What Makes a Cruiser Different

Three things separate a cruiser from a standard skateboard:

Softer wheels. Standard skateboard wheels run 99a–101a hardness — fast on smooth surfaces, but they rattle badly over rough ground and crack into every pebble. Cruiser wheels run 78a–87a — softer urethane that rolls over rough pavement smoothly and absorbs vibration. The difference on an average Melbourne footpath is significant. Some cruisers run larger wheels (58–65mm) for even more roll speed and obstacle clearance.

Shape and size. Cruiser decks are typically shorter than longboards (28"–34") but longer or differently shaped than a standard street deck. Many have a pronounced kicktail for pivots and manoeuvring, some have a pintail shape for a surfier feel. The width is usually 8.0"–9.5" — stable and comfortable for pushing.

Reverse-kingpin or standard trucks. Some cruisers run standard skateboard trucks for a familiar turn feel with tighter radius. Others run reverse-kingpin trucks (like longboard trucks) for a more carvy, flowing turn. The choice affects how the board turns and feels at speed.

Who Cruisers Suit

Cruisers suit anyone who wants to ride from A to B, get around campus or the city, or just carve footpaths and paths without caring about tricks. They're excellent first boards for adults who want to ride without the learning curve of technical street skating. They're also a favourite for skaters who want something different from their standard setup — a board they can grab and roll without thinking.

For Melbourne specifically, cruisers are well suited to the mix of smooth bike paths, rough suburban footpaths and flat terrain that makes up most of the city's rideable surface.

The Brands We Carry

• Globe — the Australian brand. Blazer and Big Blazer cruisers are two of the most popular boards in this category. Quality construction, great graphics, homegrown.
• Landyachtz — Dinghy and Tugboat are among the most-copied cruiser shapes in the world. Canadian-made, rider-owned, genuinely excellent. The Dinghy is the compact urban cruiser standard.
• Arbor — sustainable wood construction, distinctive aesthetics. Pilsner and Oso are the standout cruiser shapes.
• Santa Cruz — Cruzer range, strong construction, California skate heritage.
• Powell Peralta — classic shapes, Bones Brigade heritage, reliable construction.

Cruiser FAQ

What is the difference between a cruiser and a longboard? Size and intent. Cruisers are shorter (28"–34"), more manoeuvrable and better for tight urban environments and getting around. Longboards (36"+) are more stable, better for longer distances, carving and downhill. Cruisers have kicktails for pivoting; most longboards don't.

Are cruisers good for beginners? Yes — the softer wheels and stable width make cruisers more forgiving than standard skateboards. An excellent first board for adults who want to ride without focusing on tricks.

Can I do tricks on a cruiser? Basic tricks yes — kick turns, manuals, small ollies. Cruisers aren't built for technical street skating or park riding. If you want to do both, a standard setup or hybrid is a better choice.

What's the best cruiser for commuting in Melbourne? Landyachtz Dinghy for tight urban environments, Globe Blazer for a bigger platform, Arbor Pilsner for something with more style. Come in and tell us your commute distance and we'll match the right one.

Complete Longboards  ·  Surf Skates  ·  Landyachtz  ·  Globe  ·  Arbor  ·  How to Choose a Longboard or Cruiser