Beginner Guide to Longboard vs Skateboard: What to Buy
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Beginner Guide to Longboard vs Skateboard: What to Buy
Skateboarding has evolved into a dynamic and versatile sport, offering everything from casual cruising to high-energy tricks. For beginners, one of the first questions is: should I start with a longboard or a skateboard? Both options have their benefits, but understanding their differences, advantages, and intended use is crucial to making the right purchase. This beginner guide will explore longboards vs skateboards, helping you decide which one is best for your goals, style, and environment.
Understanding the Basic Differences Between Longboards and Skateboards
At first glance, longboards and skateboards may seem similar, but their design and function are quite different.
Shape and Size
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Longboards are longer, wider, and often have a more curved shape for stability. Typical lengths range from 33 to 59 inches, providing a stable platform for cruising and downhill riding.
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Skateboards are shorter, usually 28 to 33 inches, and feature a concave deck for tricks, jumps, and flips.
Wheel Size and Hardness
Longboards usually have larger, softer wheels, ideal for smooth rides over rough terrain and long distances. Skateboards have smaller, harder wheels, optimized for skateparks, ramps, and precise tricks.
Truck Design
The trucks on a longboard are wider and more flexible, allowing for easier turning and carving. Skateboard trucks are tighter, providing control for tricks and stunts but less smooth carving.
Longboards: Who Are They For and Why Choose One
Longboards are perfect for beginners looking for stability, comfort, and a relaxed riding experience.
Best Uses for Longboards
Longboards excel at:
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Cruising on streets, sidewalks, or boardwalks
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Commuting short distances
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Downhill or freeride activities
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Smooth, flowing turns
They are not ideal for performing technical tricks like ollies, kickflips, or grinds.
Advantages for Beginners
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Stability: Wider deck and larger wheels reduce wobbling.
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Smooth Ride: Soft wheels absorb bumps, perfect for rough pavement.
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Easy Learning Curve: Cruising and carving are simpler to master than tricks.
Popular Longboard Styles
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Cruiser Longboards: Compact, easy to maneuver, ideal for city rides.
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Freeride Longboards: Designed for sliding and carving downhill.
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Drop-Through Longboards: Low deck height for better balance at high speeds.
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Top-Mount Longboards: Versatile for freestyle, cruising, and downhill.
Skateboards: Who Are They For and Why Choose One
Skateboards are ideal for those interested in tricks, ramps, skateparks, or street skating.
Best Uses for Skateboards
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Performing flips, ollies, and tricks
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Riding in skateparks or halfpipes
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Street skating on rails and stairs
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Competitive skateboarding
Advantages for Beginners
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Trick-Friendly: Optimized for flips and jumps.
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Compact and Portable: Easy to carry around and store.
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Customizable: Wide range of deck designs, wheels, and trucks.
Popular Skateboard Styles
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Street Skateboards: Lightweight, standard concave for tricks.
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Park Skateboards: Durable decks and wheels for ramps and bowls.
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Old-School Skateboards: Wider, retro boards for cruising and carving.
Factors to Consider Before Buying Your First Board
Choosing between a longboard and a skateboard depends on multiple factors, including your goals, location, and personal style.
Purpose and Riding Style
Ask yourself:
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Do you want to cruise, commute, or relax? → Longboard
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Are you interested in tricks, skateparks, or technical stunts? → Skateboard
Terrain and Environment
Consider where you’ll ride most often:
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Longboards handle rough pavement, hills, and streets better.
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Skateboards perform best on smooth surfaces like skateparks and ramps.
Size and Deck Shape
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Beginners often benefit from a wider deck for stability.
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Longboards provide extra balance, while skateboards require more skill for control.
Budget Considerations
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Longboards: $100–$300 for a quality setup.
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Skateboards: $70–$200 for beginner decks and components.
Invest in quality trucks, wheels, and decks to avoid frustration and injuries.
Beginner Tips for Riding Longboards
Once you choose a longboard, mastering basic skills is key.
Learning to Stand and Balance
Start on a flat surface. Place your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight centered.
Pushing and Cruising
Use your back foot to push off the ground while keeping your front foot steady on the deck. Start slow and gradually increase speed.
Turning and Carving
Shift your weight gently toward your heels or toes to carve. Longboards excel at smooth, flowing turns.
Safety Gear for Longboard Beginners
Always wear:
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Helmet
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Wrist guards
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Knee pads
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Elbow pads
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Closed-toe shoes
Safety gear reduces the risk of injury while learning.
Beginner Tips for Riding Skateboards
Skateboarding requires balance, coordination, and patience.
Learning to Stand and Balance
Position your feet on the deck (front foot near the front bolts, back foot on the tail). Keep knees bent and your center of gravity low.
Pushing and Rolling
Push with your back foot while maintaining balance. Start slow on flat surfaces.
Basic Tricks for Beginners
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Ollie: Jump the board slightly off the ground
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Manual: Balance on two wheels while rolling
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Kickturn: Pivot the board on the back wheels
Safety Gear for Skateboard Beginners
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Helmet
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Wrist guards
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Knee pads
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Elbow pads
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Skate shoes with grip
Hybrid Boards: The Best of Both Worlds
Some beginners may prefer hybrid or crossover boards.
What Are Hybrid Boards?
Hybrid boards combine elements of longboards and skateboards:
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Medium length deck (longer than skateboard, shorter than longboard)
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Softer wheels than skateboards but smaller than longboards
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Versatile for cruising and beginner tricks
Who Should Consider a Hybrid Board
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Beginners who want to experiment with both cruising and basic tricks
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Riders in urban areas needing portability and smooth rides
How to Maintain Your Longboard or Skateboard
Proper maintenance extends the life of your board and ensures safety.
Check and Tighten Trucks Regularly
Loose trucks can affect balance. Tighten or adjust trucks to match your preference.
Clean Bearings and Wheels
Remove dirt, lubricate bearings, and rotate wheels for even wear.
Inspect Deck for Cracks
Replace decks with cracks or significant wear to prevent injuries.
Store Properly
Keep your board in a dry, cool place to prevent warping and rust.
Final Thoughts on Choosing Between a Longboard and Skateboard
Choosing the right board ultimately depends on your goals, environment, and personal preferences. Longboards offer stability, smooth rides, and a relaxing cruising experience, making them ideal for beginners seeking comfort and confidence. Skateboards provide versatility for tricks, technical stunts, and park riding, appealing to riders eager to challenge themselves. Hybrid boards can satisfy those wanting a mix of both worlds. No matter which you choose, combining the right board with proper safety gear, practice, and patience ensures a rewarding skateboarding experience for beginners and beyond.