The 8 Best Longboards – Guide

Longboards are similar to classic skateboards, but are much longer than them. The so-called deck on which you ultimately stand, is usually made of maple wood or bamboo. Riding a longboard is not that difficult. Wen you have developed the right balance and a driving feel, you can also learn different driving techniques such as cruising or sliding.

The price of a longboard depends on the quality and the materials used. Most are in a price range between 20 € and 400 €. There are many different models.

The biggest difference between longboarding and skateboarding is that you can cover longer distances better and faster with the longboard than with the skateboard, because the big wheels go over smaller stones more easily.

You can learn different driving techniques. Sliding or cruising are very popular. When cruising, for example, you drive very relaxed through the streets and do not have to take your foot off the board with enough practice. Other techniques are pumping, dancing or freeride. If you are still unsure, however, you should first train the balance on the board before you deal with different driving options.

The longboard should be selected according to your body size. But your own foot size can also play a decisive role in the width of the longboard. For teenagers and adults, for example, a 19-centimeter wide deck is recommended, while a 17.5-centimeter wide longboard is quite sufficient for schoolchildren. Therefore, before buying, pay attention to the manufacturer’s specifications and the specified dimensions, so that your feet have enough space on the longboard.

First, you should practice the braking techniques so that you do not hurt yourself later at higher speeds. You can let the longboard roll out, stop the board by putting your foot on it or jump off. However, the latter option can also be dangerous, as you may risk a fall at high speeds. This option is therefore more suitable for advanced riders.

Many wheels have a diameter of 65 to 77 millimeters. The perfect wheels for your longboard, however, does not exist. However, larger wheels have the advantage that they pick up speed very quickly. With small wheels, on the other hand, you can accelerate rapidly, but get stuck faster in bumps. Also, you must be aware that the wheels will not last forever with regular use and you may have to buy new ones.

You should definitely pay attention to the width, the wheels and the axles before buying. Some models are not suitable for every riding style and surface. For beginners, for example, a freeride model is suitable, since you have a good grip on it, can practice first small tricks and try yourself. For advanced riders, however, a downhill longboard is recommended, with which you can achieve high speeds. So think about what you want to use your longboard for later

The flex stands for the stability or deflection capacity of the longboard. You should make the stability dependent on your body weight. With a high flex in combination with a certain weight, it can otherwise easily happen that the board sags and you can no longer ride optimally.

A longboard with relatively large wheels can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. Such high speeds, however, you should only perform if you have been riding longboard for a long time and feel safe on it.

In any case, you should purchase a suitable helmet, if it is not included. Only in this way can you protect yourself from serious falls at high speeds. Knee or elbow pads can also be advantageous for your own safety, especially at the beginning. So that you can also be easily recognized in the evening, the purchase of reflectors on the wheels is possible.