooth Ride
One of the key components of a penny board is its soft wheels. These wheels are typically made from high-quality polyurethane material, which provides excellent grip and shock absorption. The softness of the wheels allows for a smooth ride, even on rough surfaces.
The size of the wheels can vary, but they are usually around 59mm to 65mm in diameter. This size strikes a balance between maneuverability and stability, making it ideal for cruising and carving. The soft wheels also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the penny board, as they are available in a wide range of vibrant colors and designs.
Trucks and Bearings
The trucks and bearings of a penny board are crucial for its overall performance and maneuverability. The trucks are the metal T-shaped components that attach the wheels to the deck. They are responsible for turning and pivoting, allowing the rider to maneuver the board smoothly.
Penny boards typically feature high-quality trucks that are made from aluminum alloy, providing durability and strength. The bearings, on the other hand, are small metal or ceramic balls that fit inside the wheels and allow them to spin freely.
The quality of the bearings directly affects the speed and smoothness of the ride.
It’s important to note that the design and components of penny boards can vary depending on the brand and model. Some may offer additional features such as cocktails or different truck sizes. It’s always a good idea to check the specifications of the specific penny board you are interested in to ensure it meets your preferences and riding style.
Penny Board Styles
Classic
The classic penny board style is the original design that started it all. These boards are typically smaller in size, around 22 inches long, and are perfect for cruising around town or navigating through crowded areas.
The classic penny board is known for its bright and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for riders who want to make a statement with their board. With its compact size and maneuverability, the classic penny board is great for riders of all skill levels.
Nickel
The nickel penny board style is a larger version of the classic board, measuring around 27 inches long. This extra length provides a more stable and comfortable ride, making it ideal for riders who want to cover longer distances or need a bit more stability.
The nickel penny board still maintains the iconic design and vibrant colors that the classic board is known for, giving riders the best of both worlds – style and performance.
Street
The street penny board style is designed specifically for riders who enjoy performing tricks and stunts. These boards are slightly shorter than the classic board, ranging from 19 to 22 inches long, and feature a more concave shape for better control and grip.
Street penny boards often come with softer wheels for smoother landings and improved grip on various surfaces. Riders who prefer skatepark sessions or street-style riding will find the street penny board to be the perfect choice.
Longboard
The longboard penny board style is the largest of the penny board family, measuring over 36 inches long. These boards are designed for riders who prioritize stability and smooth rides over maneuverability.
Longboard penny boards offer a more comfortable and relaxed cruising experience, making them great for long rides or commuting. With their longer length, these boards provide ample space for foot placement and offer a more stable platform for riders to explore different terrains.
Benefits of Rid bing a Penny Board
Portability
One of the major benefits of riding a Penny board is its portability. These compact skateboards are small in size and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. Whether you’re commuting to work or school, going to the park, or just exploring your neighborhood, you can simply throw your Penny board in a backpack or carry it in your hand.
This convenient feature allows you to take your board with you wherever you go, ensuring that you never miss out on an opportunity to ride.
Affordability
Another great advantage of Penny boards is their affordability. Compared to traditional skateboards or longboards, Penny boards are generally more budget-friendly. They are a perfect option for those who are looking to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank.
Despite their lower price point, Penny boards are still made with high-quality materials and offer a smooth riding experience.
Ease of Use for Beginners
Penny boards are also known for their ease of use, particularly for beginners. With their smaller size and narrow deck, Penny boards offer excellent maneuverability and control. This makes them an ideal choice for those new to skateboarding and wanting to learn the basics quickly.
Additionally, Penny boards are equipped with soft wheels that provide a smooth ride, making it easier for beginners to maintain balance and stability.
Fun, Surfy Feel
Riding a Penny board is all about having fun and enjoying the surfy feel it offers. The compact design and unique shape of a Penny board allow for a more fluid and playful riding experience. Whether you’re cruising down the street, carving on smooth pavement, or practicing tricks, a Penny board provides a lively and exciting ride.
Its smaller size also allows for quick turns and nimble movements, adding to the overall fun factor.
So, if you’re looking for a portable, affordable, and beginner-friendly skateboard that offers a fun and surfy feel, a Penny board is a perfect choice. Get ready to embark on thrilling skateboarding adventures while enjoying the convenience and excitement that come with riding a Penny board!
Penny Board Safety Tips
Wear Protective Gear
When riding a penny board, it’s important to prioritize safety. Wearing the right protective gear can greatly reduce the risk of injuries. Make sure to wear a helmet to protect your head in case of falls or accidents.
Additionally, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards can provide extra protection for your limbs. Don’t forget to wear closed-toe shoes to keep your feet safe and provide a better grip on the board.
Practice Your Balance
Maintaining balance is one of the most important aspects of riding a Penny board safely. Before hitting the streets, spend some time practicing in a safe and open area. Start by standing on the board and getting comfortable with the balance.
Gradually, try moving your feet and shifting your weight to steer the board. Practicing your balance will help you feel more confident and in control while riding.
Watch for Bumps and Cracks
When riding a Penny board, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for any potential hazards on the road. Bumps, cracks, and uneven surfaces can cause the board to lose stability and lead to accidents. Stay alert and try to avoid any obstacles that may come your way.
If you can’t avoid a bump or crack, bend your knees slightly and maintain a relaxed stance to absorb the impact.
Be Careful of Braking
Braking on a penny board requires careful consideration to avoid accidents. Unlike traditional skateboards, penny boards don’t have a dedicated braking mechanism. To slow down or stop, you’ll need to use your foot to drag on the ground.
When doing so, be cautious of your speed and maintain control over the board. Practice braking techniques in a controlled environment to ensure you’re comfortable with stopping safely.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority when riding a penny board. By following these tips and using common sense, you can enhance your riding experience while minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
Customizing and Accessorizing Your Penny Board
One of the best things about owning a Penny board is the ability to customize and accessorize it to match your style and preferences. Not only does this allow you to stand out from the crowd, but it also adds a personal touch to your board.
Here are some key components of your Penny Board that you can customize:
Wheels
The wheels of your Penny board play a crucial role in your riding experience. They come in various sizes, colors, and durometers (hardness levels). Larger and softer wheels are ideal if you’re looking for a smooth and comfortable ride.
On the other hand, if you prefer more control and speed, smaller and harder wheels would be a better choice. You can find a wide range of wheel options from reputable skateboard brands like Bones, Spitfire, and Ricta.
Trucks
The trucks are the metal T-shaped components that connect the wheels to the deck of your Penny board. They are responsible for controlling the board’s turning ability.
High-quality trucks like those from Independent, Thunder, or Venture offer better stability and maneuverability. Additionally, you can choose trucks with different colors or finishes to add a unique touch to your board.
Grip Tape
Grip tape is the gritty, sandpaper-like surface that covers the top of your Penny board deck. It provides traction and grip, ensuring that your feet stay firmly on the board while riding. Grip tape comes in various colors, patterns, and designs, allowing you to personalize your board even further.
Some popular grip tape brands include Jessup, Mob Grip, and Grizzly Griptape.
Rail Guards and Tail Guards
If you want to protect your Penny board from scratches and damage, consider adding rail guards and tail guards. Rail guards are adhesive strips that you can apply to the sides of your board to prevent the trucks from scraping against the deck.
Tail guards, on the other hand, are protective coverings that you can attach to the tail of your board, shielding it from wear and tear. These accessories not only prolong the lifespan of your board but also add a stylish element to it.
When customizing and accessorizing your Penny board, it’s important to choose high-quality components and accessories to ensure durability and safety. Take the time to research reputable brands and read reviews from other skateboarders.
Remember, your Penny board is an extension of your personality, so have fun expressing yourself through its customization!
What’s A Penny Board – Conclusion
Penny boards have become a huge phenomenon and show no signs of losing popularity. With their iconic design and ease of use, they make skateboarding accessible for riders of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner rider or a seasoned skater, a Penny board is a fun addition to any quiver of boards.
With proper safety precautions and practice, these compact cruisers provide big skateboarding fun in a tiny package.
