Are you on the lookout for a new longboard but unsure what exactly to look for?
Do you want a longboard that suits your skills and lifestyle but don’t know which one will be best for you?
In this article, we provide an in-depth analysis of the best longboards available in the market and how they can make your experience more enjoyable and successful.
Finding The Best Longboard For Your Sickest Rides
1. Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout Longboard – For Cruising
The Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout Longboard is the best board we have found for cruising. This board has a drop-through design and a long deck, which gives the board and the rider a good amount of stability and speed.
As far as the technical features go, this board comes with Gullwing Charger Trucks that are 10 inches in size, and they are great for cruising. The soft bushing in this board allows for quick cuts as well as digging curves.
Another great thing that is great about this board is that it is made from bamboo which is an ethical and sustainable material, and it helps to dampen vibrations from cruising.
And what’s more, this board comes with urethane wheels that are 74mm high with a durometer of 78a. This helps the wheels to grip well, and be smooth whilst riding. It also has clear grip tape, abec 5 PDP bearings, 1.125 inch flush mount steel bolts.
2. GoldCoast Classic Complete Longboard – For Commuting
If you are looking for a board that you can use solely for commuting to and from work or school etc, then you need to look towards the GoldCoast Classic Complete Longboard. The board is 44 inches long and 10 inches wide with a pintail design which allows the rider to perform basic tricks such as wheelies or to slash.
Although more intense tricks can’t be performed without a kicktail, you won’t need this feature for a commuting board. It is made from canadian maple which makes it super strong, firm and sturdy, and it has a layer of bamboo which adds flexibility.
In terms of technical components, it has 179mm trucks which are very responsive, as well as 70mm wheels with 85a durometer that are stiff and hard which means they are good for commuting and dodging obstacles.
And the Century 8mm flat risers help to stop any wheel bite. With all features combined this board can deal well with sharp turning, downhill cruising and busy city commuting.
3.Landyachtz Battle Axe Board – For Downhill Riding or Racing
The Landyachtz Battle Axe board will be the board for you if you are looking for a good quality board for downhill riding or racing. This is because it is 35 inches in length (it also comes in 40 inches long), and 9 inches wide.
It is made from plywood maple, which makes it strong, sturdy and reliable; this will be needed when travelling at high speeds and using intense power. The deck is designed with a concave drop, which gives you as the rider a good amount of stability and a great sense of security even when travelling at very fast speeds.
Because the board is very low to the ground (in part due to its drop-through design), it allows again for more stability and flexibility. It comes with some great technical components, including very high quality and well-known Bear Grizzly trucks, as well as Hawgs Mini Monster wheels and Spaceball bearings.
All of these components are of great quality and are durable, reliable and long-lasting too. And last but not least, this board has been used to win 4 world titles!
4. Magento Bamboo Longboard
The Magento Bamboo & Fiber Drop Longboard is a great longboard for freestyle riding and dancing. It’s drop through truck design allows this board to have a low center of gravity, which means that you will remain as stable as possible throughout your freestyle ride.
In addition, the board has a great amount of flexibility, which of course will be needed if you are riding freestyle or dancing. Subtle kick tails and the bamboo and fiberglass deck makes this board a great one for performing tricks.
It’s 7 inch heavy duty aluminum trucks ensure the rider can carve and turn around sharp corners and turns well. It also has an embedded logo on the deck which is sand gritted to finish, which adds additional grip to the board. Last but not least, it is 42 x 9 inches in size, has 70mm x 53mm polyurethane 78a wheels and ABEC 11 bearings.
5. 2PM Sports Longboard – For Carving
The 2PM Sports Longboard is a very versatile board that can be used for carving, dancing, cruising and commuting. We are focusing on its features that make it the best for carving. The board is made from genuine 7 ply canadian maple which makes it incredibly strong, durable and reliable.
It’s design is complete with a kicktail and nose which allows for high level performance and offers a super smooth ride. The technical components include 180mm Paris trucks with precision ABEC-7 bearings, this allows the rider to ride on any surface or ground.
The board comes with mid-size PU wheels ensuring the board can withstand fast speeds and quick turns. The wheels also enable the board to perform tricks and slides. And what’s more, is that this 2PM board has a 50 degree baseplate angle, which means it rebounds well and has a high level of response, making it perfect for carving.
6. Landyachtz Hollowtech Cheesegrater Longboard Deck
For many longboarders, speed is the name of the game. And if speed is what you are after then you should consider the Landyachtz Hollowtech Cheesegrater Longboard Deck. Its rockered platform allows for more stability because of its low center of gravity.
At the same time, its flush mount design enables you to have a more precise truck mounting angle. The Cheesegrater also has wheel flares so you can easily equip your longboard with larger race wheels. Having large race wheels gives you more stability even when riding at high speeds.
This 38-inch symmetrical longboard is just the right length. It is neither too long to be sluggish nor too short to be hard to control. The deck is made from maple wood to improve durability. Maple wood is also known for being resistant to splitting. The Cheesegrater Longboard Deck is made stiff to give riders better control when navigating sharp turns. Art lovers should be very impressed by the playful graphics of this deck.
7. Loaded Blood Slayer Longboard Deck
Riders who want to impress with their tricks need the right longboard to awe the crowd. And trick masters will have a worthy longboard in the Loaded Blood Slayer. This longboard is ideal for downhill runs and free riding.
Made from a bamboo and fiberglass composite, this board is sturdy enough to take the punishment that most free riding longboards are subjected to. Those who like downhill shredding will also find the Loaded Blood Slayer more than enough to meet their requirements.
The W-Concave located in the middle of this deck should give your feet plenty of room to break your tuck and slide. The nose and tail kicks are adequate for popping tricks and kick turns.
8.Loaded Tarab Longboard Deck
If you like going for long cruises then the Loaded Tarab Longboard Deck is the deck for you. This deck is the anointed successor to the favorite Loaded Dervish Bhangra. It has urethane nose inserts that make it durable.
On top of the nose inserts, it also has UHMWPE inserts in the side rails to make sure that your longboard is still protected against any damage if a trick goes wrong. Because of the cork top sheet of this board, the deck shouldn’t be too smooth or too grippy. This top sheet helps you to maintain complete control of the board whatever skill or technique you are working on.
Like most Loaded longboards, the Loaded Tarab comes in two flexes, each with their feel and response. Flex 1 has an extra bamboo ply to make the longboard more responsive and to give it added stiffness.
Flex 2 is lighter and has more flexibility to assist you during carves or cross steps. Both of these flexes come with two mounting options so you should be able to customize your ride to be just the way you like it.
9. Rout The Architect Pintail Longboard Deck
Affordable doesn’t always mean low quality and the Rout The Architect Pintail Longboard Deck is proof. This pintail longboard is ideal for riders of all levels of experience. Since these longboards are directly sourced from the factory, you can be assured that they are sold at the lowest possible price.
The board is made to help you navigate through crowded sidewalks and the classic shape is perfect for shredding and cruising. High-quality traditional maple is used for the deck and is a big factor in it’s durability. Maple wood is known for its high resistance against abrasion and tear.
There is a slight concave incorporated into the longboard. The board has a medium flex that gives you stability while dampening vibrations when you navigate sidewalks. The design by Alan Rodriguez is a homage to the popular TV show Ancient Aliens. Jessup Black grip tape is included with the purchase, so you can get more value for money!
10. Powell Peralta Byron Essert Frog Carbon Longboard Deck
The Powell Peralta Byron Essert Frog Carbon is named after one of the most well-rounded skaters in the world. And just like Byron Essert, the Frog Carbon is also a well-rounded longboard. Whether you like freeriding, downhills or sliding, this longboard can handle it all.
With its top-mounted design, this longboard is very efficient during long and fast downhill rides. The deck features a triaxial fiberglass construction, built around a core of multi-species wood. Fiberglass adds high-tensile strength to the deck while keeping it lightweight.
On top of that, the Frog Carbon also has two layers of carbon fiber to make the deck extra stiff for improved control. The lightweight design makes the deck easier to maneuver. Being lightweight can give the Frog Carbon an extra booze of speed, since it is easier to accelerate. Wheel wells are incorporated into the deck giving it extra clearance, so you can mount bigger race wheels.
Our Top Picks On Right Type of Longboard Deck for You
And the winner is…The Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout Longboard!
We have chosen this particular longboard as our winner because of its versatility, design and great features. Although this board is the best for cruising, it is also good for commuting and carving, too.
It’s superior design is thanks to its drop through structure which allows the rider to not only feel secure and stable, but also enables them to reach top speeds.
It has a long deck which helps with the stability and speed. The board comes with some excellent features, including 10 inch Gullwing Charger Trucks which are fantastic for cruising. It also has soft bushings which helps for quick turns when necessary.
Other great components that come with this board include 74mm and 78a urethane wheels, ABEC 5 PDP bearings, 1.125 flush mount steel bolts and clear grip tape. And it is made from bamboo, which is ethical, sustainable and strong.
Also, if we consider JUST the decks, we should take another look at the list. Among the decks listed above, the best one for me is the Loaded Tarab. I love cruising and this is an ideal deck for a cruise.
It is durable and the addition of the urethane inserts on the nose and sides made it even more so.
No matter how good you are, accidents happen and it is nice to know that you’re using a longboard that is designed to withstand such mishaps. The urethane insets give you a cushion to shield your board from damages. It will get some scratches but it won’t snap as quickly as others.
Although the Loaded Blood Slayer is also a durable longboard, the Loaded Tarab is more affordable. It helps that it comes in two flex types because you have the freedom to select the flex that will best suit your needs. The cork sheet also gives this deck a surface that is just in that sweet spot between smooth and grippy.
Guide to Selecting the Right Type of Longboard Deck for You
What will you be using your longboard for?
Whether you are looking for a board to transport you to and from work or school, to use for high skill tricks or to compete in races, you will need to consider what the primary purpose of your longboard will be.
Although some longboards are versatile and can be used for multiple purposes, often each type of riding style will need unique board features.
Check them out below:
1. Urban Riding and City Commuting
If you live, study or work in an urban area, you’ve likely found yourself stuck in crowded areas. You’ll find yourself constantly dodging pedestrians. Or if you live in New York, you’re always getting stuck in heavy traffic.
These are just some of the reasons why shorter boards are ideal for urban transport. Decks between 28 and 40 inches should serve you well for city life. Short decks are easier to control so you can easily move around people or vehicles.
These decks are also more responsive and have a tighter turning radius. They let you move around tight corners and turns without having to worry about hitting the ankle of a pedestrian. You can go for a more rigid board that allows more stability or opt for a more flexible one for its vibration dampening quality.
It is also essential to have a kicktail since kicktails can make maneuvering easier. Kicktails also allow you to shift your weight back which helps when rolling over debris or pavement cracks.
That is why the best decks for commuting in and out of the city tend to have wheelbases that measure between 15-22 inches, and decks that are between 28-40 inches in length.
The reason that shorter boards are better for urban riding and city commuting is because they offer tighter turning ability, a good amount of responsiveness and a great ability to negotiate tight areas, dodge people or obstacles and remain stable on uneven surfaces.
Boards for this type of riding will generally feature a good amount of flexibility which helps to dampen high vibrations and retain stability.
2. Carving and Cruising
Boards that are designed for carving and cruising are the most traditional and well-known type of longboards. The best type of board and deck for this type of riding is the classic pintail shape.
If you want a longboard mainly for cruising pintail longboards are your best bet. This is the classic longboard shape inspired by surfboards. Riding a pintail is like riding a surfboard in the sense that it gives you that feeling of cutting through huge waves.
Pintails are known for being flexible which helps dampen vibration especially when you’re riding over sidewalks or rough pavements.
It features a long length of 40-45 inches and it tapers from the tip to the tail of the board.The reason for this shape is so that the rider can perform clean and smooth carving and pumping.
This board has a flexible deck which acts to dampen vibrations even on rough or uneven surfaces. These types of boards will be good for commuting or city riding, too.
3. Freestyle / Dancing
Freestyling is the most creative use of longboards. It combines dancing maneuvers with flat ground tricks. Some of the most popular freestyle tricks are shuvit, cross steps, tiger claws, and kickflips. The ideal deck for freestyling is one of medium length that is moderately flexible.
This kind of flex can make the board more responsive even at slow speeds. Boards with long wheelbases are also recommended. Boards that are symmetrical are best since you’re more likely to find yourself riding your board both ways while freestyling.
Freestyle and dancing riding are all about tricks and performance. With this type of riding, creativity is all that counts. Because freestyle and dancing requires practice, high skill and probably some harsh mistakes, the board needs to be versatile, strong and reliable.
Features of boards that are ideal for freestyle/dancing riding include a long wheelbase (28 to 35 inches), twin kicktails and a sturdy deck to stand on. It is also good to have a symmetrical shape because freestyle riding requires the rider to ride the board both ways.
4. Long Distance Riding
For long distance riding, you are going to need a board that is made with a deck that is super durable, reliable and strong. Typically, the best boards for travelling far distances are ones that are pretty long in length (generally around 38-42 inches).
If you think that long distance rides are limited to cars and bicycles, then think again. Some longboarders set out on long journeys and some even compete in long distance push races. If you want to embark on your own epic journey, you need a longboard that almost hugs the ground.
Lower clearance means you need to step down a shorter distance to push your board. This should conserve your stamina and reduce fatigue. A low clearance board can also be more stable. Even if you’re not yet ready for an inter-state ride, these kinds of boards are ideal for those who commute moderate distances. Drop through or drop deck longboards are ideal for this purpose.
As well as long, the boards also need to be positioned low to the ground so that stepping down to push is less of an impact, which can reduce tiredness and fatigue and also helps to increase stability. To get a board that fits these factors, it will be best to look for drop-through designs and dropped platform decks. Boards with such drop decks can help to drag the board forward.
5. Downhill and Racing
Decks for downhill use are designed to withstand high speeds while also letting you accelerate quickly. They have longer wheelbases to help make them more stable even at high speeds. Aerodynamic decks are preferred over symmetrical ones because downhill riders are more concerned with speed rather than tricks .
Downhill riding and racing will need decks that can withstand higher intensity riding and harsher terrains due to the nature of the riding. Therefore, downhill and racing decks will be designed to stay sturdy and hold up to very high speeds. Boards that are designed specifically for downhill riding do tend to have longer wheelbases, so that they can cope with the intense speeds they are travelling at.
Another thing you will generally see in downhill boards is the traditional concave design. For both downhill and racing decks, speed is the ultimate focus so factors including the symmetry of the board and kicktail design aren’t really anything important. Many boards used for downhill riding and racing can also be used for freeriding.
6. Freeride/Sliding
A Freeriding board is what you need if you want to conquer steep hills or to slash driveways. This type is also ideal for drifting around corners. These boards have stiff decks and deep concaves that help make them more stable at high speeds.
These properties also allow you to keep your feet locked in when needed. Boards with deep drop decks and drop through mounting are great for freeriders since they give lower leverage on the trucks. It can be easier to initiate slides using these boards.
Just like freestyling, freeriding involves tricks and creativity so a symmetrical board is ideal. Having a symmetrical deck means that you shouldn’t have to worry about facing the wrong direction. Kicktails give you access to a wide range of tricks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Longboards
What Are The Most Popular Styles Of Longboards?
1. Drop-Through Longboard
The longboards that are designed as flexible Drop-Through boards have a dropped platform which means they have lower center of gravity. A lower center of gravity provides more stability (especially at faster speeds) and also allows for an easier push off. Flexible Drop-Through longboards are best for you if you are looking for a relaxing ride.
2. Traditional Cruising Longboards
Cruising longboards are great if you are looking for a board that you can use in crowded areas or for commuting to and from school or work etc. They are great for crowded places because they can be much more stable and ensure that you retain perfect balance, even when moving from side to side or dodging people or obstacles.
This is because they are designed with wider trucks and decks, and generally higher quality materials. They are also a good board for beginners.
3. Downhill Longboards
Downhill Longboards do exactly what they say on the tin. They are perfect for riding down long or steep hills. They are often built to battle tough or bumpy ground and are designed with a defined rear and front to ensure they remain stable, straight and smooth whilst riding downhill.
4. Bamboo Longboards
Bamboo longboards have become very popular with kids today. This is because they are super light and extremely flexible. Being both lightweight and flexible means that the boards are great if you like to perform tricks as they offer a great level of performance. If you are looking for a longboard that is easy to transport and easy to use, a bamboo board may be a good choice.
What Are The Most Popular Shapes Of Longboards?
1. Pintail Longboards
Pintail longboards are one of the most popular shapes for longboards. They have a wide base and wide center with a sharp or pointed tail and nose. Pintail boards can be good if you need to maneuver around corners or turns, or often need to dodge people or obstacles on your route. This is because the sharp ends helps the turning radius which means your wheels are able to turn and move direction more quickly and smoothly.
2. Fishtail Longboards
Fishtail and Pintail longboards are fairly similar in design. They both have a wide center and wide base, but the fishtail longboard design has a split tail similar to that of a surfboard. The split tail of the fishtail design may make it a good fit if you tend to enjoy long rides, and it also helps you to make quick turns if need be.
3. Blunt Longboards
Blunt longboards have a wide center and wide base, as well as a wider tail. The nose is also rounder than the fishtail and pintail boards, but not as round as the blunt longboards tail. The circular and wide design of the blunt longboard makes it really stable, and for this reason it can be a great option for beginners. They can be more difficult to maneuver around sharp corners or obstacles due to the wideness.
4. Twin Longboards
Twin longboards have a similar design to twin skateboards, but vary in that the longboards are designed with wider sides. The center is wide also, and the ends curve in. They are best for multi-directional skating, and are a great option for you if you enjoy freestyle riding.
What Are Longboards Made Of?
1. Bamboo
Skateboards that are made from bamboo are super flexible which helps the rider to turn quickly and swerve in and out of crowds. Bamboo boards can be good for performing tricks and are lightweight and thus easy to carry.
2. Maple
Maple is by far the most popular material for longboards. This is because it is known to be an extremely resilient material, a maple board should be durable, long-lasting and trustworthy. Longboards made from maple can be very solid which makes them heavier but great quality.
3. Carbon Fiber
Carbon Fiber longboards are excellent for quality, but are definitely the most expensive. They are designed with a foam layer in the center which helps to keep them pretty lightweight and makes them better for turning. They are also designed to ensure that you can push off fast and enjoy a smooth and steady glide around. Carbon Fiber longboards are best for suited to more experienced riders.
What Is The Typical Wheel Size & Shape?
1. Diameter
The diameter (the size of the wheel when it is measured from the top to the bottom) is measured in millimeters. Wheels that are bigger in diameter have a high top speed, but are slower to accelerate. Larger wheels are also good and smooth on rougher ground.
On the contrary, wheels with a smaller diameter have a slower top speed, but are faster to accelerate. In addition, smaller wheels tend to slide and glide more smoothly than bigger wheels. In summary, bigger wheels are faster in general and smaller wheels are faster at accelerating.
For beginners, the average wheel size is between 54-59mm. For more experienced riders, ones who tend to perform more tricks, or ones who ride in rougher grounds, then the wheels tend to be 60mm+.
2. Durometer
The durometer of longboard wheels simply means the measure of their hardness. In basic terms, harder wheels are quicker, whereas softer wheels are slower, but have a good and more reliable grip to the ground.
Durometer is measured from 1-101a, with 101a being the hardest wheel. 101a is normally only used by professionals, as they lack substantial grip. Most longboard wheels are between 70a-99a.
3. Shape
Shape makes a difference for wheels. Wheels with straight edges give the most control and grip to the ground, which makes them better for turning and curving. Straight edged wheels are best for downhill racing because they offer great grip to the surface. Whereas wheels with more round edged wheels are great for freeriding and cruising but lack ease of performing sharp turns.
Conclusion
So all in all, if you are looking for a longboard specific to your lifestyle and riding style then you need to figure out what you will be using your board for the most.
Whether it’s racing or downhill riding, cruising or carving, freestyle or dancing, long distance riding or commuting; we have provided the information you need to make a wise decision and one that will be most beneficial for you. In our opinion the best board overall is the Sector 9 Bamboo Longboard, which is all versatile, strong, durable and reliable.
Urban riders like myself will do great with the Loaded Tarab. It is durable and has an extra line of protection because of the urethane inserts on its sides and nose. This is handy when you’re constantly navigating crowded areas and it can shield your board from damage.
The flex is another great feature; you should no longer have to feel every little crack in the pavement as you ride. Although it is more expensive than most decks, the durability of the board makes it a worthwhile purchase.
Decks can make or break a longboard. No matter how good a rider you are or how expensive your wheels and trucks are, if you don’t have a great deck, your performance and the quality of your ride will suffer. That’s why it’s so important not settle for just any deck that is more affordable or simply looks good.
It is essential to choose a deck that suits your riding style. If you enjoy longboarding, you’ll love it even more when you have the right deck and you’re able to achieve your full riding potential!