Learn About Penny Skateboards

Believe it or not, there’s a little magic on wheels and it’s called the “Penny skateboard”.

These nimble pieces of artistic mobility aren’t your typical four-wheeled contraptions; they’re compact, colourful, and crazy fun! Ever heard about them? Or, perhaps you’re itching to jump on one but aren’t sure if it’s the perfect fit?

Wow, are you in for a treat! I’ve spent countless hours, grazing my knees and elbows, experimenting, mastering the art of riding these sleek speedsters, and I am excited to share my insights with you.

Stick around, because there’s a ton to learn about these small but sensational skateboards.

Trust me, by the end of this ride, you’ll be ready to pick up a Penny of your own and roll with the pros. Let’s hit the pavement, shall we?

Introduction to Penny Skateboards

Penny skateboards have been making waves in the skating world for some time now, and for a good reason too. These compact, colorful cruisers have captured the hearts of beginners and pro-skaters alike, leading to their surge in popularity. But what makes the Penny skateboard so unique? This introduction to Penny skateboards will give you the lowdown.

Penny skateboards are named after their founder, Ben Mackay, who was a real skate enthusiast from his early years. Growing up in Australia, Mackay developed a passion for skateboarding which eventually led him to create his signature line of skateboards – the Penny boards.

Here are some quick facts about Penny skateboards:

• Material: Crafted from a special type of plastic, they strike a beautiful balance between flexibility and durability. This quality makes them perfect for casual skating and commuting.
• Size: Typically, Penny skateboards come in three different sizes: the 22″, the 27″ (known as the Nickel), and the 36″ longboard. Their compact size (especially the 22”) makes them supremely portable.
• Design: Penny skateboards have a unique retro-inspired look, imitating the style of boards from the 70s. They come in a wide array of vibrant colors and designs.
• Wheels: The soft, large wheels of Penny skateboards are designed for smooth rides. They can glide over cracks and pebbles with ease, making them great for urban commuting.
• Price: While they may be more expensive than regular skateboards, Penny skateboards offer unrivalled quality and durability, making them a sound investment for beginners and experienced skaters.

From my personal experience, Penny skateboards offer a smooth, enjoyable ride, making them an ideal choice for those who like to skate casually. Their stylish aesthetic is also a huge draw for many, so if you’re looking to cruise in style, a Penny skateboard is the way to go!

Remember, skating isn’t just about what kind of board you have, but how comfortable you are riding the board. For beginners, the lightweight, easy-to-maneuver nature of Penny skateboards makes them an excellent starting point.

In conclusion, Penny skateboards give a nod to the roots of skateboarding, offering a simple, enjoyable ride. They beautifully embody the spirit of freedom and adventure that is inherent in skateboarding.

History and Origins

How can you talk about skateboarding without mentioning Penny skateboards? Known for their distinctive plastic decks and vibrant colors, these boards have revolutionized the skate scene. Now, let’s ride back in time and delve into the history and origins of these unique skateboards.

In the 1970s, the skateboarding culture was gaining every more terrain, or should I say, pavement. The majority of skateboards during that time were quite cumbersome, made of heavy woods like oak or maple. They were, simply put, more of a workout than a joyride.

Then, in the mid-’70s, came the plastic skateboard, a stark departure from its wooden ancestors. Light, affordable, and with sleek designs, these became popular among the youth who needed an easy way to skate to the beach, school, or just around the neighborhood. Even though these boards were lighter, they lacked durability and flexibility.

But, the game was changed forever in 2010 when an Australian lad named Ben Mackay introduced his creation: the Penny Board. Combining the retro style with modern manufacturing techniques, Ben, himself a skateboard lover from the age of five, revolutionized the very concept of skateboards. Taking the name ‘Penny’ straight from his sister’s name, Ben created not just a brand, but also an identity that the skateboard community worldwide would resonate with.

I fondly recall my first interaction with a Penny skateboard. My friends and I used to frequent the local skate park, with our assortment of wooden boards. The day a new kid showed up with a glistening Penny board, we gaped in awe. It was lightweight, it was colorful, and boy, was it swift! I remember making multiple attempts to convince my parents to buy me one after that day.

What stands out for me about Penny skateboards is the way they bridge the gap between practicality and fun. They are designed for smooth rides and an impressive speed that creates an exhilarating experience. Over the years, Penny has upped their game, incorporating innovations in design and material, all while staying true to their roots.

In today’s world, Penny skateboards don’t just represent a type of skateboard, they’re a symbol of a vibrant and inclusive skateboard culture that transcends boundaries. Next time you see a Penny cruising past you in its radiant glory, remember the landmark innovation in the skateboarding world it carries with it. They are not just a pretty face; they are a piece of history gliding on four wheels!

A personal piece of advice? If you ever get the chance to ride a Penny, take it. Trust me, there’s no ride quite like it!

Penny Skateboard Features and Design

Man, I gotta tell you, Penny Skateboards are truly one of a kind. I remember the first time I stepped on one; it felt sleek, smooth, and oh-so nimble under my feet. I knew it was love at first ride!

So, what makes Penny Skateboards special? Primarily, it’s all about their unique design and features. These boards, originally designed in Australia, are like the “throwback” cousins of the skateboarding family. They’re modeled after the skateboards of the 1970s, with their classic retro look, but with a definite modern twist.

One of the most noticeable things about these boards is their size. They’re smaller – usually around 22 to 27 inches long. Now I get it, this might make you raise an eyebrow. A smaller board, surely that equates to less stability, right? Hmm, not really. The beauty of Penny Skateboards’ design is their compact size coupled with a surprisingly wide deck. This combo gives riders the best of both worlds: portability without compromising on control. It’s like getting the power of a big rig in a neat, sexy sports car package.

And this brings us to another feature that completely blew my mind – the material. These aren’t your typical wooden boards, my friends. Penny Skateboards are made from a special kind of plastic called vinyl. Sounds weird? Maybe. But trust me, the resilience and flexibility of vinyl puts the durability of these boards on another level. I remember one time I did a pretty nasty wipe-out, and I was sure my board was done for. But nope, it took the beating like a champ and bounced right back!

Finally, let’s talk about Penny Skateboards’ wheels. These are made from high-quality urethane. They’re softer and wider than typical skateboard wheels, which means they grip the road better and make your rides buttery smooth. Ride like you’re on clouds, they say. Well, Penny Skateboards pretty much nail that sensation.

My personal opinion? If you’re after a compact, stylish board that’s equally durable and portable, you can’t go wrong with a Penny Skateboard. Think about it: they’re like vintage cruisers, but hipper, and made for the contemporary rider. Worth a try, isn’t it? Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to take my trusty Penny for a spin under the sweet afternoon sun.

Popular Penny Skateboard Models

Ah, Penny skateboards! I remember the very first time I stepped onto one of these vibrant beauties. It’s a totally different feel and ride compared to a classic street skateboard. Now, as someone who’s practically tried every skateboard under the sun, I can say that Penny boards maintain a special place in my heart due to their unique design, convenience and style. Not to mention, the cool factor!

Now, let’s talk about the popular Penny skateboard models. The three most popular Penny skateboard models are the Penny Original, Penny Nickel, and Penny Longboard.

If you are a newbie just dipping your toes into the world of skateboarding, the Penny Original is a perfect start. It’s 22 inches long, which makes it incredibly portable and light. Don’t undermine its small size, this little dynamo is durable and can bear some heavy-duty riding. I used to carry my Penny Original in my backpack all the time, hardly felt its weight.

Now, if you’re looking for something a bit larger that offers more foot room, you might want to check out the Penny Nickel. Measuring in at 27 inches, it gives you a little extra space without losing the control and maneuverability. I upgraded to a Nickel when I was more confident in my boarding skills and haven’t looked back ever since. It was conveniently inching towards the comfort of the longboards without getting too bulky.

Which brings us to the third option, the Penny Longboard. It’s a whole 36 inches of smooth cruise control. This board is perfect for long, picturesque rides by the beach or countryside, offering high stability, even at high speeds. I got my longboard when I began exploring commuting on a skateboard and, believe me, it’s a dream! It offers an ultra-smooth ride that’s hard to compare with anything else.

Now, beyond these, Penny skateboards also offer funky limited editions every once in a while. They are collectors’ items and honestly, quite irresistible!

Keep in mind, personal preference will always play a critical role in choosing a skateboard. But I can testify, from my personal experience, that once you nail your pick, every day becomes an enthralling adventure with your Penny skateboard, awaiting new lanes, roads, and yes, even some sideways glances!
Remember, the key is to have fun and keep rolling. Happy skateboarding!

Pros and Cons of Penny Skateboards

I’m a sucker for the pure exhilaration that comes with skateboarding, and trust me; there’s no feeling quite like it. And when it comes to the type of skateboards, penny skateboards have a special place in my heart. So allow me to share some insights on the pros and cons of penny skateboards.

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The first thing that draws me to penny skateboards is their portability. They’re lightweight and compact, making them a breeze to carry around. A busy subway station or a packed locker room, these skateboards fit just about anywhere.

Their unique design is another major selling point. With a myriad of color options and funky patterns to choose from, penny skateboards reflect individual personality and style, adding a personal touch to the ride. I like that.

Now onto their performance, penny skateboards excel in providing smooth, quick rides. Over the years, I’ve found them ideal for cruising around the city streets or for that quick trip down to the local store. Not to mention, their plastic deck makes them quite durable. I’ve had nasty spills, and my penny skateboard, miraculously, survived without a scratch.

However, with the same plastic deck comes a drawback. Penny skateboards offer less grip compared to their wooden counterparts. There were times when, especially after a heavy downpour, maneuvering became challenging due to the slippery deck.

Another downside is that these boards aren’t really cut out for advanced tricks. If you’re aiming to step up your skateboarding game with some ollies or kickflips, penny skateboards may disappoint. They sure disappointed me. I remember nailing my first kickflip only to realize that the penny skateboard wasn’t the best choice for high-end tricks.

Also, the small size can make it a little unstable for beginners, leading to a higher risk of falling off. I learned this the hard way in my early skating days.

So, to sum it up, if you’re in for casual, stylish cruising with an easy-to-carry board, the penny skateboard is your best bet. But if you’re intending to delve deep into the world of skateboard tricks or are just starting, you might want to reconsider. At the end of the day, it’s about finding the board that resonates with your skating style and comfort. That’s been my mantra, at least.

How to Choose the Right Penny Skateboard for You

Choosing the right Penny skateboard isn’t just a walk in the park – it requires a blend of personal preference, insightful knowledge, and a keen understanding of your skateboarding style. As a long-time skateboard enthusiast, I remember the thrill of shopping for my very first Penny board. It’s not just about the coolest design or paint job, but about what fits your personal style and needs.

So, let’s delve into some essential factors you should consider when choosing the right Penny skateboard:

1. Size Matters: Penny skateboards come in different sizes, typically, 22”, 27” (nicknamed Nickel), and 36″ (Longboard). When it comes to choosing the size, it’s all about how you plan to use your board. A smaller size like the 22-inch classic is perfect for quick commutes, zigzagging around pedestrian traffic, and youthful riders, while the 27-inch Nickel suits those seeking a bit more stability underfoot and an easier ride over cracks. The 36-inch Penny Longboard, on the other hand, offers a laid-back cruise – perfect for spending lazy afternoons along the boardwalk.
2. Deck Material: Opt for a board with a robust, high-quality plastic deck to ensure durability. This ensures you can get a little wild with your board without worrying about it breaking mid-trick. Penny skateboards are renowned for their sturdy and durable decks, thanks to their secret plastic formula.
3. Wheels: Wheel size and hardness can also influence your ride. Larger wheels roll faster and smoother, improving your overall ride’s speed and smoothness. However, smaller wheels make for lighter boards and quicker turns.
4. Design & Color: This literally comes down to your personal choice. Maybe you love striking colors, vintage patterns, or cool graphics. Your penny board should reflect your personality.
5. Skateboarding Experience: Your skateboarding experience is paramount when choosing a Penny board. For beginners, the Nickel offers better stability, while more experienced skaters might prefer the agility of the original Penny.

Remember, the best Penny skateboard for you is the one that matches your style, experience, and intended use. Whether you’re cruising to class, travelling to work, or just exploring the city for fun, the key is to pick one that ticks all your boxes. In my experience, trying several types before deciding on “the one” is usually the best approach. Enjoy the ride!

Tips and Techniques for Riding Penny Skateboards

Alright, let’s dive into the thrilling world of penny skateboarding! Having spent countless hours on my penny board cruising the streets and practicing tricks, I’ve got your back. I’ll share some essential tips and techniques that I’ve picked up along my penny boarding journey.

The penny skateboard, usually just referred to as ‘penny’, is a compact, lightweight skateboard perfect for cruising around town. Its small size makes it perfect for weaving between pedestrians on busy sidewalks and for taking on public transit. Let’s not get caught up too much in its size though, because despite its compact form, a penny provides an adrenaline-filled ride.

Now, here come the nuggets of knowledge you’ve been waiting for – tips and techniques for riding a penny skateboard:

• Start Simple: As a beginner teaching yourself how to ride, start out on smooth and flat surfaces. It reduces the risk of accidents and allows you to focus primarily on getting your balance.
• Opt for Quality Gear: Investing in a quality penny board will pay off big time, especially in terms of the ride experience. I’ve used the Penny Australia Classic Complete Skateboard and loved it. Fun fact, penny boards require less physical effort to keep rolling, which makes them perfect for covering longer distances!
• Foot Placement: The right foot placement is essential for a steady ride. Your front foot (left foot if you’re regular, right if you’re goofy) should be across the board with your toes facing forward, and your back foot should be near the tail of the board.
• Use Your Body: It’s not just about the feet! Ensure you use your shoulders and hips for turning and balancing; they’re key factors in maintaining stability.
• Practice Your Pushing: Perfect your one-foot balance on the board first. Then, keeping the other foot near the back of the board is a good technique for easy access to braking if necessary.
• Ready to Turn: Turning on a Penny board involves shifting your weight on your feet and leaning into the direction you want to turn.
• Speed Control: While cruising downhill, use the foot brake technique to keep in control. It simply involves dragging one foot along the ground to slow down.
• Practice Falling: Sounds strange, right? However, understanding how to fall correctly can prevent serious injuries. Ideally, try to roll with the fall – this helps to distribute the impact.
• Wear Protective Gear: As with any skateboarding, wearing a helmet and protective pads is a must. Safety should always be top priority.
• Practice and Patience: Continuous practice is the key to mastering Penny boards. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither will your penny boarding skills!

This might seem overwhelming, but don’t worry. With a little bit of perseverance and a lot of practice, you’ll be weaving through those crowded sidewalks in no time. Happy cruising!

Penny Skateboard Maintenance and Care

Alright, here we go! So, we all know that just like everything else in life, skateboards need some TLC too. Penny skateboards are no exception and require regular maintenance to keep them in top shape. From my personal experience, I can tell you that there’s nothing more frustrating than hopping on a skateboard and realizing the ride isn’t as smooth as it should be.

First things first, let’s talk about cleaning. Now, you don’t need to scrub your Penny every single day – that would be overkill. But if you’re a frequent rider like me, giving it a thorough clean once a week will work wonders. One trick that I found useful is to use an old toothbrush to gently scrub away dirt and dust from the grip tape. Just give the board a quick wipe down afterwards and you’re good to go.

Now, while the deck is important, it’s the wheels that take most of the beating. Always check the wheel bearings and replace them if they are chipped or broken. I’ve found out the hard way that riding on a Penny with damaged bearings can lead to a pretty gnarly fall.

Speaking of falls, remember to regularly check the tightness of your trucks. If they’re too loose, your Penny can wobble and tip over. Too tight, and turning becomes an uphill task. I typically adjust mine depending on the terrain I anticipate being on. For city sidewalks and skate parks, I tend to keep them a bit tighter for stability and control.

Lastly, consider the weather. Rain can be pretty damaging to Penny skateboards. It causes rust, warps the board and wears out the grip tape. So as tempting as it may be, avoid riding in the rain or through puddles. But hey, if you do find yourself in such a situation, be sure to dry the board properly afterwards.

With just a bit of care and maintenance, your Penny skateboard can provide smooth rides for years to come. It’s all about loving your board, because trust me, your board will love you back for it!

Creative Customization Ideas for Penny Skateboards

Skateboarding culture is one of constant innovation and self-expression. Speaking candidly, as someone passionate about this sport, I firmly believe that one of the greatest ways to infuse personality into your ride is by customizing your skateboard. And there’s no skateboard as perfect for this as the Penny skateboard. They’re easy to handle, zippy as all hell, and the ideal canvas for whatever creative customizations you’ve got bubbling in your mind.

If you’ve managed to get your hands on a Penny board and are itching to deck it out in your unique style, brace yourself because I’ve got some fantastic customization ideas just for you:

1. DIY Grip Tape Art: Personally, one of my achieved customizations was the grip tape art on my board. Grip tape is much needed for traction, but who says it can’t be visually appealing too? Try cutting out cool patterns or designs from the grip tape before applying it. I went with geometric shapes for my board, but you can surely let your imagination run wild.
2. Stickers and Decals: A tried-and-true way to lend your board some personality. You’ll find a plethora of skateboard-specific stickers and decals on the market, or even make your own. From bands you love, to funny quotes, it can be anything that speaks your vibe.
3. Custom Wheels: Shake things up a bit (quite literally) by switching out your skateboard’s wheels! I once replaced my standard wheels with LED light-up ones, and man, did they light up my evening cruises!
4. Paint or Marker Art: Toss in some color with paint or markers. I’ve seen some truly stunning Penny board makeovers using paint markers. Believe me when I say, a hand-drawn design, no matter how simple, can look incredibly cool on your Penny.
5. Theme Customization: Go a step further and theme your entire board. A ‘Star Wars’ theme, a tribute to ‘The Avengers’, or a splash of the psychedelic ’70s – the choice is totally yours.
6. Change the Hardware: Swap out the trucks or the bearings for a splurge of color. You could also mix and match different colored wheels.

Remember, customization is boundless. You’re the artist, and your Penny skateboard is your canvas. Take these ideas and give them your spin. After all, there’s nothing more rewarding than cruising around town on a board that screams ‘You’.

Conclusion

After hours spent cruising down sidewalks, practicing tricks in empty parking lots, and feeling the wind on my face as I zip down hilly roads, I’ve come to one simple conclusion. Penny skateboards, with their retro appeal and reliable functionality, have a timeless charm that truly resonates with me and countless other skateboarders around the world.

Maybe it’s the way they take us back to skateboarding’s simpler past, a refreshing break from the high-tech world we live in. Stepping on a Penny skateboard almost feels like sliding into a fondly remembered 70s photograph; it’s high-waist jeans, band tees, and summer afternoons all encapsulated on four wheels.

And let’s not forget their unbeatable durability. These boards are forged with resilient plastic that can weather a rough ride and still come out shining. I can personally vouch for that. I once took my Penny board on a grueling summer road trip, from the cracked pavements of the city to the sandy stretches of the beach, and it stayed true through it all. In an era where products get replaced every few months, I feel we’ve all got a thing or two to learn about longevity from Penny skateboards.

Of course, these boards aren’t just about the past. They’re also about the here and now. Take the stunning array of designs, for example, which perfectly captures the spirit of the contemporary skater – bold, vibrant, and unapologetically unique. On these boards, everyone finds a way to express their own individuality, and I feel that’s what skating is all about.

In my opinion, the timeless appeal of Penny skateboards is cemented in the perfect blend of the old and the new, comfort and flair, dependability, and excitement. It’s tough to put into words, but when I step on the board, push off and feel the world whizzing by, then, then I truly understand it. The appeal is timeless, as it goes beyond mere trends. It’s grounded in the very essence of skateboarding – freedom, individuality, and the pure joy of movement. So here’s to Penny skateboards, long may they roll!

FAQs about Penny Skateboards