Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive longboards buying guide, where we dive deep into the exciting world of longboarding! Whether you’re a beginner looking to cruise the streets or an experienced rider seeking adrenaline-pumping downhill adventures, we’ve got you covered. With our expert recommendations and insider tips, you’ll be equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect longboard that matches your style and skill level. Get ready to discover the key features, types, and brands that will unleash your passion for longboarding!
Our Top 5
- ZED LONGBOARD: Our freshest longboard nods to the 1950’s makeshift backyard longboards with its classic surfboard shape and feel. ZED not only carries us here and there, but transports us back to a time of sun, surf, salty air, breezy days, dewy nights, and reverb-doused hits of yesteryear.
- ANTI-BITE TECHNOLOGY: Avoid wheel bite at all costs. In fact, put it in the back of your mind. We put ease-of-ride #1 by including wheel wells to eliminate grab. Durable 70x51mm 85A PU wheels with rock finish.
- HIGH-SPEED & ACCURATE: Precision ball bearings in the ABEC-7 tolerance grade is ideal for high speed and extreme running accuracy, capable of handling all of your adventures.
- SLICK & GRIP: Enhance your ride with smooth and shock absorbent 70 mm Polyurethane wheels, plus a rock finish for superior grip.
- STABLE BUILD: 44-Inch artisan longboard made from 8-ply Canadian maple and sustainably sourced bamboo forms an infallible hybrid of strength and pliability in ZED's deck construction. It comes fully assembled and ready to ride, all you have to do is get going.
- MADE BY SKATERS - All of our boards are designed by skaters and inspired by our location in Southern California, the birthplace of longboarding. Our design cues come from the local surf culture and natural materials, we let the simple aesthetics shine on their own. We also prioritize our customer service and want you to be completely stoked with your new board. All messages are replied to within 24 hours and we’ll do our very best to ensure satisfaction and maximum cruising on our boards.
- VERSATILE BOARD - 44-inch Longboard Skateboard designed for cruising and skating around town. Kicktails make this board super functional for all sorts of riding styles.
- WHEELS FOR CRUISING - A 78A soft high quality urethane is used for the 70mm wheels. The wheels are nice and soft for extra grip while turning and a super smooth ride over rougher roads. With a cool translucent look, the wheels are sized perfectly for the cruising this board excels at.
- QUALITY MATERIALS - The deck is made with bamboo veneer on top and bottom with a maple core to add strength and stiffness. This makes the deck super durable and beautiful. The sand grit finish provides grip without the hassle of replacing grip tape and shows off the beautiful bamboo design. The trucks are made from gravity cast aluminum which makes them strong and durable. The bushings are SHR (medium stiffness) which adds to the cruising experience.
- ENDLESS SKATING OPTIONS - This board is the perfect accessory or alternative for many outdoor activities or methods of transportation. Take it to the park, the beach, traveling, camping, the bike path, pump track, you name it. Or maybe you’re tired of your bicycle or skates. It’s also great for land SUP paddling or paddleboarding. Be creative, happy skating!
- RIFT DROP THROUGH LONGBOARD: Classic retro-surf-style longboard for commuting, cruising, carving, and downhill riding. Rift provides the agility and control needed to bomb hills and pivot quickly and responsively.
- GET A GRIP: Stay grounded with an extra grippy 80AB fully covered deck and durable 70x51mm 78 PU wheels. Dimensions: 41" x 9.5" featuring drop-through trucks.
- SMOOTH SAILING: Take control of your ride with reactive and smooth gliding slant reverse 180mm kingping trucks with precision ABEC-7 stainless steel bearings.
- HIGH-SPEED & ACCURATE: Precision ball bearings in the ABEC-7 tolerance grade is ideal for high speed and extreme running accuracy, capable of handling all of your adventures.
- DURABLE & STABLE: Constructed from durable Canadian Maple and ready to roll. You can ride with confidence knowing your board can handle anything almost anything you throw at it.
- Spacious 46"x10" Maple Deck for Effortless Footwork - Engineered for dancers, the extra-wide 46"x10" symmetrical deck provides ample space for cross-steps, spins, and pivots. Built with 8-layer cold-pressed maple and Radial Concave, it balances flex and stability, while the top-mounted design enhances responsiveness. Perfect for beginners learning balance or pros perfecting complex routines.
- Agile 7" Trucks & Smooth 70mm Wheels - Forged aluminum trucks with carbon steel kingpins deliver buttery-smooth turns for carves and spins, while 70mm 78A wheels (80% rebound) absorb bumps and maintain grip. The mid-mounted sharp-lipped profile allows controlled slides, bridging freestyle creativity and dance rhythm.
- Zoned Grip Tape for Enhanced Control - The OS780 grit grip tape features a segmented friction design—high-traction zones near the trucks for stability and smoother central areas for fluid foot shifts. Combined with UV-printed graphics, it offers both functional precision and eye-catching style that resists fading.
- Pro-Grade ABEC-9 Bearings & Rust-Proof Build - ABEC-9 chrome bearings ensure effortless acceleration and spin precision, paired with rust-resistant hardware for all-weather durability. From rainy campus paths to sunny skateparks, this board stays reliable and ready to perform.
- Dance Anywhere, Master Every Move - A hybrid of dance-ready space and innovative grip zones, this board adapts to your style. Lightweight yet rugged (250+ lbs capacity), it’s priced for beginners but built to pro standards. With vibrant graphics and no assembly required, it’s the ultimate gift for aspiring dancers to push their creativity without compromising performance.
- MADE BY SKATERS All of our boards are designed by skaters and inspired by our location in Southern California, the birthplace of longboarding. Many of our design cues come from the local surf culture and natural materials, we let the simple aesthetics shine on their own. We also prioritize our customer service and want you to be completely stoked with your new board. All messages are replied to within 24 hours and we’ll do our very best to ensure satisfaction and maximum cruising on our boards.
- SUPER PORTABLE Designed to be fun to ride and easy to carry around, this is our go-to board for anyone who skates everywhere. The small size of the board makes it easy to carry and take on the go while still being a great board for cruising and riding everywhere! Length = 27.5" | Width = 7.5" | Wheelbase = 18.5"
- DOUBLE KICKTAILS Double kick tails add fun and versatility to the mini cruiser skateboard. Mannies, ollies, flip tricks and general tick-tacking are all made possible because of these kick tails. Asymmetric front and back kick tails makes for a cool directional surf style design while maintaining the performance of a great skateboard.
- HIGH QUALITY DECK Manufactured from 6 full plies of Canadian Maple, the deck is very strong and durable. The board sports a sand grit finish on top to grip your feet and show off the maple deck and the unique graphics.
- STURDY TRUCKS The trucks are made from quality gravity cast aluminum making them super reliable and sturdy. The top mounted trucks have a 5 inch hanger and kingpin angle of 55 degrees and the wheels and bushings are cast in high quality SHR polyurethane...no plastic parts on this board!
How to choose?
1. Size Matters
When it comes to choosing a longboard, one of the first considerations should be the size. Longboards typically range in length from 33 inches to 59 inches, with widths varying as well. The size of the longboard you choose will depend on your personal preferences and riding style.
If you are a beginner or looking for a more stable ride, a longer and wider longboard would be ideal. On the other hand, if you are more experienced and looking for a more maneuverable board, a shorter and narrower longboard would suit you better.
2. Deck Material
The material of the longboard deck is another important factor to consider. Most longboards are made from either maple wood or bamboo.
Maple wood decks are known for their durability and stiffness, providing a stable ride. On the other hand, bamboo decks are lighter and more flexible, making them ideal for cruising and carving.
3. Shape and Concave
The shape and concave of the longboard deck can greatly affect your riding experience. There are several different shapes and concave options available, each designed for specific riding styles.
For example, a pintail shape is great for cruising and carving, while a drop-through shape is ideal for downhill riding and sliding. The concave refers to the curve of the deck, which can provide more control and stability.
4. Wheel Size and Durometer
The size and durometer (hardness) of the wheels on your longboard can greatly impact your ride. Larger wheels are better for cruising and maintaining speed, while smaller wheels are more maneuverable and better for tricks.
The durometer of the wheels is measured on a scale from 1 to 100, with higher numbers indicating harder wheels. Softer wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip, while harder wheels are more durable and slide easier.
5. Trucks and Bushings
The trucks on a longboard are the metal parts that attach the wheels to the deck. They play a crucial role in turning and stability.
When choosing trucks, it is important to consider the width and height. The width should match the width of your longboard deck, while the height should be chosen based on your riding style. Lower trucks provide more stability, while higher trucks allow for tighter turns.
The bushings on the trucks also play a role in the ride of your longboard. Softer bushings provide more maneuverability, while harder bushings offer more stability.
In conclusion, choosing the right longboard involves considering factors such as size, deck material, shape and concave, wheel size and durometer, and trucks and bushings. By taking these factors into account, you can find a longboard that suits your riding style and preferences, providing you with endless hours of enjoyment on the streets or hills.
What to Look for in a longboards?
1. Deck Material and Shape
When searching for the perfect longboard, one of the first things to consider is the deck material and shape. The deck is the main platform of the longboard and can greatly impact your riding experience.
One popular deck material is maple, known for its durability and strength. Maple decks are ideal for riders who prefer stability and control, making them a great choice for downhill or freeride styles. On the other hand, bamboo decks offer a more flexible and responsive ride, making them suitable for carving and cruising.
Additionally, the shape of the deck plays a crucial role in the performance of the longboard. For example, a drop-through deck has cutouts that allow the trucks to be mounted through the board, lowering the center of gravity for increased stability and easier pushing. Conversely, a pintail shape is narrower at the front and wider at the back, providing better maneuverability and control.
2. Truck Type and Size
The next aspect to consider is the type and size of the trucks. Trucks are the metal T-shaped components that attach the wheels to the deck and determine how the longboard turns.
For cruising and carving, **reverse kingpin trucks** are commonly preferred as they provide a greater turning radius and stability. On the other hand, **standard kingpin trucks** are better suited for downhill and freeride styles, as they offer more control at high speeds.
The size of the trucks also affects the overall performance of the longboard. Wider trucks provide more stability, especially for riders with larger shoe sizes, while narrower trucks offer increased maneuverability and responsiveness.
3. Wheel Durometer and Diameter
Lastly, the wheel durometer and diameter are crucial factors to consider when purchasing a longboard. Wheel durometer refers to the hardness of the wheels, and it is measured on a scale from 0 to 100.
Softer wheels (78A-87A) are ideal for cruising and carving, as they provide a smoother ride and better grip on rough surfaces. Conversely, harder wheels (88A-101A) are better suited for sliding, downhill, and freeride styles due to their increased durability and faster speeds.
In terms of diameter, larger wheels (70mm-75mm) are better for cruising and downhill riding, as they maintain momentum and roll over cracks and obstacles more easily. Smaller wheels (60mm-65mm) are more suitable for tricks and technical maneuvers, as they offer quicker acceleration and sharper turns.
Remember, finding the right longboard is a personal choice that depends on your riding style and preferences. By considering the deck material and shape, truck type and size, as well as wheel durometer and diameter, you can ensure that you find a longboard that perfectly suits your needs and allows you to enjoy the thrilling experience of longboarding to the fullest.
How we picked?
1. Research and Expert Opinions
When it comes to buying a longboard, it’s important to gather as much information as possible to make an informed decision. We understand that it can be overwhelming with the abundance of options available in the market. That’s why we have done extensive research and consulted with experts in the field to bring you the most comprehensive buying guide.
We have scoured through online forums, read countless reviews, and reached out to professional longboarders to understand the key factors that make a great longboard. By analyzing their insights and experiences, we have been able to narrow down the top longboards that are highly recommended by experts.
2. Durability and Quality
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a longboard is its durability and quality. After all, you want a longboard that will withstand the test of time and provide you with a smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
We have carefully selected longboards that are made from high-quality materials such as maple or bamboo, which are known for their strength and resilience. These longboards are built to last, ensuring that you can enjoy your rides for years to come without worrying about wear and tear.
3. Versatility and Riding Style
Longboards come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific riding style. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a stable and easy-to-ride longboard or an experienced rider seeking a board for downhill racing or freestyle tricks, we have you covered.
Our buying guide includes longboards that cater to different riding styles, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your needs. We have considered factors such as deck shape, wheel size, and truck design to ensure that each longboard is optimized for its intended riding style.
Overall, our goal is to provide you with a curated selection of longboards that have been thoroughly researched and recommended by experts. We want to make your buying process easier and more enjoyable, so you can spend less time researching and more time riding. Happy longboarding!
Frequently asked questions about longboards
1. What factors should I consider when choosing a longboard?
When choosing a longboard, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, think about your riding style and what you plan to use the longboard for. Are you looking for a board that excels at downhill racing or one that is more suited for cruising and commutingDifferent longboards are designed for different purposes, so it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your specific needs.
Additionally, consider the size and shape of the longboard. Longer boards provide more stability and are ideal for cruising, while shorter boards offer increased maneuverability, making them suitable for tricks and freestyle riding. The shape of the board also plays a role in its performance. For example, a pintail shape is great for carving, while a drop-through design offers more stability at higher speeds.
2. What type of trucks should I look for in a longboard?
Trucks are an essential component of any longboard as they determine how the board turns and handles. When selecting trucks, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, pay attention to the width of the trucks and ensure they match the width of your longboard deck. This will provide optimal stability and control while riding.
Another important consideration is the truck’s durometer, which refers to the hardness of the bushings. Softer bushings allow for easier turning and are ideal for carving and cruising. On the other hand, harder bushings offer more stability and are better suited for downhill riding and higher speeds.
3. What is the difference between a drop-through and top-mount longboard?
One common question that arises when choosing a longboard is whether to opt for a drop-through or top-mount design. A drop-through longboard has the trucks mounted through the deck, resulting in a lower center of gravity and increased stability. This makes it an excellent choice for downhill riding and long-distance cruising.
On the other hand, a top-mount longboard has the trucks mounted on top of the deck, offering a higher ride height and increased maneuverability. This design is favored by riders who enjoy freestyle tricks and sharp turns.
4. How do I determine the appropriate longboard deck flex?
Deck flex refers to the amount the longboard deck bends under weight. The appropriate flex depends on your weight, riding style, and personal preference. Generally, stiffer decks provide more stability at higher speeds, making them ideal for downhill racing. Softer decks, on the other hand, offer more shock absorption and are better suited for cruising and carving.
5. Does the type of wheels on a longboard matter?
Absolutely! The type of wheels on a longboard can greatly impact your riding experience. Consider the diameter, hardness, and shape of the wheels. Larger wheels provide a smoother ride and are better for high speeds, while smaller wheels offer increased maneuverability. Harder wheels are more durable and slide easily, making them suitable for tricks, while softer wheels provide better grip and shock absorption.
In conclusion, when selecting a longboard, it’s crucial to consider factors such as riding style, board size and shape, truck type, deck flex, and wheel specifications. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you’ll be able to find the perfect longboard that suits your needs and enhances your riding experience. Remember, a well-informed decision leads to a more enjoyable ride!
Last update on 2025-03-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
