> I think reason the unicycle configuration is less popular is that it does not look as cool as the skateboard style. The fact that it may look "cooler" is ent

> I think reason the unicycle configuration is less popular is that it does not look as cool as the skateboard style. The fact that it may look "cooler" is entirely beside the point. A sideways stance is much more stable forward-to-back. This is why we ride surfboards and skateboards sideways, and why if you're standing in a boat whose nose is crashing up and down through waves, you'll tend to turn sideways for stability. Same goes for if you're standing on a crowded bus and don't have much to hold onto: sideways is better. The toes-forward stance feels very unstable in the face of an unexpected slowdown or bump because your only way to counteract it is to start leaning back in advance, whereas when sideways, you can counter a lot of forward-to-back jolts with a wide stance.