Whereas the short board style of skateboarding often focuses on flashy tricks, longboard skateboards are similar to snowboards and surfboards, and allow riders to travel over a variety of surfaces smoothly and quickly. Many models are designed to offer excellent shock absorption and speed capabilities so that users can enjoy the benefits of a transportation mode that's often much more interesting than walking.
There are certain things that people should look for when buying these types of skateboards. By keeping some features in mind, it should be even easier for someone to find a skateboard that they'll love to own.
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What Defines Longboard Skateboards?
As you might expect, one of the easiest ways to spot a longboard is to notice its length. Most designs range from about 39 inches to over several feet. If you're a beginner, narrow down your choices by simply choosing one that's about 45 inches or so in length, because this is suitable for the demands of most riders who are just getting started.
The wheels of longboards are much larger than the shortboard variety, too. Often, they are at least twice as big and have various degrees of hardness. In the skateboarding world, the hardness of wheels is also called durometer. Generally, shops offer harder wheels by default, so riders who wish to exchange them for softer types can try to negotiate that swap when they make a purchase.
Longboard skateboards also have wider trucks than their shorter counterparts. The trucks are the pieces that attach the wheel axles to the board itself. Because longboard wheels are larger, the trucks are wider and taller to accommodate the additional size.
Custom Features of Longboards
If you're just getting started with exploring the exciting world of longboarding, it's probably best to get the advice of an expert when making the purchase of your first board. However, as you become more experienced you'll learn that there are specific features of the board that can be customised to your liking.
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For example, all longboards are quite wide. Most are at least 8 to 10 inches in width. However, the ideal shape of the board will vary depending on how you prefer to ride. If you want your board to be able to turn extremely sharply, opt for a style that includes cutouts by the wheels.
The amount of flexion within longboard skateboards is also a matter of personal preference. Although some are very stiff, others include a bit of bend. There are several varieties of riding that someone can engage in, such as downhill and cruising. Although the amount of flexibility desired within a board is partially related to riding style, the height and weight of the rider can play a role, as well.
Now that you're aware of some of the things that make longboard skateboards unique, you can begin to look forward to the satisfaction of trying this sport for yourself.
