Penny Boards & Plastic Cruiser Skateboards

Penny Boards – Compact Cruiserboards for Everyday Adventures

Discover our selection of Penny Skateboards and plastic skateboards. Plastic skateboards stand apart from traditional skateboards. Some love Penny boards for their compact size, while others prefer standard sized wooden decks. If you are wondering if a plastic cruiser is the right choice for you, you will find the fundamentals explained below.

What Is a Penny Skateboard?

A Penny board is a lightweight plastic skateboard designed for smooth rolling and easy handling. Thanks to its short and narrow plastic skateboard deck, it is ideal for quick commutes, casual city cruising, or simply enjoying a relaxed outing with friends. Unlike full-size skateboards, Penny boards are compact enough to carry in a backpack while delivering a playful cruise on pavement.

Penny Skateboards is an Australian brand founded in 2010, producing compact plastic cruiser skateboards inspired by the models first popularized in the 1970s. Today, the term “Penny board” is often used broadly to describe any small plastic cruiser, though it originally refers only to the brand’s own designs. The company gained worldwide recognition after a surge in popularity in the early 2010s, cementing its place as the benchmark for this style of skateboard.

Because of this success, many off-brand models are casually called penny boards, even though the more accurate term is “plastic cruiser skateboard” or something similar. These alternatives to real Penny Skateboards often share the same basic shape and feel as the originals. Many skaters note that Penny Skateboards has built its reputation on consistent quality, and its wide following associates the brand with a high standard.

How Big Is a Penny Board?

The original Penny Skateboards measure 22 inches long and 6 inches wide, making them highly portable and easy to carry in a backpack or on city trips. Their plastic deck also means there’s no griptape to wear on clothes or bags.

The compact size gives Penny boards a shorter wheelbase and standing platform, making them extremely lively. Even small movements of your feet can shift the board’s balance and initiate a turn, while the short wheelbase allows for very tight carving. This makes Penny boards less suited for high-speeds, but ideal for quick trips and nimble cruising.

For skateboarders seeking more stability, larger versions like the 27-inch Nickel offer a wider deck and longer wheelbase while still keeping the signature lightweight, portable feel.

Now that you’re familiar with the sizes of penny skateboards, it is time to learn how to cruise them safely.

Are Penny Boards Suitable for Children?

Penny boards can provide plenty of fun for children; however, it’s best to view them as a playful, recreational item rather than a high-performance skateboard. The feet are positioned close together on a Penny board due to their compact size, so maintaining balance on a penny board is more challenging.

Children who want to develop their skateboarding skills may benefit more from a standard kids' cruiserboard or a regular kids' skateboard. Regardless of the board, always make sure children wear appropriate protective gear when riding.

How to Roll on a Penny Board?

If you’re just starting out on a Penny board, begin with the basics. Place your front foot near the bolts at the front of the plastic skateboard deck, slightly angled for better control, and use your back foot to push off with short, controlled strides. Keep your knees slightly bent to maintain balance and stay in control. Penny boards are highly responsive, so even small shifts in your weight can produce sharp, agile turns. Remember to wear protective gear when practicing.

How to Stop on a Penny Board?

Because Penny boards have soft wheels for smooth cruising, learning how to stop safely is essential. The most common method is foot braking: gently drag your back foot along the ground to slow down. For a quicker stop, you can also step off and run it out. With practice, you’ll discover which technique feels most natural and effective for you.

Can You Do Tricks on a Penny Board?

Penny boards are designed for cruising rather than technical tricks. You can practice simple maneuvers, carve, and develop your balance, but advanced tricks like kickflips are not something a normal person would try on a Penny board. That said, many riders enjoy experimenting to improve control and enjoy a playful, agile cruise.

How to Ollie on a Penny Board?

It is possible to practice ollies on a Penny board, but it requires patience. The flexible plastic skateboard deck makes it trickier than on a traditional wooden skateboard. If your goal is to master the ollie, it’s best to learn the technique on a regular skateboard first and then transfer your skills to a Penny board. Be aware that the short, flexible deck results in a much steeper pop angle, which can make timing and control more challenging.