BUYING A LONGBOARD

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Welcome to the ultimate longboards buying guide! Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, choosing the right longboard can make all the difference in your riding experience. Longboards are not just a means of transportation but a way to express your style and enjoy the thrill of carving down streets and hills.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we'll walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting a longboard. Whether you're into cruising, freestyle tricks, downhill racing, or simply commuting, we've got you covered. By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision and find the longboard that suits your individual style and riding goals. So, let's dive in and discover the exciting world of longboarding!

When purchasing a longboard, you need to be aware of the following, which we will cover within this buying guide:

- Should I get a longboard or cruiser

- What is a cruiser skateboard

- Considering the size of the longboard 

- Features to consider

- Comparing the best brands on the market

- Answers to the most common frequently asked questions

- Anything else you will need to consider when buying a longboard 

SHOULD I BUY A LONGBOARD OR CRUISER?

When it comes to choosing between a longboard and a cruiser, it ultimately depends on your riding preferences and intended use. Both types of boards offer unique advantages and are designed for different styles of riding.

Longboards are ideal for those seeking a smooth and stable ride. With their longer decks, they provide ample foot space and stability, making them perfect for cruising, carving, and downhill riding. Longboards typically have softer and larger wheels, which absorb bumps and cracks in the road, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable ride over longer distances. If you're looking to cover more ground, explore your surroundings, or ride down hills with confidence, a longboard is a great choice.

On the other hand, cruisers are more compact and nimble, making them perfect for maneuvering through crowded streets and urban environments. They often have smaller decks and harder wheels, which provide a snappier and more responsive ride.

Cruisers excel in quick turns and navigating tight spaces, making them a popular choice for commuting or shorter rides around town. If you value portability and the ability to zip through traffic, a cruiser might be the better option for you.

Consider your riding style and the environment you'll be riding in. If you're looking to cruise along beachfront paths, boardwalks, or wide-open spaces, a longboard's smooth and stable ride will be your best bet. On the other hand, if you'll be weaving through city streets, maneuvering around pedestrians, or hopping on and off public transportation, a cruiser's compact size and agility will be more suitable.

It's important to note that there is some overlap between the two categories, and certain longboards can also function as cruisers. Some longboards offer a hybrid design, combining the stability of a longboard with the maneuverability of a cruiser. These versatile boards can be a great option if you want the best of both worlds.

All in all, the decision between a longboard and a cruiser comes down to your personal preferences, riding style, and the terrain you'll be riding on. Consider the purpose of your rides, the distance you'll be covering, and the type of maneuverability you require. Regardless of your choice, both longboards and cruisers offer an exhilarating way to get around and enjoy the freedom of riding on wheels.

WHAT IS A CRUISER SKATEBOARD?

Cruiser skateboards are a popular choice for riders who prioritize portability, maneuverability, and smooth transportation. Their shorter length compared to longboards makes them lightweight and easy to handle. The compact size of cruiser skateboards not only allows for convenient carrying while on the move but also enables riders to make tighter turns, providing enhanced agility and control.

Considered a happy medium between traditional skateboards and longboards, cruiser skateboards offer the best of both worlds. They combine the nimbleness and responsiveness of skateboards with the stability and comfort of larger, softer wheels commonly found on longboards. The larger wheels on cruisers contribute to a smoother ride, as they can better absorb vibrations and bumps in the road, making them an excellent choice for commuting and traveling from point A to point B.

The versatility of cruiser skateboards extends beyond their practicality. While they may not be designed for performing technical tricks like their skateboard counterparts, cruiser skateboards still offer plenty of opportunities for creative riding. Their maneuverability allows riders to explore their surroundings, find unique lines, and add style to their daily commute or leisurely rides around town.

The stability provided by cruiser skateboards, thanks to their larger and softer wheels, ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. This stability is particularly beneficial for beginners or riders who prefer a smoother ride without sacrificing maneuverability. Whether you're cruising along the boardwalk, navigating crowded sidewalks, or simply enjoying the freedom of skating, cruiser skateboards offer a fun and efficient means of transportation.

FEATURES TO CONSIDER

LONGBOARD DECK SHAPE & SIZE

When choosing a longboard, the shape and size of the deck play a crucial role in determining the overall riding experience. Different deck shapes are designed to cater to specific riding styles and preferences.

Pintail longboards feature a tapered shape with a rounded nose and tail. This classic design provides stability and control, making it ideal for cruising and carving. The longer wheelbase and narrower width offer a smooth and predictable ride, allowing riders to maintain balance and maneuver with ease.

Drop-through longboards have a cutout in the deck where the trucks are mounted. This lowers the center of gravity, enhancing stability and making them suitable for downhill riding. The dropped platform also provides a comfortable foot placement and improved control, making it easier to push and slide.

Double kick longboard decks feature kicks or raised tails on both ends of the deck. This design enables riders to perform tricks, flips, and ollies, making them popular among freestyle riders and skateboarders transitioning to longboards. The symmetrical shape allows for riding in either direction and facilitates quick turns and spins.

It's important to consider your riding style and the type of terrain you'll be riding on when choosing the shape and size of your longboard. If you enjoy cruising along beachside paths or commuting in urban environments, a pintail or drop-through shape may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you're interested in downhill racing or freestyle tricks, a double kick longboard would be a better choice.

LONGBOARD WHEELS - SIZE AND DUROMETER

When selecting a longboard, the size and durometer (hardness) of the wheels are crucial factors to consider. The right wheel size and durometer can significantly impact your riding style and performance, as well as your ability to navigate different terrains.

For riders seeking speed and stability, larger wheels are the way to go. They offer a larger contact patch with the ground, allowing for faster acceleration and maintaining momentum. Larger wheels also handle bumps and cracks on the road more effectively, providing a smoother ride and enhanced stability.

Conversely, if maneuverability and quick turns are your priority, smaller wheels are a better choice. They offer increased agility and responsiveness, allowing you to navigate crowded spaces and tight corners with ease. Smaller wheels also have less rotational mass, making them easier to accelerate and decelerate.

It's not just the size of your wheels that matter though, the durometer of the wheels plays a significant role in your ride. Softer wheels, with a lower durometer rating, are ideal for cruising on rough or uneven surfaces. They absorb vibrations and bumps, providing a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. Softer wheels also offer increased grip, enhancing control and stability during slides and turns.

On the other hand, harder wheels, with a higher durometer rating, excel on smooth pavement and are preferred by riders who enjoy sliding and performing tricks. They offer less grip but provide a greater degree of control and precision for executing slides, power slides, and technical maneuvers.

THE WEIGHT CAPACITY

The weight capacity of a longboard is an important consideration to ensure both comfort and safety during your rides. Each longboard has a specified weight limit that indicates the maximum load it can handle effectively. It is crucial to check this weight capacity to ensure that the longboard can support your body weight comfortably.

Choosing a longboard with a weight capacity that exceeds your own weight is advisable as it provides an extra margin of safety and ensures optimal performance. If the weight limit is exceeded, it may affect the board's stability, responsiveness, and overall durability. Riding a longboard that is not designed to support your weight can lead to decreased control, increased risk of accidents, and potential damage to the board.

By selecting a longboard with an appropriate weight capacity, you can enjoy a smooth and stable riding experience. It ensures that the board remains responsive to your movements and maintains its structural integrity, allowing you to confidently explore various riding styles and techniques.

Remember to consider your body weight along with any additional gear or equipment you might carry while riding, such as backpacks or protective gear. It's always recommended to choose a longboard that can comfortably accommodate your weight and any potential variations.

Checking the weight capacity is a simple yet crucial step in selecting the right longboard. By ensuring that the longboard can support your weight, you can ride with peace of mind, knowing that you have chosen a board that is designed to handle your specific requirements and maximize your enjoyment on the road.

LOADED

Loaded is a brand that has gained a reputation for producing exceptional longboards, offering riders a combination of quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and top-notch performance. There are several reasons why Loaded stands out as a brand with great longboards.

Loaded longboards is their attention to detail and craftsmanship. Each longboard is meticulously crafted using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. Loaded employs advanced construction techniques and premium materials such as bamboo and fiberglass to create boards that are not only strong but also provide excellent flex and response.

Loaded longboards are known for their exceptional ride quality. Their unique board shapes, camber profiles, and concaves are designed to optimize performance and enhance rider experience. Whether you're carving down hills, cruising around town, or performing tricks, Loaded longboards offer a responsive and lively ride that caters to different riding styles and preferences.

1. Innovation is at the heart of Loaded's approach. They continually push the boundaries of longboard design, introducing features and technologies that improve performance and enhance the overall riding experience. From their distinctive Flex 1-5 rating system to their vibration-dampening systems and responsive trucks, Loaded constantly strives to innovate and provide riders with cutting-edge longboard technology.

Loaded longboards also prioritize environmental sustainability. They are committed to using eco-friendly materials and sustainable manufacturing practices, minimizing their impact on the environment. This eco-conscious approach ensures that riders can enjoy their longboarding adventures while contributing to a more sustainable future.

ARBOR

Arbor is a brand that has made a name for itself in the world of longboards, renowned for producing outstanding boards that combine style, performance, and sustainability. There are several reasons why Arbor stands out as a brand with great longboards.

Craftsmanship and attention to detail are at the core of Arbor's longboard production. Each board is carefully crafted using high-quality materials, resulting in durable and reliable boards that are built to last. Arbor utilizes sustainably sourced wood and environmentally friendly adhesives, ensuring a minimal ecological impact without compromising on quality.

Arbor longboards are known for their exceptional ride characteristics. Their board shapes, profiles, and flex patterns are thoughtfully designed to optimize performance and deliver a smooth and responsive ride. Whether you're cruising along beachside paths, carving down hills, or sliding through city streets, Arbor longboards offer stability, maneuverability, and an enjoyable riding experience.

Sustainability is a key pillar of Arbor's philosophy. They are committed to protecting the environment and minimizing their carbon footprint. Arbor actively supports reforestation efforts by planting trees for every board sold, contributing to the preservation and restoration of natural habitats. By choosing an Arbor longboard, riders can feel good knowing they are supporting a brand that values sustainability.

With their focus on craftsmanship, ride quality, sustainability, and variety, Arbor has solidified its reputation as a brand that delivers exceptional longboards. When considering a longboard purchase, riders can trust Arbor to provide them with a high-quality board that combines performance, style, and environmental consciousness.

SANTA CRUZ

Blunt Envy is an awesome brand that has been taking the stunt scooter world by storm, and it's no surprise why they're so popular. Founded in 2009 by professional scooter rider Brendon Smith, Blunt Envy is quickly becoming one of the most respected brands in the industry.

What sets Blunt apart is the top-notch construction of their scooters. They only use the best materials, including aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes their scooters lightweight yet incredibly strong and durable. This is crucial for stunt riders who need a scooter that can withstand the impact of high jumps and tricks.

Blunt is also known for its attention to detail, both in terms of design and functionality. The company's scooters feature unique and stylish designs, often with bold colors and intricate patterns. But it's not just about looks – the scooters are also functional with features like fully integrated headsets and sealed bearings, ensuring a smooth and precise ride.

The brand offers a wide variety of scooters to fit different rider preferences and skill levels. From the Blunt Prodigy S8, perfect for intermediate riders looking to take their skills to the next level, to the Blunt S9 which is made for riders who want to shread, Blunt has something for all riders of all skills and abilities.

If you're looking to customise and upgrade your scooter, Blunt also offers a range of scooter parts and accessories, including wheels, grips, and decks. This allows riders to personalise their scooters to their individual needs and preferences.