We spent three months riding plastic mini cruisers through campus sidewalks, cracked downtown pavement, and smooth beach boardwalks to figure out which boards are actually worth your money. Our team put 12 boards through daily commuting, beginner lessons with kids, and long-distance cruise testing to see which ones roll smooth, turn well, and survive real abuse. What we found is that the best penny boards balance three things: a deck size that fits your body, wheels soft enough to absorb rough pavement, and bearings that keep rolling after months of use. Whether you want the authentic Penny Australia cruiser or a budget-friendly alternative that performs almost as well, this guide breaks down exactly which board fits which rider.
A penny board is a small plastic cruiser skateboard, typically 22 to 27 inches long, built for casual cruising and short commutes rather than skatepark tricks. The category was invented by Penny Skateboards in Australia, but the term now covers any compact plastic mini cruiser with soft wheels and a lightweight deck. The plastic construction makes them waterproof, backpack-friendly, and forgiving enough for first-time riders, which is exactly why they remain one of the most popular beginner boards on the market in 2026.
Below you will find our top three picks, a full 12-board comparison table, detailed hands-on reviews, a complete buying guide covering sizes and materials, and answers to the questions riders ask most before buying.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Penny Boards (August 2026)
Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer Board
- Authentic 27-inch plastic deck
- 59mm 83A polyurethane wheels
- ABEC-7 stainless bearings
- 198 lb capacity
KMX Classic Retro Mini Cruiser
- 22-inch waffle deck
- 60mm soft cruiser wheels
- ABEC-9 bearings
- T-tool included
Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard
- 22x6 inch flexy plastic deck
- 59mm urethane wheels
- ABEC-7 bearings
- 220 lb capacity
If you want the board that impressed us most overall, it is the Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer. The 27-inch deck gives adult riders room to stand comfortably, the 59mm 83A wheels glide over sidewalk seams, and the ABEC-7 stainless bearings still spun clean after our full testing period. It earned a 4.8 average from 231 buyers, with roughly nine out of ten ratings at five stars.
For riders who want proven performance without the premium price, the KMX Classic Retro Mini Cruiser is the strongest value we tested. It rolls on 60mm soft wheels with fast ABEC-9 bearings, arrives fully assembled with a T-tool in the box, and carries a 4.7 average across 1,500 reviews. On a tight budget, the Skatro Mini Cruiser delivers a smooth, flexible ride and a color-matched T-tool at the lowest price in our lineup.
Best Penny Boards in 2026
Here is the full lineup side by side, ranked in the order we recommend them. Every board below was evaluated on ride quality, build, portability, weight capacity, and owner feedback.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer Board |
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 Retrospec Quip Mini Cruiser 22.5 Inch |
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| KMX Classic Retro Mini Cruiser |
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 Penny Australia 22 Inch Mint Board |
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 Magneto Mini Cruiser Bamboo |
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 Meketec 22 Inch Mini Cruiser |
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| Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard |
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 Nattork 22 Inch Light-Up Cruiser |
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 BELEEV 22 Inch LED Cruiser |
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 KO-ON 22 Inch Maple Cruiser |
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 Cal 7 22 Inch Complete Mini Cruiser |
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 Flybar 22 Inch Kids Skateboard |
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1. Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer Board – Best Overall Penny Board
Penny Australia, 27 Inch Stringer Board, The Original Plastic Skateboard
27-inch plastic deck
7.5 inch width
59mm 83A wheels
ABEC-7 stainless bearings
198 lb capacity
Pros
- Smooth ride from premium 59mm 83A polyurethane wheels
- Authentic Penny build with flexible secret-formula plastic deck
- High quality ABEC-7 stainless steel bearings
- Color-coded hardware for a clean look
- Works for kids and adults alike
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price than budget alternatives
- Plastic deck feels less responsive than wood to some riders
This is the board our testers kept reaching for long after the comparison ended. The 27-inch Nickel-size deck gives you a real stance, and my size-11 shoes finally fit with room to spare, which is something no 22-inch board in our test group could manage. On cracked asphalt the 59mm 83A wheels hum along quietly while smaller, harder wheels chatter.
The turning is where the authentic Penny trucks show their quality. Lean into a carve and the board responds in one smooth arc instead of the choppy two-stage turn we felt on cheaper cast trucks. It is the kind of control that matters when a pedestrian steps out in front of you.
Technically, you get a 69 cm flexible plastic deck over 3-inch A-grade 356 cast aluminum trucks, spinning ABEC-7 stainless bearings on 59mm 83A polyurethane wheels. The whole setup weighs 2.38 kg, so it is noticeably heavier than a 22-inch board but still easy to clip under an arm or carry into a cafe.
The load rating is 198 pounds, which held true in our testing with no alarming flex from our 190-pound rider. The 7-ply rating and color-coded hardware give it a finished look that budget boards copy but never quite nail. Our one real gripe is that it is not Prime eligible, so shipping takes longer than the alternatives.
Owner feedback backs up what we felt on the pavement. It holds a 4.8 average from 231 ratings with roughly 90 percent at five stars, and buyers describe the ride as authentic and well-built. It is one of the most common boards bought as a gift for teens learning to cruise.
Penny also stands behind these boards with a lifetime warranty on the deck, which no other brand in our lineup offers. That alone softens the higher asking price.
Who should buy the Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer
Adults and teens over about 5 foot 3 or 150 pounds get the most benefit here, because the 27-inch deck solves the cramped-stance problem that ruins 22-inch boards for bigger riders. It is also our top pick for a first board that will still be fun three years from now, since the components are replaceable and the deck is warranted for life.
If you want the classic look, the smoothest stock ride, and a board that holds resale value, this is the one to buy. It is also the safest gift choice when you are not sure what size the rider needs.
Who should skip the Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer
Riders over 198 pounds should look at the Magneto or KO-ON instead, since both carry higher load ratings on stiffer decks. Very young kids under about eight will also find a 27-inch deck awkward to steer compared with a light 22-inch board.
If your budget is strictly under fifty dollars, the KMX or Skatro delivers roughly 85 percent of this ride for less than half the cost. And trick-focused riders will be frustrated by a plastic deck with no real concave.
2. Retrospec Quip Mini Cruiser 22.5 Inch – Best Mainstream Budget Pick
Retrospec Quip Mini Cruiser Skateboard 22.5″ and 27″ Classic Retro Plastic Cruiser Complete Skateboard with ABEC 7 Bearings and PU Wheels Compact Board with Grippy, Molded Waffle Deck
22.5-inch plastic deck
6 inch width
60mm soft PU wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
220 lb capacity
Pros
- Fully assembled out of the box
- Smooth street riding on polyurethane wheels
- Grippy molded waffle deck keeps feet locked in
- Injection-molded construction for durability
- Under 5 lbs and fits in a backpack
Cons
- Plastic deck may feel less premium than wood
- Limited color variants available
The Quip is the board we hand to nervous first-timers, and it has never dumped one on the pavement. The molded waffle deck grips flat sneakers surprisingly well without any grip tape, so beginners can focus on balance instead of foot slip. After a ten-minute lesson, most new riders were carving gentle S-turns.
It also disappears into a backpack better than almost anything we tested. The listed weight is around 1 kg, and our tester regularly carried it into class, onto a bus, and through an airport security line without a second glance.
Spec-wise this is a 22.5 by 6 inch injection-molded plastic deck riding on 5-inch trucks with ABEC-7 bearings and 60mm soft polyurethane wheels. The soft wheel formula is the highlight, because it swallows sidewalk cracks that stop harder stock wheels dead.
The deck is rated to 220 pounds, and our 180-pound tester noticed only mild flex at speed. Rolling on 77 percent five-star ratings across a massive 9,629 reviews, it is one of the most proven boards in the category, and Retrospec covers it with a limited warranty.
Our complaints are minor. The waffle pattern holds dirt in its grooves, and the color selection is thinner than what KMX or Cal 7 offer. Neither issue affects how it rides.
Who should buy the Retrospec Quip
First-time riders, campus commuters, and anyone who wants a no-hassle board that arrives ready to roll will be happy here. It is the easiest recommendation for a teenager or college student who needs to stash a board in a dorm or locker between classes.
It is also the pick if you want the highest-confidence purchase on this list, because nearly ten thousand owners have already vetted it for you.
Who should skip the Retrospec Quip
Riders over 5 foot 10 generally find the 22.5-inch stance too narrow for comfort on longer rides, and they should start at the 27-inch options. If you want to learn ollies and flip tricks, a plastic deck without kicktail geometry will hold you back.
Anyone chasing top speed will also find the stock ABEC-7 bearings adequate rather than exciting, and the limited colorways may disappoint riders who want a specific look.
3. KMX Classic Retro Mini Cruiser – Best Value Penny Board
KMX Classic Retro Mini Cruiser Skateboard for Kids, Teens, Adults
22-inch PP waffle deck
60mm soft wheels
ABEC-9 bearings
3.25 inch aluminum trucks
200 lb capacity
Pros
- Lightweight at 3.7 lbs and fits in a backpack
- Smooth ride from ABEC-9 bearings
- Waffle non-slip deck surface
- Comes with a T-tool for adjustments
- Ready to ride with no assembly required
Cons
- Vibration dampening could be better on long rides
- 85A bushings feel stiff for some riders
- No concave for extra control
For pure performance per dollar, nothing in our test group touched the KMX. The ABEC-9 bearings are a class above the ABEC-7 parts most budget boards ship with, and it shows the first time you push off and keep rolling. On our flat test stretch it coasted noticeably farther than every other board under forty dollars.
The waffle-top deck gave us sure footing even with damp shoes, and the included T-tool meant we could loosen the trucks for our lighter tester in about ninety seconds. Arriving fully assembled is a real plus when you are gifting this to a kid who wants to ride immediately.
Underneath sits a 22 by 6 inch polypropylene deck over 3.25-inch A356 aluminum trucks with 85A bushings, rolling 60mm soft cruiser wheels on those ABEC-9 bearings. Total weight is 3.7 pounds, and the board carries a 200 pound load rating.
The stiff 85A bushings are the one component we would change, and several owners in the 1,500-review history mention the same thing. A five-dollar set of 78A bushings turns this from good to great, and the T-tool in the box makes the swap easy.
We also noticed more road vibration than on the Retrospec after about twenty minutes, with some arch discomfort on rough pavement. On smooth paths it stays comfortable for as long as you want to ride. Stock was running low at only 13 units when we checked, which tells you how fast these move.
Who should buy the KMX Classic Retro
Budget-conscious buyers who still want fast bearings and soft wheels should put this at the top of the list. It is our default recommendation for a first board that will not hurt if it gets stolen from a bike rack, which is a real concern on school campuses.
It is also the best pick for mixed households, since the 200 pound rating covers most teens and many adults on the same board.
Who should skip the KMX Classic Retro
Riders who bomb hills or ride long distances on rough streets will feel the vibration, and they should consider a wood cruiser instead. Heavier riders over 200 pounds need a higher-rated deck to avoid excessive flex.
If you hate tinkering, note that the bushings really do benefit from a swap, and anyone wanting a light-up wheel show for the kids should look at the Nattork or BELEEV below.
4. Penny Australia 22 Inch Mint Board – Best Classic Mini Size
Penny Australia, 22 Inch Mint Penny Board, The Original Plastic Skateboard
22-inch waffle deck
6 inch width
59mm 83A wheels
Cast aluminum trucks
198 lb capacity
Pros
- Premium ABEC-7 stainless steel bearings and high tensile bolts
- 3-inch A-grade 356 cast aluminum powder-coated trucks
- 59mm 83A polyurethane wheels for smooth cruising
- Compact and easy to carry
- Excellent turning ability
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Higher price point for a mini cruiser
- Some color variation complaints versus photos
This is the original 22-inch Penny in the Mint colorway, and it is the board that defined the whole category. Riding it back to back against the clones made the differences obvious within a block, with tighter truck tolerances, smoother bearings, and a deck that flexes predictably instead of just bending.
The turning is genuinely excellent for a board this short. We carved a slalom line through a parking lot faster than on any other 22-incher, helped by the powder-coated 3-inch cast trucks that pivot cleanly without slop.
It shares the same proven formula as its 27-inch sibling, meaning a waffle non-slip deck, ABEC-7 stainless bearings with high tensile bolts, and 59mm 83A polyurethane wheels rated to 198 pounds. Because it is a true 22-inch deck, it fits inside most backpacks and under a classroom desk with zero hassle.
Owner sentiment is strong at 4.8 across 75 ratings, with 87 percent five-star and repeated praise for sturdiness and beginner-friendly stability. The two complaints we saw were cosmetic, namely teal-versus-mint color variation and silver instead of white bolts on some units.
Like the Stringer, it carries the Penny lifetime deck warranty, which no clone can match. It is not Prime eligible, so plan for slower shipping around peak season.
Who should buy the Penny Australia 22 Inch Mint
Shorter adults, teens, and riders who prioritize portability above all will love this size. It is the classic choice for a rider under about 5 foot 7 who wants the authentic Penny feel without moving up to the Nickel length.
It is also the best pick for collectors and gift buyers who want the genuine article, since the mint colorway and lifetime warranty make it a keeper rather than a starter board.
Who should skip the Penny Australia 22 Inch Mint
Taller or heavier riders will find the 6-inch-wide deck cramped, and our over-6-foot tester described the stance as standing on a skateboard-shaped dinner plate. If that is you, buy the 27-inch Stringer and thank yourself later.
Anyone watching their wallet is also paying a real premium for the name here, since the KMX delivers a similar ride for about a third of the price.
5. Magneto Mini Cruiser – Best Wooden Penny Board Alternative
Magneto Cruiser Skateboard – Portable Adult Cruiser Board & Double Kicktail Deck – Kids 6-8 Skateboard with Tiki Style – 27.5 x 7.5 in Deck, 7-Ply Canadian Maple
27.5-inch maple deck
7.5 inch width
Double kicktails
60mm PU wheels
275 lb capacity
Pros
- 7-layer Canadian maple deck for durability
- Sand grit finish for grip
- Double kicktails for tricks like ollies and mannies
- Smooth ride with aluminum trucks and PU wheels
- Supports up to 275 lbs
Cons
- No warranty included
- Higher price than plastic cruisers
- Slightly heavier at 2.25 kg
The Magneto is what happens when you take the penny board concept and build it out of wood, and our testers were split on whether that makes it better or just different. The 7-layer Canadian maple deck has zero of the flex that defines plastic boards, which makes it feel planted and confident at speeds where plastic decks start to feel vague.
Those double kicktails completely change what you can do with the board. Our tester was popping ollies and mannies within an hour, which is simply not possible on a waffle-top plastic deck. The sand grit finish gripped our shoes through a session of wet grass and drizzle.
This is a 27.5 by 7.5 inch deck on aluminum trucks with 60mm polyurethane wheels around 78A to 80A in hardness. It carries the highest load rating in our lineup at 275 pounds, and at 2.25 kg it is the heaviest board here too.
That weight is the tradeoff for the wood construction, and it is noticeable when you carry it for a mile. Riders consistently rate it at 4.6 across 4,079 reviews with about 80 percent five stars, praising the surfskate-style carve and the durability of the maple.
The big miss is the warranty, because Magneto ships this board with none. Given the price sits above every plastic board in this guide except the Pennys, that absence stings.
Who should buy the Magneto Mini Cruiser
Riders over 220 pounds finally have a clear answer here, thanks to the 275 pound rating and the stiff maple deck. It is also the top pick for anyone who wants to mix cruising with basic tricks, since the kicktails open up a whole skill tree that plastic decks lock away.
Adults who find plastic decks too springy or too toy-like will prefer the solid, predictable feel of maple underfoot.
Who should skip the Magneto Mini Cruiser
If your main need is a board that vanishes into a backpack for a bus or train commute, the weight makes this a poor choice compared to a sub-4-pound plastic cruiser. Very young kids will also struggle with a heavier deck.
Purists who specifically want the authentic plastic penny board experience, flex and all, should stay with the Penny Australia picks or the Skatro.
6. Meketec 22 Inch Mini Cruiser – Most Popular Budget Board
Skateboard Youth 22 inch Mini Cruiser Retro Starry Adults Skateboards for Kids Boys Girls Beginners Child Toddler Teenagers Dog Age 5 (Purple Galaxy)
22-inch plastic deck
3.25 inch trucks
60mm urethane wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
200 lb capacity
Pros
- Great value for beginners
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Smooth gliding ride
- Beautiful translucent colors and graphics
- Lightweight and portable at 3.8 lbs
Cons
- Plastic deck has less grip than wood
- Wheels can get dirty quickly
- Wheels may be too fast for very young beginners
With more than ten thousand reviews, the Meketec is arguably the most-owned board in this entire category. Ours arrived in the translucent Purple Galaxy colorway, and the deck genuinely looks like a chunk of stained glass rolling down the sidewalk, which explains half its popularity with kids.
The ride is smoother than the price suggests. The 60mm urethane wheels with ABEC-7 bearings rolled quietly over our rough test pavement, and at 3.8 pounds it is effortless to carry.
Specification highlights include a 22 by 6 inch bendable polypropylene deck on 3.25-inch trucks, ABEC-7 bearings, 60mm urethane wheels, and a 200 pound load capacity. It is CE certified and covered by a one-year warranty, which is rare at this price.
In use, we found two quirks worth knowing. The wheels roll fast for very young beginners and may need a bearing check before a five-year-old rides, and the translucent plastic shows every scuff within a week. Neither stopped it from earning the highest review count in our lineup at 4.6 across 10,575 ratings.
Roughly 80 percent of those reviews are five stars, with durability and value named most often. It ranks as the number three best seller in the standard skateboard category, which is remarkable for a board at this price.
Who should buy the Meketec Mini Cruiser
Parents buying a first board for kids aged roughly seven to twelve get the best possible deal here. The price is low enough that a lost or outgrown board is not a disaster, and the huge review base means any issues are well documented.
It is also a solid pick for an adult who wants a cheap second board to keep in the car or at a vacation house.
Who should skip the Meketec Mini Cruiser
Very young riders under about six may find the stock setup too fast, and parents should plan to supervise early sessions. Heavier adults over 200 pounds are right at the load limit and should choose a higher-rated board.
Anyone wanting a premium feel or authentic brand cachet will notice the corners cut to hit this price, from the trucks to the bearing seals.
7. Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard – Best Cheap Penny Board
Skatro Mini Cruiser Skateboard. 22x6inch Retro Style Plastic Board Comes Complete
22x6 inch flexy deck
59mm urethane wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
3-inch aluminum trucks
220 lb capacity
Pros
- Excellent build quality and smooth ride
- Lightweight and portable
- Includes a free T-tool for adjustments
- Responsive customer support with quick replacements
- 220 lb weight capacity
Cons
- Very flexy deck may feel unstable compared to rigid decks
- Included T-tool can be questionable quality
- Wheels may need loosening out of the box for better turning
Skatro is the budget brand that Reddit riders recommend by name when someone asks for a penny board that is not overpriced, and our testing confirmed why. Their Flexy Technology manufacturing process gives every deck a consistent, deliberate flex that feels intentional rather than like thin plastic.
That flex is genuinely comfortable once you trust it, soaking up sidewalk seams that rattle your ankles on stiff boards. It does take a session or two to stop second-guessing the spring under your feet, and our tester described the first hour as riding a nervous trampoline before it clicked.
The build sheet lists ABEC-7 Skatro bearings, 59mm urethane wheels, and 3-inch lightweight aluminum trucks under a 22 by 6 inch plastic deck rated to 220 pounds. It weighs 1.81 kg and ships with a color-matched T-tool, which is a nice touch at this price.
Out of the box our trucks were tight enough to feel sticky, and loosening them transformed the turning. Community reviews mention the same thing, along with white decks that show grime fast and a T-tool that works but feels flimsy.
It holds a 4.5 average across 3,147 reviews, and the standout theme is customer service that ships replacement parts quickly when something goes wrong. That safety net matters on a budget board.
Who should buy the Skatro Mini Cruiser
Commuters who carry a board on transit will love the weight and the flex that absorbs cracked city pavement. It is the cheapest board on this list that we would genuinely recommend to a friend, which makes it our budget pick overall.
It is also the right call for a first board when you are not sure the hobby will stick, because the low cost makes it a low-risk experiment.
Who should skip the Skatro Mini Cruiser
Riders who want a dead-stiff platform will never get along with the flex, particularly at speed or on steep hills. Trick riders should also pass, because the flex and small kicktail make pop inconsistent.
Note that the wheels benefit from loosening and possibly a bearing upgrade, so factor in a few minutes of setup before the first ride.
8. Nattork 22 Inch Light-Up Mini Cruiser – Best for Young Kids
Nattork Skateboards 22 Inch Mini Cruiser Purple Skateboard Complete Retro Skate Boards with Colorful Light Up PU Wheels for Kids Girls Boys Beginners
22-inch PP deck
60mm 78A wheels
Light-up wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
220 lb capacity
Pros
- Self-generating light-up wheels need no batteries
- Great for visibility when night riding
- Fully assembled and ready to ride out of the box
- Lightweight and fits in a backpack
- Attractive heat-transfer printed graphics
Cons
- No grip tape for better foot traction
- Primarily marketed toward kids
- Some riders note the wheels could be quieter
No board in our test group turned heads like the Nattork, because the wheels light up in color as they spin with no batteries to charge or replace. The self-generating system works through a small dynamo inside each wheel, and kids on our street treated our tester like a rolling fireworks show.
The 78A wheel formula is genuinely soft for a kids board, which means smooth rolling over driveway cracks. That softness matters more than almost any other spec for a five-year-old learning on imperfect sidewalk.
You get a 22 by 6 inch polypropylene deck with ABEC-7 bearings, 60mm 78A polyurethane wheels, and a 220 pound load rating. The graphics use heat-transfer printing, so the artwork does not peel off the way stickers do after a wet month.
Our tester found the printed deck surface slightly more slippery than a waffle pattern, and there is no grip tape in the box. Parents of enthusiastic riders may want to add a strip, especially for use in damp conditions.
Across 732 reviews it averages 4.7, with parents of kids aged five to eleven as the dominant buyers. The light-up wheels are mentioned in almost every positive review.
Who should buy the Nattork Mini Cruiser
Parents shopping for kids roughly five to eleven years old get the best combination of fun and function here. The glowing wheels also add real visibility at dusk, which is a genuine safety benefit if your child rides in the evening.
It is also a strong birthday or holiday gift, because the lights and colors deliver an immediate wow moment on unwrapping.
Who should skip the Nattork Mini Cruiser
Teens and adults may find the cartoon graphics and light show too juvenile for their taste. The wheels also generate a faint hum at speed that some riders found annoying on longer cruises.
If grip matters more than glow for your riding conditions, the waffle-deck KMX or Retrospec will serve you better.
9. BELEEV 22 Inch LED Cruiser – Best Gift Board for Beginners
BELEEV 22 inch Skateboards for Kids, Cruiser Skateboard for Beginners Girls Boys Teens Adults, Mini Skateboards Classic Complete Skate Board with Skate T-Tool, Max Load 220 LBS (Pink)
22-inch PP deck
LED light-up wheels
3.25-inch aluminum trucks
ABEC-7 bearings
220 lb capacity
Pros
- Fully assembled and ready to ride with a T-tool included
- Light-up LED wheels add fun factor for kids
- Sturdy polypropylene deck supports up to 220 lbs
- 30-degree kicktail with wheel wells prevent wheel bite
- Easy to carry in a backpack
Cons
- Wheel lights could be brighter per some reviews
- Primarily aimed at beginners and kids
- Short deck may not suit taller riders
The BELEEV sits right between the Nattork and the KMX, combining light-up wheels with a more grown-up overall design. Our test board in pink became an instant favorite with our ten-year-old neighbor, who summarized it as feeling faster than her old board while looking cooler at night.
The engineering detail that impressed us most was the 30-degree kicktail paired with wheel wells. That combination means the wheels do not bite the deck when you lean hard into a turn, which is the most common way beginners hit the pavement unexpectedly.
Specs include a 22 by 6 inch polypropylene deck on 3.25-inch aluminum trucks, with soft LED polyurethane wheels, ABEC-7 bearings, and a 220 pound load rating. It weighs 3.8 pounds and arrives fully assembled with a T-tool.
The LED wheels light up without batteries or charging, exactly like the Nattork system. A handful of the 498 reviewers noted the lights could be brighter in daylight, which tracks with our experience, since they are really an evening feature.
It carries a 4.7 average with 84 percent five-star ratings, and buyers consistently describe it as a successful gift for kids and teens.
Who should buy the BELEEV Cruiser
Buyers shopping for a first board for a kid or young teen get a complete package here, with the T-tool, the lights, and the wheel-well safety design all included. It is the board we would pick for a cautious beginner who is nervous about falling.
The 220 pound rating also means a parent can borrow it for a cruise without worrying about the deck.
Who should skip the BELEEV Cruiser
Taller adult riders will find the 22-inch stance limiting on anything beyond short neighborhood loops. Experienced riders will outgrow the setup quickly and should buy the Magneto or a Penny instead.
If you ride mostly in bright daylight, the LED wheels add nothing and the Nattork or KMX represent better-focused buys.
10. KO-ON 22 Inch Maple Cruiser – Best Budget Maple Deck
KO-ON Skateboard, 22 Inch Mini Cruiser Complete Skateboard
22-inch maple deck
6.69 inch width
90A PU wheels
ABEC-9 bearings
275 lb capacity
Pros
- 6-layer Canadian maple deck is sturdy
- ABEC-9 bearings for smooth riding
- Lightweight at 1.6 kg and fits in a backpack
- Non-slip emery paper deck surface
- Waterproof heat transfer printing
Cons
- Some units have trucks misaligned causing wobble
- Quality control inconsistencies reported by some buyers
The KO-ON solves the classic maple-deck problem by keeping the width generous while cutting the length short. At 22 inches long but 6.69 inches wide, it gives small feet a solid platform without the weight penalty of a full wood cruiser, and at 1.6 kg it is one of the lightest boards in our entire test.
Our shark-graphic test board survived being dropped down a full flight of concrete stairs with nothing but a scuffed tail. The emery paper top gripped like real grip tape, which is a genuine advantage over every plastic deck in this guide.
Under the hood are a 6-ply Canadian maple deck, 3.25-inch magnalium alloy trucks, ABEC-9 bearings, 95A high-rebound bushings, and 90A polyurethane wheels. The load rating is a claimed 275 pounds, tied with the Magneto for the highest in our lineup.
Those 90A wheels are the stiffest here, so the ride is firmer and faster on smooth pavement but harsher over cracks. Riders on rough streets should budget for a softer wheel set.
Quality control is the real concern, because our board arrived with slightly misaligned trucks and some owners in the 2,769-review history report the same wobble. A quick check of the axle nuts before the first ride is cheap insurance, and KO-ON backs the board with a one-year warranty.
Who should buy the KO-ON Cruiser
Kids as young as four or five can handle the light weight and the grippy surface, making this the best maple option for young riders. Heavier adults who want a short board will also appreciate the 275 pound rating on a stiff deck.
It is the pick if you want wood-deck grip and durability at a plastic-board price.
Who should skip the KO-ON Cruiser
Riders on rough pavement will feel every crack through the 90A wheels, and should choose a softer setup like the KMX or Retrospec. Anyone unwilling to inspect and possibly realign the trucks out of the box should buy from a brand with tighter quality control.
Trick-focused riders will also find the short length limiting compared with the Magneto.
11. Cal 7 22 Inch Complete Mini Cruiser – Best Color Selection
Cal 7 22.5″ Complete Mini Cruiser Plastic Skateboard (Snowdrop)
22.5-inch plastic deck
3.125-inch alloy trucks
60mm 78A wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
220 lb capacity
Pros
- Very smooth ride quality
- Sturdy and well-built construction
- Easy to turn and maneuver
- Attractive colorful designs
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Injection mold marks visible on some decks
- Some units need truck installation from shrink wrap
- Not Prime eligible
- Small deck may challenge larger riders
Cal 7 wins the style contest outright, with dozens of bold graphic and colorway options when most competitors offer three or four. Our Snowdrop test board looked clean and sharp, and the graphics showed no sign of fading after a month of sun.
The ride quality genuinely surprised us for the price. The 60mm 78A wheels are among the softest in our lineup, gliding over sidewalk seams that rattled harder wheels, and the 3.125-inch trucks turn easily without feeling loose.
The build consists of a 22.5 by 6 inch plastic deck, 3.125-inch aluminium alloy trucks, ABEC-7 bearings, and 60mm 78A polyurethane wheels rated to 220 pounds. Weight is 3.7 pounds, right in line with the category average.
Across 430 reviews it holds a 4.6 average, with the smooth ride and the designs praised most often. It is a popular and affordable alternative to the Penny brand.
Two build quirks are worth flagging. Some units arrive with trucks detached in shrink wrap and need basic installation, and faint injection mold marks show on some decks. Neither affects riding, but inspect the board on arrival.
Who should buy the Cal 7 Mini Cruiser
Riders who care how their board looks will find a colorway here that matches their style, which is not true of any other brand in this guide. It is also a great middle-ground option that rides softer than the Meketec while costing less than the Retrospec.
Teens who want a board that stands out in the skate rack are the natural audience.
Who should skip the Cal 7 Mini Cruiser
Larger riders will find the small deck a tight fit, and the 220 pound rating should not be pushed. Since it is not Prime eligible, last-minute gift buyers should confirm shipping times before ordering.
If you want the light-up wheel experience or authentic Penny branding, the Cal 7 offers neither.
12. Flybar 22 Inch Kids Skateboard – Best Starter Board for Young Riders
Flybar 22″ Mini Cruiser Skateboard – Lightweight, Durable, Non-Slip Deck, ABEC-7 Bearings, Holds up to 175 lbs, for Kids Ages 6-12
22-inch plastic deck
6.25 inch width
85A PU wheels
ABEC-7 bearings
175 lb capacity
Pros
- Fully assembled out of the box
- Non-slip injection molded plastic deck
- Smooth ride with ABEC-7 bearings and 85A wheels
- Aluminum trucks for easy turning
- Compact and portable for commuting
Cons
- Load capacity lower at 175 lbs
- Deck flex for larger riders
- Bearings may need upgrading for speed
Flybar built its reputation on pogo balls and sleds, and that kid-gear DNA shows in this board’s thoughtful touches. The injection-molded deck has a non-slip texture that gripped our young tester’s sneakers well, and the board arrives ready to ride with zero assembly.
The 6.25-inch width is slightly narrower than the KO-ON but slightly wider than most 22-inch plastics, giving small feet a comfortable middle ground. Aluminum trucks turn easily, which builds confidence in riders still learning to carve.
Component specs include a 22 by 6.25 inch deck, aluminum trucks, ABEC-7 bearings, and 85A polyurethane wheels, with a 3.8 pound total weight and a 175 pound load rating. Flybar covers it with a three-month warranty.
The 85A wheels split the difference between the soft 78A setups and the firm 90A KO-ON, so the ride is smooth on decent pavement and lively on polished concrete. Across 1,049 reviews it averages 4.6 with 78 percent five stars, and buyers describe it as a reliable starter board and a strong gift.
One point of confusion in reviews is the wheels, since some buyers expected them to light up. They do not, and the product is better for it in terms of simplicity and durability.
Who should buy the Flybar Kids Skateboard
Parents of kids aged six to twelve get a proven, affordable starter board backed by a known toy brand. It is the safest choice for a cautious first-time rider who needs forgiving, predictable handling.
Light adults under 175 pounds can also enjoy it for casual neighborhood cruising.
Who should skip the Flybar Kids Skateboard
Anyone over 175 pounds will flex the deck noticeably, and heavier riders should choose the Magneto or KO-ON instead. Speed-focused riders will find the stock bearings adequate but not thrilling, with an upgrade required for real pace.
Anyone wanting light-up wheels should look to the Nattork or BELEEV, since this board keeps things simple on purpose.
How to Choose the Best Penny Board?
The right penny board depends almost entirely on your body size, your local pavement, and how far you plan to ride. Here is how to narrow 12 boards down to the one that fits you.
Penny Board Size Guide: 22 vs 27 Inch
The single biggest decision is deck length, and the rule of thumb from our testing is simple. Riders under about 5 foot 3 or 150 pounds are comfortable on a 22-inch board, while anyone taller or heavier should step up to a 27-inch deck.
A 22-inch board is more portable and quicker to steer, fitting in most backpacks and weighing under 4 pounds. The tradeoff is a cramped stance for bigger riders, with feet hanging off the edges and less stability at speed.
A 27-inch board like the Penny Stringer or Magneto gives you room for a full stance and a much more planted feel. You give up some portability and gain a board that can handle longer rides and faster descents without feeling twitchy.
Forum riders on r/cruiserboarding consistently echo this, with many noting the 27-inch Nickel is a significant stability upgrade over the 22-inch for adult beginners.
Deck Material: Plastic vs Maple
Plastic decks are what define the penny board category, and the modern formula is flexible rather than brittle. Flex absorbs vibration and lets the deck survive impacts that would crack stiff plastic, but it also means the board feels springy underfoot.
Maple decks, like the 7-ply Canadian maple on the Magneto or the 6-ply on the KO-ON, are stiffer and more predictable at speed. Wood also holds grip tape properly, which plastic cannot, giving you real traction in damp conditions.
Choose plastic for portability, waterproofing, and the classic look. Choose wood if you are heavier, want to try tricks, or ride fast enough that deck flex becomes a problem.
Wheels, Bearings, and Trucks
Wheel durometer is the number that matters most for ride comfort. Soft wheels in the 78A range, like those on the Nattork, BELEEV, Cal 7, and Skatro, absorb cracks and rough pavement but roll slower. Harder wheels in the 85A to 90A range, like the KO-ON, are faster and livelier but transmit every seam to your feet.
Bearing ratings follow the ABEC scale, and in our testing ABEC-9 bearings from KMX and KO-ON coasted visibly farther than ABEC-7 sets. For most casual riders the difference is nice rather than essential, but commuters will notice it on every push.
Trucks control turning, and bushing hardness is the tuning knob. The KMX ships with stiff 85A bushings that several owners swap for softer 78A parts to deepen the turn, a five-minute job with the included T-tool.
Weight Limits and Rider Fit
Load ratings in our lineup range from 175 pounds on the Flybar to 275 pounds on the Magneto and KO-ON, and they are worth respecting. Pushing past the rating flexes the deck, kills the turning response, and in extreme cases cracks plastic around the truck mounts.
Riders over 200 pounds should shortlist the Magneto, the KO-ON, or the 27-inch Penny Stringer, and skip every 22-inch plastic board rated at 175 to 198 pounds. Your knees will thank you on the first crack in the sidewalk.
Real vs Fake Penny Boards
Because Penny is a brand as well as a board style, counterfeits are common on marketplaces. Real Penny boards have deeply molded waffle texture with crisp edges, color-coded hardware, and a printed logo on the deck underside that cannot be scraped off with a fingernail.
Fakes tend to have shallow or blurry waffle patterns, mismatched silver bolts, and wheels that feel gritty when you spin them by hand. The bearings are the easiest tell, because genuine ABEC-7 stainless bearings spin smoothly and quietly while clone bearings feel rough and stop quickly.
Buy from the official Penny store or a listing that clearly identifies the brand, and remember that authentic boards carry the lifetime deck warranty that fakes cannot offer.
Who Should Not Buy a Penny Board
Honesty time, because a penny board is not the right tool for every rider. If your goal is skatepark tricks like kickflips and grinds, a standard popsicle skateboard will serve you far better than any plastic cruiser.
If you commute five miles each way or ride serious hills, a longboard or drop-through cruiser offers more stability and less fatigue. And if you are a rider well over 220 pounds, a wood cruiser will support you more safely than most plastic decks.
For everything else, including campus riding, last-mile commutes, teaching kids, and casual neighborhood cruising, a penny board remains one of the most fun purchases you can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s better than a penny board?
For trick riding, a standard popsicle skateboard is better. For long commutes and hills, a longboard or drop-through cruiser is more stable and less tiring. For a middle ground, a wooden mini cruiser like the Landyachtz Dinghy or Magneto offers penny board portability with a stiffer, more stable deck.
Are penny boards good quality?
Yes, when you buy from a reputable brand. Authentic Penny Australia boards use a secret flexible plastic formula, ABEC-7 stainless bearings, and 59mm 83A wheels, and they carry a lifetime deck warranty. Budget brands like Retrospec, KMX, and Skatro also earn strong owner ratings between 4.5 and 4.7 stars across thousands of reviews.
How to choose a penny board?
Start with deck size based on your height and weight, choosing 22 inches if you are under 5 foot 3 or 150 pounds and 27 inches if you are taller or heavier. Then pick a deck material, plastic for portability or maple for stiffness. Next check the weight limit against your body weight. Finally look at wheels and bearings, favoring soft 78A wheels for rough pavement and ABEC-9 bearings for longer coasting.
Is a 22 or 27 inch penny board better?
The 22-inch board is better for kids, shorter riders, and anyone who prioritizes portability, because it fits in a backpack and weighs under 4 pounds. The 27-inch board is better for most adults, since the extra deck space provides a more stable stance and better balance at speed. Riders over about 5 foot 3 or 150 pounds are consistently happier on a 27-inch deck.
Can adults ride penny boards?
Yes, adults can ride penny boards, and many do for campus and last-mile commuting. The key is choosing the right size, because adults over about 5 foot 3 will find a 22-inch deck cramped while a 27-inch deck fits comfortably. Heavier adults should also check the load rating, which ranges from 175 to 275 pounds depending on the model.
What boards do pro skaters use?
Pro street skaters use standard popsicle skateboards with maple decks, typically 8 to 8.5 inches wide, because plastic penny boards cannot handle technical flip tricks. Pro cruisers and downhill riders use longboards or wooden cruisers instead. Penny boards are designed for casual cruising and commuting rather than professional skateboarding.
Final Verdict on the Best Penny Boards
After three months and twelve boards, our recommendations are straightforward. Buy the Penny Australia 27 Inch Stringer if you want the best overall ride and a lifetime warranty. Buy the KMX Classic Retro if you want the most performance per dollar, or the Skatro Mini Cruiser if you need the lowest possible price. Choose the Retrospec Quip for a beginner-proof campus board, the Magneto or KO-ON if you are over 220 pounds or want to try tricks, and the Nattork or BELEEV for kids who love glowing wheels.
Whatever you pick, size to your body first and match your wheels to your pavement second, because those two choices shape every ride far more than branding ever will. The best penny boards of 2026 are the ones that fit your feet, your streets, and your commute, and any board on this list will serve you well for years with basic care.