Longboarding has gained popularity as a gripping blend of sport and habit. Longboarding attracts riders with its different experiences and styles. It comes in a variety of sizes and styles, which are designed to appeal to each rider’s specific preferences. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore the thrilling world of longboards. We’ll dive into the complex details. We’ll also cover different types of longboards that fit different riding styles and preferences.
A very common question is: I’m a beginner. What longboard should I get? How can I choose which longboard is best for me?
If you are a beginner or intermediate skateboarder and you want to learn more about skateboarding, First, you must know: what is the difference between skateboards and longboards? Let’s talk about this.
Difference between Longboards and Skateboards
History of Longboard and Skateboards
Skateboarding gained popularity in the 1950s. Surfing started looking for other things to do when they couldn’t surf. They decided to make the skateboard longer for cruising, so they were able to feel like they were surfing on the ground.
Preston Nichols created the first longboards in the 1950s. In 1959, Makaha, Jack’s, and Hobie became the first professional longboard distributors. They introduced commercially manufactured longboards to the market.
Size and shape of Longboard and Skateboards
Generally, skateboards are 25 to 35 inches long and 6 to 10 inches wide. On the other hand, longboards are 30 to 60 inches long and 8 to 10 inches wide. Longboards’ wider and longer lengths improve balance, especially when used by beginner riders. A longboard and a skateboard are not the same. While longboards are flat, skateboards are curved.
Wheel and Balance of Longboard and Skateboards
A longboard has bigger and softer wheels than a skateboard, so it can go faster and absorb shock better on different surfaces. Skateboards have smaller wheels, which makes them good for controlling speed and making tricks easier.
For those with larger feet, longboards offer more space and comfort, and a wider stance can lead to more balance than a regular skateboard.
I advise beginners to try longboarding first, and then, as they gain skill, switch to skateboarding.
Cruising with Longboard and Skateboards
Skateboards are designed for cruising in short distances. However, the shortboard will make you less comfortable and unstable when traveling long distances. Longboards are ideal for transportation since they allow you to cruise for Long distances very comfortably.
Doing Tricks with Longboard and Skateboards
Skateboards are easy to control for doing tricks. The small length
Skateboards are better at doing tricks than longboards. You can zigzag and do tricks at any place with curved ends, smaller wheels, and longer lengths. Skateboards are easy to carry anywhere you want.
A short skateboard will let you do difficult tricks. A longboard lets you cruise for a long distance and enjoy high speed.
Different types of Longboards
It’s no secret that longboards come in many different types, which also means there are a lot of different riding styles. The best type of longboard is not one in particular. The purpose of your longboard will determine how you use it. Types of longboards can be categorized based on their shape or their use. In this article, we will break down all the types of longboards:
Cruiser Longboard
A cruiser longboard is very popular for its cruising ability. It’s wider and longer than other skateboards. Cruiser longboards have softer wheels and a flexible deck compared to other longboards.
Some key feature
- It has a longer and wider deck which makes it so stable.
- The wheel of a cruiser longboard is very soft, providing the rider with a great deal of comfort when riding.
- Very comfortable for riding long distances.
Some disadvantage
- Advanced stunts or movements are not easy to do.
- In comparison to other varieties, it has less versatility.
- It wasn’t designed for downhill racing.
Carving Longboard
Carving longboards gives you the sensation of surfing or snowboarding. Longboard carvings often have features that enhance maneuverability and agility. These features also help the rider make deep, controlled turns. This helps differentiate them from other longboard types.
Some key features
- It has Excellent mobility for quick and smooth turns.
- Riders who prefer slicing down slopes or gliding along twisting pathways will enjoy this board.
- It is suitable for both commuting and recreational carving.
Some disadvantage
- In comparison to downhill-oriented longboards, this board has less stability at high speeds.
- It is not designed to perform tricks or perform technical maneuvers.
- When compared to cruiser longboards, these boards are less ideal for straight-line cruising.
Pintail Longboard
Experienced riders often choose Pintail longboards. They are flexible and great for cruising and carving. Pintails, often regarded as the all-around board, are an excellent choice for surfers who want to be able to do it all on their longboard.
Some key feature
- It’s a very beginner-friendly longboard. It’s stable, versatile, and offers a smooth ride. The nice shape of the board helps to cut through the water. And it’s a great choice for those looking for a reliable board that they can use for years to come.
- Timeless and stylish design attracts riders who appreciate form and function. The board is also lightweight, making it easy to carry around and transport. It’s also affordable and comes in a variety of colors and designs.
Some disadvantage
- This board isn’t ideal for performing tricks.
- Pintails may be slightly less maneuverable than other shapes, which limits their use for technical tricks.
Drop through longboards
Drop-through longboard is very useful for downhill longboarding. It is very useful for downhill longboarding. This type of board has a low center of gravity, which makes it more stable at high speeds. It also has a longer wheelbase, which provides increased traction and a smoother ride. Additionally, drop through longboards are lightweight, making them easier to control and maneuver.
Some key features
- This longboard provides a very secure and comfortable ride to its Rider.
- Drop-throughs have a low center of gravity. Therefore, they are excellent for carving. Riders can make smooth, controlled turns, for a better carving experience.
some disadvantage
- compared to other longboards, these boards are less ideal for cruising.
- This board is not too durable like others, for best results It needs proper maintenance and care.
Downhill longboard
The purpose of downhill longboards is to ride down hills at high speeds. There is no doubt that these boards are very stable and fast. Due to their stability, most downhill longboards are drop-through trucks.
Some key features
- This board Is designed to get speed very fast.
- It has very grippy wheels which make its rider very confident.
Some disadvantages
- This board gains speed very fast which is very risky for Its Rider.
- For riders, downhill longboards and their equipment represent a significant financial commitment.
There are different types of longboards on the market; that’s why we hesitated to choose which was best for me. We talk here about different types of longboards. I think this article will help you find the best match.