When you mention “longboard” to a skateboarder, chances are each one has a different idea of what a longboard skateboard actually is. The confusion is understandable, since there are many different types, shapes, and configurations. This makes it much easier to customize the longboard for each rider. With the different types, riders will better achieve what they want their longboards to do.
People use longboards for different reasons. Some love the thrill of riding downhill, some want to do different tricks on them, while others simply want to easily commute with them. No matter what the reason is, there is a longboard out there perfect for the function it is used for.
As we now know, there are many different types and it may not be enough to discuss each and every one of them in one very long post so we’ll mention some of the most common ones here and reserve the others for later. Here are the different types of longboards:
Downhill Longboards
When you love speed, then you will love downhill longboards. These can usually reach speeds up to 65 mph and there are also extreme downhill longboarders that have top speeds of 90 mph. The top speed will depend on many factors like riding technique, the slope of the hill, the rider’s weight, the board design, and many others.
Another way to increase your speed is to use the tucking position when riding downhill longboards. This position helps minimize air resistance to increase your speed. The longboard is the best to choose when you want to focus on speed but still want a reliable longboard that turns well and is stable at high speeds.
Drop Through Longboards
The unique thing about drop through longboards is the cutout in the deck. With the presence of the cutout, they are ideal for free-riding. This is why many people choose this kind of longboard, especially those who aren’t sure yet what type of longboard they really want. It is an all-rounder that can reach high speeds, is stable, easy to control, and can be used in carving.
However, this isn’t ideal for downhill longboarding because it is prone to drifting and can’t be used for sharp turns. This is because of the deck design that’s lower towards the front than the back.
Cruising Longboards
Cruising longboards are great for those who just want to enjoy their surroundings and the view while riding. They aren’t meant for speed but for a more relaxed and leisurely style in riding. These longboards usually have a pintail and most will suggest getting longer ones for better stability. To make the cruising a comfortable ride, this longboard also has a moderate flex to it.
Carving Longboards
This type of longboard is focused on performing the carving technique, which isn’t easy at all. It is like surfing but without the water. The technique involves being able to balance well to retain the speed without pushing on flat ground.
When choosing a carving longboard, make sure to get the one’s with mid-sized decks because they are more responsive and are less sluggish. Flex is also something you should look for in a carving longboard because, with it, the energy you give to it will flow better. It is also great if you can find carving boards that have sidecuts to improve the turning radius.
Bamboo Longboards
Bamboo isn’t chosen just because it is environmental and sustainable. It also provides various properties ideal for longboard riders. It is a flexible and lightweight material making them very easy to bring anywhere. Many people also like them because they are inexpensive and they do the job really well.
Pintail Longboards
This type of longboard is named after its shape. It has a teardrop shape which allows for deep carving with a lesser risk of wheel bite. They are great for both carving and cruising on either flat or hilled surfaces. They are also suggested for beginners because of the large space they provide for the rider’s feet.
Fishtail Longboards
Like the pintail longboards, the unique thing about fishtail longboards is their cleft tail. They are similar to pintail longboards but they can handle sharp turns better. The sharper concave of this longboard allows for better heel and toe control. They can also be used for intensive carving and they can also run at decent speeds.
Twin Longboards
This type of longboard is the traditional design of the longboard. It has a curved nose and tail that isn’t only attractive but is created for performance too. These are highly stabled and preferred by many professionals. They can also be used for downhill longboarding, doing tricks, and freestyle riding.
Commuter Longboards
These longboards have the simplest function and that is to get you from one point to the other. They are super low riding to make them easier to push so that you won’t get too tired while trying to commute to your job with it. They have midsized wheels and narrow trucks too.
