Surfskate

Surfskate or skateboard: what actually changes

On a regular skateboard, both trucks work the same way and speed comes from the foot pushing off. Surfskate runs on a front truck mounted on a pivoting system: at the same lean angle, it turns far more than a standard truck. That pivot is what makes pumping possible. You swing your chest and hips, the board picks up speed. The motion echoes a bottom turn, just shorter.

A penny board, by contrast, keeps standard trucks. It rolls, it turns tight, but it gives almost nothing back when you try to pump it: the payoff comes from the front pivot, not the shape of the deck. We break down the comparison in our surfskate vs skateboard guide.

Pumping: moving forward without pushing

There's one motion to learn, and only one. Feet either side of the deck, knees bent, you link S-turns by shifting weight from one edge to the other. The front truck turns that swing into speed. The first few metres are hard work for everyone, the moment it clicks usually comes after a few sessions.

Easier than a skateboard for beginners? On one count, yes: nobody needs to learn to push off cleanly. On the other hand the front pivot reacts fast and throws you off balance the first few times. The full technique is in our surfskate pumping guide, and the how to surfskate tutorial covers the basics from scratch.

Why the whole range is 31 inches

The ACTA range now runs entirely on 31 inches, in V2. A 32-inch version existed once, it's no longer in the catalogue. 31 inches stays short underfoot without turning twitchy, which covers most builds and levels, from the rider just starting out to the surfer chasing something lively.

Four completes share this base: Timber V2, Horizon V2, Seaweed V2 and Foam V2, all at 129.90 €. For a first purchase, our beginner surfskate buying guide covers what to look at before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What is a surfskate?

A skateboard with a pivoting front truck that copies the turning feel of surfing. It's used to work on your footing, your pumping and your carving lines without waiting for a session in the water.

Does surfskate replace surf sessions?

No. It keeps your line reading and carving sharp between sessions, especially when the ocean's flat or the spot is far away.

Does 31 inches suit beginners?

Yes. All four completes in the collection are built to this size, whether it's your first surfskate or you're already riding.