Nickel Board vs Penny Board

Skateboarding has evolved significantly over the years, and today, cruisers like Nickel and Penny boards are becoming the go-to choices for casual riders, commuters, and even some pros. Both types of boards, created by the popular brand Penny Skateboards, offer different riding experiences that appeal to various riders. But when it comes to Nickel Board vs Penny Board, which one is better suited for your needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the differences between Nickel and Penny boards, helping you make an informed decision on which one to choose for your next ride.

Introduction to Nickel and Penny Boards

Penny Skateboards revolutionized the cruiser skateboard market with their durable, fun-to-ride, and easy-to-carry boards. The two main options from the brand are the Penny Board and the Nickel Board. Both of these boards offer distinct advantages and cater to different types of skateboarders. The original Penny Board is smaller and more compact, making it ideal for riders who want a highly portable option. On the other hand, the Nickel Board is slightly larger, giving riders more stability and room to maneuver.

In the battle between Nickel Board vs Penny Board, the choice often depends on your personal preferences, riding style, and where you plan to use the board. In the following sections, we’ll compare these two options based on several critical factors such as size, ride quality, portability, durability, and price.

Size Comparison: Nickel Board vs Penny Board

When comparing Nickel Board vs Penny Board, the first noticeable difference is size. The Penny Board measures 22 inches in length, while the Nickel Board is 27 inches. Though this may seem like a minor difference, those extra 5 inches can significantly affect how the board feels and performs during a ride.

• Penny Board (22 inches): Compact and nimble, this board is best suited for younger riders, beginners, and those who want to use it as a quick, portable mode of transportation.
• Nickel Board (27 inches): With more deck space, the Nickel Board provides added stability, making it an excellent option for those who are new to skating or want a more stable ride at higher speeds.

The Nickel Board vs Penny Board size difference also impacts foot placement. On a Penny Board, you may find your feet cramped, especially if you have larger shoes. The Nickel Board offers more deck real estate, allowing for better foot positioning and a more comfortable ride.

Riding Experience: Stability and Speed

One of the most crucial aspects when choosing between Nickel Board vs Penny Board is how the board rides. The riding experience is where the size difference plays a big role.

• Penny Board: Known for its quick response and maneuverability, the Penny Board is perfect for weaving in and out of tight spaces, such as city streets or campus pathways. However, due to its smaller size, it can feel less stable, especially for beginners or riders who are not accustomed to smaller boards.
• Nickel Board: With a larger deck and a longer wheelbase, the Nickel Board provides more stability, making it easier to balance, especially at higher speeds. While it may not be as nimble as the Penny Board, it’s still quite responsive, and the added stability can make your ride more comfortable and secure.

When thinking about Nickel Board vs Penny Board, it’s essential to consider your riding environment. For crowded spaces or quick trips, the Penny Board might be ideal. For long-distance cruising or downhill rides, the stability of the Nickel Board may be a better option.

Portability and Weight

A key factor when deciding between Nickel Board vs Penny Board is portability. Both boards are lightweight and easy to carry, but there are some differences worth noting.

• Penny Board: Due to its smaller size, the Penny Board is incredibly easy to throw in a backpack, carry under your arm, or stash in a locker. It weighs less than 2 kg, making it the ultimate portable skateboard.
• Nickel Board: While still portable, the Nickel Board is a bit bulkier due to its larger size and slightly heavier weight. It weighs around 2.5 kg, which is still manageable for most people, but it might not be as convenient as the Penny Board for those who prioritize easy transport.

When choosing between Nickel Board vs Penny Board, portability might be a deciding factor for you. If you need a board that you can easily carry around for daily commutes or casual cruising, the Penny Board’s smaller size may give it the edge.

Durability and Materials

Another critical comparison point in the Nickel Board vs Penny Board debate is durability. Both boards are made from the same high-quality, flexible plastic, making them incredibly durable and long-lasting.

• Penny Board: Despite its smaller size, the Penny Board is tough and can handle daily wear and tear with ease. Its flexible plastic deck is designed to absorb impacts, making it a great option for riders who are hard on their boards.
• Nickel Board: Built with the same durable plastic, the Nickel Board offers the same level of toughness as the Penny Board but with a bit more surface area. This means it can handle more stress, especially if you’re a larger rider or carry a heavier load.

No matter which option you choose, both the Nickel and Penny boards are known for their durability. If you’re concerned about longevity, you can rest assured that either board will last for years of riding.

Ideal for Different Riding Styles

Your riding style plays a significant role in deciding between Nickel Board vs Penny Board. Whether you’re a casual cruiser, a commuter, or an experienced skater, each board has something unique to offer.

• Penny Board: Ideal for quick commutes, urban rides, or just having fun around the neighborhood. If you prefer a more agile, nimble ride and need a board that can navigate tight spaces, the Penny Board is the way to go.
• Nickel Board: Perfect for long-distance cruising, learning new tricks, or tackling more challenging terrain. With its larger size and enhanced stability, the Nickel Board caters to riders who want more control over their board and a smoother ride over longer distances.

The Nickel Board vs Penny Board comparison comes down to what you want out of your skateboard. If you need speed and flexibility in small spaces, the Penny Board might be best. But if you prefer more stability and comfort on longer rides, the Nickel Board is likely your better option.

Price Comparison: Nickel Board vs Penny Board

Pricing is always a crucial factor when choosing between two options, and the Nickel Board vs Penny Board decision is no exception. While both boards are manufactured by Penny Skateboards, there are slight differences in their prices.

• Penny Board: Generally, the Penny Board is slightly less expensive than the Nickel Board due to its smaller size. Prices usually range from $100 to $120, depending on where you purchase and any additional features you may want.
• Nickel Board: Because of its larger size and added stability, the Nickel Board tends to cost a bit more. Prices range from $120 to $150.

Ultimately, the price difference is minimal, so your decision should be based more on performance and preference rather than cost. Both boards are high-quality, and you’re guaranteed to get a durable product that offers excellent value for the money.

Maneuverability and Turning Radius

When considering Nickel Board vs Penny Board, another critical factor is maneuverability, especially when it comes to making sharp turns or navigating through crowded areas.

• Penny Board: With its smaller deck and shorter wheelbase, the Penny Board excels in making quick, sharp turns. It’s extremely responsive to foot pressure, allowing riders to weave through tight spaces with ease. If you need a board that can handle quick pivots, this is a key advantage.
• Nickel Board: While still quite maneuverable, the Nickel Board’s larger size means it requires more effort to make tight turns. However, the trade-off is that it offers more stability during turns, which can be beneficial for riders who want to maintain control at higher speeds.

Customization Options

Both Nickel and Penny Boards come in a variety of colors and designs, allowing for a high level of customization. This is a fun feature for those who want to express their personal style through their skateboard.

• Penny Board: With a wide array of color combinations and limited-edition designs, the Penny Board is an excellent choice for those who want a board that stands out. Riders can customize the deck, wheels, and trucks to create a truly unique look.
• Nickel Board: Like the Penny Board, the Nickel Board also offers numerous customization options. Given its larger size, the Nickel Board provides even more surface area to show off your unique design choices.

No matter which board you choose in the Nickel Board vs Penny Board debate, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to personalize your ride.

Learning Curve for Beginners

If you’re new to skateboarding, the learning curve is an important consideration when comparing Nickel Board vs Penny Board.

• Penny Board: Because of its smaller size, the Penny Board can be more challenging for beginners to balance on. It requires better foot control and coordination to master, making it a slightly steeper learning curve for first-time riders.
• Nickel Board: The Nickel Board’s larger deck and wider wheelbase make it easier for beginners to balance, which is especially helpful for those just learning how to ride. The additional stability can give new riders more confidence as they develop their skateboarding skills.

If you’re a beginner deciding between Nickel Board vs Penny Board, the Nickel Board may offer a smoother, more forgiving learning experience.

Terrain Performance

One critical factor often overlooked in the Nickel Board vs Penny Board comparison is how each board performs on different terrains.

• Penny Board: The smaller wheels and compact size make the Penny Board ideal for smooth, flat surfaces like concrete or pavement. However, it may struggle on rougher terrains like gravel or uneven surfaces due to its smaller wheels.
• Nickel Board: Thanks to its larger wheels and deck, the Nickel Board performs better on various terrains, including slightly rougher surfaces like brick roads or dirt paths. If you plan to ride in areas where the ground isn’t perfectly smooth, the Nickel Board might offer a more comfortable ride.

Wheelbase and Grip

The difference in wheelbase between the two boards also impacts their grip and handling during rides.

• Penny Board: With a shorter wheelbase, the Penny Board is more nimble but can feel slippery at times, especially during fast turns or when riding downhill. This can make it a bit trickier to control for less experienced riders.
• Nickel Board: The longer wheelbase of the Nickel Board provides better grip and stability, especially during high-speed rides or tight turns. If you’re riding on a hill or through wet conditions, the Nickel Board’s additional grip can give you more confidence in handling the board.

Availability of Accessories

When it comes to accessorizing your board, both Penny and Nickel boards offer a wide range of options, from different wheel styles to various truck types.

• Penny Board: You’ll find numerous accessories like replacement wheels, trucks, and bearings to enhance the performance or aesthetic of your Penny Board. Riders often swap out components to tailor the board to their specific needs, such as adding softer wheels for a smoother ride on rough surfaces.
• Nickel Board: The same range of accessories is available for Nickel Boards, allowing riders to upgrade their board as they gain more experience. Larger wheels and higher-quality bearings can provide an even smoother and faster ride, especially for long-distance cruising.

Customizing your accessories is another exciting way to personalize your board, making Nickel Board vs Penny Board not just a debate about size and performance, but also about how much you can tweak your ride to perfection.

Community and Rider Support

Another often overlooked aspect of the Nickel Board vs Penny Board decision is the community around these boards. The Penny Skateboards brand has a loyal following, and the community support can help enhance your overall experience with either board.

• Penny Board: Due to its popularity, there is a large online community of Penny Board riders. You can easily find tutorials, tips, and tricks for maximizing your Penny Board’s potential. Social media groups and forums are full of advice on customization, riding techniques, and even local meetups for fellow riders.
• Nickel Board: The Nickel Board, while slightly less common than the original Penny Board, still enjoys a strong community following. Many Nickel Board riders praise the stability and comfort, and there are plenty of resources available for those who choose this board.

Whether you’re looking to improve your riding skills or connect with other skateboarders, the thriving Penny Skateboards community is an excellent resource for both Nickel and Penny board riders.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

In the showdown of Nickel Board vs Penny Board, it’s clear that both boards have distinct advantages depending on what you’re looking for in a skateboard. The Penny Board is perfect for those who want a compact, portable option for quick commutes or casual rides around the city. It’s small, lightweight, and agile, making it an excellent choice for younger riders or those who value portability.

The Nickel Board, on the other hand, is ideal for skaters who want more stability, especially at higher speeds or over longer distances. Its larger deck and greater stability make it a better fit for riders who want more control or for beginners who need a bit more space to find their footing.

Now that you know the key differences between Nickel Board vs Penny Board, it’s time to decide which one is right for you! Are you ready to cruise the streets on your new board? Drop a comment below to let us know which one you’re going for and why. We’d love to hear your thoughts!