Find out more about the differences between Polar deck shapes with CSC's complete guide to Polar's shaped decks!
Confused about the difference between a P2 and a P9? Wondering what separates a Surf Jr. and a Surf Sr. deck? Buying a skateboard these days can be pretty confusing with all the weird letters and numbers in the name. But don't worry, we've got you covered with everything you need to know about all the different shaped skateboard decks from Polar Skate Co.
Photo: Dane Brady on his signature DANE1 shape.
Polar are without a doubt one of the most popular skate brands of the modern age, and they've arguably played a major part in the recent resurgence of shaped skateboard decks. With their decks being made in the legendary BBS woodshop, Polar decks come in a wide range of shapes an sizes, from 90's football shapes to the old-school-inspired Dane 1. Have a read below to learn more about the different Polar deck shapes, and find the right shape for you!
Polar P2 Shape
One of the least wacky custom shapes offered by Polar, the P2 shape features a typical popsicle style with some slight tweaks from Polar's standard shape. While standard Polar decks generally feature a pretty symmetrical shape with a rounded nose and tail, P2 decks set themselves apart due to their squared-off nose and shovel-y tail, lending the decks a more asymmetrical shape. The square nose bears similarities to the shape of Hockey and Quasi decks, making the P2 shape the perfect choice for any PS Stix purists looking to try something a bit different.
Polar P9 Shape
The Polar P9 shape features a slightly more unusual shape than the P2, with a rounded nose and square tail. Polar P9 decks feature a fully asymmetrical shape that's widest at the front truck before tapering slightly towards and through the tail. The nose and tail are generally shorter by around a quarter-inch than the standard Polar decks of the same size, although the nose is significantly longer than the tail, and the wheelbase is slightly longer. The square shape still provides ample room for foot placement (I'm also a big fan of this shape for tailslides), while the round nose helps provide the usual flick you'd expect from a standard shape. Perfect for if you're looking for a subtly shaped deck that still performs in the streets.
Polar 1991 Jr. Shape
The Polar 1991 Jr. shape shares many similarities with the P9, but with a few subtle changes. Like the P9 shape, the 1991 Jr. shape features a slightly shorter nose and tail compared to standard decks of the same time, except 1991 Jr. decks also feature a slightly shorter wheelbase which makes them a bit shorter in length. Again, the widest point of these decks is around the front truck bolts with the deck gradually tapering towards and through the tail. The 1991 Jr. shape also features a square tail - which is slightly more pronounced than in the P9 - as well as a nose that's slightly squared off at the tip. Due to being a relatively subtle shape, the 1991 Jr. is more than capable of handling anything the streets or skateparks can throw at it, so long as you are.
Polar 1992 Shape
As the name would suggest, the 1992 shape is pretty similar to the 1991 Jr. shape, just with some exaggerated features. The widest point of the deck is around the top bolt holes and it then tapers towards the tail, however the taper doesn't continue through the tail, giving the deck a shape that's reminiscent of a manatee. Much like the 1991 Jr. shape, the 1992 shape also features a shorter nose, tail, and wheelbase than standard Polar boards, again making the deck as a whole shorter in length. Likewise, the nose and tail are both significantly more squared off in comparison to the 1991 Jr.
Polar Surf Jr. Shape
As you can probably guess, the Polar Surf Jr. shape is an old-school surfboard inspired shape with a square tail and rounded nose. The widest point is around the top bolt holes and through the center of the deck before gently tapering towards the tail. Unlike most of these other shapes, the Surf Jr. shape features a shorter nose than the tail, however the wheelbase is the same as standard decks of the same size while the overall length is slightly shorter. Due to the surfy shape, the Polar Surf Jr. deck would make a really fun cruiser but can still work well for tricks if you're looking to skate something a bit different.
Polar Surf Sr. Shape
This one's pretty straightforward. The Polar Surf Sr. shape is basically the same as the Surf Jr. shape just generally bigger. They both share the same general proportions, with the only real difference being the larger width which is also reflected in a slightly larger nose, tail, and wheelbase, although the overall length is still the same. Due to being a bit chunkier than the Surf Jr., the Surf Sr. shape may be slightly more troublesome to flip, making it more suited to cruising or skating curbs or ramps.
Polar DANE1 Shape
The Polar DANE1 shape is potentially one of the most iconic shapes in Polar's lineup, championed by curb connoisseur, Dane Brady. This large, old-school shape is widest around the front truck holes before tapering substantially towards the tail. The DANE1 shaped deck features a rounded stubby nose and a square tail, with the nose being shorter than the tail by around a quarter-inch. Despite the extra width, both the wheelbase and overall length are shorter than on the Surf Jr. shape giving this deck a really short and chunky feel. This behemoth is best suited as a cruiser or curb crusher, but you can obviously still take it to the streets if you're feeling brave.
Polar Football Shape
The Polar Football shaped deck (sometimes also referred to as an egg shape) is a big throwback to the 90's when board shapes started to change from the directional old-school decks towards the more modern, symmetrical popsicle. These near-symmetrical decks are often widest in the middle before tapering towards the tips, ending in round, almost pointed nose and tails. Much like Polar's other shaped decks, Polar football decks often feature a smaller nose and tail than their standard shapes - although the nose is slightly longer than the tail - as well as a shorter overall length. The wheelbase, however, is comparatively longer than standard shaped decks of the same width. As this board originated from 90's street skating, it performs really well in the streets and makes a fun alternative to standard popsicles.
That's enough chit-chat though. Head to the shop to browse the full range of Polar shaped decks. Or, check out the latest news, videos, and product reviews on the CSC Blog. Safe.
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