Cruiser Skateboards
Shop Cruiser Skateboards
Cruiser skateboards are built for getting around. Softer wheels handle rough pavement, cracks, and uneven surfaces that would stop a street setup dead. If you want something you can ride to work, class, or just around the block without thinking about it, a cruiser is the right choice.
Cruiser vs Standard Skateboard
The main difference comes down to the wheels. Cruisers run softer wheels, typically 78A to 90A durometer, that roll over imperfections smoothly. Standard street setups use hard wheels (99A to 101A) that are fast on smooth surfaces but unforgiving on rough ones. Cruiser decks also tend to be wider and sometimes directional in shape, which makes them more stable at speed but less suited to technical tricks.
Types of Cruiser Skateboards
- Mini Cruisers are short, lightweight, and easy to carry. Lengths typically run from 26 to 29 inches. Good for commuting, campus riding, and anyone who wants something compact. Landyachtz Dinghy and Globe Blazer are the most popular options in this category.
- Mid-Size Cruisers run between 29 and 32 inches. More stable than minis, still manageable. A good all-around choice for most riders. Arbor, Santa Cruz, and Sector 9 cover this range well.
- Carve-Focused Cruisers are designed specifically for pumping and carving rather than straight-line commuting. Carver is the benchmark here with their CX and C7 truck systems that replicate a surf-like feel underfoot.
Cruiser Skateboard Size Guide
| Rider | Recommended Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kids and younger riders | 26" to 28" | Compact, easy to control |
| Teen and adult riders | 28" to 31" | Best all-round range |
| Carving and pumping | 29" to 33" | Longer wheelbase for stability at speed |
| Campus commuting | 27" to 30" | Easy to carry, stable enough to cruise |
Cruiser Skateboard Brands at Tactics
- Landyachtz: Known for the Dinghy series. Best-selling mini cruiser on the market. Well built and easy to carry.
- Carver: The go-to for surf-style carving. CX trucks give a loose, responsive feel that most cruiser trucks cannot match.
- Arbor: Good mid-size range across a variety of shapes. Known for quality construction and sustainability.
- Globe: Solid entry-level to mid-range options. Good for first-time cruiser buyers who want a reliable board without overspending.
- Sector 9: One of the original cruiser and longboard brands. Known for reliability and a wide range of sizes.
- Loaded: Premium cruisers with high-quality construction. The Ballona is one of the better small cruisers available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cruiser and a longboard?
Cruisers are typically shorter (under 33 inches) and more maneuverable. Longboards run 33 inches and up and are built more for straight-line speed, downhill, or dancing. Cruisers are easier to carry and better suited to urban environments.
Browse our full longboard range: Longboard Shop
Can you do tricks on a cruiser skateboard?
Basic ones, yes. Cruisers with a kicktail can ollie and do simple flatground tricks. They are not built for technical street or park skating though. The softer wheels are slower to respond and the wider shapes make flip tricks harder to control.
What size cruiser skateboard should I get?
For most adult riders, a 28 to 31 inch cruiser is the right range. If you want something easy to carry, stay under 29 inches. If you prioritize stability or are a bigger rider, go 30 inches or longer.
How much do cruiser skateboards cost?
Entry-level cruiser completes from Globe and Tricks start around $85 to $140. Mid-range boards from Arbor, Santa Cruz, and Landyachtz typically run $150 to $215. Premium carving setups from Carver and Loaded sit between $200 and $320.