Longboarding is a popular sport that is suitable for both fitness and leisure. However, if you are new to the world of longboarding, choosing the right board can be overwhelming. There are many different types of longboards, each with their own characteristics and uses. In this blog post, we will help you find the right longboard for you by discussing important factors to consider when choosing a longboard for beginners, and we will introduce you to different types of longboards. We will also give you tips on what equipment you need and how to prepare for safety. Let's discover together which longboard is best for you.
What is the difference between longboarding and skateboarding?
Many people who are considering buying a longboard may have ridden a skateboard before or make the comparison between the two. But what is the difference between skateboards and longboards?
While skateboarding is focused on streets, urban environments and usually skateparks, longboarding offers a more relaxing and natural experience over longer distances.
One of the most noticeable differences between longboarding and skateboarding is the size of the board. Longboards are usually longer and wider than skateboards, making them more stable and comfortable for longer rides. In addition, longboards are often made of high-quality materials such as maple or bamboo, making them sturdy and durable.
Another difference is the riding style. Skateboarding tends to be fast, aggressive and trick-oriented, while longboarding offers a slower, more fluid and relaxed riding style. Longboarders often use the force of gravity to increase their speed and perform braking manoeuvres, rather than focusing on tricks.
The type of wheels and trucks used also differ between longboarding and skateboarding. Longboard wheels are typically larger and softer than skateboard wheels, allowing them to perform better on uneven terrain. Longboard trucks are also wider and more stable than skateboard trucks, allowing for more stability and control when riding longer distances.
All in all, longboarding is a great way to explore nature and relax, while skateboarding is an excellent way to challenge yourself athletically and improve your skills. Although they are different, both sports share the passion for freestyle on a board and the joy of riding. Whether you choose longboarding or skateboarding, you will definitely have a lot of fun on your board!
Why choose longboarding?
Longboarding is one of the most versatile and fun sports out there. It requires not only physical fitness but also mental clarity and relaxation. It is a great way to stay fit, enjoy nature and learn something new at the same time.
A longboard gives you the opportunity to feel free and experience the world in a different way. It allows you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and focus on the present moment. You can appreciate the fresh air and the environment around you while you are moving and focusing on the road ahead.
Longboarding is also a great way to challenge yourself and improve your skills. There are many different tricks and techniques you can learn, such as carving, freeriding, dancing and downhill. The more you practice, the better you will get and the more fun you will have.
It is also a great way to connect with other like-minded people. Longboarding has a vibrant and supportive community where you can interact with other longboarders and get inspired by them.
Furthermore, longboarding can be an eco-friendly alternative to cars or public transport. Not only does it reduce your carbon footprint, it also helps to reduce your environmental impact and improve the local environment.
All in all, longboarding is a great way to stay fit, enjoy nature, learn new skills, connect with like-minded people and do something for the environment. It is a sport that everyone, regardless of age or ability, should try.
What should beginners pay special attention to when buying a longboard?
If you are looking to buy a longboard for the first time, it is important to consider a few key factors to ensure that you get the best possible board for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to look for:
Size and Shape: The size and shape of your longboard are crucial to your riding experience. A larger board can be more stable, but also harder to handle. A smaller board can be more maneuverable, but offers less stability. Think about what type of riding style you prefer and choose accordingly.
Flexibility: The flexibility of the longboard affects how the board behaves on uneven terrain. A stiffer board is better suited for fast and aggressive riding, while a more flexible board is better for slower and controlled riding.
Deck Material: The material of the deck can affect the stability, durability and weight of the longboard. Wooden decks are the most common and also the least expensive, but also heavier than other materials. Carbon fiber and fiberglass components are lighter, but also more expensive.
Trucks: The trucks, or axle brackets, influence the stability and steerability of the longboard. Wide trucks are more stable, but also harder to steer, while narrow trucks are more agile, but offer less stability.
Wheels: The size and hardness of the wheels affect how fast the board can go and how well it handles on uneven terrain. Bigger and harder wheels make the board faster, but are also harder to control.
It is important to inform yourself well and seek advice before buying your first longboard – and that is exactly what this article is for. After all, a good longboard is a valuable investment and can give you many years of fun and exercise.
Now that we have looked at the most important factors in longboards in a quick overview, we will move on to a more detailed consideration.
Longboards: Size & Shape of the Deck
Deck size and shape are important factors when choosing a longboard. Here are some aspects to consider when choosing the right deck:
Length: The length of the deck determines how comfortable and stable the board will be. Short decks are more maneuverable but less stable, while longer decks offer more stability but are harder to maneuver. For beginners, it is advisable to choose a longer deck to gain more stability.
Width: The width of the deck determines how much space you have on the board. Wide decks are more comfortable but harder to maneuver, while narrow decks are easier to handle but offer less space.
Shape: The shape of the deck also affects the stability and maneuverability of the board. Round shapes offer more stability, while pointed shapes are more maneuverable. It depends on your preferences and the intended use which shape suits you best.
Concavity: The concavity of the deck refers to the shape of the deck between the wheels. A deeper concavity offers more grip and control, while a flatter deck allows for a relaxed ride.
Flexibility: The flexibility of the deck affects the suspension of the board and the comfort while riding. Stiffer decks offer more stability but less suspension, while flexible decks offer more suspension and a more comfortable ride.
It is important to note that the size and shape of the deck not only affects the riding experience, but also determines the intended use of the board. Choose a deck that suits your riding style and intended use to get the best riding experience.
Longboards: Deck Material
The deck material is another important aspect when choosing a longboard. Here are some important points to consider:
Wood: The most common material used for longboard decks is wood, particularly bamboo or maple. Bamboo is light and offers good suspension, while maple is sturdy and durable.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass is often combined with wood to strengthen the deck and extend its life. It also provides good suspension and is durable.
Aluminum: Aluminum decks are sturdy and durable, but also heavier than other materials. It does not provide suspension and is more suitable for professional riders or racing.
Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber decks are very light and offer excellent stability. However, it is also expensive and more suitable for professional riders or racing.
Plastic: Plastic decks are cheap and light, but also less durable than other materials. It offers no suspension and is more suitable for beginners.
It is important to consider the deck material that best suits your riding style and purpose. A durable and robust deck is important if you ride often and put a lot of stress on your board, while a lighter and springy deck is suitable for comfortable and relaxed rides.
Longboards: Trucks & Stands
Trucks and axle stand are other important factors when choosing a longboard. Here are some important aspects to consider:
Axle Stance: The axle stance refers to the distance between the wheels of a longboard. A longer axle stance offers more stability, while a shorter axle stance allows for more maneuverability. Beginners should opt for a longer axle stance to have more stability and control.
Trucks: The trucks are the parts that attach the wheels to the deck. There are different types of trucks, such as Reverse Kingpin trucks, which are suitable for longer and more stable rides, or Traditional Kingpin trucks, which offer more maneuverability.
Drop Through Trucks: Drop Through trucks are another way of truck mounting. Here the trucks are put through the deck, which results in a lower standing position and more stability. This type of truck mounting is especially suitable for beginners who want more control over their longboard.
Truck Length: The length of the trucks can also affect axle alignment. Short trucks allow for faster turns, while longer trucks provide more stability.
Brakes: Some longboards have brakes to control the speed. These are especially useful for beginners to control their speed.
It is important to carefully choose the longboard axle stand and trucks to suit your needs. Consider what you want to use the longboard for and choose the right axle stand and trucks based on that.
Longboards: Wheels and Bearings
Wheels and bearings play an important role in the performance and riding experience of your longboard. It is important to choose the right wheels and bearings for your needs.
Wheel size: The size of the wheels affects speed and stability. Smaller wheels offer better control and are better for freeride and downhill riding. Larger wheels offer higher speeds and are better for cruiser and freeride riding.
Bearings: Bearings determine how easy or difficult it is to accelerate and decelerate your longboard. Bearings are classified by ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) ratings, with a higher ABEC value meaning a more precise and durable bearing. The higher the ABEC value, the higher the quality of the bearing, but higher ABEC ratings usually also mean more expensive. Beginners will usually be fine with ABEC-5 or ABEC-7 bearings, while Apollo Longboards use a minimum of ABEC-9 bearings.
In summary, it is important to make sure that the wheels and bearings you choose suit your needs and riding style. Remember that good wheels and bearings can make a difference in how safe and enjoyable it is to ride your longboard.
Longboard Types: Which Longboard Is Right For Me?
When choosing a longboard, you are faced with the challenge of having so many different options and types. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages and it can be difficult to know which longboard is best for you and your needs. In this section, we will take a deeper look at the different types of longboards and help you decide which board is best for you. Whether you prefer a Cruiser, Downhill, Freeride, Freestyle, Dance or Carving longboard, we will guide you in finding the longboard that perfectly suits your riding style and goals.
Essentially, choosing the right longboard depends on the following three factors, which we will now look at in detail together:
Factor #1: Where and how you want to ride
One of the most important things to consider when choosing your first longboard is where you want to ride and how you want to ride. For example, if you want to ride primarily on streets or sidewalks, a Cruiser longboard might be the best choice for you. However, if you are interested in fast descents or competing, a Downhill or Freeride longboard might be a better choice. It is important to consider what types of surfaces you will be riding on and what type of riding experience you are looking for.
Factor #2: Your personal preferences and skills
Another important factor in choosing the best longboard for you is your personal preference and ability. For example, if you are a beginner, you may want to choose a longboard that is easy to control and maneuver. However, if you are already an experienced skateboarder, you may want to opt for a longer or wider longboard that offers more control and stability. It is also important to consider whether you prefer a longboard with larger wheels, which offer more speed, or smaller wheels that offer more control.
Factor #3: Your Budget
Finally, your budget is an important factor in choosing the best longboard for you. Longboards can vary in price depending on size, material, and features. While a high-end longboard may offer more control and durability, it may also require a higher budget. If you are a beginner, it may be wise to start with a cheaper longboard and move up to a more expensive model as you gain experience. It is important to choose a longboard that meets your needs but also stays within your budget.
Now that you have a better understanding of what is important when it comes to longboarding, let’s take a closer look at the different types of longboards. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and it’s important to understand which type is best for you. This way, you can ensure that you get the longboard that best suits your needs and preferences.
Cruiser Longboards: Pros and Cons
Cruiser longboards are the classic and most versatile longboards available. This type of longboard is ideal for beginners looking for a comfortable and easy riding experience.
Advantages:
- Comfortable: Cruiser longboards have a flat and wide shape, allowing you to stand upright comfortably while riding.
- Easy to ride: Cruiser longboards have a shorter axle stance, making them easier to adjust and control.
- Versatile: Cruiser longboards are suitable for many different riding styles and applications, including cruising, carving and even downhill riding.
Disadvantages:
- Less stable: Cruiser longboards typically have a shorter axle stance, making it more difficult to maintain a constant speed at higher speeds.
- Less Control: Cruiser longboards generally offer less control than other types of longboards, especially at high speeds and more challenging riding.
In summary, cruiser longboards are a great option for beginners looking for a comfortable and easy riding experience. However, they are less suitable for advanced riders who need more control and stability at high speeds.
Downhill Longboards: Pros and Cons
Downhill longboards are designed for extreme speeds and slopes and are particularly suitable for advanced riders who want to take their skills to the next level. This type of longboard has a stable and wide construction to protect the rider at high speeds and is made of robust materials to withstand shocks.
Advantages:
- Perfect for advanced riders: Ideal for those who love extreme speeds and steep slopes.
- Stable and wide construction: For safe driving at high speeds.
- Rugged Materials: Designed to withstand bumps and drops.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for beginners: Requires more skill and practice for safe and controlled riding.
- More difficult to transport and store: Due to its size.
- Typically more expensive: Compared to other types of longboards.
Conclusion: If you are an experienced rider looking for a challenge and are willing to take your skills to the next level, a downhill longboard may be the perfect choice for you. However, keep in mind that it requires more skill and practice to ride safely and with control.
Freeride Longboards: Pros and Cons
Freeride longboards are another type of longboard that is particularly suitable for advanced riders who want to improve their skills and try out new tricks. Compared to cruiser and downhill longboards, freeride longboards have a slightly more compact design and a shorter axle stance, which offers more stability and control during fast maneuvers and trick riding.
Another feature of freeride longboards is the serrated shape of the deck, which provides good grip and control, as well as the flexible construction that allows for better cushioning and comfort while riding. Drop-Through trucks are also a popular choice because of the lower, more stable riding position they offer.
As with all longboards, freeride longboards should be checked to ensure that the deck is made of high-quality materials to ensure maximum durability and quality.
In summary, freeride longboards offer the perfect combination of stability, control and freedom, allowing advanced riders to further improve their longboarding skills and try out new tricks. Freeride longboards are ideal for play and freestyle, trying out tricks and combining slides and tricks.
Advantages:
- Agility and Playability: Freeride longboards have a lighter and flexible construction that offers more agility and playability.
- Perfect for Slides and Tricks: Due to their more flexible construction and shorter axle position, freeride longboards are ideal for slides and tricks.
- Good for Beginners: For beginners looking to improve their longboarding skills, freeride longboards offer a great opportunity to improve slide and freestyle skills.
Disadvantages:
- Unstable at High Speeds: Freeride longboards can be unstable at high speeds, making it harder to ride a straight line.
- Less Stable Than Other Longboard Types: Freeride longboards are not as stable as cruiser or downhill longboards, making them less suitable for high speeds.
- More Maintenance Required: Since freeride longboards are moved and stressed more, they also require more maintenance to stay in good condition.
Freestyle Longboards: Pros and Cons
Freestyle longboards are designed for tricks and maneuvers on the board. They are often short and offer excellent control for 360-degree turns and other acrobatic moves. Here are some pros and cons of freestyle longboards:
Advantages:
- Stability: Freestyle longboards are stable enough to perform tricks and maneuvers without the board sinking under the rider.
- Flexibility: They tend to be more flexible than other types of longboards, allowing for better control during tricks and maneuvers.
- Greater Design Possibilities: Freestyle longboards can be manufactured in many different shapes and sizes to suit the rider's needs.
Disadvantages:
- Less Comfort: Because freestyle longboards are often short and stiff, they can be uncomfortable on longer rides.
- More Difficult to Learn: Learning tricks and maneuvers on a freestyle longboard often requires more practice and skill than other types of longboards.
- Maintenance: Freestyle longboards are often more sensitive to damage and therefore require more frequent repairs and maintenance.
In general, freestyle longboards are a great choice for experienced riders who want to perform tricks and maneuvers. However, beginners should first choose a different, easier to handle longboard until they have improved their skills.
Carving Longboards: Pros and Cons
Carving longboards are another type of longboard that is particularly suited for those who like to take turns and are looking for a dynamic riding experience. Here are some of the pros and cons of carving longboards:
Advantages:
- Agility and Maneuverability: Carving longboards are particularly known for their ability to take sharp turns with ease and control.
- Dynamic Riding Experience: Carving longboards offer an intense and exciting riding experience, especially at higher speeds.
- Improved Control: Due to their special shape and shorter axle position, carving longboards offer better control and stability, which is especially beneficial when turning.
Disadvantages:
- Higher Rider Skill Requirements: Carving longboards require more skill and control from the rider, especially at higher speeds.
- Less Stability at High Speeds: While carving longboards offer better control, their lower stability at higher speeds can be a challenge.
Longboarding: Additional Equipment & Safety
Now we’ll get into the important things you need to consider besides the longboard itself. This includes the gear you need to ride safely and comfortably, as well as some important rules to protect yourself from injuries. From helmets and protectors to the basic rules of riding – we’ll cover everything that’s really important.
Helmet, Protectors & Proper Clothing for Longboarding
Safe gear is an absolute must when longboarding. The helmet is the most important piece of protective gear that protects you from serious head injuries. It is important to choose a helmet that fits well and is comfortable so that you can wear it all day long. Protectors such as elbow and knee pads provide additional protection against injuries and are especially suitable for more aggressive riding styles. In addition, you should pay attention to comfortable and suitable clothing that allows freedom of movement and provides protection at the same time.
A Special Tip : Always check the integrity of your equipment and replace it regularly if there are signs of wear, to ensure that it functions properly even in critical situations.
Choice of Helmet
When choosing the right helmet for longboarding, there are some important factors to consider. Here are some things to look for:
- Fit: It is important that the helmet fits well and is comfortable while riding.
- Protection Level: Choose a helmet with a suitable protection level for longboarding. A skateboard helmet usually offers more protection than a bicycle helmet.
- Weight: A heavy helmet can be uncomfortable, while a helmet that is too light may not provide the desired protection.
- Ventilation: Make sure the helmet is well ventilated to ensure comfortable wearing.
- Style: There are many different designs and colors of helmets available, so you can express your personal style.
It is important to choose a helmet that fits well, is comfortable and provides an adequate level of protection.
Right Choice of Protectors
When choosing protectors for longboarding there are some important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Fit: The guards must fit perfectly to provide maximum protection. An uncomfortable fit may prevent you from wearing them.
- Protection level: There are different levels of protection, from basic to high. Depending on how often and intensively you longboard, you should choose the appropriate protection level.
- Material: Protectors should be made of robust and durable materials to provide the best possible protection.
A recommended combination for beginners is a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards. As you get more comfortable with longboarding, you can consider whether you need additional protection. It is important that you feel safe on every ride.
Maintenance and Care of your Longboard
An important aspect of using a longboard is regular maintenance and care. This not only ensures a longer lifespan of the board, but also a safer ride. Here are some tips for the maintenance and care of your longboard:
- Cleaning: It is important to clean the board regularly from dirt and dust. Use a damp cloth for this.
- Bearing Maintenance: Bearings are an important part of the longboard and should be cleaned and greased regularly. This can help the bearings last longer and provide a smoother ride.
- Screw connections: Check all screw connections regularly and tighten them if necessary.
- Wheels: Check the wheels for damage or wear and replace if necessary.
- Deck Protection: Use a protective film on the deck to protect it from scratches and wear.
- Bearing protection: Use a protective film on the bearings to protect them from moisture.
It is important to remember that each longboard can be maintained differently. Therefore, follow the manufacturer's instructions and seek professional help if you are unsure. Regular maintenance and care will not only extend the life of your board, but also make for a safer ride.
Learning Basic Longboarding Skills - An Important Step for Beginners
If you are just starting out with longboarding, it is important to learn the basic skills. This will not only contribute to your safety, but will also increase your riding pleasure. A suitable longboard can help you learn the basic skills faster.
First of all, it is important that you feel safe on the board and have control over it. Learning the basic movements such as starting, braking and taking turns is essential. Once you have mastered these skills, you can try more difficult manoeuvres.
Another benefit of learning the basic skills is that you will be able to control your longboard better and you will feel safer on the streets or other riding conditions. This is especially important if you ride in urban areas, where there are many other road users and obstacles.
The right longboard can also help you learn basic skills faster. For example, a cruiser longboard is good for beginners because it is stable and easy to control. A freeride longboard, on the other hand, is intended for advanced riders who already have basic skills.
In summary, it is important for beginners to learn the basic skills of longboarding in order to ride safely and with fun. A suitable longboard can help you develop the skills faster. Remember that it takes time to improve your skills, but with practice and patience you can achieve your goals.
Conclusion
In summary, it can be said that longboards are a great way to increase your adrenaline levels and have a fun leisure activity at the same time. Choosing a longboard is not an easy task, considering the large number of different types of longboards and their specific applications for different riding styles and needs.
In this blog post, we focused on the most important factors when choosing a longboard for beginners. We looked at different types of longboards, such as cruiser, downhill, freeride, freestyle, dance and carving longboards, and described their respective advantages and disadvantages.
We also discussed how to choose the best longboard for you by taking into account personal preferences, riding needs, and budget. Furthermore, we talked about the additional gear and safety that are crucial for longboarding. Wearing a helmet and appropriate protective clothing is essential to prevent injuries.
Finally, it is important to learn the basic skills of longboarding to ride safely and with more fun. Regular maintenance and care of your longboard is also essential to keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan.
All in all, longboarding offers an unforgettable experience that gives a sense of freedom and adventure. If you are a beginner or just looking for a new and exciting hobby, longboarding is definitely worth a try!
