Just started cruising and commuting and in need of new cruiser longboards? Well, this guide on the best longboards for cruising for beginners is a great place to start.
If you’re new to longboarding, finding the right cruising board is crucial to start your smooth, relaxing ride journey. Cruising longboards are designed to offer stability, comfort, and an unmatched sense of freedom.
To make the process easier, we’ve tested a variety of trusted longboard brands’ models and compiled this guide on the best cruising longboards. So you can choose with confidence and hit the streets or boardwalks with ease. Before diving in, check out our detailed guide on how to choose a longboard for cruising. It explains what features to look for, such as deck shape, wheel size, and flexibility, and how much you should budget.
Why Choose a Longboard for Cruising?
Cruising is all about comfort, stability, and smooth rides. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, a longboard for cruising can transform your skateboarding experience. Longboards designed for cruising have unique features that set them apart:
- Larger Decks: Offer more stability.
- Soft Wheels: Provide better grip and absorb shocks.
- Flexibility: Smoother rides are made by dampening vibrations.
- Responsive Trucks: Allow easy maneuvering and carving.
What to Look for in a Longboard Cruiser Board
Deck Shape and Size
When selecting a cruiser longboard, opt for a deck length between 32 and 42 inches. Shorter decks are nimble and portable, while longer ones provide better stability. Longboard deck shapes also matter for cruising or commuting. For example, pintails are ideal for smooth, wide turns, drop-through decks offer enhanced stability by sitting lower to the ground, and top-mount decks provide excellent control for carving and tight turns.
Wheel Type
For cruising, wheels with a diameter of 70mm to 76mm are ideal. They offer a perfect balance of speed and smoothness. Softer wheels, rated between 78A and 83A, effectively absorb road vibrations and ensure a comfortable ride even on rough surfaces.
Trucks
Reverse kingpin trucks are ideal for cruising, providing excellent stability and responsiveness. Their design makes them perfect for smooth turns and effortless control during rides.
Flexibility
A deck with medium flex is ideal for cruising. Because it absorbs shocks from bumps and rough terrain. This flexibility enhances the overall feel of the ride, making it enjoyable even on uneven surfaces.
Bearings
High-quality bearings, such as ABEC-7 or ABEC-9, are crucial for a smooth and efficient ride. They reduce friction, allowing the wheels to spin faster and more effortlessly.
Quick View of Our Expert’s Pick
We Were very careful to find your perfect ride through the best budget. Learn details about the above best longboards for cruising.
Retrospec Zed Cruiser & Pintail Longboard Complete Cruiser: The Budget Killer
We’ve tried so many longboards to suggest the perfect one for you considering the budget. Here is the first recommendation Retrospec Zed Longboard from SkateboardEver’s Longboarder.
You can elevate your cruising experience with the Retrospec Zed Cruiser & Pintail Longboard. Designed with a nod to 1950s surf culture, this 44-inch deck blends vintage charm with modern performance. That’s why we took it as the best adult longboard for commuting, carving, and downhill adventures.
| Price: $49.99 | View at Amazon |
Key Features
Premium Build Quality
The longboard is constructed with a durable 8-ply Canadian maple and sustainably sourced bamboo deck. Its 44-inch deck length and pintail shape reduce wheel bite, providing a comfortable and reliable ride.
Smooth and Stable Ride
It is equipped with 70mm PU wheels (85A durometer), and the Zed Cruiser ensures optimal grip and shock absorption for a smooth experience on various terrains. The 7-inch aluminum reverse kingpin trucks allow for precise turns and enhanced stability.
Stylish Design
The board features a vintage-inspired pintail design, available in multiple eye-catching patterns and finishes. Clear grip tape highlights the natural bamboo grain, adding an extra layer of elegance while ensuring safety.
High-Performance Components
Precision ABEC-7 bearings reduce friction and deliver a faster, more efficient roll. The Zed Cruiser’s hardware is built to last, making it a reliable choice for daily use or long-distance rides.
Riding Experience on the Retrospec Zed Longboard
As a pro longboarder, riding the Retrospec Zed Cruiser & Pintail Longboard has been a refreshing experience that blends nostalgia with functionality. The 44-inch deck’s classic pintail design immediately transported me back to my early days of carving along coastal roads, evoking the freedom of surf-inspired longboarding. Its bamboo and maple construction provides a perfect mix of flexibility and sturdiness, allowing for smooth transitions between wide carves and tighter turns. The ABEC-7 bearings and 70mm wheels offer a fluid ride, even on uneven pavement, making it ideal for both urban commutes and leisurely cruising. The reverse kingpin trucks give it a responsiveness that feels intuitive, even when navigating more technical terrain.
I wanted to share my experience with this longboard because it represents the kind of ride that speaks to all levels of riders. Easy-to-ride longboards for beginners help to build confidence, while for pros like me, it’s a reliable option for relaxed cruising or carving practice. The Zed Cruiser doesn’t just perform well—it also carries a timeless aesthetic that resonates with longboarding’s roots
Magneto Bamboo Carbon Fiber Longboards Skateboards: Great for Teens Adults Men Women
The Magneto Bamboo Carbon Fiber Longboard is your ultimate companion for cruising, carving, freestyle, downhill, and even dancing. Designed by skaters in Southern California, this board combines stunning aesthetics with performance. With a 4.6-star rating from over 2,800 reviews, the Hana Twin is a favorite for its blend of quality, style, and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, the Magneto longboard guarantees a smooth, stylish ride.
| Price:$79.99 | View at Amazon |
Key Features
Versatile Design: At 42 inches long and 9.5 inches wide, the Hana Twin offers a stable, flexible deck with a subtle W-concave that locks your feet in place, ideal for cruising and light freestyle.
Durable & Stylish Deck: Made from an 8-layer laminate, featuring a maple core with bamboo top and bottom layers, sealed with a sand-grit finish. The laser-etched bamboo graphics are inspired by beach vibes.
Smooth Riding Wheels: Equipped with 70mm 78A soft polyurethane wheels, this board delivers a smooth, shock-absorbing ride on various surfaces.
No Wheel Bite: The cutout deck design eliminates wheel bite, even during deep turns.
Ready to Go: Includes a skate tool and supports riders up to 275 pounds, ensuring a versatile and user-friendly experience.
Our Reviews on the Magneto Bamboo Carbon Fiber Longboard
Our longboard riders found the Magneto Bamboo Carbon Fiber Longboard as a smooth and versatile experience. The 42-inch deck with a subtle W-concave provides excellent foot lock-in, making it perfect for cruising, carving, and light freestyle. The 8-layer laminate construction with maple and bamboo layers ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight feel. The 70mm 78A soft polyurethane wheels offer a shock-absorbing ride, gliding easily over various surfaces.
Thanks to its cutout deck design, there’s no worry of wheel bite, even during sharp turns. Whether you’re commuting or exploring, this board guarantees a stylish, stable, and comfortable ride.
Get ready to redefine your cruising adventures with the Magneto Bamboo Carbon Fiber Longboard—a top pick for teens, adults, and riders of all skill levels!
VOLADOR Freeride Longboard Cruiser: Another Perfect One
If you are finding a longboard that can be ridden by different groups of people then it is the right one. VOLADOR Freeride Longboard Cruiser is designed for adults, youth, and kids above 5 years old. The VOLADOR Freeride Longboard Cruiser is one of the best deals on style, functionality, and performance. Crafted with an 8-ply hardrock maple wood deck, this longboard ensures durability and a sturdy platform for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re commuting, carving, or enjoying a leisurely ride, this board is designed to deliver a smooth and efficient experience.
| Price:$45.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features at a Glance:
Premium Engineering: The drop-through mounting design enhances stability, making it easier to push and cruise. Equipped with 7” aluminum reverse kingpin trucks, this longboard offers adjustable angles of 50° for freeriding and 45° for cruising, ensuring versatility and control.
Smooth Riding Experience: With 70x51mm 78A polyurethane wheels and ABEC-9 precision bearings, the VOLADOR Cruiser delivers superior shock absorption, excellent traction, and seamless gliding on various surfaces.
Generous Deck Dimensions: The 40″ x 9″ deck provides ample space for riders of all sizes, while supporting a load capacity of up to 200 pounds.
Custom Art Designs: Choose from an eclectic range of stunning artwork inspired by artists from Europe, Russia, and Asia, adding a touch of personality to your ride. The “Cooper” design is particularly eye-catching, but other options like Banana Tree, Koi, and Kanagawa are equally impressive.
Perfect for All Skill Levels: Designed for adults, youth, and kids (5+ years), the VOLADOR Freeride Longboard is a beginner-friendly option with enough performance to satisfy intermediate riders.
Expert’s Reviews on VOLADOR Freeride Longboard Cruiser
We found the VOLADOR Freeride Longboard Cruiser as one of the best longboard skateboards for cruising. The drop-through design provides excellent stability, while the ABEC-9 bearings and soft 78A wheels glide effortlessly over bumps. It’s responsive for carving and steady for cruising, with a spacious 40” x 9” deck that feels secure and comfortable. The Cooper artwork is stunning and always draws compliments. After weeks of use, it’s proven to be durable, beginner-friendly, and versatile enough for intermediate riders. A perfect mix of style, comfort, and performance!
Ranked consistently among the Top 5 longboard brands, VOLADOR is an excellent choice for all levels of riders considering the budget also.
PINESKY 41 Inch Longboard Skateboard 8 Ply Natural Maple Complete Skateboard Cruiser
If you are looking for a longboard for Cruising, Carving, Free-Style, and Downhill with T-Tool, it can be a perfect option. It’s a a top-rated choice among riders of all skill levels especially for beginners. Crafted from 8-ply natural maple wood, this longboard boasts durability and flexibility. With its ABEC-11 high-speed chrome steel bearings, 70mm polyurethane wheels, and an aluminum 8-inch truck, this skateboard is engineered for smooth performance across various terrains.
| Price:$59.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
Sturdy 8-Ply Natural Maple Deck
The deck is made from 8 layers of natural maple wood to offer a balance of strength and flexibility. Its 41-inch length and 9-inch width provide ample space for comfortable foot placement. The non-slip grip tape enhances safety and control during rides.
Smooth and Durable Wheels
Equipped with 70mm PU wheels with a 78A hardness rating, this longboard delivers excellent grip and shock absorption. These wheels are ideal for urban streets, boardwalks, and mild downhill cruising.
High-Performance Bearings
The ABEC-11 precision bearings ensure smooth and fast-rolling, reducing friction and allowing for effortless cruising. These bearings are a great fit for both beginners and experienced riders looking for consistent performance.
Responsive Trucks
The 7-inch aluminum alloy trucks are lightweight yet durable, offering excellent maneuverability and stability. These trucks are designed to support quick turns and responsive carving.
Eye-Catching Design
The PINESKY longboard features vibrant and modern graphics on the bottom, adding a stylish touch to its functionality. The design is UV-printed for durability, ensuring it remains vibrant even after extensive use.
Performance-tested: PINESKY 41-Inch Longboard
As an experienced longboarder, riding the PINESKY 41 Inch Longboard Skateboard has been a pleasantly smooth and stable experience. The 8-ply maple deck strikes an excellent balance between rigidity and comfort while carving and cruising. Its wide surface offers plenty of room for secure foot placement, which is especially beneficial during longer rides or mild downhill runs. The 70mm PU wheels paired with ABEC-11 bearings ensured a buttery glide over various terrains, from smooth pavement to slightly rougher paths.
While it may not cater to advanced freestyle tricks or extreme downhill speeds, the PINESKY excels as a dependable and stylish cruiser, perfect for both beginners and seasoned riders seeking a reliable board for everyday use.Don’t miss out—join the thousands of satisfied customers who rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars and discover why the PINESKY Longboard is a favorite for cruising and beyond. Order yours today and get ready to ride in style!
Amrgot 42-Inch Complete Longboard: The Ultimate Cruiser for Professionals and Enthusiasts
Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your longboarding journey or a seasoned rider seeking a reliable and versatile cruiser, the Amrgot 42-Inch Complete Longboard delivers a perfect blend of style, functionality, and performance.The Amrgot 42-Inch Complete Longboard is a top-tier choice for riders seeking versatility, comfort, and performance. Invest in the cruiser Longboard today and elevate your riding experience to the next level!
| Price:$69.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features and Specifications
Deck Material is crafted from high-quality 8-ply maple. And this 42-inch longboard provides the perfect balance of durability and flexibility. The drop-through deck design lowers the center of gravity, ensuring enhanced stability and easier pushing.
Trucks: Equipped with sturdy 7-inch aluminum alloy trucks, the Amrgot longboard offers reliable strength and smooth maneuverability.
Wheels: 70mm PU wheels with a 78A durometer provide excellent grip and shock absorption, delivering a smooth ride on various surfaces.
Bearings: High-precision ABEC-9 bearings ensure fast and efficient performance, reducing friction for an effortless glide.
Aesthetic Appeal: Featuring vibrant and eye-catching graphics, the deck not only performs well but also stands out in style.
Versatility: Designed for cruising, carving, freestyle, and downhill rides, this board caters to a wide range of riding styles and terrains.
Our Longboarder’s Experience on Amrgot 42-Inch Complete Longboard
As a professional longboarder, my experience riding the Amrgot 42-Inch Complete Longboard has been incredibly satisfying. The drop-through deck design offers exceptional stability, allowing for smooth, controlled rides even at higher speeds. The concave deck provides excellent foot placement and grip, making carving and tight turns feel intuitive and precise.
I was particularly impressed by the responsiveness of the 7-inch aluminum alloy trucks and the buttery glide of the ABEC-9 bearings, The 70mm PU wheels absorbed shocks effortlessly, ensuring a comfortable ride over uneven surfaces. Whether cruising city streets or carving down hills, this board delivered a perfect blend of style, functionality, and reliability, making it a fantastic choice for riders of all skill levels.
Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Kicktail Cruiser
We have picked a longboard from the Yocaher brand for its special features. The Yocaher Longboard Skateboard Kicktail Cruiser Complete is a versatile and reliable choice for riders seeking a smooth, stable, and stylish cruising experience. With its classic design and durable build, this longboard is perfect for adult beginners and seasoned riders alike. Whether you’re commuting, carving, or just enjoying a casual ride, the Yocaher Kicktail Cruiser delivers exceptional performance and comfort.
| Price: $67.95 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
Durable Construction
The deck is made from 9-ply maple, ensuring a robust structure that can withstand daily use while maintaining a responsive feel. Its stiffness provides stability which is ideal for cruising and carving.
Kicktail Design
The kicktail design adds functionality, allowing riders to perform sharp turns, tricks, and navigate tight corners with ease. It also enhances control when riding in urban environments.
Generous Dimensions
Measuring 40 inches in length and 9 inches in width. The deck offers ample space for a comfortable stance. The extended wheelbase enhances stability, making it suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Smooth Performance
Equipped with ABEC-7 chrome bearings and 70mm PU wheels (78A durometer), the Yocaher Kicktail Cruiser provides a smooth and controlled ride. The wheels offer excellent grip and shock absorption, ensuring comfort on various terrains.
Heavy-Duty Trucks
The 7-inch aluminum trucks are lightweight yet durable, ensuring reliable performance and stability. They are designed to handle sharp turns and carving with precision.
Stylish Aesthetics
Available in a range of vibrant graphics and designs, the Yocaher Kicktail Cruiser caters to riders who value both performance and style. The top deck features black grip tape for added traction and a sleek finish.
Our Longboarder’s Experience with the Yocaher Kicktail Cruiser
Riding the Yocaher Longboard Kicktail Cruiser was an absolute pleasure. Its sturdy 9-ply maple deck provided excellent stability even at higher speeds, while the kicktail design made navigating tight corners and urban obstacles effortless. The ABEC-7 bearings and 70mm wheels ensured a smooth, responsive ride on various surfaces, from rough pavements to boardwalks.
As someone who values versatility, I appreciated how this board balanced functionality and style. It is really good longboard for cruising and light tricks. It’s a board that truly adapts to your riding style, delivering performance and comfort in equal measure.
MINORITY Downhill Maple Longboard Skateboard: Made for Cruising Ride
If you are seeking speed, stability, and style, MINORITY Downhill Maple Longboard Skateboard is perfect for you. Adults and youth can elevate their cruising game with the MINORITY Downhill Maple Longboard. This 40-inch longboard is a fantastic choice for riders who love smooth rides and exceptional performance.
| Price: $52.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
100% Maple Wood Deck is crafted from 8-ply cold-pressed hard rock maple. The deck ensures strength and durability, providing a stable platform for downhill and cruising rides.
This longboard offers a low center of gravity to make it perfect for high-speed stability and cruising comfort. So Low Gravity Construction is designed with a classic drop-through deck.
Customizable Trucks: Featuring 7-inch aluminum reverse kingpin trucks adjustable to 50 or 45 degrees, the board delivers precise maneuverability and control for a versatile riding experience.
Smooth Rolling System: Equipped with durable 70x51mm PU wheels (78A hardness) and ABEC-9 precision bearings. The MINORITY longboard offers a shock-absorbing, fatigue-free ride on any terrain.
Symmetrical Radial Deck: The symmetrical concave shape enhances flex, grip, and kick efficiency. So it is an excellent choice for long-distance cruising and freestyle riding.
Vibrant Digital Graphics: Designed by international artists, the digital-printed graphics boast vivid colors
Design Variants
- Color Options: Whale, Alps, Geometry, Nature, and Tropical
- Deck Length: 40 inches
Experience with the MINORITY Downhill Maple Longboard
As an avid longboard rider, my experience with the MINORITY Downhill Maple Longboard Skateboard has been nothing short of exceptional. The 8-ply maple deck provides a sturdy and reliable platform, ensuring stability even at high speeds. Its drop-through design significantly lowers the center of gravity, making it easy to push and control during long-distance rides and downhill runs.
The ABEC-9 bearings and 70mm PU wheels deliver a smooth, fast, and responsive ride, while the adjustable reverse kingpin trucks allow for precise turns and customization to suit my riding style. Whether cruising through city streets or tackling steep hills, the board’s performance, combined with its stylish and durable construction. Riding the MINORITY longboard is a blend of speed, comfort, and control.
Magneto 40+ inch Kicktail Cruiser Longboard Skateboard
Need a single cruiser longboard for Big Kid to Adult? Here is the Magneto 40+ inch Kicktail Cruiser Longboard Skateboard & Pintail Long Board Skateboard for Adults, Skateboard Long Boards for Teenagers, Kids – Cruising, Carving, Dancing Longboards. The Magneto 40+ Inch Kicktail Cruiser Longboard is designed for riders seeking versatility, comfort, and a premium cruising experience. it is a great choice for both beginners and experienced skaters. It blends ergonomic design, performances and materials for cruising longboards.
| Price:$69.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
Material: Crafted from a combination of bamboo and fiberglass, the deck is lightweight yet durable. The bamboo layers provide a natural flex for smooth rides.
Length: Measuring over 40 inches, the deck offers ample space for comfortable foot placement.
Kicktail Design: The functional kicktail adds versatility, allowing for sharp turns, tricks, and navigating urban obstacles with ease.
Trucks: Equipped with gravity-cast aluminum trucks, this longboard delivers reliable control and smooth turning.
Wheels: Large 70mm wheels with a 78A durometer offer excellent grip and shock absorption from rough pavements to smooth asphalt.
Bearings: Precision ABEC-7 bearings reduce friction, providing a fast and efficient ride.
Flexibility: The bamboo construction allows for natural flex, enhancing the board’s responsiveness and making it suitable for carving.
Low Center of Gravity: Designed with a slightly concave deck, the board ensures a comfortable and stable ride, even at higher speeds.
My Experience Riding Longboards as a Professional Longboarder
As a professional longboarder, I’ve ridden countless boards across diverse terrains, from smooth city streets to challenging downhill trails. Each board offers a unique experience, and finding the right one can transform your ride. The Magneto 40+ Inch Kicktail Cruiser Longboard, with its bamboo and fiberglass deck and versatile kicktail, stands out for its smooth performance and adaptability, making it perfect for both cruising and freestyle. Longboarding is more than a sport to me—it’s a journey of freedom, control, and endless adventure, where every ride tells a new story.
Retrospec Tidal 41-inch Drop-Down Longboard Skateboard
Our skaters have tested the Retrospec Tidal 41-Inch Drop-Down Longboard for a long time. This is designed to deliver the ultimate riding experience for cruising, carving, commuting, and downhill adventures. This board offers a perfect combination of durability, stability, and style, making it a standout choice for riders of all skill levels.
| Price:$79.99 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
Durable 9-Ply Canadian Maple Wood Deck
The Tidal’s deck is constructed from 9-ply Canadian maple wood, ensuring a robust and durable build. The natural stiffness of the wood provides excellent support for both beginners and experienced riders.
Its drop-down design lowers the deck height, offering increased stability and ease of pushing.
41-Inch Length for Versatile Riding
With its 41-inch length, the Retrospec Tidal provides ample space for riders to find their footing comfortably. This length also enhances stability, making it ideal for downhill rides and carving sharp turns with confidence.
Precision Trucks and Smooth Wheels
Equipped with reverse kingpin trucks, this longboard offers precise control and improved maneuverability. 70mm 85A PU wheels ensure absorbing shock and provide excellent grip. The ABEC-7 bearings deliver a fast, consistent roll, perfect for long-distance cruising.
Drop-Down Design for Stability
The deck’s drop-down design reduces the rider’s center of gravity, promoting superior balance and control. This feature is particularly beneficial for downhill riding, where stability is essential.
Multi-Purpose Functionality
Whether you’re commuting to work, cruising through city streets, carving hillsides, or taking on downhill challenges, the Retrospec Tidal adapts seamlessly to your needs. Its versatile design caters to various riding styles.
My Experience Riding the Retrospec Tidal 41-Inch Longboard
Riding the Retrospec Tidal 41-Inch Drop-Down Longboard has been an exhilarating and smooth experience. Our pro longboard confirms it is perfect for carving down hills and cruising city streets. Its 9-ply Canadian maple construction feels solid underfoot, providing confidence even at higher speeds. The 70mm wheels and ABEC-7 bearings deliver an impressively smooth glide over cracks and uneven pavement, while the responsive trucks allow for sharp, precise turns. Whether I’m commuting or taking on a downhill run, the Tidal offers the perfect balance of control, comfort, and thrill.
Playshion Longboard Skateboard Cruiser
The Playshion Longboard Skateboard Cruiser is an excellent choice for riders of all skill levels. It offers a smooth and enjoyable ride for cruising, carving, and commuting. With its high-quality materials and thoughtful design, this longboard stands out as a reliable option for casual riders and enthusiasts alike.
| Price: $49.98 | View At Amazon |
Key Features
Durable and Flexible Deck
The deck is made from 8-ply maple wood which strikes the perfect balance between strength and flexibility. At 39 inches long and 9.1 inches wide, it provides ample space for stability and control.
Weight Capacity: The board supports up to 250 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of riders.
Drop-Through Design
The drop-through mounting style makes it easier to push and control, especially during long-distance cruising.
Smooth and Comfortable Ride
Wheels are equipped with 70mm by 50mm PU wheels with a durometer rating of 78A. It ensures a smooth ride on various terrains.
Bearings: ABEC-9 bearings are featured for faster speeds and reduced friction.
Sturdy Trucks
The 7-inch aluminum alloy trucks are lightweight yet durable. They offer excellent maneuverability and stability.
User-Friendly Grip Tape
The deck comes with a pre-applied grip tape that ensures a firm footing.
Who Is It For?
This top-rated cruiser longboard is ideal for casual riders, students commuting on campus, and anyone looking for a comfortable board for leisurely rides. Its stability and ease of use also make it a fantastic option for beginners.
My Experience of Riding Playshion Longboard Skateboard Cruiser
As a professional skater, I enjoyed riding the Playshion Longboard Skateboard Cruiser. The 39-inch deck, made of 8-ply maple, is strong and flexible, making it comfortable to ride. Its drop-through design lowers the board, making it stable and easy to push, even for long distances. The 70mm PU wheels and ABEC-9 bearings provide a smooth and fast ride, even on bumpy roads. The 7-inch aluminum trucks are responsive, making it easy to turn and carve. While it’s not as premium as boards like the Sector 9 Lookout, it’s affordable and works well for all skill levels. It’s a great option for anyone who loves cruising.
How long does it take to learn to cruise on a longboard?
Learning to cruise on a longboard skateboard typically takes 1 to 2 weeks for most beginners, depending on your dedication and practice time. For smooth cruising, focus on mastering balance, pushing off, and carving techniques. Start on flat, smooth surfaces and wear protective gear to build confidence safely. Regular practice—about 20-30 minutes daily—can significantly speed up your progress. Remember, everyone learns at their own pace, so stay patient and consistent!
How to Choose the Right Longboard for You
Selecting the smooth cruising longboards requires a clear understanding of your needs and preferences. By focusing on your riding style, terrain, deck size, components, and portability, you can make an informed choice. Here’s a breakdown to guide you:
Assess Your Riding Style
What type of riding do you plan to do? Whether you’re cruising along streets, commuting to work, or carving down hills, your primary activity will dictate the most suitable board style. For casual cruising, prioritize stability and comfort over agility or speed.
Consider the Terrain
The surface you’ll ride on plays a crucial role in your choice. For rough streets or uneven terrain, soft wheels with a lower durometer (around 78A) are ideal, as they absorb shocks and vibrations effectively. If you’re riding on smooth pavements, harder wheels will offer better performance.
Deck Size and Flexibility
The deck size is essential for comfort and control. Longboards between 32” and 42” are versatile and well-suited for cruising. If you prefer a smooth, springy ride, opt for a flexible deck, particularly one made from bamboo, as it offers a balance of durability and flexibility.
Pick Quality Components
High-quality components ensure a better riding experience. Avoid cheap trucks that may compromise stability and control. Invest in trusted brands like Paris or Caliber for reliable performance. Additionally, check that the bushings and pivots are of decent quality to ensure smooth and responsive turns.
Portability
If you’ll be carrying your longboard frequently, choose a lighter and shorter model. However, ensure it still provides adequate stability to meet your riding needs.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a comfortable longboarding setup with your riding goals and lifestyle.
Top Longboarding Tips for Cruising Smoothly
Longboarding is a fun and relaxing activity, but cruising effectively requires the right techniques and equipment. Choose a longboard with a flexible deck and soft wheels for a smooth cruising ride, and maintain a balanced stance with your knees slightly bent. Push efficiently with steady, controlled movements, and practice carving by shifting your weight between your heels and toes to maintain speed and balance.
Learn foot braking for safe stops, especially on downhill routes, and keep your board well-maintained by cleaning bearings and checking wheels regularly. Always plan routes with smooth surfaces and low traffic, and wear protective gear for a safer, more enjoyable ride.
What Cruisers Are Not Good For
Longboard cruiser boards are great for smooth and comfortable rides, but they have some downsides. Here’s what they’re not good for:
Speed: Cruisers are not made for fast downhill rides. They focus more on being stable and comfortable than on going fast.
Portability: Because cruisers are bigger, they can be hard to carry, especially in crowded places or busy cities.
Tight Turns: Cruisers are built for stability, not quick turns or sharp maneuvers. They aren’t ideal if you need a board that’s easy to steer in tight spaces.
Advanced Tricks: Cruisers aren’t meant for tricks, dancing, or other advanced moves. They’re best for relaxed and simple riding.
Knowing these limits can help you decide if a cruiser is right for you or if you need a different type of board.
How to Maintain Your Cruising Longboard for Longevity
Proper maintenance is essential to keep your longboard in top condition and extend its lifespan. Start by regularly cleaning your bearings to ensure a smooth ride; remove them, wipe off dirt, and apply lubricant to prevent rust and wear. Inspect your wheels for flat spots or cracks, and rotate them periodically to promote even wear. Check the trucks for loose or damaged parts—tighten bolts and adjust bushings to maintain stability and control.
Keep the deck clean and dry to prevent warping or delamination, especially if you ride in wet conditions. Avoid storing your board in extreme heat or humidity, as these can weaken its components. Finally, inspect your grip tape and replace it if it becomes worn or loses traction. With regular care and attention, your longboard will stay reliable and ready for cruising adventures.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best longboards for cruising comes down to your personal preferences and riding needs. Whether you’re drawn to the eco-friendly design of the Landyachtz Bamboo Pinner or the budget-friendly versatility of the Retrospec Tidal, there’s a board out there for everyone. Invest in a quality longboard and enjoy the smooth, relaxing rides that make cruising so enjoyable.
FAQs
Is a longboard or a cruiser better for city commuting?
A longboard is often preferred for city commuting due to its larger wheels, which roll over obstacles more easily, and its stability at higher speeds.
What is the best longboard for long rides on rough roads?
The Landyachtz Drop Cat 38 and Arbor Axis 40 are excellent choices for long rides, offering stability, comfort, and durability on uneven roads.
What are the most popular longboard brands for cruising?
Brands like Landyachtz, Loaded Boards, Arbor, Sector 9, and Globe are highly regarded for their durable materials, innovative designs, and performance-focused features.
Can you cruise on a longboard in wet conditions?
While cruising in wet conditions is possible, it’s not ideal. Wet surfaces reduce grip and can damage bearings and decks. If you must ride in wet conditions, ensure your bearings are sealed and your grip tape is well-maintained.
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