Carver vs YOW: Which Surfskate Should You Choose? (2026)
Carver and YOW are the two names surfers mention most. The real difference is in the front truck, and here's how each one feels.
The Short Answer
Both brands make excellent surfskates. The biggest difference is the front truck. Carver offers the classic C7 (smooth and flowing) and the CX (quicker, more stable). YOW uses its Meraki spring system, known for deep rail-to-rail lean and a strong release and rebound. If you want an easy, flowing pump, many riders start with a Carver C7. If you want the most surf-like lean and snap, YOW's Meraki is a popular choice. New to the idea? See what is a surfskate.
Carver vs YOW at a Glance
| Carver | YOW | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States (California) | Basque Country, Spain |
| Main trucks | C7, CX, C5 | Meraki S4 and S5 |
| Mechanism | C7: pivoting arm; CX: reverse-kingpin style | Patented spring-based front truck |
| Feel | C7 smooth and flowing; CX quicker and more stable | Deep lean, tight turns, strong release and rebound |
| Tuning | Bushings and setup | Spring thickness (S4 or S5) and wheelbase |
Carver Trucks
C7
Released in 1996 and often called the original surfskate truck, the C7 is a traditional kingpin truck mounted on a pivoting arm, which greatly increases its range of motion. It feels loose and is easy to get pumping, which makes it great for tight turns, cutbacks and small spaces. Beginners often prefer it at first because it takes less force to get the board leaning.
CX
The CX works more like a reverse kingpin longboard truck but with more range of motion. It's more stable at speed and suits bowls, pumptracks and parks. It has fewer moving parts than the C7 but demands a bit more technique.
C5
A lower, lighter truck aimed at tricks and park riding, with a more conventional skateboard-like feel.
YOW Meraki System
YOW's Meraki is a patented front truck built around a spring. It comes in two versions:
| System | Spring | Feel | Suggested For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meraki S4 | 4mm | More reactive | Lighter riders |
| Meraki S5 | 5mm | More stable | Riders over about 50 kg |
The springs aren't interchangeable between systems: S4 springs fit S4 systems and S5 springs fit S5 systems. Wheelbase also changes the feel: shorter boards feel more reactive.
Which One Should You Choose?
| If You Want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Easy pumping and tight turns | Carver C7 |
| Stability for bowls and speed | Carver CX |
| Tricks and park | Carver C5 |
| Maximum lean and surf-like snap | YOW Meraki (S4 or S5) |
Carver Options
YOW boards weren't available on Amazon US when we checked; look for them at surf and skate retailers.
Keep Learning
Learn the technique in how to surfskate, compare more boards in best surfskates, and see longboard vs skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Carver or YOW?
Neither is better overall. Carver's C7 is smooth and flowing, its CX is more stable and responsive, and YOW's Meraki system is built for maximum lean and a surf-like release.
Which surfskate is best for beginners?
Many beginners find Carver's C7 easy to start pumping, while YOW's stiffer S5 spring adds stability for heavier riders.
What is the difference between YOW S4 and S5?
The S4 uses a 4mm spring for a more reactive feel; the S5 uses a 5mm spring for more stability, recommended for riders over about 50 kg.
Can I put a Carver truck on any board?
Carver sells truck sets that can be mounted on other decks, though fit and feel depend on the board.
Where is YOW from?
YOW comes from the Basque Country in Spain, near San Sebastián.