Best Longboards

Guide to Finding the Best Longboards

Longboarding is an exhilarating way to commute, carve, cruise, and even perform tricks. Finding the best longboard, however, can be a bit daunting given the vast array of options available. This guide aims to help you navigate through the selection process by considering key aspects such as riding style, deck materials, wheel size, trucks, and budget.

Understanding Your Riding Style

The first step in selecting a longboard is understanding your primary riding style. Longboards are designed for different activities, and knowing what you want to do with your board will help narrow down your choices.

1. Cruising and Commuting: If you're looking for a board to get you from point A to B comfortably, a cruiser longboard is ideal. These boards usually have a flexible deck for a smooth ride and are often equipped with larger, softer wheels that handle rough pavement well.

2. Downhill: For those who seek the thrill of high speeds, downhill longboards are the way to go. These boards are typically stiffer to provide stability at high velocities and have a lower center of gravity to enhance control.

3. Freeride: If you enjoy sliding and performing tricks, a freeride longboard is suitable. These boards strike a balance between downhill stability and the ability to perform slides and spins.

4. Freestyle: Freestyle longboards are designed for tricks and technical maneuvers. They often have a symmetrical shape and kicktails on both ends to allow for a wide range of movements.

Choosing the Right Deck

The deck is the foundation of the longboard and comes in various shapes, sizes, and materials.

1. Shapes: Longboard decks come in several shapes, including pintail, drop-through, and drop-deck. Pintail decks are great for cruising, while drop-through and drop-deck designs offer more stability for downhill riding and freeriding.

2. Materials: Decks are typically made from wood (like maple or bamboo), fiberglass, or carbon fiber. Maple is durable and provides a stiff ride, bamboo offers more flexibility, and fiberglass or carbon fiber decks combine durability with lightweight properties.

3. Length and Width: Longer boards (over 40 inches) offer more stability and are better for downhill and cruising. Shorter boards (under 40 inches) are more maneuverable and better for freestyle and commuting. The width of the deck should comfortably fit your foot size to ensure proper control.

Wheels and Trucks

1. Wheels: The size and hardness of the wheels significantly affect the ride quality. Larger wheels (70-75mm) provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces and are preferred for cruising and downhill. Smaller wheels (65-70mm) are more agile and suited for freestyle. The hardness of the wheels is measured by the durometer scale. Softer wheels (75A-80A) offer more grip and a smoother ride, while harder wheels (81A-86A) slide more easily, which is beneficial for freeriding and sliding.

2. Trucks: The trucks of a longboard play a crucial role in its performance. Reverse kingpin trucks (RKP) are the most common for longboards as they provide better stability and turning. The width of the trucks should match the width of your deck for optimal performance.

Balancing Quality and Budget

While it might be tempting to go for the most expensive longboard on the market, it's essential to find a balance between quality and budget. High-quality longboards often come with better materials and construction, which can enhance your riding experience and the board's longevity.

However, there are plenty of mid-range options that offer excellent performance without breaking the bank. Look for reputable brands known for their craftsmanship and customer reviews to guide your decision. Purchasing a complete longboard setup can also be more cost-effective than buying components separately.

Final Tips

• Test Ride: If possible, test ride different boards to get a feel for what suits you best.
• Research and Reviews: Read reviews and watch videos to learn about the experiences of other riders with the boards you’re considering.
• Local Shops: Visit local skate shops for expert advice and hands-on experience with various longboards.

Finding the perfect longboard involves understanding your needs, exploring different options, and balancing quality with your budget. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you'll be well on your way to selecting a board that enhances your longboarding experience.