Ultimate Buyer’s Guide for Longboards

Longboarding is a popular and versatile activity that offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a smooth, relaxed cruise down the boardwalk, an adrenaline-pumping downhill ride, or a convenient way to commute. However, with so many options out there, picking the right longboard can be overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed choice.

1. Types of Longboards

Before choosing a longboard, it’s essential to understand the different types available. Each type is designed for a specific riding style.

• Cruising Boards: Best for casual riding, cruising around town, or commuting. They typically have a flexible deck for a smooth, comfortable ride.
• Freeride Boards: Designed for riders who like to slide and perform tricks. These boards have symmetrical designs and kicktails, making them ideal for technical maneuvers.
• Downhill Boards: Built for speed, these boards are stiff, have a low center of gravity, and are designed for stability at high speeds. They often feature drop-through or drop-deck designs.
• Freestyle Boards: Versatile boards used for tricks, dancing, and general riding. They are typically symmetrical and often have a bit of flex for better control.
• Carving Boards: Focus on tight, surf-like turns. They often have a cambered deck and are great for riders who enjoy carving down hills or want to mimic the feel of surfing or snowboarding.

2. Key Components of a Longboard

When choosing a longboard, consider its key components. Each part affects the overall performance and should match your riding style.

a. Deck

• Deck Shapes:
  • Top Mount: The deck is mounted on top of the trucks, offering more leverage and agility. Suitable for freestyle and downhill riding.
  • Drop-Through: The deck has cutouts that allow the trucks to be mounted through the deck, lowering the center of gravity for added stability. Great for beginners and downhill riders.
  • Drop Deck: The deck is dropped below the trucks, providing excellent stability for high speeds.
  • Double Drop: Combines drop-through mounting and a drop deck, giving the lowest center of gravity for the most stable ride.
• Deck Flex:
  • Soft Flex: More forgiving and comfortable, great for cruising and carving.
  • Medium Flex: A balance between stability and flexibility, good for freestyle and freeride.
  • Stiff: Offers better control and stability at high speeds, ideal for downhill.
• Deck Length:
  • Short (28” – 32”): Easier to carry around, good for commuting and freestyle tricks.
  • Medium (33” – 42”): Best for all-around use, offering a balance between maneuverability and stability.
  • Long (43” and up): More stable at high speeds, suitable for cruising, carving, and downhill.

b. Trucks

• Truck Width: Typically matches the width of your deck. A wider truck offers more stability, while a narrower truck provides more maneuverability.
• Truck Baseplate Angle:
  • 50° Trucks: More turny and agile, ideal for carving and freestyle.
  • 40° Trucks: Lower turning radius, offering more stability for downhill riding.

c. Wheels

• Wheel Diameter:
  • Smaller Wheels (60mm – 70mm): Faster acceleration, easier to slide, good for technical riding.
  • Larger Wheels (70mm – 75mm+): Higher top speed, better for cruising and downhill.
• Wheel Hardness (Durometer):
  • Soft Wheels (75a – 80a): More grip, smooth ride over rough surfaces, ideal for cruising.
  • Hard Wheels (81a – 86a+): Easier to slide, good for freestyle and freeride.
• Wheel Shape:
  • Round Lips: Easier to slide and break traction, good for freeride.
  • Square Lips: More grip, better for carving and downhill.

d. Bearings

Bearings affect how fast and smooth your ride is. They are usually rated using the ABEC scale:

• ABEC 1 – 5: Basic bearings, suitable for beginners or casual riders.
• ABEC 7 – 9: Faster and smoother, ideal for more experienced riders.

e. Grip Tape

Grip tape provides traction for your feet, keeping you stable on the board. More aggressive grip tape is better for downhill, while less aggressive grip is suitable for cruising and freestyle.

3. Choosing the Right Longboard for Your Needs

a. Beginners

If you’re new to longboarding, look for a board that’s easy to ride, like a cruiser or a drop-through longboard. A medium-length deck with soft wheels will give you a comfortable and forgiving ride. Consider a board with a bit of flex to absorb bumps on rough surfaces.

b. Commuting

For daily commuting, a cruiser or a pintail longboard is an excellent choice. These boards are maneuverable, comfortable, and easy to carry. Choose a deck length that suits your daily routes — shorter boards are easier to carry, while longer boards are more stable.

c. Downhill

Downhill riding is all about speed and stability. Choose a stiff, drop-through, or drop-deck longboard with large, grippy wheels. A lower center of gravity and wider trucks will help with control at high speeds.

d. Freeride & Freestyle

If you like doing tricks, slides, or dancing, a freestyle or freeride board is ideal. Opt for a symmetrical deck with kicktails, medium flex, and harder wheels for sliding. A deck that’s mid-length will give you a balance of maneuverability and stability.

e. Carving

For riders who love making smooth, surf-like turns, a carving board is best. Look for a board with a flexible deck, cambered shape, and reverse kingpin trucks. Softer wheels will enhance grip and make for smoother rides on uneven surfaces.

4. Materials and Durability

The material of the deck affects the board’s flex, weight, and durability.

• Maple: Stiff, durable, and provides good stability. Commonly used for downhill and freeride boards.
• Bamboo: Lighter and more flexible, great for cruising and carving.
• Composite (fiberglass, carbon fiber): Lightweight and durable, often used in high-performance boards.

5. Brand Recommendations

Here are a few trusted brands known for producing quality longboards:

• Sector 9: Great for cruisers and carving boards, known for smooth and reliable rides.
• Landyachtz: Wide range of boards, from downhill to cruisers, known for durability.
• Bohanel Boards:  Inspired by Nature and Handcrafted in Slovenia with wide range of custom and unique designs that out-stands the competition. Made for beginners and pro riders in Downhill, Cruisers, Surfskate and Street
• Loaded Boards: High-performance boards for freestyle, dancing, and downhill.
• Arbor Collective: Eco-friendly designs with a mix of cruising and downhill options.
• Globe: Stylish boards, often great for cruising and commuting.

6. Budget Considerations

Longboards can range from $60 to over $300. Here’s a general guide:

• Budget (Under $100): Great for beginners and casual riders. Expect basic setups that are perfect for getting started.
• Mid-Range ($100 – $200): More durable boards with better components, ideal for intermediate riders.
• High-End ($200+): Premium boards with high-quality materials, advanced designs, and smoother rides, often tailored for specific riding styles.

7. Safety Gear

Always prioritize safety, especially if you’re a beginner or plan on riding at high speeds. Essential gear includes:

• Helmet: The most critical piece of safety equipment.
• Knee Pads, Elbow Pads, and Wrist Guards: Protection against falls.
• Slide Gloves: Essential for freeride and downhill riders who do slides.

8. Conclusion

Selecting the right longboard depends on your riding style, skill level, and where you plan to ride. Take your time to understand the different types of boards, components, and what suits your needs. Remember, the best longboard for you is one that makes you excited to get out and ride. Happy longboarding!