Longboards: what are they and how to choose?

Street sports never stop developing. The equipment is constantly changing. A novelty can be considered a longboard, which by its external characteristics has much in common with the well-known skateboard. However, this is a completely different device with many distinctive features. There are many different types of boards that you can actually learn to ride on your own. In this article, we will take a closer look at a longboard and learn how to choose it correctly.

Before proceeding to a detailed acquaintance with all the features of the device, you should answer the main question: what is a longboard. This is a modern version of the well-known skateboards. These products are distinguished by the fact that they can develop an impressive speed, have increased stability, and their driving characteristics are more refined and improved.

Skateboards are gradually fading into the background, and their place is confidently taken by longboards and penny boards. The latest devices have shown themselves to be more convenient to use. Such products are presented in a huge assortment today. Each consumer can find for himself the best model that meets all his requirements.

Before purchasing a high-quality longboard, you need to familiarize yourself with all the components of its design.

The deck is the main component of the longboard. The following elements are attached to it:

• sandpaper;
• tracks;
• wheels.

Longboard decks are made from a variety of materials. They are both wooden and made of plywood sheets. Parts made from composite raw materials are often used, for example, from solid wood in combination with reinforcing fabrics or veneers. The shapes of the decks are also characterized by a great variety. Their structure directly depends on the specific model of the longboard and its design.

Flex, or elasticity, allows the deck to change geometry under static or dynamic stress at the moments when a person is rolling. Flex is different for different types of boards. It depends on the longitudinal profile of the part in question, called a concave, as well as on the raw materials of manufacture.

For example, for carving or cruising, soft options with impressive flex are more suitable for the purpose of laying and pinching the arc components. If you are looking for a specimen for descending at speed (downhill), then by the way there will be a rigid long model, characterized by the smallest flex to maintain maximum stability.

Suspensions, which are provided in the design of longboards, consist of parts such as:

• baseplate - a plate made of metal, installed in the base of the device;
• kingpin - this is the name of the bolt that holds the base and the hanger together;
• hanger - the so-called hanger with a built-in axle, on which the wheels of the longboard are fixed.

Longboard suspension can be different. The choice of a model with a specific type should be based on the discipline for which the item is being purchased. Most often, TKP traditional kingpin and RKP reversed kingpin pendants are present in longboards.

The main characteristic of the wheels that you need to pay attention to when choosing a suitable longboard is their diameter. Usually on sale there are products in which wheels with a diameter of 50 to 100 mm are installed. The rigidity of these structural components is also important. This parameter should also be selected based on the discipline for which the device is being purchased.

The specified components are installed in the inner part of the wheels in the amount of 2 pieces. In many cases, special spacers are fixed in the space between them.

Other names are "emery", "griptail". The skin is a special adhesive tape coated with abrasives. It attaches to the top of the deck discussed above. May vary based on abrasive fraction.

They can be both hard and soft. The specified parts are attached in the area that is located between the deck and the suspension of the longboard. Rigid options are used to slightly raise the deck, thus changing the running characteristics of the product. Soft elements (called "shock pads") function as vibration dampers.

Bushings are suspension elements made of polyurethane. The bushings allow the suspension to return to its original position after pivoting movements. This part also dampens vibrations. In any traditional TKP or RKP suspension, there is a pair of bushings, as well as a pivot cap - a kind of "cup" made of polyurethane, into which the "finger" of the hanger is inserted and securely fixed. It additionally accounts for the main percentage of loads.

As mentioned above, several types of longboards are produced.Each of the types is designed for specific purposes and has its own distinctive characteristics, which are important to consider when purchasing a device. Let's get acquainted with the main characteristics of modern longboard varieties.

Among all the existing subspecies of longboard, these varieties are considered the most comfortable and stable. These variants are equipped with decks of medium stiffness. They are characterized by the structure of an elongated oval. The length parameter of the described devices usually ranges from 70 to 130 cm.

A longboard released as a carving or cruise longboard is equipped with soft wheels. Their usual diameter is up to 76 mm. Thanks to these characteristics of the wheels, it will be possible to smoothly pass small irregularities on the asphalt on the board. The considered parts of such longboards are equipped with bearings like ABEC 7 - they are highly reliable, roll-up, and make it easy to develop high speeds.

These types of boards boast the following advantages:

• with their size, they do not lose at all in maneuverability;
• it is permissible to use them in order to overcome distances impressive in terms of range;
• the rider has the ability to develop tremendous speed (up to 100 km / h);
• on specimens of the short type, it is possible to successfully perform a variety of tricks and feints;
• soft and wide wheels perfectly “swallow” uneven areas on the asphalt surface.

The weaknesses of these boards are as follows:

• they are dimensional;
• there are certain difficulties in the implementation of some tricks, because even the shortest model is larger than that of a classic skateboard.

Such variants of longboards are designed for the performance of various feints, maneuverable skating. Deck length indicators in their designs are no more than 60-70 cm. Nose narrows significantly.

On specimens released for slalom, wheels of low or medium hardness are installed. The standard and optimal diameter is 69-72 cm. In most situations, they are produced with smooth edges, so as not to start the board in a long drift. The tracks are extremely narrow here - due to this feature, the deck does not cling to them when passing sharp turns.

Slalom devices are famous for the following advantages:

• high maneuverability;
• the rider can show a variety of tricks and feints;
• can easily reach high speed;
• a slalom board can be accelerated by making kicks off the road (in other words, pumping).

Of the minuses, it can be noted here:

• models are not suitable for long descents;
• show themselves less stable in comparison with other categories of boards.

The main distinguishing characteristics of these longboards are:

• extended (1 m) and rigid deck;
• high-strength tracks.

The board of this type is designed specifically for descents at high speed, therefore, its design must necessarily exclude the influence of the "board": there must be a sufficient width of the deck - from 9 to 11 layers of wood, high rigidity concave.

The design of these longboards usually includes wheels with a diameter of 70 to 75 cm. The width of the tracks corresponds to the dimensions of the deck. For extra strength, bolts are screwed to the base that pierce the board through.

An adult longboard downhill attracts with the following advantages:

• enables the user to accelerate to a speed of 140 km / h;
• shows high stability on the track;
• it has excellent strength characteristics and high reliability;
• Supplied with high quality Abec 7 bearings in all cases.

The disadvantages are as follows:

• due to poor maneuverability on this long, it can be difficult to enter turns;
• not intended for performing stunts.

Longboards of the specified type are produced specifically for disciplines a bit like downhill. But they are distinguished by an abundance of complex, technical turns, slides (they are called slides, hence the name of the longs). The length of the products starts from 90 cm. They are equipped with rigid decks of great thickness. The latter can reach up to 1.3 cm.

The wheels on the slide models are small and solid. They must contain high-quality Abec 7 bearings. The tracks in the products have the same dimensions as the board. The given longs are characterized by a symmetrical structure so that at the moments of downhill it is possible to drift in any direction, as well as to make turns without stopping the movement. Symmetrical boards are also great for freestyle.

Sliders are great due to several characteristics:

• they are easily capable of picking up speed up to 100 km / h;
• if desired and able to, such a board can be released into a controlled drift;
• the devices are highly stable and safe to use;
• are distinguished by their maneuverability;
• are famous for their high strength characteristics and are reliable.

The disadvantages are:

• when storing them, you have to allocate a lot of free space, which often becomes a problem when it comes to a small apartment;
• the specialization of such boards is too narrow.

Longboards of this variety are unrealistic to be confused with something similar. Their average length is 1.5-3 m. These varieties are addressed to all fans of surfing. On the boards, in the course of movement, it turns out to walk, sit, lie down or even ride in pairs.

The design of these products provides for a rigid deck. Its thickness is up to 2 cm. The diameter of the wheels is usually from 100 to 120 mm. The tracks should also be of high strength.

Surf-style long guards have the following advantages:

• they are incomparably stable, reliable;
• it is convenient to ride on them in pairs (but you will need to stand in the area where the tracks are located);
• while riding, it is possible to move along the board, sit down or lie down;
• recognized as a win-win projectile for long hauls.

The following shortcomings are observed here:

• large dimensions and impressive weight;
• poor maneuverability;
• good road surface is needed to ride these boards.

Boards of this variety are produced especially for dancing and stunts. The design of such products is supplied with pronounced tails. In length, the decks usually reach 80-150 cm. Their average width can be from 8 to 10 cm. Basically, the board is made high-strength, but elastic and thin (no more than 1 cm).

Due to these characteristics, during skiing, the structure sags a little in the middle. The trucks are here a little narrower than the board itself, due to which you can get higher maneuverability when driving.

In dancing models, wheels of medium size are provided - their diameter can be from 70 to 75 cm.The stiffness is the smallest. Due to the fact that the high power on these shells does not fulfill the primary function, it is possible to resort to saving on bearings - a five or three will be enough for a "dancing" long.

The strengths of the devices are:

• a variety of tricks that can be performed on the board under consideration;
• good stability parameters;
• excellent maneuverability, and the board itself is very obedient in management;
• attractive design.

The disadvantages of these products are the following:

• there are certain difficulties with transportation;
• are not the most durable.

As such, these "babies" with a 57 cm deck are not longboards.Rather, they can be considered the younger brothers of the larger and more complete models. Currently, urban youth are showing great interest in these small specimens. Especially in demand today are the original fish models, on which you can travel around the city for hours. It can be children's varieties.

The surge in demand for boards with a plastic deck led to the fact that manufacturers decided to significantly expand the range of mini-cruisers. Now you can find specimens, the length of which is 115 cm, which obviously translates them into the category of standard longs.

The species in question always come with a curved tail. They are characterized by wide track links and small (no more than 70 mm) diameter of medium hard polyurethane wheels.

Mini cruisers have the following advantages:

• lightweight, easy to transport and carry;
• have a deck made of plastic, which, together with the wheels, dampens vibrations well, "swallows" the unevenness of the roads;
• product design is bright, original;
• suitable for cruising and performing simple stunts;
• maneuverable;
• have a democratic cost.

Of the minuses, it can be noted:

• classic models of mini-cruisers cannot boast of high stability;
• there are rider weight restrictions.

Separately, it is worth talking about ultra-modern longboards equipped with an engine and a battery. Many well-known brands produce similar products. Of course, electric boards are more expensive than their classic counterparts, but they are more convenient and functional in use.

On sale you can find multitasking boards, which provide a USB port, control using a wireless remote control. Such products can be very popular in modern urban life.

Electric boards are often foldable. They are in high demand.

When choosing a high quality longboard, you should study the range of well-known manufacturers that produce reliable products with a good reputation. Let's take a look at a few popular brands that offer consumers the best longboard models on the market.

• Ridex. A renowned brand that produces high quality, reliable and durable boards. The products are thought out to the smallest detail, since real professionals and specialists engaged in scientific work work on them. In the presented lines, there are both budget products and more expensive items.

• Carver. Longboards from this popular brand are collecting good reviews. Carver makes great models. The range includes options with reversible suspensions, patented by the company of the same name. The boards are renowned for their high stability at different speeds.

• Arbor. One of the few popular brands that cares about the environment. Arbor boards are made exclusively from safe and sustainable materials. So, for the upper laminate, high-quality natural wood is always used.

• Playshion. A company that produces longboards for children, teenagers and adults. The assortment includes not only boards, but also scooters, accessories / spare parts for longboards, skateboards and balance bikes. The products are of the highest quality and affordable prices.

• Dusters. A relatively young longbond brand that cares about its reputation. The firm is based in California. Boards are made from high quality raw materials in compliance with all modern technologies.In the design of the products, you can find burnt drawings, vintage finishes that look very stylish and fresh.

• Oxelo. A well-known Chinese brand that produces more than 20 collections of longboards for children aged 3 years and older. In the assortment, you can find interesting pieces with luminous decks. True, most of them are made of plastic.

• Bork. The world famous and popular brand offers high quality products to consumers. So, recently the company presented a status projectile with a motor, the power of which is 1400 watts. The trendy LB500 also features integrated wheel drive. The battery charge allows you to travel 15 km on such a device.

• Termit. The brand preferred by all adrenaline lovers. The assortment of the company is incredibly rich. Here you can find boards of various modifications. These can be both simple models for ordinary riding, and more advanced specimens suitable for performing tricks.

• Globe. Longboards from this manufacturer are famous for their bright and expressive designs. Products have a streamlined, rounded shape. Allows you to develop impressive speed. Globe shells are suitable for both athletes and novice riders.

It's not enough to find just the right longboard. It is equally important to find all the necessary accessories and equipment for riding on it. With them, riding the board will not only be more comfortable, but also safe for the user.

For the first longboard season, it is better to buy soft protection. Breathable, moisture-wicking stockings work well. Such elements are often supplemented with special elastic shields that absorb and damp shocks. Such protection does not hinder the movements of the user, you can safely perform tricks in it.

In the future, you can switch to tough protection. It is less comfortable, but more durable. It is the ideal solution for downhill applications where soft protection is not enough. In addition to the plastic protection, it is better to buy special gloves for the longboard. They come with a palm washer and shields.

It will take elbow protection... It can be equipped with replaceable cups. Usually lightweight. Often, a convenient bag is included with such products. It is worth picking up sturdy shockproof knee pads. Lightweight versions with ventilation grommets and quality lining are recommended.

It is better to buy rubber shoes for riding long. If dropped, it will not tear. Make sure that the shoes fit snugly on your feet. It is advisable to choose pairs with laces. The pair must be stable, without a heel and other similar protrusions. The sole should be very thick.

Not it is recommended to ride a longboard without a helmet. It is imperative to buy such items of equipment so that riding is safe. The helmet must have ventilation holes inside, special shock-absorbing layers.

The following accessories may also be useful:

• brackets for storing long at home (can be attached to the wall);
• bag-backpack with adjustable length or special bag.

Let's take a look at how to choose a board.

• First you need to decide on the purpose for which you will use it. Remember that the maneuverability of the product will depend on the parameters of the deck length and wheel stiffness.
• If you take a long for maneuvers, then it is better to look for short options with a length of up to 106 cm. This is the optimal solution for performing simple tricks and developing average speed at not too long distances.
• For riding on uneven roads, soft specimens with a low center of gravity will go.
• If you're looking for a speedy model, it should have a stiffer suspension. But for rough terrain, these options will not work.
• You have to look at the wheels and suspension. There are reverse and standard pendants. The latter is more suitable for maneuvers and not too difficult stunts, and the opposite is more suitable for a long ride.
• Pay attention to the angle of inclination of the suspension. For low maneuverability and impressive speed, the model with an angle of 20 degrees is relevant. For beginners, it is advisable to choose a board whose suspension has a slope of 40-50 degrees. A larger slope will suit more experienced, extreme users.
• Give preference to quality branded products. The branded board is not always expensive. Many companies offer high quality and beautiful but very inexpensive longboards.

It will be possible to assemble a longboard according to the following scheme.

• You need to put the board on a flat surface. Lay a special skin on top with the adhesive side.
• Lay a sheet of paper on top, swipe your hand several times to secure.
• Take the WRENCH. Run it along the perimeter of the long so that the gluing is as dense as possible (you need to do this without a paper sheet).
• Cut off the excess skin with a cutter.
• Take a file and grind off any residues on the sides with it.
• If air bubbles remain under the pasted skin, pierce them with a needle.
• Next, you need to fix the pendants. Between the board and them, you need to put rubber gaskets.
• Each hanger should be screwed with 4 bolts. Do not tighten too tight - adjust as you see fit.
• Only the wheels and bearings remained. Take a couple of bearings, insert them into the wheel. Do this with all the details.
• Next, twist these elements tightly, but leaving a couple of millimeters so that the wheels can spin normally.

There are several types of skiing.

• Freeride. Aggressive, extreme driving style where the athlete drives down steep slopes. The speed parameters of the board are kept under control here with the help of slides.
• Carving. A special method of descending a slope with sharp turning movements or arcs. The style is similar to surfing or snowboarding.
• Cruising. Way of movement in the conditions of the settlement.
• Dancing. Real long dances. Decks up to 60 inches long are suitable for this. The movement takes place using cross-stepping.
• Speedboarding. A style in which the rider travels at high speed. The rider slows down only for turning and passing with other road users.
• Long distance. A style that can be divided into 2 groups. Includes long distance travel. Provides for a high maneuverability of the board. The movement occurs by swinging the deck by the body.

Longboard riding must be safe. It is necessary to use such shells correctly. It is necessary to decide on the guiding leg, which is most convenient for the first to stand on the long. When driving, it is important to ensure that the center of gravity is correctly distributed.

Feet should be shoulder width apart. The pose must be correct. You need to balance on the board with your hands and feet. You should not start skating with sharp turns right away or learn different tricks right away. If you do not have the necessary experience, you should start learning from straight distances. This will save yourself from serious injury and mistakes.

The easiest, but not the safest, method is to jump off the board in motion. A safer and more thoughtful solution would be to brake a heavily overclocked board with a slide. The same method is suitable if you need to brake sharply.

You need to ride a longboard in equipment purchased from a specialized store. WITHthe outfit should be of high quality, with well-fixed details. Always check the condition of the long structure before leaving home. The device must be stable.

A longboard will last longer if it is properly cared for.

• Before each ride, pay attention to the condition of the wheels and suspensions. This point is also important in matters of security. Neither the suspension nor the wheels should loosen.
• You should not ride if the weather is rainy. It is also not worth driving on sand and dust - unnecessary elements can penetrate into the suspension, which will worsen the operation of the long.
• Disassemble the suspensions periodically. Thoroughly clean them from all excess, lubricate with specialized solutions. You can find suitable lubricants at many stores.

To learn how to care for your longboard, see the video.

For beginners who have bought or are going to buy a long, it is worth arm yourself with a few tips.

• Choose a board that is made for a specific purpose. To do this, initially you need to decide how and where you plan to drive around on it.
• It is advisable to start learning long riding on flat asphalt. It is too early to conquer slides and pits.
• Bend your knees - this will make it easier to catch the balance. Feet should always be shoulder width apart.
• Push off correctly. You don't need to do a lot of small thrusts. Better to make rare but strong ones.
• If you don't want to ride just simply and directly, then beginner riders can try to master freestyle. This is a style in which the user can ride almost the way they want. Thus, the riding skill will increase.