Many people need clarification about choosing a longboard and a skateboard because they need to learn the difference between them. Skateboarding is a famous action sport that allows us to ride and perform tricks on four wheels. There are varieties of boards available in the market with unique features and designs.
Skateboard vs Longboard
here’s a table comparing some basic differences between skateboards and longboards:
| Features | Skateboard | Longboard |
|---|---|---|
| Deck length | Usually between 28-33 inches | Usually between 33-59 inches |
| Deck width | Usually between 7.5-8.5 inches | Usually between 8.5-10 inches |
| Wheelbase | Typically between 13-15 inches | Typically between 20-28 inches |
| Shape | Symmetrical or slightly asymmetrical, often with a kicktail | Often directional with a longer, pointed nose and a shorter, rounder tail |
| Trucks | Narrower and more responsive | Wider and more stable |
| Wheels | Smaller and harder, good for tricks and street skating | Larger and softer, good for cruising and long-distance riding |
| Riding style | Primarily used for tricks and street skating | Primarily used for cruising, carving, and downhill riding |
| Terrain | Best for smooth surfaces like skate parks and streets | Can handle a variety of terrains, including rough roads and hills |
| Skill level | Best for intermediate to advanced riders with experience in tricks and maneuvers | Suitable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders |
Of course, there is a lot of variation within both skateboards and longboards, and individual models can differ from these generalizations. However, this should give you a rough idea of some of the key differences between the two types of boards.
So, here we will discuss what the difference between a longboard and a skateboard.
However, two of the most common boards people often need clarification on are longboards and skateboards. Many of them buy a skateboard thinking that it’s a longboard, and a longboard is very different from a skateboard from every point of view.
Here we will explain and guide you properly about the difference between a longboard and a skateboard so you can choose correctly.
7-Best Differences Between A Longboard And A Skateboard
Here are some main differences which can help you to know about the difference between a longboard and a skateboard and also choose the right one for you.
Structure and Design
Structure and design is the most apparent difference between skateboards and longboards. What is the difference between a longboard and a skateboard? Skateboards are usually shorter in length, narrower in width, and have a curved shape at both ends. The skateboard typically ranges from 28 to 33 inches and 7.5 to 8.5 inches in width.
The body of Skateboards is concave, which means that the board curves upward towards the middle, which allows the rider to have a better grip and control over the board.
On the other hand, longboards are longer, wider, and flatter than skateboards. They are designed for cruising and long-distance riding, providing a more stable and comfortable platform. The range of the longboard is from 36 to 60 inches in length and 9 to 10 inches in width. They also have a much lower profile than skateboards, so they sit closer to the ground, making it easier to push and brake.
Purpose and Riding Style
Another critical difference between longboards and skateboards is their purpose and riding style. Skateboards are specially designed to perform tricks and stunts, such as ollies, kickflips, and grinds. They are used primarily in skateparks, streets, and other urban environments. Skateboarding requires a lot of skill and practice, as it involves balancing on the board while performing various tricks.
While longboards are designed for cruising and transportation, they are used for long-distance riding, commuting, downhill racing, and freeriding. Longboarding is more about speed and control than tricks and stunts. Riders often use longboards for leisurely rides along the beach, through parks, or on college campuses. Longboards are also great for beginners, offering a more stable and comfortable riding experience.
Wheels and Trucks
The wheels and trucks on longboards and skateboards also differ significantly. Skateboard trucks are usually narrower and more responsive than longboard trucks. They are designed to allow for sharper turns and quick movements, essential for performing tricks. Skateboard wheels are also smaller and more complex than longboard wheels, making them more suited for smooth surfaces like skateparks and streets.
In contrast, longboard trucks are broader and more stable than skateboard trucks. They are designed to handle higher speeds and provide a smoother ride. Longboard wheels are also larger and softer than skateboard wheels, which means they are better suited for rough surfaces and can absorb more shock.
Deck Shape
In addition to being longer and broader, longboards tend to have a different deck shape than skateboards. Longboards often have a pintail or drop-through form, which means the deck is curved or cut away near the trucks to lower the board’s center of gravity. This design helps the rider maintain stability and control at high speeds, essential for downhill racing and freeriding.
Skateboard decks, conversely, usually have a standard popsicle shape, which is symmetrical with a concave profile on both ends. This shape allows for greater control and precision when performing tricks and stunts, as the rider can quickly shift their weight and maneuver the board.
Riding Terrain
While both longboards and skateboards can be ridden on various terrains, they are better suited for different types of surfaces. Skateboards are designed for smooth, flat surfaces like skateparks and streets, where riders can perform tricks and stunts efficiently. Skateboards can also be ridden on rougher surfaces, but the smaller, harder wheels may make for a bumpy ride.
While longboards are designed for a broader range of terrain. They can be ridden on smooth surfaces like streets and bike paths but perform well on rougher surfaces like gravel or dirt roads. The larger, softer wheels provide better shock absorption and allow for a smoother ride on uneven terrain.
Speed
You can ride both longboards and skateboards at high speeds because they are designed to handle speed differently. Longboards are built for speed, with wider trucks and larger, softer wheels that provide stability and control at high rates. The lower profile and longer wheelbase also contribute to a more stable ride.
Skateboards, however, are not typically designed for high-speed riding. The narrower trucks and more minor, harder wheels make them less stable at high speeds and may be more prone to wobbling or speed wobbles. However, experienced skateboarders can still reach impressive speeds on their boards with proper technique and equipment.
Weight
The weight of Longboards is heavier than skateboards because of their larger size and construction. The added weight can make them more challenging to carry or transport but also contribute to their stability and control at high speeds. Skateboards, however, are light in weight and more compact, which makes them easy to move around.
FAQs
Is it easier to ride a longboard or skateboard?
Riding a longboard is generally easier than riding a skateboard due to the longer and wider board, which provides more stability and a smoother ride.
Should a beginner start skateboarding or longboarding?
A beginner should start with a longboard as it is generally easier to learn and provides more stability and a smoother ride than a skateboard.
Is A longboard suitable for beginners?
Longboards are safer than skateboards due to their larger size and stability, which makes them less prone to accidents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, longboards and skateboards may appear similar, but when it comes to knowing about what is the difference between a longboard and a skateboard, they have distinct differences in deck shape, riding terrain, speed, and weight. Longboards are typically longer, wider, and heavier, designed for cruising, downhill racing, and freeriding on various terrains.
Skateboards, however, are smaller, lighter, and designed for tricks and stunts on smooth surfaces. So knowing the differences between these two types of boards can guide you to choose the best one for your intended riding style and experience level.
Leave a Reply