How to choose a longboard
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
To choose a longboard, first identify your primary riding style, cruising, downhill, freestyle, or commuting, because shape and flex follow function. Then match key components like deck length, wheel durometer, and truck width to your intended use and weight. Finally, set a realistic budget and buy from a reputable brand known for quality construction.
What kind of longboard should you get?
Longboards are not one-size-fits-all. The biggest factor in your choice is how you plan to ride. If you want to glide around campus or flat city streets, a cruiser board with a pintail or kicktail shape is your friend, it’s nimble and easy to push. For carving wide, flowing turns on gentle hills or flat pavement, look for a board with a drop-through or double-drop deck that sits lower to the ground for more stability. Downhill and freeride riders need stiff, symmetrical decks with a directional shape and cutouts for wheels, along with grippy, harder wheels. If you’re into dancing or freestyle tricks, look for a longer, flexible deck with lots of platform space and a symmetrical shape. Commuters often prefer compact boards with a kicktail for popping over cracks and curbs. Match the board to the terrain and your skill level, there’s no “best” board for everyone.
How long should your longboard deck be?
Deck length directly affects stability and turning radius. Longer decks, roughly 40 to 50 inches, offer a more stable platform at speed and plenty of room for foot placement, which is ideal for downhill or dancing. Shorter decks, around 30 to 38 inches, are more maneuverable, easier to carry, and better for urban carving or tight spaces. Width also matters: wider decks (9 to 10 inches) give you more stability and leverage for slides, while narrower decks (7.5 to 8.5 inches) are lighter and more responsive for tricks. The best way to decide is to stand on the board at a shop or at least compare the dimensions online against your own shoe size and weight. A deck that feels too long or too short will hinder your progress.
What about trucks and wheels?
Trucks and wheels are where the ride feel really comes together. Truck width should match the deck width within about a quarter inch for a stable carve. Heavy riders or those who want a tighter turning radius may prefer wider trucks with softer bushings, while lighter riders often get better control with narrower trucks and harder bushings. Wheels are defined by durometer (hardness) and size. Softer wheels (78a to 83a) grip the pavement and absorb vibration, making them great for cruising and carving on rough roads. Harder wheels (84a+) slide more easily and are preferred for downhill and technical freeride. Larger wheels (65mm to 75mm) roll over cracks and pebbles with ease, while smaller wheels accelerate quicker but can get hung up on debris. Always choose bearings rated at least ABEC 5 for smooth rolling, and don’t skimp on the hardware, your safety depends on it.
What flex and materials matter?
Deck flex affects how the board feels underfoot and how it handles your weight. A stiff deck (often made from maple or carbon fiber) transfers every push into forward motion and stays stable at higher speeds, good for downhill and freeride. A flexible deck (bamboo or fiberglass blends) soaks up vibrations, gives a lively snap for carving, and makes for a more forgiving ride on rough pavement. Your body weight should guide flex choice: lighter riders (under 150 pounds) can enjoy medium flex without bottoming out; heavier riders should look for stiff decks to avoid wheel bite and instability. Many premium boards combine materials like maple and bamboo to balance lightness, strength, and flex. Beware of cheap laminates that delaminate or snap, invest in a board from a brand with a solid warranty and good owner feedback.
How much should you spend on a longboard?
Longboard prices range from budget-friendly entry-level options to premium hand-built setups. At the low end, you can find a functional complete board that will get you rolling, but be prepared for bushings that compress quickly, wheels that wear fast, and bearings that may need replacing soon. Mid-tier boards from established skate brands often offer the best value: a quality deck, truck, and wheel combo that will last a season or more of regular use. Premium boards can cost significantly more, but they usually feature high-quality wood, precision-machined trucks, and urethane wheels with excellent roll speed and grip. If you’re new, it’s wise to buy a mid-range complete rather than a cheap one, you’ll be safer and more likely to enjoy the experience. Many experienced riders also suggest spending more on wheels and trucks than on the deck, because those components directly affect your ride quality and control.
Frequently asked questions
Is a longboard easier to ride than a skateboard?
Yes, for most people. Longboards have larger, softer wheels that roll over cracks and pebbles more easily, and the decks are usually more stable at speed. The wider trucks and longer wheelbase also make balancing less twitchy. However, longboards are heavier and less maneuverable for tricks, so if you plan to ollie and grind, a skateboard is the better choice.
What is the best longboard for beginners?
A drop-through or pintail cruiser in the mid-length range (around 36 to 42 inches) with medium-flex wheels and a responsive but not overly twitchy truck bushing setup is ideal for learning. Brands like LandYachtz, Sector 9, and Arbor make reliable beginner-friendly completes. Avoid extremely long downhill boards or very short trick-oriented boards until you have the basics down.
Do I need a helmet and pads for longboarding?
Absolutely. Even on gentle slopes, falls can happen fast and asphalt does not forgive. A certified skate or multi-sport helmet is non-negotiable, and wrist guards, knee pads, and slide gloves can save you from painful road rash and fractures. As you progress to hills or faster riding, wear full protective gear every time.
Can I use a longboard for downhill riding?
Yes, but only if it is specifically built for it. Downhill boards have stiff, directional decks with a low ride height, precision trucks, and wheels with a durometer and profile designed for high-speed slides and grip. A standard cruising longboard will feel unstable and dangerous on steep hills. Always progress gradually, learn braking techniques and sliding, and never ride beyond your skill level.
How fast can a longboard go?
That depends on the setup and the rider’s skill. A typical cruiser on flat ground might top out around 15 mph when pushing, but on a hill with a downhill setup, experienced riders can easily exceed 50 mph. Speed is controlled by your weight, bearing quality, wheel size, and the hill gradient. Never ride faster than your ability to stop safely.