Hey there, fellow thrill-seekers and board enthusiasts!

Ready to embark on an epic journey through the exciting world of longboarding? Buckle up because we’ve got the scoop on everything you need to know about cruising, freestyle, freeride, and downhill riding styles.

From choosing the right board to discovering the coolest riding spots, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your helmets and let’s dive in!

The Basics of Longboarding

Welcome to the captivating universe of longboarding, where boards are not mere tools but extensions of a rider’s soul. Like a craftsman shaping a masterpiece, longboards are meticulously designed for distinct purposes and styles. Embracing diversity, these boards cater to the varied tastes and preferences of riders, offering a thrilling canvas for self-expression and adventure.

Must Read:

• Longboard Types: Part 1
• Longboard Types: Part 2

Pintails: The Classic Cruisers

Picture yourself gliding down a sunlit boardwalk, wind in your hair, and the rhythmic sound of waves in the background. That’s the essence of pintail longboards – the classics, the time-honored choice for cruisers. With their elegant, elongated shape, they offer stability and grace, making them the ideal companion for leisurely rides and scenic routes.

Drop-Throughs: The Steady Descenders

Now, if your heart races at the thought of descending steep hills with controlled precision, drop-through longboards are your best friends. These boards, designed with cutout sections allowing your trucks to be mounted through the deck, offer a lower center of gravity. This design feature translates into unparalleled stability, ensuring you can conquer downhill slopes with confidence and style.

Kicktails: The Playful Tricksters

Imagine a bustling urban landscape – staircases, ramps, and curbs waiting to be conquered. That’s the playground of kicktail longboards. These boards, distinguished by their upturned ends, give riders the ability to pop ollies, perform spins, and navigate tight corners effortlessly. If you’re the adventurous type who loves to push the boundaries of what’s possible on a board, kicktails are your ticket to a world of endless tricks and flips.

Remember, choosing your longboard is not just a decision; it’s a connection. It’s about finding that perfect dance partner, a board that complements your style and spirit.

Gearing Up: Essential Longboarding Gear

Ah, safety – the unsung hero of every thrilling adventure. Longboarding is no different. Before you set foot on your board, it’s imperative to armor up, ensuring you’re ready to face any challenge the streets might throw your way.

The Helmet: Your Brain’s Best Friend

Your noggin is priceless, so protect it like the treasure it is. Invest in a top notch helmet that fits perfectly. Make sure it help you in both comfort and security.

Remember, it is not just a piece of gear. It is your guardian angel shielding you from the unexpected.

Knee and Elbow Pads: Guardians of Your Joints

Knees and elbows might seem sturdy, but trust us, they appreciate a little extra love. Properly fitted knee and elbow pads ensure that unexpected falls won’t turn into painful bruises and scrapes.

They’re the unsung heroes of your longboarding escapades, allowing you to push your limits without fearing the consequences.

Slide Gloves: Your Ticket to Freeriding Freedom

Ever dreamt of gracefully sliding down a hill, hands skimming the pavement, feeling the rush of wind against your face? Slide gloves make that dream a reality. These trusty companions not only protect your palms but also enable you to execute smooth slides, adding an artistic flair to your freeride adventures. They’re the key to unlocking the full potential of your longboarding prowess.

Longboarding Styles Demystified

Cruising: Smooth Sailing on the Streets

Cruising isn’t just a ride; it’s a serenade to the senses. Picture this: you, your board, and the open road. Cruising is the art of moving without a care in the world, a ballet of balance and grace. It’s as if your longboard has a mind of its own, gliding effortlessly beneath your feet.

Imagine dancing on air, the wind tousling your hair, and the rhythmic hum of wheels on pavement. In the world of cruising, you’re not just moving; you’re grooving. It’s a sweet symphony composed by the harmony of your board and the streets.

Freestyle: Mastering Tricks and Flicks

Freestyle longboarding is where imagination takes flight and gravity takes a backseat. It’s a canvas, and your longboard is the brush. With every cross-step, spin, and slide, you’re painting a masterpiece on the asphalt. Freestyle isn’t just about tricks; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

It’s an art form, an expression of creativity that transforms mundane sidewalks into your personal playground. In the realm of freestyle, your board becomes an extension of yourself, and the streets transform into a stage for your daring performances.

Freeride: Embracing the Thrill of the Slide

The “Freeride” style is for adrenaline junkies, where chaos meets control in a thrilling dance.

Picture this: you’re hurtling down a hill, the world blurring around you, and your board responding to every shift in your weight. It’s not just about speed; it’s about style, finesse, and the art of the slide.

Freeride is a story told in every curve, every hairpin turn, and every perfectly executed slide. It’s a symphony of heart-pounding excitement and calculated movements, where each slide leaves a mark on the pavement, and every ride tells a tale of daring escapades.

Downhill: Defying Gravity at Breakneck Speeds

Downhill longboarding is the epitome of speed, courage, and the pursuit of the ultimate rush. Imagine hurtling down a mountain road, the world a blur of colors, and the wind a fierce competitor.

Downhill is not just a sport; it’s a dance with gravity itself.

It’s about defying the laws of nature, reaching mind-boggling speeds, and maintaining nerves of steel. Picture yourself carving down steep hills, your body low to the ground, the adrenaline pumping through your veins, and the world whizzing past in a breathtaking blur. In the realm of downhill, you’re not just a rider; you’re a daredevil, defying gravity and embracing the pure magic of speed.

So, whether you’re cruising, freestyling, freeriding, or defying gravity in downhill races, each style is a unique adventure, a chapter in the exhilarating tale of longboarding.

Grab your board, hit the streets, and let the wheels of your longboard carry you into the heart-pounding world of endless possibilities!

People Also Read:

• Safety Tips While Longboarding
• Do You Want To Start Longboarding? Here Are Some Tips

The Legends, the Brands, and the Riding Spots

Legendary Riders: Heroes of the Longboarding Universe

In the heart of the longboarding universe reside the heroes, the pioneers, and the trailblazers. These legends aren’t just riders; they are the architects of the sport’s history. Take Dandoy Tongco, for instance – a name synonymous with fearlessness. His daring maneuvers and fearless spirit echo in the hearts of every aspiring rider. Then there’s Amanda Powell, whose style is not just a statement; it’s an art form. Her grace on the board is a testament to the elegance that longboarding embodies. These legendary riders aren’t just inspiration; they are the embodiment of what it means to live and breathe the stoke.

Top Longboard Brands: Where Quality Meets Performance

When it comes to crafting longboards, some names resonate louder than others, like the melodic chords of a favorite song. Loaded Boards – where innovation meets artistry. Each board is a masterpiece, carefully sculpted to redefine the boundaries of what a smooth ride truly means. Then there’s Sector 9, a brand that doesn’t just make boards; it engineers experiences. Every curve, every contour is designed with precision, offering riders an unparalleled journey. And of course, there’s Landyachtz, where tradition meets innovation. Their boards are a fusion of time-tested craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, ensuring that every ride is a symphony of performance and durability.

Hidden Gems: Discovering the Coolest Riding Locations

What’s a longboarding adventure without the perfect stage? The world is adorned with hidden gems, waiting to be explored by the wheels of your longboard. Imagine cruising down the scenic hills of San Francisco, the cityscape unfolding like a breathtaking painting. Or picture yourself on the winding roads of Switzerland, where every turn is a new adventure, and every slope is a challenge waiting to be conquered. Then there are the bustling streets of Tokyo, where the juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern energy creates a tapestry of experiences. These locations aren’t just spots; they are portals to a world of endless exploration. Grab your board, venture forth, and uncover your very own secret paradise – because in the world of longboarding, every street is a story waiting to be written, and every ride is a chapter in the grand epic of adventure

Conclusion: Ride On, Riders!

That concludes our journey through the diverse and exciting realm of longboarding riding styles! Always bear in mind, whether you’re gracefully cruising, mastering freestyle tricks, embracing the thrill of freeriding, or defying gravity in downhill races, the essence lies in the thrill, creativity, and safety of your ride.

Gear up, step out and let your passion guide you along the way. Longboarding is not just a sport; it’s an art. The streets are your canvas, and your board is your brush – paint your story with every glide.

Your longboarding adventure awaits. Carve your path, embrace the wind, and keep the stoke alive. The world is your playground; let your wheels echo your spirit. Onward, riders! 🛹✨

Introduction: The Longboard Odyssey Begins!

Are you ready to ride the wave of excitement on your very own longboard skateboard? Picture this: gliding down the streets, wind tousling your hair, and the pavement beneath your feet becoming your canvas for adventure.

Longboarding has taken the world by storm, with a huge increase in enthusiasts over the past year alone! But hold on, finding the perfect longboard skateboard amidst the sea of choices can be overwhelming, right? Fret not! Welcome to Longboards guide, your haven for all things longboarding.

Whether you’re a newbie eager to embark on this thrilling journey or a seasoned rider seeking an upgrade, we’ve got you covered. Our expert-curated guide offers invaluable insights, ensuring you make an informed choice. Join the growing community of longboard enthusiasts who have discovered their passion with us.

Get ready to roll with confidence and style – your dream longboard awaits! Embrace the thrill, find your perfect match, and let the adventures begin! Longboards is your ticket to longboard skateboarding paradise!

Why Longboards?

1. Versatility: Tailored to Diverse Riding Styles and Terrains

Longboards are incredibly versatile, catering to a wide array of riding styles such as cruising, downhill racing, freestyle, and carving. This adaptability ensures that riders of all preferences and skill levels find a suitable match.

Moreover, longboards are designed to handle various terrains, from smooth city pavements to challenging downhill slopes, making them the go-to choice for riders seeking diversity in their experiences.

2. Stability: Wider Decks and Lower Center of Gravity

One of the defining features of longboards is their wider decks, providing a larger platform for riders to stand on. This extra width significantly enhances stability, crucial for beginners learning to balance and for experienced riders tackling high speeds or intricate maneuvers.

Coupled with a lower center of gravity, longboards offer unmatched stability, reducing the likelihood of accidents and boosting riders’ confidence on the board.

3. Smooth Ride: Larger, Softer Wheels for Optimal Comfort

Longboards are equipped with larger and softer wheels compared to traditional skateboards. These wheels glide effortlessly over rough or uneven surfaces, absorbing shocks and vibrations.

This design ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, making longboards the preferred choice for those who wish to enjoy cruising without the discomfort of jolts and bumps commonly experienced on smaller-wheeled skateboards.

RELATED: Do You Want To Start Longboarding? Here Are Some Tips

4. Maneuverability: Agile and Easy Steering for Tricks and Carving

Longboards excel in maneuverability, allowing riders to execute sharp turns, intricate tricks, and stylish carving techniques. The combination of flexible decks and responsive trucks enables riders to make swift, controlled movements, enhancing their overall riding experience.

This agility not only enhances the thrill of the ride but also opens up avenues for creative expression, encouraging riders to push their boundaries and develop new skills.

5. Fitness Benefits: A Full-Body Workout Enhancing Balance and Coordination

Engaging in longboarding offers more than just recreational fun; it provides a comprehensive full-body workout. The constant balancing act strengthens core muscles, improves coordination, and hones reflexes.

Longboarding regularly contributes to enhanced cardiovascular health, promoting endurance and stamina. As a result, it’s not just a hobby but a physically beneficial activity that supports overall fitness and well-being.

6. Eco-Friendly Transportation: Promoting Sustainable Living

In an age where environmental consciousness is paramount, longboarding stands out as an eco-friendly mode of transportation. With zero emissions and minimal environmental impact, longboarding contributes positively to the environment.

As more people opt for sustainable alternatives, longboards have gained popularity as a green means of commuting, reducing the carbon footprint associated with traditional transportation methods.

7. Community and Social Connections: Thriving Global Longboarding Network

The longboarding community is vibrant and inclusive, uniting enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Events, competitions, and online forums bring this community together, fostering friendships and connections among riders worldwide.

This sense of belonging enhances the overall longboarding experience, transforming it into a social activity that transcends geographical boundaries.

8. Creative Expression: Freedom to Explore Tricks, Styles, and Artistry

Longboarding isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s a canvas for creative expression. Riders experiment with various tricks, stances, and styles, adding an artistic dimension to their rides.

Whether it’s mastering complex slides, perfecting dance moves on the board, or customizing deck designs, longboarding encourages creativity, enabling riders to express their unique personalities and skills through their chosen style of riding.

9. Adventure and Exploration: Perfect for Discovering New Places

Longboards serve as the ideal companions for adventurers and explorers. With the ability to cover significant distances comfortably, riders can embark on thrilling journeys through urban landscapes, scenic trails, and picturesque routes.

Exploring new places on a longboard allows riders to experience the joy of discovery, making each ride an exciting adventure filled with new sights, sounds, and experiences.

10. Fun and Enjoyment: Delivering Exhilarating Recreational Experiences

Ultimately, the essence of longboarding lies in the sheer joy and fun it offers. It provides a sense of freedom, excitement, and exhilaration that few activities can match. Whether cruising along the beach at sunset, challenging downhill slopes, or perfecting intricate dance moves, longboarding delivers a unique and unforgettable recreational experience.

The sheer pleasure of riding is what makes longboards a favorite pastime for countless individuals, drawing them into the world of endless enjoyment and excitement.

Also Read: Here’s How To Properly Remove Grip Tape From Longboards

Choosing the Perfect Longboard: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Your Riding Style:

• Cruising: Ideal for relaxed rides and commuting.
• Downhill: Built for speed demons who crave adrenaline rushes.
• Freestyle: Perfect for performing tricks and stunts.
• Carving: Designed for smooth, surf-like maneuvers.

2. Consider Board Shape and Size:

• Pintail: Classic shape, great for beginners and cruising.
• Drop-Through: Offers stability and is excellent for downhill riding.
• Kicktail: Perfect for tricks and maneuvers, favored by freestyle riders.

3. Wheel Durometer and Size:

• Durometer: Softer wheels for grip, harder wheels for sliding. Choose based on your riding style.
• Size: Larger wheels for speed, smaller wheels for maneuverability.

4. Truck Configuration:

• Standard Trucks: Suitable for most riding styles.
• Reverse Kingpin Trucks: Provide stability, ideal for downhill and carving.

Gear Up and Ride On!

Conclusion: Embrace the Longboard Lifestyle

In the world of recreation, longboarding offers more than just a ride; it’s a lifestyle defined by adventure, creativity, and camaraderie. Choosing a longboard means choosing versatility, stability, and the joy of exploration. It’s not just a sport; it’s a way to express yourself, connect with a global community, and enjoy the thrill of every ride.

So, gear up, hop on your board, and dive into the world of longboarding. Embrace the freedom, fitness, and fun it offers. With every push, you’re not just riding; you’re embracing a lifestyle that celebrates the pure essence of living in the moment. Happy riding! 🛹✨

Longboarding is a great way to get around town, stay fit and have fun. It’s also an exciting sport that can provide hours of entertainment for all ages. However, like any other activity, you should also know how to properly care for the equipment you use. In this case, you should know how to take good care of your longboard.

Longboarding has a risk of getting yourself injured. There is also a risk of damaging your longboard especially if you tend to do tricks or if you live on the edge and prefer fast speeds. Along with the natural wear and tear that the board can receive, it can also get damaged severely if it is not properly cared for. To make sure that your longboard stays in optimum condition, here are some tips for taking care of it:

Clean and moisturize your deck regularly

The first step of cleaning your longboard is to wipe down the surface with a soft cloth or brush. This will help remove dirt, debris, and any moisture that may have accumulated on the board. Once this has been done, you’ll want to apply a light layer of lubricant over the entire deck. This will not only help keep your board looking like new but also protect the wood from wear and tear over time.

Moreover, it’s important to periodically check your trucks and wheels for any dirt buildup or debris that might be stuck between them. If there is anything stuck in these areas, use a small brush or cloth to remove it before re-oiling them with a quality lubricant. Doing so will help avoid any squeaking noises from occurring when riding your longboard and ensure that it runs smoothly as well as safely.

Check and Tighten All Screws

Your longboard should have all its screws tightened at all times. It’s important to check them regularly because they can become loose with usage. If you find any screws to be loose, use a screwdriver to tighten them before riding again. This will help keep your board safe and secure for better performance.

Replace Your Bushings When Needed

Bushings are important components of longboards that provide cushioning so that the rider can have a smooth ride. It is important to check these regularly as they may need replacing if they are worn out or damaged from heavy use.

Lubricate Bearings Regularly

The bearings on your longboard should also be lubricated regularly in order to ensure smooth rolling over surfaces. Clean the bearings thoroughly with alcohol and then add some oil or grease. This will help improve the performance of your longboard and will also help it last longer.

Store It in the Right Place

It’s important to store your longboard safely when not in use. Avoid leaving it out in direct sunlight or damp places as these can damage its surface and affect its performance. Make sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from harsh weather conditions such as rain or snow.

These are some basic tips for taking care of your longboard so that you can enjoy a smooth ride for many years to come. Always keep an eye on the condition of your board, clean and lubricate regularly, and replace any worn-out parts when needed. With proper care, you’ll be able to enjoy your longboarding experience

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you want to learn how to skateboard. And that’s great – skateboarding is an incredibly fun and rewarding activity. You can do it for leisure or for joining the Olympics. But like anything else, it takes time and practice to get good at it. In this guide, we’ll teach you the basics of skateboarding, from stance and balance to turning and stopping. We’ll also cover some of the most common tricks you can do with skateboarding. So let’s get started!

Skateboarding: What Is It?

Skateboarding is both a sport and a recreational activity that makes use of a skateboard for riding or performing tricks. This sport can be traced way back to the early 1940s. It was the surfers of California that got this idea to attach roller skates to pieces of wood and ride them around the streets and sidewalks. This was originally done to pass the time when the waves were flat.

As skateboarding became more popular, manufacturers began producing purpose-built skateboards, and the sport quickly evolved. Today, there are different types of skateboards for different styles of skating, and intricate tricks can be performed on both street and vert (ramp) skateboards.

How do you ride a skateboard?

The first step to riding a skateboard is to find your stance – that is, how you position your feet on the board. There are two main stances: regular and goofy. Your stance depends on which foot you feel most comfortable leading with. If you’re not sure, try pushing off with each foot and see which one feels better. Once you’ve found your stance, place your feet like this:

Regular stance: the front of the board is where your left foot is while the right foot is near the back

Goofy stance: the front of the board is where you place your right foot while the left foot can be found towards the back.

Once you’ve found your stance, position your feet so that they’re parallel to each other and about shoulder-width apart. Then, bend your knees slightly and lean forward from your ankles, keeping your back straight. This is your basic skateboarding stance. From here, you can start pushing off and riding around.

How do you stop?

To stop on a skateboard, you need to use your footbrake. The footbrake is simply the act of dragging your foot on the ground to slow down or stop. To do this, extend your leg behind you and drag your toe on the ground. The more pressure you apply, the faster you’ll stop. You can also use your footbrake to make quick turns by dragging your foot to the side.

How do you turn?

To turn on a skateboard, you need to use your front foot to push off in the direction you want to go. For example, if you want to turn left, push off with your left foot. The harder you push, the sharper the turn will be. You can also use your back foot to brake and make smaller adjustments in your direction of travel.

Practice these basic moves in an open area until you feel comfortable with them. Then, you can start skating around and exploring! As you get more confident, you can start trying different tricks. Just remember to practice safety first – always wear a helmet and pads when skateboarding.

Types Of Skateboarding Tricks

Ollie

The ollie is the most fundamental of all the skateboarding tricks – and once you learn it, you can start doing all sorts of other tricks. An ollie is a skateboarding trick that involves jumping off the ground and landing back on the board with both feet.

To do an ollie, start by rolling forward on your board until you have enough speed to jump. Then, your front foot should be placed on the tail while the back foot rests near the middle. Prepare to jump by bending your knees then jump into the air with your backfoot supporting the jump by using it to push off the ground. As you jump, snap your legs up. This helps you land your feet land on the deck of the board. Once you land, immediately bend your knees again and prepare for another jump.

Kickflip

This is a trick that would involve having to flip the board 360 degrees while you are in the air as you jump. To do this, start by rolling forward on your board and jumping into the air. As you jump, place your front foot near the center of the board and your back foot on the tail. Flick your back foot up and out to the side, using your ankle to snap the board around. The board should spin 360 degrees in the air before you land back on it with both feet.

Frontside Air

The frontside air is a skateboarding trick that involves jumping off the ground and spinning the board around in the air so that it lands in front of you.

To do this is similar to the steps of doing a kickflip. The only difference is that the board should spin 180 degrees in the air before you land on it with your feet.

Backside Air

The backside air is a skateboarding trick that involves jumping off the ground and spinning the board around in the air so that it lands behind you. A backside air is the same trick as the frontside air but performed in the opposite direction.

360 Flip

The 360 flip is a trick that involves flipping the board 360 degrees in the air while you jump. A 360 flip is the same trick as a kickflip but is performed in the opposite direction.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to skateboarding tricks. Once you master the basic moves, you can start combining them to create your own unique tricks. With practice, you’ll be able to perform any trick you can imagine. So get out there and start skating!

There are many ways how you can enjoy your longboard. You can ride them in various ways, downhill longboarding is greatly popular among those who love adrenaline. Those who simply want to do their own thing love freestyle longboarding too. Then, there’s also cruising longboarding. It is a great way to get around the town. Here are some of the things you have to know about cruising longboarding

What Is Cruising Longboarding?

Simply put, cruising longboarding is using a longboard to get from one place to another. It is that simple. You can cruise around your neighborhood or even to work or school. It is a convenient way of commuting as you do not have to deal with traffic. Moreover, it is also eco-friendly as you are not using any gas or emission.

Is Cruising Longboarding Safe?

As with any other activity, there are certain risks involved in cruising longboarding. You can get injured if you fall off your board. However, this risk can be minimized by wearing the proper safety gear. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and to know how to control your board. With that said, cruising longboarding is actually a safe activity as long as you take the necessary precautions.

What Are the Benefits of Cruising Longboarding?

There are many benefits of cruising longboarding. First, it is a great way to exercise. You use your legs to push the board forward, which helps tone your leg muscles. Second, it is eco-friendly. As mentioned earlier, you do not use any gas or emission when you cruise around on your longboard. Third, it is convenient. You do not have to deal with traffic when you commute on your longboard. Lastly, it is fun! Cruising around on your longboard is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

How to Start Cruising Longboarding?

If you are new to cruising longboarding, there are a few things you need to know before you start. First, you need to choose the right board. There are many different types of longboards available in the market. You need to find one that suits your riding style and skill level. Second, you need to get the proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, elbow and knee pads, and gloves. Third, you need to learn how to control your board. This includes learning how to stop and turn. Lastly, you need to be aware of your surroundings. This means knowing where you can and cannot ride your longboard.

Common Cruising Styles

Cruising is a great way to enjoy your longboard. There can also be different styles of cruising that you can do to further enjoy your ride. They include boardwalk cruising, urban cruising, long-distance cruising and flat ground carving.

Longboarding can be a fun and exhilarating experience, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. In this article, we will go over the basics-how to stand on the board, how to push off, and how to turn. We will also discuss some common mistakes that people make when learning to longboard, and provide tips for avoiding them.

Standing on the Board

The first thing you need to do is get on the board. You might think that this is easy, but there is a right and a wrong way to do it. If you’re not careful, you can easily lose your balance and fall off.

When you’re ready to get on the board, place one foot in the middle of the deck and gently lower yourself down. Once your foot is firmly planted, bring your other foot up and place it next to the first one. You should be in a comfortable stance with your feet about shoulder-width apart.

Now that you’re on the board, it’s time to learn how to balance. The key is to keep your weight evenly distributed between your two feet. Try to shift your weight from one foot to the other until you find a comfortable position.

If you start to feel like you’re going to fall, just put one foot down and steady yourself until you regain your balance.

Pushing Off

When you’re starting out on a longboard, one of the most important skills to learn is how to push off. Pushing off correctly will help you get moving faster and make it easier to keep your balance. Here are some tips for how to push off on a longboard:

1. Make sure your feet are in the correct position. Your front foot should be in the middle of the board, and your back foot should be at the back of the board.

2. Lean slightly forward as you push off. This will help you get moving faster.

3. Keep your back straight and use your arms for balance.

4. Keep your head up and look ahead as you ride.

Turning

Learning how to turn on a longboard can be tricky, but it’s definitely worth it once you get the hang of it. Here are a few tips for turning your longboard:

1. When you want to turn, shift your weight to the side that you want to turn towards. For example, if you want to turn to the right, shift your weight to the right side of the board.

2. Use your feet to help you turn. For example, if you’re trying to turn to the right, push your left foot down and drag it along the ground. This will help you make a smooth turn.

3. Keep your head up and look ahead as you ride. This will help you stay balanced and avoid accidents.

4. Practice turning in a safe area until you feel comfortable doing it on a busy street.

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes people make when learning to longboard is not paying attention to their surroundings. It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings, especially when you’re riding in a busy area. Make sure to keep your head up and look ahead so that you can see what’s coming and react accordingly.

Another common mistake is not using the right equipment. Longboarding requires a certain amount of skill, and using the wrong equipment can make it more difficult to learn how to longboard. Make sure you have a good quality board and safety gear before you start riding.

Finally, many people try to go too fast too soon. Longboarding can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing. Start out slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable with the board.

With these tips, you should be well on your way to learning how to longboard. Just remember to start slow, be aware of your surroundings, and use the right equipment. Just practice as much as you can and also take note of our tips on avoiding a wheelbite for a smoother ride.

Some people like to call longboarding “the new skateboarding” because it has taken off in popularity over the last decade. However, as with any sport, there are risks that come along with it. The most important thing you can do is to stay safe and remember to take precautions when longboarding. Here are some tips on how to make sure you have a fun and safe experience while longboarding.

Wear Proper Safety Gear

One of the most important things you can do to stay safe while longboarding is to wear proper safety gear. This includes a helmet, elbow and knee pads, and wrist guards.

A helmet is essential in protecting your head in case of a fall. Elbow and knee pads will help cushion your joints if you take a tumble, and wrist guards will support your wrists in the event of a fall.

Whether you are a beginner or experienced in longboarding, you should still not skip on wearing the proper safety gear while longboarding. Some people say they don’t wear them because they are uncomfortable. However, there are many different brands and products that are already available. Manufacturers are making adjustments and tapering their design to ensure safety plus make sure that their products are comfortable to use too.

Choose the Right Board

When you are first starting out, it is important to choose a board that is the right size for you. A board that is too small will be difficult to control, and a board that is too large will be unwieldy. In general, a good rule of thumb is to choose a board that is about the same length as your height.

As you become more experienced, you can experiment with different sizes and shapes of boards to find what suits your riding style best.

Be Considerate of Others

When longboarding, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and be considerate of others. This means being aware of pedestrians and other traffic when you are riding.

Some people choose to longboard in skate parks where there are other skateboarders and BMX riders. If this is the case, be sure to follow the rules of the park and yield to those who have the right of way.

Be Respectful of Private Property

Longboarding is a great way to get around, but it is important to be respectful of private property. This means not riding on sidewalks or in areas where skateboarding is not allowed.

If you are caught skating in a place where it is not allowed, you could be fined or asked to leave. In some cases, your longboard could even be confiscated. Follow the rules and only skate in places where it is permitted to do so.

Practice Good Longboarding Etiquette

Just like with any sport, there is a certain etiquette that should be followed when longboarding. This includes being aware of your surroundings, being considerate of others, and following the rules of the road.

By following good longboarding etiquette, you can help make sure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience while longboarding.

The longboard is one of the best ways to get around quickly. It’s also a lot of fun! There are many different types of boards and you must know which kind suits you. You might want something fast, or something tough enough to handle a gnarly downhill run – there’s a board for everyone out there! In the previous article, we mentioned some of the different types of longboards. Today, we bring you part 2.

Longboard Skateboard

You can see that board’s design is like a skateboard but bigger. It also has soft wheels and wide decks to provide more stability.

Mini Cruiser Skateboards

Mini cruisers are smaller versions of traditional longboards – usually between 22” and 28” long. They are designed for shorter rides and tricks, allowing the rider to control the board easily without having too much deck in his way.

Shorter boards can be ridden by kids or petite adults who may not have enough balance to ride standard-sized boards. Plus, they are easier to carry around when you’re on foot!

Blunt Longboards

Blunt boards are made for cruising, carving, and downhill. They’re usually symmetrical (not like the “Popsicle” longboard), making them great for freeriding.

They have no or almost no kicktails, allowing riders to ride it forward or backward with absolutely no difference.

Longboards with small kicks tend to be more suitable for beginners as they are easier to control than those with larger kicks.

Cutout Longboard

Cutout boards are a unique type of longboard made from one piece of material. They have cutouts that give them a very unique look, making them stand out from other types.

These boards usually have wheel wells, allowing riders to utilize every possible wheelbase option while riding. Because they’re made from one piece of board, the strength is increased.

Longboards with wheel wells are great for freeriding or downhill. They’re sturdier than standard-shaped boards and they’ll last you longer, which is why they can be more expensive than traditional cutout boards.

Dropdown Longboards

Dropdown longboards are a variation of dropthrough boards. They have holes on the deck that allow trucks to be mounted in a “dropped down” orientation.

This is great for downhill as it allows you to lower the board and make it more stable for fast riding.

Topmount Longboards

Topmount longboards have a very similar shape to dropthrough boards, with the difference being that you mount them on top of the trucks as opposed to underneath.

As such, they’re very stable and suitable for downhill. They also look great! Because it’s mounted above the truck rather than between it and the deck, there is no wheelbite.

The only downside is that you’re limited to wheelbases of 48” and shorter, but this is usually no problem for most people.

Double Drop Longboards

Double drop longboards are boards with two levels – the lower level is where you mount your trucks, while the upper one is where you stand. These types of boards are designed for downhill riding and typically have wheel wells to allow riders to adjust their wheelbase.

Another awesome feature of double drop longboards is that it allows you to lean all the way forwards, which will allow you to take very sharp turns. Just make sure that you have a big enough hill to ride down!

Electric Longboards

Electric longboards are powered by an electric motor (or motors) built into the wheels. Just like with regular electric skateboards, these boards can be used for cruising or doing tricks.

One thing to note is that they’re much heavier than traditional models – this is because of the battery and other components in the board that you need to control.

Electric longboards are great for riders who want to go fast but don’t quite feel like riding a skateboard. It can also act as an alternative commuting method if you live in the city (just plug it into your car).

Rail Riding Longboard

Riding rail or sliding is another one of those tricks that are done mostly for fun. Some riders may choose to ride rails on regular longboards, but it’s much easier when you have a board with a kicktail.

These boards are made from one piece of material and they have very sharp kicks at both ends, allowing the rider to ride on them in either direction.

Final Words

To conclude this article, we hope that now you can identify the different types of longboards out there. We hope that this article has helped you learn a little more about longboard types and that you know a little bit more about what a specific type is meant for.

How many weeks, months or years have you been using your longboard? You may be feeling a bit more confident to use it now since you’ve been practicing. Do you do tricks now or slides?

Before you enjoy another day of using your longboard, take a minute to look closely at it right now. Is it still in decent shape or is it starting to wear off? Is the grip tape still okay to use or do you think it’s kind of too dirty now?

Don’t worry, you can certainly replace the grip tape with a new one. Some people even replace the grip tape even when it isn’t worn out yet. They just do it to get a thicker one or just because they want a change in the design. 

Nonetheless, the first step in replacing your grip tape is removing it. When removing the grip tape, here are the essential steps to follow:

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools And Remove The Trucks

If you want to remove the grip tape efficiently, you need to make use of tools. Removing it with just your bare hands if it is already peeling off on its own. However, most of the time, you need tools to help you. For this you will need the following:

• Skate tools
• Blow dryer
• Box cutter

The skate tools are those that you would use to take off the trucks. The blow dryer produces heat that will help lessen the grip of the adhesive. Lastly, you also need a box cutter to help you pry off the grip tape. 

Although you can remove the grip tape without removing your trucks, it would be much easier if you did. Don’t be afraid because removing the trucks is easy. Besides, you need to know how to remove them so you can clean them properly and avoid squeaky trucks.

You just have to use your skate tool or a socket wrench to hold the nut. Then, use your screwdriver to unscrew the bolts. There are 4 screws in total that you need to remove. After that, you’ll be able to separate the trucks from your longboard. 

Step 2: Use The Blow Dryer To Heat-up The Grip Tape

Use your blow dryer to heat up the grip tape all over the deck. You should use the heat setting on your blow dryer instead of the cool setting. You can also use a heat gun if you happen to have one. 

A minute or two of heat over the grip tape will do. Then heat up one of the edges where you’d like to start peeling off the grip tape. With the heat, the adhesive used will slightly loose it’s grip so you can easily lift off from the edges.

Step 3: Use The Box Cutter To Peel The Edges

With a box cutter, you can start peeling off from the edge. It would be best to still apply heat and focus it on the edge as you use the box cutter. The blade gets in between your deck and the grip tape. 

Once you’ve managed to lift off some of the grip tape from the edges, place the blower on the side to heat up the underside of the grip tape. In this manner, the heat has better access to the adhesive to loosen it further. 

When using the box cutter or any other blade to start peeling from the edges, make sure that it doesn’t scratch your deck. Make sure that when using the blade, you’re only cutting through the adhesive. Take note of the angle of the blade so you don’t accidentally scratch your deck.

Don’t rush this process. Do it gradually until you get a decent piece of grip tape peeled off. The more you rush the process, the more likely you’ll scratch your deck.

Step 4: Peel The Grip Tape Off Using Your Hands

Once there is enough space for your hands to grip the tape, stop using the box cutter. Instead, just use your hands to gently pull off the grip tape. You can ask someone to hold the deck down or you can use your foot to keep the deck down as you peel the grip tape off. 

It can be tempting to hastily rip off the grip tape but you should slow down once you reach the areas near the truck mount holes. It is possible for the tape to be caught in the holes. If you pull too fast, it can tear. 

Use heat again on the other edges if you feel that the grip tape is going to tear apart as you pull it. Do it slowly so that you peel it out in one piece. Many peel off the grip tape half-way then start with the other edge again to peel off the rest. 

Step 5: Gently Scrape Off Leftover Grip Tape

Sometimes, you can peel off the grip tape entirely without having tears. However, there are times when the grip tape tears especially at the sides or center. 

When there is leftover grip tape, you can use your box cutter again to gently scrape it off. Be careful and do it slowly. You can also use the blow dryer again on those areas to loosen the adhesive.

Step 6: Tape Residue Removal

Wouldn’t it be great if you peel off the grip tape without any leftover goo or adhesive on the deck? Sometimes that happens but there are also times that there is tape residue left behind. 

To remove it all you need to do is to use a WD-40 on a piece of terry cloth. Wipe this on the tape residue to remove it without damaging the design of your deck. Once the residue is completely removed, you are now ready to replace the grip tape. 

The Summer Olympics just ended and congratulations to all the winners and participants. Among those that are making some noise about the Olympics is the inclusion of skateboarding as one of the sports in the competition.

Japan dominated in the sport with 3 golds this year. However, this is just the beginning of the skateboarding presence. We’ll definitely see more countries upping their game in the coming years. This sport isn’t just for men, there are lots of great women skateboarders too.

It’s a great feeling to see that we move with the times and we embrace changes. Who would have thought that skateboarding could be part of the Olympics? Some people might even think that skateboarding would never be part of it because of its reputation and rebellious nature. 

The Rebellious Nature

Skateboarding has always been linked to the rebellious. It is a way to express oneself in movements. Proving your skills, doing unbelievable stuff, and just making your statement.

Other sports will usually have strict regulations and rules. Scoring is highly important and there are limits such as where it is supposed to be played. 

Skateboarding is quite the opposite. It isn’t score based and skaters are free to skate wherever. They are also encouraged to do what they want and improvise to show their creativity. On the flip side, It’s also about camaraderie so maybe it isn’t so surprising that it became part of the Olympics after all. 

Going Mainstream

The early years of skateboarding meant that it’s a hobby you do. As a professional, you don’t earn a lot from it. However, in the ’90s the first X-Games was started by ESPN. There are eight “extreme” sports in the games and skateboarding was one of them.

With the X-Games, huge brands like Nike, Mountain Dew, and AT&T sponsored them. However, the professional skater still struggled to make their ends meet. 

World Skate is an IOC-recognized federation that is a merger between the International Roller Sports Federation and the International Skateboarding Federation. That has made it possible for skateboarding to be present in the recent 2021 games. 

Mixed Opinions

Way back in 2016, the IOC announced that skateboarding was going to be included in the prestigious event. Mixed opinions by the professional skateboarders were inevitable. Some loved the idea and were ultimately excited while others didn’t think skateboarding would fit. 

Many skaters don’t look into skateboarding as a mere competition. It is an expression of oneself and different skaters have different ways to do that. It is believed that it is immeasurable. So you just can’t have a winner for being the longest, highest or furthest. 

However, there are still other skaters that embrace the opportunity. For them, the Olympics is a great platform for the sport to be more recognized and expanded further. 

Riding longboards isn’t the same for all. Do you like to flip your longboard and do various spinning tricks on it? That’s all part of freestyle longboarding. Doing tricks seems very challenging as it doesn’t only require balance but full control over your board and body. You also get to do these tricks anywhere and even on skateboard parks.

If you’re up for the challenge but are just starting on your freestyle longboarding journey, here are a few things to keep in mind. Plus, we’ll also talk about 3 of the easiest freestyle longboarding tricks you practice. 

A Combination Of Fitness And Skills

While watching longboarders, you can simply be amazed at what things they are capable of doing. Those tricks might seem simple but they require practice. Thanks to a freestyler’s fit body and skillfulness they are able to do the tricks flawlessly. 

Freestyle longboarding can be considered one of the most calorie-burning styles of longboarding. With it, you use agility, body control, and balance in doing various and sometimes extreme postures while riding, jumping, and flipping the board. That sounds like a superhuman riding a longboard but you can be one too with practice and determination. 

Some people argue that freestyle longboarding is safer as compared to downhill longboarding. There may be some truth to that because you’re not going to ride at top speeds but freestyle longboarding can still be rough on the body especially on high-impact areas.

Imagine if miscalculating your trick jump and landing on your ankles, elbow, and other joints. Sometimes you might also get a sprain. It’s still a hardcore sport even if you’re not going down the hill. 

For New and Old Shredders

Younger adults and teenagers are quite fearless. That’s probably the reason why you’d also want to take the challenge of freestyle longboarding. Additionally, they also have high agility and ligament strength as compared to older longboard riders. 

However, that’s not to say that you can’t go freestyle longboarding when you’re not a teenager anymore. Many adults still love freestyle longboarding. However, it is best to stretch your body before getting into it so you don’t end up hurting yourself. 

Start With The Easiest Freestyle Techniques 

It’s understandable that you’d want to impress with your longboarding skills but as a beginner, it is best to start with the easiest. After all, most of the trickiest techniques are actually combinations of the easiest ones. Some are also just several notches higher than the easiest once. 

The easiest tricks to learn are actually the ones that appear flowy and sliding. It usually involves weight-shifting skills and they really look elegant. Part of freestyle longboarding also includes longboard dancing. This is done when you ride on the flat ground but do various foot tricks and artsy movements. There’s a lot of turning, twisting or cross-stepping done in this technique. 

Easy Non-Dancing Freestyle Longboarding Tricks

If you’re not into the dancing type of freestyle longboarding. You can focus on practicing these few tricks. 

Nose Manual

The nose manual trick is a balancing trick. You can try this if you are already capable of standing on your longboard while cruising. With this trick, you ride on the front wheels while lifting the back wheels off the ground. To do this trick, you start by moving your front foot towards the nose then slightly shift your weight onto that foot. 

With this trick, you are learning to use your shoulders and hips and tip them forward to tip your board to the front without toppling over. Practice is key to this trick. 

Pivot

With the trick pivot, you’d combine a nose manual with a 180 degree spin. With this trick, you’ll start with your normal riding stance then move your front foot to the nose of the board. Your rear foot should also move towards the center of the board. 

Then, you shift your weight to the front foot to get the rear wheels off the ground. At the same time, you also use your shoulders and hips to rotate on your front foot. If done right, you’d swing the board with your back foot and successfully do a half turn. 

Shuvit

The shuvit is the most complicated of the three. With this trick, you switch stance once you’ve spun the board at 180 degrees. With this trick, you’d be ending up riding in your natural stance as compared to a reverse when you’ve done the pivot. 

For this, you start off with a normal stance then put some weight into the nose. Then you spin the board on its front wheels then swing your other foot to the front. With this, you can consider yourself doing a semi-jump so you can flip yourself around in your regular stance. 

Oh, the wheelbite, one of the longboard’s worst enemies! Imagine happily cruisin’ on your longboard or feeling the wind while your downhill longboarding, then you’re wheel lockup, screech, and before you know it, you’ve crashed.

It’s like the Grinch who steals happiness from longboarding, forever in the back of your mind. But hey – you don’t let a wheelbite ruin your fun!

There are tried-and-true ways to avoid it. But first let’s define what exactly wheelbite is.

Longboarding isn’t only a sport that is well-loved by guys. There are lots of girls who love them too. I can see the increase in girls who are interested in and doing well in it.

However, a quite observant as I am, there are few things that I’d just have to voice out. These are simply my views and I don’t want to start any debate about it. You don’t have to do them but I hope some would take value from them.

As you’re probably already aware bombing a hill isn’t exactly a walk-in the-park.

In fact, it’s downright dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

Aside from helmets and a butt-load of experience, there are other precautions you can take to ensure your safety on your next downhill run.

First and foremost, and I don’t care how much experience you have, you should def keep yourself FULLY with the myriad of different pads made specifically for the different areas of the body…

When you mention “longboard” to a skateboarder, chances are each one has a different idea of what a longboard skateboard actually is. The confusion is understandable, since there are many different types, shapes, and configurations. This makes it much easier to customize the longboard for each rider. With the different types, riders will better achieve what they want their longboards to do. 

People use longboards for different reasons. Some love the thrill of riding downhill, some want to do different tricks on them, while others simply want to easily commute with them. No matter what the reason is, there is a longboard out there perfect for the function it is used for. 

Longboards work well and can be kept in their best shape if you do regular maintenance. Sometimes, you might pass a cleaning or maintenance schedule just because it feels a lot of work. The more you do that, the more likely you’ll develop problems with your longboard and you don’t want that.

It can be dangerous and risky to have problems with the equipment you use for a high-speed sport.

Riding a board with wheels doesn’t necessarily mean it’s skateboarding. Most people will identify a board with wheels as a skateboard. However, if you look a little deeper into them, you’ll soon figure out that there are different types of boards out there. And these boards are created for a variety of reasons. They type of board you use will affect the riding experience you achieve.

Those who are new to the sport might have come across the longboard. The dilemma now is whether to use a longboard or a standard skateboard. Before you make your final decision, here are some essential information about the longboard and standard skateboard that you should know.

In our previous post, we talked about the necessary gear we recommend you get in order to safely and successfully attempt your first run down a paved hill .

Today, we’ll continue and discuss the basic skills and techniques you’ll be using for downhill longboarding.

Longboarding is an adrenaline-filled adventure and with that comes risks. Moving at fast speeds feels amazing but can be dangerous too that’s why safety gears are needed. The most important of which is a helmet.

One of the most common questions of a beginner longboarder is which helmet is the best to use? Let us help you answer that by looking into the longboard helmets available today.

Skating is fun. Cleaning and maintenance is not.

Like it or not, maintaining the board and moving parts of your skateboard are what are going to allow you skate longer, faster, and safer. And unless your some pro bad-ass, your probably not getting your gear for free.

Got a thing for speed and do you live for the adrenaline rush? Did you know that you can experience experience riding at high speeds with your skateboard and a little help from gravity?

There’s a variety of ways on how you can enjoy your skateboard and one of them is downhill longboarding.

After an epic 2018 (which resulted in November of a not-so-epic broken clavical), I’m really excited to be getting back into the game. With plenty of gnarl to choose from this year I wanted to highlight the biggest East Coast events that ya’ll need to get.

Events can be a great test of your skills as a skateboarder, pitting you up against other skateboarders in a friendly competition, or get free beer and pickup chicks.  

The Grind for Life Series, Florida 

Founded in 2003, by life-long skateboarder and cancer survivor Mike Rogers, Grind For Life is on of our top destinations in February and March when the weather here in NorCar sucks waaay bad.

This article is written for the “Me” from about 15 years ago when I was first thinking about getting into the sport after see my older brother and his friends screaming down the hills of Blowing Rock, North Carolina on home-made long skateboards.

The Me of 15 years ago was a timid kid that thought that Longboarding was dangerous and “too tough”.

So, for you prospective longboarding newbies out there.  Is longboarding TOUGH?

Going for a pro scooter without any research can be a bit dangerous. Therefore it is important that you should do your proper homework before directly jumping into the matter. As a parent, if you are buying a pro scooter for your child for the first time there are some key factors to keep in mind. It is obvious that you will not go for a pretty expensive scooter right away as you want to see if even your child has a thing for a pro scooter or not. Once you have an idea that your child is really interested in pro scooting than it is time to work on his abilities.

There is quite some negativity that flows around when speaking of the skateparks, and to an extent, it also has some weight. Going to the skate park near your place in a sunny afternoon can be really intimidating, with lots of people around, on razor scooters you will find kids, the teenagers will be on their skateboards, parents will be on lattes. All of these are present at a patch of concrete that is no bigger than a size of two tennis courts. But this intimidation of yours can soon fade away when you see a kid falling down on that concrete patch upon collision with a skateboarder and making it in the headlines next day.

Skateboarding isn’t just another park activity, as it’s now considered as the hottest sport worldwide. Riding a skateboard is no joke as it takes a lot of practice just to grip the basic handling.

Since the start of this exciting yet dangerous sport, many women skateboarders have shocked the fanatics as they have raised the roof of competition.

Today we’ll list down the best women skateboarders in the world that are living the hype and making everyone go nuts.

Skateboarding needs no introduction. It is one of the most popular extreme sports, professionally played by thousands and casually practiced by the millions out there. Skateboarding is an excellent physical activity, which results in increase in attention span, boosts hand-eye coordination and lets you perform various tricks. Skateboards are seen all around the world but it is really famous in the United States. Apart from being a great sport, skateboarding also is a great cardio workout and tones the body.

It is important to keep in mind that no beginner mountaineer would try to climb K2 nor the first year medical student will be asked to perform a major heart surgery. For people looking to start skateboarding it is important to keep it slow and steady. Rather than going for the tricks, you should first master the basics. Part of becoming famous include learning the basics and always keeping that in mind. If you don’t have your basics right, no matter how hard you try, you can never be a champion skateboarder.

Some adrenaline junkies find skateboarding easier to learn and master. But some skateboarding fans might take this offensively. You think our ride is easy to learn? Yeah? Try this! Some skateboarding fanatics find longboarding funny and don’t regard it all. This is just a never-ending debate, which involves personal opinion than anything.

The fact is both skateboarding and longboarding are quiet different from each other but equally fun.

Since longboarding is relatively new than skateboarding, let’s find out what it actually is…

Some days are better than others.  There’s there was yesterday.

Let me set the scene for you:  Charlotte, North Carolina.  Slight misty rain, bored as shite, but needed to get my longboard fix on, so me and a friend head up this weekend near Parsons.  They’ve got nice and a long drive with hardly any cars.  There was only one problem.

A deer hit my freaking car!

AND I smashed my front tooth against the steering wheel so it feels numb now.  GAWD-DERMIT!

Worst part was we didn’t even get a run in.  Called for a tow, and – based on the cool name – went with Top Dogz Towing Service, who towed my geo prism from the scene of the crime (Nice guy, who happens to be a big vert skateboarder back in the day!)

Things are looking up however.  My new downhill trucks came in from Seismic Skate, so once they do, I’ll post a review.

Hey Ya’ll. Super stoked about this years 6th annual Skate the Cape in November 4th-5th.  You may be thinking that Delaware doesn’t have any good runs.  Dude, you’re wrong.  Check out the deets from our friends at Face-Plant Longboard Riders:

This event takes place in a picturesque and historic state park in Southern Delaware that has miles of paved bike paths. Riders come from all over the East Coast to have a skate getaway where they meet other riders, have a great time camping out around the bonfires, and having some fun competition among each other for 2 days full of events.  Day one features Downhill Racing, Small Wheelbase Racing, Slalom Racing and an Enduro Push Race.  Day two starts with the Boardercross Race, Hippy Jump Contest and ends with the Slide Jam.

Imagine you’re a downhill longboarder. Cool wind in your face as you start your descent down some remote peakway in Hawaii. Beautiful day, as usual. You start to lean in for your first slide, then…you’re board starts to shake like crazy… and…BAM! You do a superman onto the pavement and get your visor all scratched up on the asphalt.
What the HELL happened?!? I’ll tell you what happened: your front truck kingpin was loose as FECK!

Sound a TOO real? Well, in full disclosure: It happened to me just like that a couple years back. I skipped my standard protocol for a downhill run and forgot to check my trucks. Which brings me to the point of the article: Proper truck maintenance.

One of the most commonly asked questions by long-boarder is “which type of long board best suits your style?”. If you wish to look for an accurate answer, you can’t have the exact answer because each comes with their own particular choices and this makes you confused or stressed out. You can as well consider this question, do you want to purchase a long board that is completely made or do you want to customize your own? It is important that you know the effectiveness of every long board. This means, having to weigh your options is important in your decision making.

For you to be able to step-up your game in the long board community, choosing the right board that will tailor fit your style and needs is essential. Here are the following guidelines that can help weigh your decision making.

Need a good stress reliever?  Want to be COOL?  Need an outlet for your artistic EXPRESSION?  Did I mention the chicks?! (sorry ladies)  For the writers at Beast Coast, longboarding is our drug of choice, however like all good things in life, there are certain risks and dangers associated with the sport.  If you’ve been on a longboard for any length of time, you realize very quickly that you’re going to crash, a LOT.  The good news is:  they make stuff you can buy so you don’t hurt yourself TOO bad.

Yes, these things cost some money, and yes, you typically get what you pay for, but nobody wants to walk away from a downhill crash with brain damage, a broken leg or gnarly road rash – so in our opinion, it’s money well spent.

So with safety in mind, here are six safety items that you just can’t compromise on.

As you get into longboarding, you’ll probably notice that longboards come in all different kinds of woods and combos of woods. Every board company is trying to outdo each other nowdays, so you may even see some exotics like KOA, Oak or Indian Rosewood that look rad, but may or may not support the rigors of your style of writing.

How Important Is It?

Now before I get into specifics, I wanted to address the question we get quite a bit: “Is the type of wood on your board important” The answer IMHO is yes it is.