Complete Surfskates

Surf Skateboards Transform Concrete Into Waves

Explore our vast selection of surfskates crafted to replicate the sensation of surfing. Discover what makes surf skateboards distinct and identify the ideal board for your personal style and proficiency level.

What Constitutes a Surf Skateboard?

A surf skateboard, also referred to as a surfskate, is a specialised skateboard fitted with an advanced front truck system that facilitates fluid carving and pumping to build velocity.

Differentiating Between a Surf Skateboard and a Standard Skateboard

The primary difference between surfskates and conventional skateboards is found in the trucks. The method of turning and gaining momentum vary entirely when contrasting surfskates with other skateboard types.

Truck Configuration

• Standard skateboards utilise traditional trucks that pivot around a single axis.
• Surfskates boast a dual-axis front truck that emulates the movement of a surfboard, allowing for deep, seamless turns and speed creation through body movement (pumping).

Generating Momentum

• A skateboard gains velocity by pushing (or kicking) backward against the ground with one foot.
• A surfskate builds speed through pumping - by transferring your weight from heel to toe and moving your body fluidly.

Refer to our guide: Surfskating for beginners.

Height and Maneuverability

• Surfskates typically sit higher than regular skateboards. The additional height stops the deck from contacting the wheels during sharp turns, minimising the chance of a wheel bite (the scenario where the wheels hit the deck, which could lead to falls).
• Standard skateboards are generally less manoeuvrable and are lower than surfskates, as they do not require accommodating as steep deck angles.

Is a Surf Skate Suitable for Beginners?

You might wonder if a surfskate is a suitable first skateboard if you are starting with skateboarding or longboarding. The answer depends largely on your motivation to take up this activity. Below, we outline several considerations.

Beginners Interested in Skateboarding:

• Surfskates are less stable (that is to say, extremely lively), making it trickier to learn to balance on them.
• In tight spaces like driveways, small gardens, or compact parking areas, a surfskate can provide immense entertainment for a novice by enabling tight turns in limited areas.
• If your aim is commuting, cruising long distances, travelling, or going downhill, you may find a longboard or a standard cruiserboard more appealing and stable than a surfskate.
• If your intention is to master tricks such as ollies or kickflips, then the recommendation is “get a skateboard”.

Surfers Transitioning to Skateboarding:

• The turning dynamics closely echo the experience of carving on a wave, allowing you to refine pumping, balance, and flow when not on the ocean.
• Surfskates are a useful tool for honing your surfing skills during days when the sea is calm or when visiting the water is unfeasible.

Beginners Enthralled by Surfskating:

• Neither cruiserboards, longboards, nor skateboards deliver the wave-like experience offered by a surfskate.
• You are certain of your choice: Acquire a surfskate!

Can a Regular Skateboard Be Used for Surfskating?

A standard skateboard lacks the responsive, swivelling front truck required for surf-style movement. To modify one into a surfskate, consider installing surfskate trucks onto your current deck. However, a conventional popsicle deck will furnish a shorter wheelbase than a purpose-developed surfskate deck.

If your skateboard is fitted with small, hard wheels, changing them to appropriate cruiser wheels can offer a smoother, more fluid sensation. Additionally, installing risers will provide extra clearance, helping to avoid wheel bite during sharp turns.

Understanding the Distinction Between a Surfskate and a Cruiser Skateboard

The names clarify their purpose - cruiserboards are crafted for cruising, whereas surfskates are designed to reflect surf movements.

• A cruiserboard offers smooth, comfortable travel on roads, featuring soft wheels and a short, wide deck.
• A surfskate emphasises vigorous carving and pumping, delivering a sensation akin to riding a wave.

The lateral motion required on a surfskate renders it less practical for cruising, as it occupies more space on footpaths and roads.

Is It Possible to Ollie on a Surf Skate?

Indeed, performing an ollie on a surfskate is possible, and some riders successfully incorporate skateboard tricks into their surfskating.

However, the typically steep pop angle observed in many surfskates makes performing a proper ollie more challenging. Landing can also be difficult, and maintaining stability without excessive wobbling often demands extra effort.

To be straightforward:

• If your primary aim is executing ollies, kickflips, or shuvits, a surfskate is not the optimal choice. A conventional skateboard designed for tricks is more suitable.
• If you are simply curious about integrating some skateboard tricks into your surfskating routine, the answer is yes - there is no reason to limit yourself.