What is a Surfskate? Is It Good For Surfing the Streets?

Are you fascinated by the fluid movements of surfers riding the waves but live nowhere near the coast? Or perhaps you’re a surfer looking for a way to practice your moves on dry land. Either way, surfskating might just be the perfect activity for you. But what exactly is a surfskate? Let’s dive in and discover the world of surfskating.

What is a Surfskate?

Simply put, a surfskate is a skateboard designed to mimic the motion, feel, and flow of surfing, hence the name. It’s basically a way to surf the streets! It’s a type of skateboarding that simulates the feeling of surfing on a landlocked board.

Unlike regular skateboards, surfskates have specially designed front trucks with a rotating arm. This design allows for very tight, smooth turns and typical surfing maneuvers, creating a unique ‘surfy’ feel that’s incredibly fun to ride.

Surfskates were originally invented by surfers who wanted something to do on flat days. Over time, they’ve been embraced by skaters and surfers alike, as well as people who just love the feeling of carving and cruising on a board.

Surfskate vs. Other Skateboards

So how does a surfskate differ from other types of skateboards like a mini-cruiser or the Ripsurf? Well, the most significant difference lies in the front truck. A surfskate, in most cases, has a spring in its front truck adapter, which makes turning far more aggressive compared to a regular skateboard or a mini-cruiser.

While both surfskates and Ripsurfs can be fun, they offer different riding experiences. On a Ripsurf, you can’t do aggressive turns without the caster wheels sliding out, which limits your movements. Surfskates, on the other hand, are more versatile, allowing for tighter turns and sharper maneuvers.

Surfskate Wheels and Brands

A surfskate isn’t complete without its wheels. The wheels, connected to the trucks, come in various shapes, sizes, and durometers (hardness). If you’re just starting out, the best size for surfskate wheels is around 50-60 millimetres. This size offers a happy medium that allows you to cruise around without being too slow or too fast.

When it comes to brands, there are several well-known ones in the surfskate industry. Some popular ones include YOW, Carver, Smoothstar, and Waterborne. Each of these brands offers a unique surfing feel, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preference.

Is Surfskating for You?

Surfskating is a fantastic way to experience the thrill of surfing, even if you’re miles away from the ocean. It’s also an excellent method for surfers to practice their moves and stay in shape when they can’t hit the waves.

However, surfskating isn’t just for surfers. It’s also perfect for anyone who enjoys skateboarding or is looking for a fun and exciting way to stay active. Plus, with a surfskate, you can carve in, through, and around the tightest urban corners, adding a whole new dimension to your city adventures.

In conclusion, a surfskate is a unique type of skateboard that lets you surf the streets. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the feel of surfing, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner. So why not give surfskating a try and experience the thrill for yourself? Surf’s up, even on the streets!

Williams Jayson

I am a longboarding enthusiast and a blogger. On this blog, I share tips, tricks, and advice based on my experience. I am dedicated to helping newbies improve their skills and enjoy this fun activity to the fullest.