Longboards: what are and how to choose?

Street sports do not stop developing. Equipment is constantly changing. A novelty can be considered a longboard, which in its external characteristics has much in common with the well-known skateboard. However, this is a completely different device that has many distinctive features. There are many different types of boards on which it is quite possible to learn to ride on their own. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 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 variety of roller boards known to all. These products differ in that they can develop impressive speed, have increased stability, and their driving performance is more advanced, improved.

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

Before acquiring a 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;
• trucks
• wheels.

The deck for longboards is made from a variety of materials. They are both wooden and made of plywood sheets. Often, parts are used from composite materials, for example, from solid wood in combination with reinforcing fabrics or veneers. A great variety of forms are also described. Their structure directly depends on the specific longboard model and its design.

Flex, or elasticity, allows the deck to change geometry under static or dynamic stresses when a person is rolling. For different types of boards, flex is different. It depends on the longitudinal profile of the part under consideration, called a concave, as well as on the raw materials of manufacture.

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

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

• baseplate - a plate made of metal installed in the base of the device;
• kingpin - the so-called bolt that fastens the base and the "hanger";
• hanger - the so-called hanger with a built-in axis on which the wheels of the longboard are fixed.

Longboard pendant may be different. Choosing a model with a certain type follows, starting from the discipline for which a thing is bought. Most often in longboards there are TKP traditional kingpin and RKP reversed kingpin pendants.

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 purchased.

These 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 - “emery”, “influenza”. The skin is a special adhesive tape coated with abrasives. It is attached to the top of the deck considered above. May vary based on abrasive fraction.

They can be either hard or soft. The specified parts are attached on the site that is between the deck and the longboard suspension. Rigid options are used to slightly raise the deck, thus changing the driving characteristics of the product. Soft elements (called “shock pads”) act as vibration dampers.

Bushings are suspension elements made of polyurethane. Due to the bushings, the suspension is able to return to its original location after turning movements. Thanks to this part, vibrations are also suppressed. In any traditional TKP or RKP pendant, there are a couple of bushings, as well as a pivot cap - a kind of “cup” made of polyurethane, a “finger” of the hanger is inserted into it and securely fixed. It additionally accounts for the main percentage of the load.

As mentioned above, several varieties of longboard are produced.Each of the types is intended 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 varieties of longboard.

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

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

The indicated types of boards can boast of the following advantages:

• with their size they do not lose maneuverability;
• they can be used to overcome impressive distances;
• the rider has the ability to develop tremendous speed (up to 100 km / h);
• on instances of a 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 such boards are as follows:

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

Such options for longboards are designed for the performance of various feints, maneuverable skating. The lengths of the deck in their designs are not more than 60-70 cm. The nose is significantly narrowed.

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

Slalom devices are famous for such advantages:

• high maneuverability;
• the rider can show a variety of tricks and feints;
• can easily develop greater speed;
• It is possible to accelerate a slalom board by making kicks from the road (in other words, pumping).

Of the minuses here we can note:

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

The main distinguishing features of these longboards are:

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

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

The design of these longboards usually provides 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, which stitches the board through.

Adult longboard downhill attracts with such advantages:

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

The disadvantages here are the following:

• due to poor maneuverability, it is difficult to enter turns on this long;
• not intended to perform tricks.

Longboards of this type are available especially for disciplines a bit like downhill. But they are distinguished by an abundance of complex, technical turns, slides (they are called slides, which is the name of the longs). The length of the products starts from 90 cm. They are equipped with hard decks of large thickness. The latter can reach a mark of 1.3 cm.

The wheels that the slide models are equipped with are small and solid. They always have high-quality Abec 7 bearings. The tracks in the products have the same dimensions as the board. These longs are characterized by a symmetrical structure, so that at the moments of high-speed descent it was possible to go drifting in any direction, as well as make turns, without stopping movement. Symmetrical boards are also great for freestyle.

Sliders are good due to several characteristics:

• they are easily able to reach speeds of up to 100 km / h .;
• if desired and skill, such a board can be released into a controlled drift;
• devices are highly stable and safe in operation;
• differ in maneuverability;
• famous for high strength characteristics, reliable.

Cons have these:

• during storage they 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 like that. Their average length is 1.5-3 m. These varieties are addressed to all fans of surfing. On the boards along the movement it turns out to walk, sit, lie 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. Tracks should also be highly durable.

Longbords "Surf Style" are the owners of such advantages:

• they are incomparably stable, reliable;
• it turns out they are comfortably driven in pairs (but you will need to stand in the area where the tracks are located);
• in the course of skating, it is possible to move along the board, sit down or lie down;
• recognized as a win-win shell for long hauls.

Shortcomings are observed here:

• large dimensions and impressive mass;
• poor maneuverability;
• To ride these boards you need good road surface.

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

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

In the dance models, wheels of medium size parameters 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 perform a primary function, it is possible to resort to saving on bearings - five or three will be enough for the "dancing" long.

The strong qualities of the devices are:

• a variety of tricks that can be implemented on the considered board;
• good stability parameters;
• excellent maneuverability, and the board itself is very obedient to manage;
• attractive design.

The disadvantages behind these products are as follows:

• 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 younger brothers of larger and more complete models. Currently, urban youth is showing great interest in these small specimens. Original fish models are especially in demand today, 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 whose length 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 a wide extension of the tracks and a small (not more than 70 mm) wheel diameter of medium hard polyurethane.

Mini cruisers have the following advantages:

• lightweight, easy to transport and carry;
• They have a deck made of plastic, which, together with the wheels, damps vibration well, “swallows” road bumps;
• product design is bright, original;
• suitable for cruising, and for performing simple tricks;
• maneuverable;
• have an affordable cost.

Of the minuses, it can be noted:

• classic mini cruiser models cannot boast of high stability;
• There are restrictions on the weight of the rider.

We should also talk about ultra-modern longboards equipped with an engine and battery. Similar products are produced by many well-known brands. Sure, electric boards are more expensive than classic counterparts, but in use they are more convenient and functional.

On sale you can find multitasking boards that have a USB port, and control with a wireless remote control. Such products can be very popular in modern urban life.

Often electric boards are folding. They are in great demand.

Choosing a high quality longboard, you should study the range of well-known manufacturers that produce reliable products with a good reputation. Consider several popular firms offering consumers the best longboard models on the market.

• Ridex. A well-known brand that produces reliable and durable high-quality boards. Products are thought out to the smallest detail, as real professionals and specialists involved in scientific work work on them. In the presented lines there are both budget products and more expensive items.

• Carver. Good reviews collect longboards from this popular brand. Carver produces beautiful models. In the assortment you can find options with reversible pendants, patented by the company of the same name. Boards are famous for their high stability at different speeds.

• Arbor. One of the few popular brands whose representatives care about environmental protection. Arbor boards are made exclusively from safe and environmentally friendly materials. So, for the upper laminate, high-quality natural wood is always used.

• Playshion. A company that produces longboards for children, and for teens, and for adult users. The assortment includes not only boards, but also scooters, accessories / parts for longboards, skateboards and runbikes. Products are of the highest quality and affordable prices.

• Dusters A relatively young longbond brand that cares about its reputation. The company is based in California. Boards are made from high quality raw materials in compliance with all modern technologies.In the design of products you can find scorched 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 from the age of 3 years. In the assortment you can find interesting specimens with luminous decks. True, most of them are made of plastic.

• Bork. The world famous and popular brand offers consumers high quality products. So, recently the company introduced a status projectile with a motor, whose power is 1400 watts. The trendy LB500 also has wheels with an integrated drive. The battery charge allows you to overcome on such a device 15 km of track.

• Termit. A brand that is preferred by all people who love adrenaline. The assortment of the company is incredibly rich. Here you can find boards of various modifications. It can be either simple models for ordinary skiing, or more advanced instances suitable for performing tricks.

• Globe Longboards of this manufacturer are famous for their bright and expressive design. Products have a streamlined, rounded shape. Allow to develop impressive speed. Globe shells are suitable for both athletes and beginner riders.

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

For the first longboard season it is better to buy soft protection. Suitable breathable stockings that remove moisture. Such elements are often supplemented with special elastic shields that absorb and absorb shock. Such protection does not hinder the user's movements, in it you can safely perform tricks.

In the future, you can switch to hard protection. It is less convenient, but more durable. This is an ideal solution for a downhill for which soft protection will not be enough. In addition to plastic protection, it is better to buy special gloves for a longboard. They are available with a washer in the palm of your hand and protective plates.

Will need elbow protection. It can be equipped with interchangeable cups. Usually light in weight. Often, a convenient bag comes with such products. It is worth picking up strong shockproof knee pads. Lightweight options with ventilation eyelets and a quality lining are recommended.

It is better to buy rubber shoes for long riding. If it falls, it will not break. It should be ensured that the shoes fit tightly on their 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. Be sure to buy such items of equipment so that riding is safe. The helmet must have ventilation holes inside, special shock-absorbing layers.

Such accessories may also be useful:

• brackets for storing a long house (can be attached to the wall);
• adjustable backpack bag or special bag.

Let's figure out how to choose a board.

• First you need to decide what you will use it for. Remember that the maneuverability of the product will depend on the parameters of the deck length and wheel stiffness.
• If you take a long maneuver, then it is better to look for short options with a length of up to 106 cm. This is the best solution for performing simple tricks and developing medium speed at not too long distances.
• For riding on rough roads go soft specimens with a low center of gravity.
• If you are looking for a high-speed model, it should have a stiffer suspension. But for rough terrain, these options are not suitable.
• We must look at the wheels and suspension. Pendants are reverse and standard. The latter is more suitable for maneuvers and not too complicated tricks, and the reverse is for a long ride.
• Pay attention to the angle of the suspension. For low maneuverability and impressive speed, a 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 greater slope will suit more experienced, extreme users.
• Give preference to quality branded products. Not always branded board is expensive. Many companies offer high-quality and beautiful, but very inexpensive longboards.

You can assemble a longboard according to the following scheme.

• Put the board on a flat surface. Lay the special skin on top with the adhesive side.
• Lay a sheet of paper on top, swipe your hand several times to secure it.
• Take a wrench. Swipe it along the perimeter of the long so that the gluing is as dense as possible (you need to do this already without a paper sheet).
• Cut the excess pieces of the skin with a cutter.
• Take a file and smooth out all the leftovers on the sides.
• If air bubbles remain under the pasted skin, pierce them with a needle.
• Next, you need to fix the suspension. Between the board and them it is necessary to put rubber gaskets.
• Each suspension should be fastened with 4 bolts. You don’t need to tighten too tight - adjust as you see fit.
• Only the wheels and bearings remained. Take a pair of bearings, insert them into the wheel. Do this with all the details.
• Next, tighten 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 when an athlete slides down steep slopes. The speed parameters of the board are kept under control with the help of slides.
• Carving. A special method of descent from a slope with sharp turning movements or arches. The style is similar to surfing or snowboarding.
• Cruise A way of movement in the conditions of a settlement.
• Dansing. Real dances on long. Decks with a length of up to 60 inches are suitable for this. The movement occurs with the help of cross-stepping.
• Speedboarding. A style by which a rider moves at high speed. The rider slows down only for turning and driving with other road users.
• Long distancing. A style that can be divided into 2 groups. Means traveling long distances. Provides for high maneuverability of the board. The movement occurs by swinging the deck with the body.

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

Legs 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 immediately start skating with sharp turns or immediately learn different tricks. If you do not have the necessary experience, you should start to study from direct distances. So you will protect yourself from serious injuries and mistakes.

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

Longboarding is necessary in equipment purchased in a specialized store. WITHthe outfit must be of high quality, with well-fixed details. Always check the condition of the construction of the long before leaving home.The device must be stable.

Longboard will last longer if you provide him with proper care.

• Before each trip, you need to pay attention to the condition of the wheels and suspensions. The same point is important in security matters. Neither the suspension nor the wheels should be unscrewed.
• Do not ride if the weather is rainy. It’s also not worth driving through the sand and dust - unnecessary elements can penetrate the suspension, which will degrade the work of the long.
• Disassemble pendants periodically. Thoroughly clean them of all unnecessary, lubricate with specialized solutions. Suitable lubricants can be found in many stores.

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

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

• Properly choose a board made for specific purposes. To do this, initially you need to decide how and where you plan to drive around on it.
• It is advisable to start learning to ride long on flat asphalt. It’s too early to conquer slides and pits.
• Knees need to be bent - it will be easier to catch balance. Legs should always be shoulder width apart.
• Correctly push off. No need to do many small jolts. Better to make rare, but strong.
• If you do not want to ride just simple and straightforward, then for beginners you can try to learn freestyle. This is a style in which the user can drive almost the way he wants. Thus, the riding skill will increase.