Last updated: 2023-08-11 14:24:52

10 Best All-Terrain (off-road) Electric Skateboards in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Yecoo GT3 All-Terrain 2-in-1 Electric Skateboard

Yecoo GT3 All-Terrain 2-in-1 Electric Skateboard

BEST CHOICE
MAXFIND FF-BELT All-Terrain Electric Longboard Skateboard

MAXFIND FF-BELT All-Terrain Electric Longboard Skateboard

BEST CHOICE
BajaBoard G4X Off-road Electric Skateboard

BajaBoard G4X Off-road Electric Skateboard

BEST CHOICE

You May Need An All-terrain Electric Skateboard

If you are a passionate skateboarder or a pro, I am sure you have already got to know how to find a very maneuverable motorized electric skateboard, which is also built for range, reliability, and speed. However, if you encounter a rugged road, you might need an all-terrain electric skateboard to reduce seisesthesia and switch freely between urban mode and cross-country mode. In this article, I will take a look at all the latest and most trustworthy off-road electric skateboards. Unlike normal electric skateboards, these "beasts" can ride any surface. Many of them are hybrids and do well on smooth and rough surfaces. Here is my list of the best all-terrain (off-road) electric skateboards on the market. 


The 10 Best All-Terrain Electric Skateboards

See More Reviews

       

Yecoo's new board is still featured with all-terrain advantages. The Yecoo GT3 all-terrain (off-road) electric skateboard is called an urban off-road monster because it has two different wheels to switch between, allowing skateboarders to switch between urban and off-road roads to adapt to all-terrain. 

90mm PU upgraded wheels are suitable for the flat road surface, and 6-inch off-road wheels are suitable for the dirt road, grass, mountain road, and mountain road. The Yecoo GTS's 6-inch off-road wheels are made of non-inflatable silicone tires. The soft silicone material feels very comfortable on the bike, without the worry of puncture and repair. A wheel change can be done in two minutes.

To provide a better riding experience, the split battery case uses the 10S4P Samsung 8.8Ah and Sanyo 14Ah capacity to provide enough powerful power. It allows you to reach a top speed of 25 miles per hour and gives you lightning acceleration. As with any terrific all-terrain electric skateboard, motors are the key to high performance. Belt noise impact is huge, compared with other motor noise is much smaller. 

The Yecoo GT3 uses a dual-belt motor with a rated power of 350W. You'll be able to climb hills with a 30% gradient. Historically, belt-driven motors provide higher power. The remote control has a display that displays all standard information such as the board and remote battery, odometer, stroke length, current speed, ride mode, speed mode, astern and cruise control.

For some off-road enthusiasts, the GT3 is the perfect choice for them to switch freely between city mode and off-road mode. It can provide up to 2000 watts of power, giving you a new and unforgettable cycling experience. This GT3 electric skateboard uses an upgraded ESC and provides a smooth braking system that brings you to a complete stop while slowing down.                   

Deck - all bamboo + glass fiber, strong, and flexible. Maxload is 330 lbs            

20%~30% grade hill climbing            

Top speed reaches 25mph with 2000watts power            

90mm PU wheels and 6-inches rubber wheels arbitrary switch, mountain and city can be smoothly            

Range 15-22miles (24-35km)            

Pros        

10S4P battery structure, large battery capacity, long battery life 

New upgraded ESC and motor, smoother start and brake

Waterproof - controller box and battery box are fully sealed

Fast-swap battery and ESC

Cons        

Weighs up to 22 lbs

The length, which is about 39 inches – It seems to be too large for some skateboard users.

See More Reviews

The STAK BRT04 All-terrain Electric skateboard offers the thrill of amplification along rugged off-road trails and can go anywhere to satisfy your thirst for adventure. In short, it has everything you need to provide an unparalleled experience on dusty backcountry trails! 

The STAK BRT04 features rugged all-terrain construction with a specifically designed curved deck made of multiple layers of maple. The 105cm deck is flexible and eliminates vibrations on rough roads. A 21kg heavy board can support a maximum load of 120kg. It runs on huge 190mm rubber wheels that roll smoothly over bumpy surfaces to uphold a comfortable ride. 

The whole purpose of the all-terrain skateboard is to take you through rugged and unforgiving trails while keeping you safe, with 2X500W hub drive motors and 190mm high-quality bumper wheels. So that STAK BRT04 has more stable and powerful performance. 

You'll enjoy the efficiency provided by the STAK BRT04 battery. The lightweight and durable battery case, printed with a stylish carbon fiber pattern, provides plenty of room for the 12s3P 14.4AH Panasonic battery pack. It offers enough range to make your adventure fun. The chance of injury while riding a STAK BRT04 is greatly reduced. Because the speed mode is adjustable, you can reduce the speed to a level that you are comfortable with. For the exceptional, the board has an excellent top speed of 45 kilometers per hour. 

Overall, the STAK BRT04 is an ideal off-road fighter for extreme skateboarders. However, its use is not limited to dirt roads, you can still cruise around the city and enjoy the same impressive performance. 

Up Hill: 30%

Battery: 12s3P 14.4AH Panasonic battery pack

Deck: 8-Layer Maple Drop Deck

Weight: 21 Kg 

Pros        

2X500W hub drive motors

Top speed up to 45mph

Range up to 45 km

Cons        

It's heavy

A little expensive

See More Reviews

       

FF-Belt is a cool-looking, $899 belt-driven electric skateboard with a double-drop deck, 12s3p hot-swappable battery, double kingpin trucks, and big 105mm shock-absorbing wheels.

The most eye-catching part of the Maxfind FF-Belt has to be the deck. Maxfind FF series uses a super flexible composite deck made of polyphenylene sulfide and fiberglass. It definitely has a more modern and polished vibe than your usual eskates.

Maxfind FF-Belt is a comfortable ride, thanks to the deck it uses. The composite deck is very comfy, wide, long, and has a good concave. The double-dropped deck allowed lower riding height and added to the stability of the ride. The 12s Hobbywing ESC is also, as usual, buttery smooth. Like we always mention, Hobbywing has already perfected the formula in speed control, acceleration, and braking. The torque and braking are both strong.

1500W*2 High Power Belt Motors            

3 Hours Fast Charging            

One-Button On/Off (Hobbywing-9028)            

Fast-Swap Battery            

Super Flex Deck            

105mm shock-absorbing wheels            

Pros        

Fast-Swap Battery        

One-Button On/Off

105mm Shock-Absorbing Wheels

Great Performance Specs

Most Comfortable Riding Experience

Cons        

Belt-drives require maintenance

See More Reviews

Backfire Ranger X2 All-Terrain Longboard Skateboard should also be included in your list of options if you want a dependable electric board you can buy. This Backfire Ranger X2 electric skateboard longboard can give you a lot of power in just one product considering the fact that it utilizes the 1200W X2 ultra-high power ultra-high torque hub motors technology. It is also a skateboard, which delivers a 15-mile range or distance with just one charge. The range is based on a normal person riding conservatively (slow/eco mode) on relatively smooth and flat terrain with minimal wind. 

Actual mileage varies depending on rider weight, riding surface, hills, wind, and most importantly riding habits. To achieve maximum mileage kick to start, accelerate slowly, coast when possible, brake lightly, and ride below max speed. Going slower means going further. Use slow/eco mode to achieve the longest possible range. It is also popular for its ability to handle a maximum speed of 22 miles range per hour.

The 12S, 50.4V battery is also worth mentioning as it operates at much lower temperatures than previous models. This means that the energy saved can generate more power and provide a greater range for the board.  You'll get a range of 16 to 18.5 miles with a top speed of 22 MPH. The hill climbing is up to 30%. It takes about five hours to recharge. Given the power of the motor system, it makes sense this time. It's also an hour shorter than the X1. 

The Ranger X2 combines the best qualities of other electric skateboards and takes them off-road. The Ranger X2's grunty 1200W X2 ultra-high torque hub motors, fed by high performance 50.4 454Wh batteries, boasts enough torque to boost you up hills, and thanks to the Ranger X2's smooth and reliable regenerative braking you'll be able to come right back down and charge your battery in the process. With Backfire Ranger X2 All-Terrain Longboard your off-road adventure awaits.

Max Speed: 22 mph / 35 kmh

Battery Charge Time: 2 hours

Motor: 1200W X2 ultra-high torque hub motors

Range: 15 miles / 24 km

Pros        

BUILT TO LAST - With its electronics encased in a compact die-cast aluminum battery box the B-series keeps critical components cool and safe.

LOW CENTER OF GRAVITY - Feel more down to earth as you float along just above it.

Cons        

Not so lightweight, can not take it anywhere

The price tag is $1199, kind of dear

See More Reviews

Evolve is professional in producing all-terrain electric skateboard with its exquisite technology. They took the true longboard to feel. The wide wheelbase and natural wooden deck with stripes on both sides make bamboo models so popular. With 3000W of dual brushless motor power, the new GTR remote features a patent-pending R-2 remote. Bluetooth control, instant trigger response, and engraving truck system stability while enabling tight engraving. 

The remote has an ergonomic design with rubber over moulds for ultimate hand comfort. And magnetic trigger control for smoothest acceleration and braking sensation. On flat ground, it is perfectly possible to reach the advertised 30 mile range even in GTR mode. 

The electronic equipment housing is divided into two parts: the ESC housing and the battery pack and BMS housing. You can remove one or the other quite easily simply by removing the screws from the top. Each enclosure is treated for dust and water resistance, but Evolve would not say what the grade is. On the other hand, you can believe that the Bamboo GTR is an unbeatable blend of performance and traditional longboard style, with an effortlessly low-key package that is guaranteed to attract attention, and envy. 

Switch to the 7-inch pneumatic all-terrain wheel, and the Bamboo GTR series makes it easy to take the path you know and beg to find those you don't. As for the terrain that bamboo GTR can overcome, any hard or compact surface (e.g., asphalt, concrete, short grass, dirt, uneven and poor terrain surfaces) is the key to bamboo GTR. 

Riding an electric skateboard is just as enjoyable an activity as any other leisure sport. That's the bottom line. If your only concern is speed, and if you hate belt drives, this is not your board. 

RANGE - Up to 19 miles. Varies depending on rider weight, terrain and riding style.                             

TOP SPEED - Approximately 22 mph. Speeds may vary depending on rider weight, battery voltage and terrain.                             

HILLS - Up to 25 percent gradient in GTR mode.                             

TERRAIN - Any hard or compact surfaces (ie: tarmac, bitumen, concrete, short grass, dirt, uneven and poor terrain surfaces)                             

REMOTE - Patent pending R-2 Remote, Bluetooth control, instant trigger response                 

Pros        

25% gradient hill climbing power beats inclines with ease

Works ideally on all terrains and streets

Dual 1500 watt (3000 watt total) high performance custom made brushless out-runner motors            

Cons        

Very expensive

Weighs up to 24.9 lbs

Long charging time for 4-5 hours

See More Reviews

Basically, Lacroix Nazare is still very popular among them. It actually shares most of its components, which is not a bad thing. However, they have innovated decks, batteries and casings, and are now making their own flexible carbon fibers. Nazare has only the following features: They have a new and wider super truck, they have extra headlights, they have a bigger engine, battery and a bigger range. Well...High-performance panels such as these usually do not have stealth capabilities. 

However, that's not what I bought it for. It was a striking thing, and it was clear that this was no ordinary skateboard. I live in the European Union and scooters are legal in my country. Unfortunately, though, skates and other electric skateboards are still considered toys and are not allowed on roads or bike paths, at least not yet. Needless to say, this incredible machine is definitely not a toy.

The Lacroix Nazare brings together the hard-won foundations of all previous models. Performance, rideability, and build quality you can get from any LaCroix board available at Lacroix Nazare, plus much more.

The Lacroix Nazare boasts upgraded hardware, incredible range, unbeatable top speed, super comfortable inflatable tires, and an organic feel as you move from a premium Canadian maple deck.

Power System: Belt drive, Motors 190kv-6389

Range up to 21-28miles(34-45km)

Hill up to 40%

Pros        

Range up to 21-28miles(34-45km)

Hill up to 40%

Cons        

Too expensive price more than $ 3000

See More Reviews

Aeboard GT and AT2 are rugged budget all-terrain electric skateboards manufactured by a company called Aeboard. They are based in China, have a variety of good boards and are generally recommended.

AEboard AT2, definitely worth buying an all-terrain electric skateboard, which will impress you when you glance at it the first time. it's priced at $659.99 that really cheap, and you will think it is really worth the price when you know the setup of it.     

The AT2 is pretty similar to the AEboard GT except for its normal trucks (no kingpin truck), its less powerful hub motors (two 360 Watts motors), its front wheels (look like normal wheels), and its different battery options. You can choose out of more variations of batteries. From a 288 Watt-hour battery all the way up to a 576 Watt-hour battery.

The AT2 has different battery options with a range of an incredible 37 miles! Equipped with Flex-Deck batteries, 6-inch inflatable rubber tires that never leak, and USB charging ports. AEBoard AT2 is perfect for commuters in all terrains or winter conditions. The AT2 has four driving speeds that can be customized for your next adventure, as well as a variety of battery options for you to choose from.

The AEBoard AT2 is powered by a wireless remote control and is equipped with sine wave drivers and Hall sensors to ensure smooth acceleration and braking at all times. The AT2 is rugged and can withstand up to 330 pounds. With a flexible deck and sleek 22.7-pound board, this electric longboard is perfect for seaside boulevards and urban environments, regardless of surface. For the money, it is really a good board but you can't expect high-end quality and riding experience from it.

Packing 36V battery and 6in wheels

Max speeds up to 23mph

The uphill grade is 25-30% 

Pros        

7 Ply Import Canadian Maple            

The price is friendly

Cons                   

Long charging time – often takes 3 - 7 hours

The flexibility is not very good

Less powerful hub motors (two 360 Watts motors)

See More Reviews

The wheels have a 62mm wide contact patch, and despite being mounted on a hard deck, the Verreal RS has a smoother ride than my alternative configuration on a flexible deck. The deck + shell combination makes it completely rigid, which is not a problem. There is a nice and comfortable W recessed into this very visible deck. It's about 12 feet long, about 9.5 inches wide, and about 8 inches in the middle. One of the problems I had was that it had cracks, and another minor problem was that the pictures on their website showed carbon fiber at the bottom of the deck, but mine was pure black. The battery case as a whole feels very high quality. It appears to have been designed for the deck and made of high-quality materials.

A nice bright spot is a perfectly cut foam where the casing is located. The housing is not just a "box", it has tapered edges, and the electric motor wires that go into the housing are well-sealed and decorative. I measured the motors of 6368 and they were completely sealed. Thankfully, the belt is 15 mm wide. The DKP truck is light (expected to withstand 220 pounds) and the truck on wheels is about 13 inches wide. As for the motor mounting seat, it is made of thick metal with very good quality. The position of the motor can be adjusted to tighten the belt. When I hit maximum speed and hit the break, I felt a little bit of a belt jump.

As mentioned above, the combination of deck and wheels is very smooth and comfortable. Thanks to DKP trucks, you can drive in narrow Spaces and carve a lot on the road.

High Precision & Strength Self-Designed Rear Truck

The DKP truck is light (expected to withstand 220 pounds)

Pros        

The 6368 motor is completely sealed

The DKP truck is light

Cons        

There are too many bolts in the housing and the four outermost edges of the housing (just before the taper) are very sharp

See More Reviews

Few skateboarding companies started out with all-terrain skateboarding, let alone street-off-road two-in-one, but YECOO did it. The reason why Yecoo GTS is called an urban cross-country vehicle is that it has two kinds of different wheels to replace so that the skateboarders can switch between urban roads and off-road to fit in all-terrain. The 83mm PU wheel is used on flat roads, while the 6-inch off-road wheel is used on dirt roads, grass roads, hill roads, and mountain roads. Yecoo GTS's 6-inch off-road wheel is made of non-inflatable silicone tires. The soft silica gel material feels so comfortable for cycling that you do not have to worry about the puncture and repair. The replacement of wheels can be done quickly in two minutes.

It is worth mentioning that Yecoo uses integrated board design, adds cool colored lights at the bottom, thumb up for this design, and upgrades more powerful motors for switching between urban road and off-road mode. 2 colorful flashy lights will change their speed and directions as the electric skateboard slides, which is the most attractive in appearance and unique design for skateboard enthusiasts.

For longer distances and expanding the max range, a one-piece battery box uses Samsung 9000mAh and Sanyo 10500mAh capacity to provide strong enough power. Yecoo gave the highest-end model Hyper Mode, allowing you to reach a top speed of 25 mph and giving you access to lightning-fast acceleration.

To some off-road enthusiasts, GTS is a perfect choice for them to travel by switching freely between urban mode and cross-country mode. It delivers up to 2000-watt power, giving you a whole new and unforgettable riding experience. The use of the more powerful motors system in this GTS electric skateboard means that it is capable of accelerating or climbing hills while also giving a smooth braking system, letting you stop completely on your way down.

2 colorful flashy lights, beautiful appearance

20%~35% grade hill climbing

Top speed reaches 25mph with 2000watts power

High torque, 83mm PU wheel 1:3 deceleration ratio, 6-inch off-road wheel, 1:5 deceleration ratio, strong power

Motor set externally, do not directly contact the ground, no abrasion

Pros        

Upgrade more powerful motors for switching between urban road and off-road mode

Two colorful flashy lights and unique deck design are the most attracting in appearance 

A top speed of 25 mph gives you access to lightning-fast acceleration

Cons        

Weighs up to 19.6 lbs

See More Reviews

The Bajaboard G4X electric skateboard is the king of all-terrain electronic boards. It's not just a "big skateboard tire" like everything else on the market. The G4X is designed from the ground up as an off-road vehicle - you just happen to be standing on it.

BajaBoard G4X is the beast on the uphill. There are few, if any, electronic skateboards on the market that can keep up with a board when going uphill. It has enough torque, great speed, and powerful battery capacity to boost your slope up to 45%. In addition, you can ride the board on all terrains. It can be adapted to any terrain with its alloy chassis, rugged independent twin transverse arms and pre-loaded 55mm stroke shock absorbers. With this electronic skateboard, you don't have to limit yourself to flat asphalt road. 

Not only does the Bajaboard G4X electric skateboard have tremendous power output, but the incredible traction provided by the stand-alone four-wheel drive will also plow you through tall grass, mud, and sand. With on-board traction control and an electronic differential, you'll always be in control.

The G4X has four motors (one drive per wheel) and can accelerate you from zero to 50kph in under three seconds. If you set up the electronic board for a comfortable ride (soft damper) and better control (smaller turning radius), you should not exceed 21mph / 35km/h for your own safety. With this special setup, the circuit board becomes unstable at high speeds.

In general, the front motor can be turned off during cruise to save battery. The G4X has built-in traction control and an electronic differential that you can disable. The G4X is no slouch when it comes to the range - a 180-190 pound rider can go more than 30 kilometers on a single charge.

RANGE - Up to 18 miles. Varies depending on rider weight, terrain, and riding style.                             

TOP SPEED - Approximately 37 mph. Speeds may vary depending on rider weight, battery voltage, and terrain.                             

HILLS - Up to 45 percent gradient.                             

TERRAIN - Any hard or compact surfaces (ie: tarmac, bitumen, concrete, short grass, dirt, uneven and poor terrain surfaces)                                            

Pros        

Power output massive with4 Brushless Motors (one per wheel) and 900Wh Li-ion battery

Hill climb up to 45% grade

Top speed up to 37 mph           

Cons        

Too much heavy and expensive

Can not be returned after being ridden


What Are Your Biggest Concerns About All-terrain Electric Skateboards?

Do you dream of exploring the woods on an electric skateboard, unhindered by bumps in the road? Or maybe you want to speed along the beach on a clear day, knowing that your electric skateboard is safe? If you want to ride outside of city roads, you want an off-road electric skateboard. In order to purchase the best board for you, you need to consider and know at least a few questions.

What are the advantages of all-terrain (off-road) electric skateboards?

As the name suggests, all-terrain skateboards can cross-country, providing you with more riding options. They won't confine you to the city. You can go skateboarding in the country. Obviously, you can ride on rough asphalt, but you can also ride on gravel, dirt, grass, beach, even forest roads. Imagine riding a mountain bike through a forest trail. Now, you can replace the electric skateboard. Does surfing in the woods and mountains sound great? It's fun to go down the mountain with a skateboard. With mountain skateboarding, you can skate all year round! 

How much is an all-terrain electric skateboard?

Usually, the price of all-terrain electric skateboards is more than $600. The $600-800 electric skateboards are generally entry-level. If you are a novice, you can choose the entry-level all-terrain electric skateboard? 

How to choose an all-terrain electric longboard?

If you are going to buy your first electric skateboard, I know what you are struggling with. Completely confused with different types of motors, speed, range, plate length, wheels, batteries, and other specifications. 

The first thing you have to think about is which way you are going. If you only drive on flat roads and trails, you will look for street Pu wheels - they are smooth wheels. If you live near an unsatisfactory road, you can consider using automatic wheels or hybrid cars. It is also important to consider the type of motor used in the electric skateboard. Hub motor and belt driver are two main types. 

The deck of the skateboard is an important part of the electric skateboard because it will determine your riding comfort. Last but not least, let us talk about norms. The two main concerns are maximum speed and range. Both companies will note on their websites that when you look for it, you must see which all-terrain (off-road) electric skateboards are best for you. 

How to ride an all-terrain electric skateboard safely?

Be sure to wear a helmet; Other protective equipment (gloves, knee and elbow pads, good shoes) is strongly recommended; Do you know your way; Practice mastering the mainboard brake; Train emergency braking technology and "correct use"; Make sure the battery is charged (and the remote control); Make sure someone sees you – (night = light time); Don't exceed your skill level. 

Is there any maintenance required with all-terrain (off-road) e-skateboards?

It is important to maintain your electric skateboard regularly. This improves the quality and service life of the parts. 

It's important to clean your electric skateboard after every ride. Clean the electric slide with a damp cloth to prevent water or dirt from entering the electronic components. After that, wipe the board with a dry cloth. 

In addition, regular maintenance of bearings. You can do this with special care oils. This oil is specially developed for bearing maintenance to ensure a long bearing life. When the bearing is damaged by water, you will hear the scraping sound of the wheel bearing. 

Be sure to connect the charger to the electric skateboard before inserting it into a wall outlet. Remove the charger when the battery is fully charged. If you don't use your electric skateboard for a while, be sure to charge the battery at least once a month. 

Make sure no water enters the engine while cleaning the wheel/ motor. It is also important to keep water, sand or stones out of the engine. 

Finally, check and adjust bolts and screws regularly. Because driving releases a lot of vibration. Using the T-tool, you can check, tighten and adjust the most important bolts (truck and wheels). 

Is an all-terrain (off-road) electric skateboard good choice for a beginner?

When it comes to electric skateboarding, it is certainly welcome for those who have previous experience and are used to pushing their limits. But as a beginner, you can buy yourself a generic substitute to cut down on basic skills like balance. It doesn't seem to fit perfectly in theory, but that's fine. Because most of the electric skateboards on the market now have low initial speed values. As long as you can keep your balance standing on the board, it's easy to start your journey. 

Also, you need to be aware that electric skateboards tend to be very expensive. It is highly recommended to try out the whole point of skating before you invest a lot of money in gadgets that you may rarely use. So if you're a feeler for electric skateboarding, I suggest you choose carefully. Here's a list of the cheapest electric skateboards that might help you. 

Are electric skateboards waterproof?

Skateboards, electronics and water do not like each other very much. At least, from the skateboard's point of view, it repels water. 

It's kind of bad because, you know, electric skateboards are a lot of fun to ride, but unfortunately, a wet day can quickly kill any intention of taking it out for a ride. Sometimes the outdoor humidity is annoying, which severely limits how often we skateboarders can use our boards. 

Water can cause bearings to age from the inside out, belts can lose cohesion and begin to delaminate, wooden decks can warp and break, truck bolts rust, electronics corrode and sometimes even short-circuit. 

In fact, many off-the-shelf electric skateboards aren't completely waterproof, but they're somewhat waterproof. However, some electric skateboards have different levels of water resistance. 

IP rating or entry protection code ranks products against dust and liquids. Basically, the IP rating works like this: The first number evaluates the dust-proof ability of an electric skateboard on a scale of 0 to 6. 0 is the lowest level, 6 is the highest dustproof level; the second number evaluates the waterproof performance of the electric skateboard on a scale from 0 to 6. Here, too, 0 is the lowest grade and 6 is the most waterproof. 

Waterproof skateboards basically prevent water from seeping into sensitive areas, such as the battery or ESC compartment, but are not completely waterproof. This means they can ride in light rain, slightly wet surfaces or shallow puddles, but this is a risk and not strongly recommended. Ip65-rated electric skateboards, on the other hand, are very impermeable to water, and their component compartments are designed to resist all moisture, while exposed parts such as trucks, decks, and wheels are designed to be waterproof without rusting, warping, or grabbing. This means they will probably be able to ride in small puddles, but heavy rain or beach cycling is not their strong suit. 

What's the difference between regular and off-road electric skateboard?

Off-road or all-terrain skateboards are usually built with more power and durability in mind. 

The main difference, however, is in the wheels. The wheels of regular electric skateboards are mostly PU wheels, which are more suitable for riding on flat roads. To traverse difficult terrains like grass, dirt and gravel, off-road wheels need more and hopefully equipped with pneumatic tires. 

The good news is that some boards like the Yecoo GT3 electric skateboard etc have an interchangeable wheel set so you can get the best of both worlds. 

Can I rely on the smartphone app for applying the controls?

No, because it's not necessary. The simplest answer is - only when absolutely necessary when your remote control stops working. 

Each electric skateboard comes with a handheld remote control that accelerates and brakes the electric skateboard when the corresponding button is pressed. There's a reason these remotes are made by companies: They're supposed to be the only devices that control electric skateboards. 

Smartphone apps can crash or slow down easily, so they're far less reliable than dedicated remote controls.