Buying a Longboard? The Best Choice Guide
How to Choose the Perfect Board
Choosing a longboard is just like choosing the perfect shoes: it has to fit what you're going to do with it! Don't worry, we'll help you get started. Here are the most important things to look out for, so you'll be cruising the streets smoothly.
1. Which type of longboard suits you?
- Drop-through – Extra stable thanks to the low center of gravity. Like being stuck to the road with a magnet! Perfect for long, comfortable rides.
- Pintail – The classic longboard with the looks of a surfboard. Designed for smooth, relaxed rides and long turns. The top-mount construction makes the board sit a bit higher, which makes for a playful and agile ride, but less stability.
- Drop-down – Lies low to the ground just like a drop-through. Provides even more stability in corners.
- Dancer – Plenty of room to shuffle, spin and dance on your board. For the creatives who love flow.
- Kicktail – Some boards have a kicktail, which makes it easy to do small tricks and sharp turns. Handy for the city and for a playful riding style.
Our question to you: Are you a relaxed cruiser, a stable beginner, or are you looking for maximum control? Choose the type that suits your style!
2. Length: How long should your longboard be?
- Super Short (30-34 inch) – Super maneuverable and perfect for short trips or busy places. Easy to take with you on the train or under your arm. Ideal for the city!
- Short (35-39 inch) – The happy medium. Stable enough for beginners, but still very maneuverable. A real all-rounder for cruising and tricks.
- Medium (40-44 inches) – Perfect for long distances and downhill action. The longer the board, the more stable the ride. Ideal if you like to cruise comfortably at speed.
- Long (45-49 inch) – The limousine among longboards. Extra long for ultimate stability and smooth, flowing movements. Ideal for dancing, cross-steps and extra relaxed rides.
Our question to you: Do you want to make short, fast rides or travel long distances? The length of your board makes the difference!
3. Big Wheels: How big should your wheels be?
- Smaller wheels : Quick acceleration and easy braking. Handy if you have to stop and start often.
- Bigger wheels (70mm+) : Roll over obstacles easily and maintain your speed. Like floating on clouds!
Our question to you: Do you want to accelerate quickly or roll smoothly over any surface? The size of your wheels determines your driving comfort!
4. Wheel Hardness: How hard should your wheels be?
- Soft wheels (78A) : Lots of grip and comfort, perfect for cruising. Like rolling on a soft carpet!
- Hard wheels (88A+) : Less grip, ideal for slides and tricks. Like sliding on ice (but on asphalt)!
Our question to you: Are you looking for grip and comfort, or do you want to be able to slide and trick? The hardness of your wheels makes the difference!
With these tips you are guaranteed to find the longboard that suits you. Happy cruising!