Riding a board with wheels doesn’t necessarily mean it’s skateboarding. Most people will identify a board with wheels as a skateboard. However, if you look a little deeper into them, you’ll soon figure out that there are different types of boards out there. And these boards are created for a variety of reasons. They type of board you use will affect the riding experience you achieve.
Those who are new to the sport might have come across the longboard. The dilemma now is whether to use a longboard or a standard skateboard. Before you make your final decision, here are some essential information about the longboard and standard skateboard that you should know.
Differentiating A Longboard From A Skateboard
The term “skateboard” can be confusing at times because some people use it to describe the standard skateboard while others use it to describe all types of boards. The longboard is actually a type of skateboard.
Compared to the standard skateboard that usually comes to mind when we say “skateboard”, the longboard is longer. The skateboard is usually 36 inches while the longboard varies in length but can be as long as 51 inches. Apart from the length, another giveaway is the ends of the longboard. On the skateboard, the ends are at an angle while on the longboard, the ends are flat.
The Longboard
However, this does not mean that all short boards are skateboards. There are some longboards that can be as short as 28 inches. Also, there are longboards that have an angled or raised tip known as a lick tail. This makes it possible for more advanced riders to do tricks with their longboard. Additionally, the tips or nose and tails can also vary. Here are a few options available for longboard nose and tails:
- Pintail – These are designed with a pointy tail while the nose is blunt.
- Topmount – These have both ends pointed.
- Cruiser – Thes have both ends rounded.
- Freestyle – These come in a variety of shapes and styles.
Apart from how it looks, the standard skateboard and longboard also differ in how they perform. This can be affected by a variety of factors including its flexibility and the shape of the wheels
The Skateboard
Usually, the standard skateboard ranges in length from 28 to 36 inches. The edges are curved on both ends to help with performing tricks. Most shops refer to the standard skateboard as the “shortboard”.
Also, the “trucks”, which can be found on the bottom of the boards, are more suited for grinding tricks. The wheels are also harder making them more suitable for concrete skateparks. They are also best for smoother surfaces.
Choosing Between Skateboard And A Longboard
If you are trying to choose between a longboard and a standard skateboard, you should first consider whether you would like to ride on the streets or in skateparks. Longboards are usually used on the streets while skateboards are best reserved for skateparks.
You might see some people using their skateboard on the street but skateboards aren’t really meant to be used on it. The skateboards are not as stable as longboards when riding in different terrains. Additionally, they don’t feel as comfortable when used for long trips.
If you prefer to learn and do tricks, it is best to get skateboards. The skateboard parks offer various obstacles where you can practice doing tricks like grinding on curbs or staircases. Just be careful about doing such tricks in public places because some areas have laws against it.
Longboards are meant for street riding. They are usually used for cruising or for transportation because they have softer wheels that adjust well to various terrain. Another variant of longboarding is downhill longboarding. With this sport, riders get to go down slopes and reach speeds up to 80 mph.
Whatever board you choose to buy, it is always best to practice safety. Wear protective gear, like helmets. Also, remember to take your time to practice and learn. Simply enjoy the process of learning and the company of other riders as well.
