Longboarding is becoming increasingly popular as an intense version of skateboarding. Today, the longboard arrives with more traction, stability and durability thanks to its best manufacturers. The construction and turning angle of longboards make them better than skateboards for going long distances. The longboard concept originated when Hawaiian surfers wanted to bring their hobby to land, especially at times when the waves were too small for good surfing.
Getting familiar with longboards
Longboards are very similar to skateboards, but they come with longer, stronger bodies and bigger wheels, making them faster and easier to ride than regular skateboards. Longboards are fair as long as:
Cruising, Alpine Skating, Sliding, Transportation and also Racing
Longboards come in many different sizes, shapes, construction styles, and features, so naturally you’ll have to make a decision based on your personal preferences. Most longboards range from 33 to 54 inches in length, while widths can range from 7 to 10 inches. Users can choose from different longboard shapes such as:
Drop-through, Drop-Down, Swallowtails, Pintails, Kicktails, etc.
Mid-length boards tend to be the most versatile options because they give riders a lot of momentum and flexibility. The design of a longboard is such that it allows quick short turns or big turns and adequate maneuverability.
How to choose the best longboards for you
Choosing the best longboards for your personal use requires careful planning because the shape and size of different longboards can serve a different purpose. Here are some considerations when choosing the best longboards for your specific needs.
longboard deck
Choosing a longboard deck is an important consideration when you plan to ride your longboard to work, commute, or get to class dodging foot traffic. In this case, you may want a smaller to medium longboard (33 to 38 inches) as it will make it easier for you to navigate through sidewalks and crowds. The deck material of a longboard is maple, bamboo, carbon fiber, maple-bamboo hybrid.
You will also need to consider what type of flooring your longboard will be using. Cruising usually occurs on mostly flat terrain, so a medium or small drop down longboard is ideal. If you plan on longboarding downhill, you may want to look for drop boards with a longer length because they provide better stability.
longboard size
The size of longboard you choose will depend entirely on the activities you plan. While longboards are typically between 33 and 54 inches long, this gives you the opportunity to choose something that resonates with your personal performance and activities. They can be divided into medium length, short length and long length longboards.
Mid-Length Longboards: Mid-length longboards are typically between 33 and 40 inches long and are ideal for cruising and freestyle riding on flat terrain for most people. Longboards for teenagers are usually in this range, which also makes them the most popular choice among all types of longboarders.
Small length longboards: You could go even smaller if you wish. Some longboards start at 28 and go as high as 32 inches. These are great for smaller trick riders. But if you’re just starting out, staying in the higher 33-inch range will help you maintain more stability.
Long boards: Longer length longboards are usually between 40 and 54 inches long and are ideal for leisurely rides, long distance trips, or when you want to climb downhill. These are great as long as you don’t mind lugging around a heavier longboard. Most professional or adult riders require this type of board.
longboard wheels
There is no particular wheel that is better than another because, again, it is simply a matter of personal preference. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to longboard wheels:
Most longboard wheels are constructed from a material called high-rebound polyurethane.
Longboard wheels are typically between 2.5 and 4.2 inches in diameter.
The taller wheels have a higher acceleration rate, while the smaller wheels have the ability to roll faster.
The hardness of urethane is related to the durometer (A) of a wheel.
Softer wheels will be slower than harder wheels when used on flat surfaces. But as long as the surface is rough, the softer wheels will get faster and smoother. Softer wheels generally have better grip than harder wheels on most surfaces. Above all, longboards with longer decks are better for larger wheels, while smaller decks work better with smaller wheels.
longboard trucks
Truck selection for longboards is of particular importance because this allows for turning while keeping the wheels anchored to the longboard. If you’re just getting started on the long boarding, you’ll want to choose a truck that’s closer to the width of the bed. These types of trucks will allow for the proper selection of wheels and will give you a smooth and comfortable ride on flat or incline surfaces and curvy roads. This will help you understand the truck width you need:
If you have a skinny cruiser deck less than 8.5 inches, you’ll need a 150mm truck. If your deck is wider by 8.5-10.5 inches then you will probably need a 180mm truck for your needs. Also, you should select RKP soft and truck bushings for essential carving and maneuverability.
longboard bearings
Bearings are crucial when you want to retain proper movement without continuous pressure. This is especially useful when riding your longboard on icy roads. The capacity or a bearing is measured by the ABEC rating. Using only odd numbers, the ratings exist from 1 to 9. A higher rating means more precise tolerances.
Here are some important factors to consider when it comes to longboard bearings:
smooth ride: Since they reduce unnecessary friction, they allow you a smoother ride on the longboard. The bearings also allow the wheel to spin smoothly. In this case, you need an ABEC 5 or 7 rated bearing.
Materials: Bearings are generally made from a variety of materials, including steel, ceramic, and titanium, etc. The most commonly used bearing is the stainless steel bearing, but the ceramic bearing is the best for all types of riding environments and styles. Titanium and steel bearings are relatively cheaper than ceramic ones. If you keep them free of dirt, you are likely to use them for a long time. ABEC 7 to 9 bearings are the best quality on the market. Those quality bearings can be used in all types of riding styles.
longboard prices
Longboard prices vary dramatically, from small budget to expensive, depending on the specific materials you’re looking for. You generally have two options when it comes to buying the best longboards for you.
Not armed: If you are an expert and want to build your own longboard, then you can buy each component individually to assemble it according to your use. This type of longboard would be a bit expensive.
Ready or fully assembled: If you’re a beginner, you’re probably better off buying a pre-assembled or ready-made longboard. An off-the-shelf longboard will save you money and time.
Before making a decision, take a look at the myriad of models, sizes, and styles available on the market and make a choice that resonates with your personal needs.
Choosing the best longboards for your needs is a simple matter of basic knowledge, along with the longboarding activity you are planning. Whether you’re new to longboarding or just need some help, this detailed guide is designed to help you choose the best longboards, whether you’re buying the whole piece or just picking up a few parts to put together your new downhill or cruising longboard. wrinkled.