Nickel Board Review (Bought & Tested) 2025

By Chris Miller

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The Penny Nickel is a fantastic board! It’s a little wider and longer than the standard Penny, making it more stable for beginners and providing plenty of space to maneuver. The deck has a classic waffle pattern grip for good traction, and the trucks are smooth and responsive. The wheels are soft and grippy, providing a comfortable ride and good grip on most surfaces. The bearings are high-quality and spin smoothly.

Construction & Quality

Nickel boards are meticulously crafted using high-quality Canadian maple wood, known for its durability and responsiveness. The attention to detail is evident in the smooth, consistent finish and the precise wheelbase adjustments. The trucks, wheels, and bearings are also top-notch, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride.

Construction Quality

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Design & Aesthetics

 Nickel boasts a vibrant collection of graphic designs, ranging from minimalist and classic to bold and artistic. Their collaborations with renowned artists have resulted in truly unique and eye-catching boards. Whether you prefer a classic black and white design or a vibrant explosion of colors, Nickel has something to suit every taste.

Design Aesthetics

Sustainability Focus

Nickel is committed to minimizing their environmental impact. They utilize sustainable sourcing practices for their wood and prioritize eco-friendly packaging and shipping methods. This commitment to sustainability resonates with environmentally conscious skaters and adds a layer of value to their brand.

Ride Experience:

  • Beginners: Nickel’s beginner boards are incredibly user-friendly, featuring wider stances and softer wheels for added stability. This makes them ideal for learning the basics and building confidence.
  • Intermediates: The intermediate boards offer a balance of stability and maneuverability, allowing for more advanced tricks and exploration of different riding styles.
  • Pros: Experienced skaters will appreciate the responsiveness and durability of Nickel’s pro-level boards, designed to handle high-impact tricks and demanding terrain.

Customer Service

Nickel is known for its excellent customer service. Their team is responsive and helpful, addressing any questions or concerns promptly. They also offer comprehensive resources and tutorials on their website to assist skaters of all levels.

deck

Deck

The deck is made of high-quality plastic and has a classic waffle pattern grip. It’s 27 inches long and 7.5 inches wide, making it a bit larger than the standard Penny. This extra size provides more stability and makes it easier to balance on.

Trucks

The trucks are made of high-quality aluminum and have a powder coat finish to resist rust and corrosion. They’re 4 inches wide, which is also wider than the standard Penny trucks. This provides more stability and makes the board turn more smoothly.

trucks

Wheels

The wheels are made of high-quality polyurethane and have a hardness of 83a. They’re 59mm in diameter, which is a good size for cruising and carving. The wheels are also smooth and quiet, providing a comfortable ride.

wheeels

Bushings

The bushings are made of high-quality polyurethane and are soft enough to allow for smooth turning, but firm enough to provide good stability.

Bearings

The bearings are high-quality ABEC 7 bearings. They spin smoothly and quietly, and they’re durable enough to withstand regular use.

Pros:

  • Stable and comfortable ride
  • Smooth turning
  • Good grip
  • Durable
  • Stylish

Cons:

  • More expensive than some other penny boards
  • Not as portable as the standard Penny

Overall Ratings: 4.5/5

Who is it best for?

The Penny Nickel is a great board for beginners and intermediate riders. It’s also a good choice for riders who want a more stable and comfortable ride than the standard Penny. The board is not as portable as the standard Penny, so it’s not a good choice for riders who need a board that they can easily carry around.

Overall, the Penny Nickel is a high-quality board that offers a great riding experience. It’s a versatile board that can be used for cruising, carving, and even some basic tricks. If you’re looking for a fun and functional penny board, the Penny Nickel is a great option.

22-inch PENNY Vs. the 27-inch NICKEL Board

Choosing between a 22-inch Penny board and a 27-inch Nickel board can feel overwhelming. While height and shoe size are often mentioned, they’re not the most crucial factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

1. Riding Experience:

  • Beginner: Opt for the 27-inch Nickel. Its larger size provides more stability and control, crucial for learning balance.
  • Experienced: The 22-inch Penny is a good choice. You’ll likely feel more comfortable with its maneuverability due to your prior experience.

2. Intended Use:

  • Casual Riding: Both boards are suitable.
  • Commuting: The 27-inch Nickel offers a more stable ride for longer distances.
  • Travel: The 22-inch Penny’s smaller size and weight make it more portable.

3. Shoe Size:

  • Larger Shoes (10+ US): The 27-inch Nickel provides more foot space.
  • Smaller Shoes: The 22-inch Penny is generally comfortable.

4. Design Preference:

Ultimately, if you find a design you absolutely love on one board over the other, that might be the deciding factor.

Important Note: Both boards can support riders up to 200-220 lbs.

In Conclusion:

The best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your riding experience, intended use, and shoe size. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the ride!

FAQS

How safe are penny boards?

Penny boards, those adorably tiny skateboards, offer a unique blend of portability and fun. However, their size and construction inherently present some safety considerations:

  • Stability: Penny boards are less stable than larger skateboards due to their smaller wheelbase. This makes them more prone to wobbling, especially at higher speeds or on uneven surfaces.  
  • Speed: While not as fast as longboards, penny boards can still reach decent speeds, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.
  • Braking: Most penny boards lack traditional brakes. Riders rely on foot braking, which can be challenging to control, especially on descents.
  • Surface Sensitivity: The small wheels are more susceptible to getting stuck in cracks or pebbles, potentially causing sudden loss of control.
  • Rider Skill: Beginners may find penny boards more challenging to balance and control, increasing their risk of injury.

How do I choose a Penny board?

Choosing the right Penny board can be a fun and exciting process! Here’s a unique approach to guide your decision:

1. Soul-Searching Session:

  • Skate Style:
    • Cruiser: Smooth, relaxed rides, prioritize comfort and stability. Look for wider, softer wheels.
    • Trickster: Aggressive riding, focus on maneuverability and pop. Opt for smaller, harder wheels.
    • Hybrid: A balance of both, good for cruising and occasional tricks.
  • Terrain:
    • Smooth Streets: Smaller, harder wheels for speed.
    • Rougher Surfaces: Larger, softer wheels for a smoother ride.
  • Aesthetics:
    • Color Vibes: What colors and patterns speak to your personality?
    • Board Shape: Classic, Nickel, or the unique “Falcon” for a distinct look.

2. The “Feel” Factor:

  • Visit a Shop: If possible, go to a skate shop and test ride a few boards. Get a sense of their weight, flexibility, and how they feel under your feet.
  • Consider Your Height: Taller riders might prefer slightly larger boards for stability.

3. Penny Board Wisdom:

  • Nickel vs. Classic: Nickel boards are smaller, more compact, and great for tight spaces. Classics offer a slightly larger platform for more stability.
  • Wheel Hardness: Measured in durometers (e.g., 83a), lower numbers are softer, higher numbers are harder.
  • Trucks: Consider the truck width and type (e.g., standard, inverted kingpin) for different riding styles.

4. Beyond the Basics:

  • Griptape: Choose a griptape that suits your style – classic grip, clear grip for a cleaner look, or even custom designs.
  • Accessories: Don’t forget essential accessories like a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads for safety.

Unique Tip: Think of your Penny board as an extension of your personality. Choose one that reflects your unique style and makes you excited to ride!

Can penny boards get wet?

Yes, Penny boards can get wet and are designed to handle light rain or splashes. The decks are made of a durable plastic that is water-resistant. However, it’s important to note that prolonged exposure to water or submerging the board in water can damage the bearings and other components.  

Are nickel boards good for cruising?

Yes, Nickel boards are excellent for cruising! Here’s why:

  • Larger Deck: The Nickel’s 27-inch size provides more stability and foot space compared to the original 22-inch Penny, making it more comfortable for longer rides. 1  
  • Smooth Ride: The larger wheels and softer urethane compound offer a smoother ride over rougher surfaces, perfect for leisurely cruising.
  • Stylish Design: Nickel boards retain the classic Penny look but with a larger, more mature feel.

What is the difference between a 22 and 27 Penny Board?

The main difference between a 22″ and 27″ Penny Board lies in their size:

  • 22″ Penny Board:
    • The original and classic size.
    • Smaller and more compact, making it highly portable and easy to carry.  
    • Ideal for younger riders or those who prioritize portability.  
    • Offers more maneuverability and is better suited for tight spaces.
  • 27″ Penny Board (Nickel):
    • Larger and more spacious deck.  
    • Provides greater stability and comfort for longer rides.  
    • Offers a smoother ride over rougher surfaces.
    • Better suited for taller riders or those who prefer a more stable ride.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual preferences and riding style. If you prioritize portability and maneuverability, the 22″ is a great option. If you prefer a more stable and comfortable ride, the 27″ Nickel is the way to go.

Over 20 years of skating have deeply impacted my mental health. I'm dedicated to sharing the therapeutic magic of cruising and carving with the world!

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