Yes, a longboard is a type of skateboard. Longboards are just longer and wider skateboards that provide a smoother ride for cruising and transportation.
Longboards are popular among riders who want to enjoy a smooth ride for transportation purposes or cruising around the town. They are also popular among downhill riders who like to slide and bomb large hills at high speeds. Longboards have a slightly different shape than the traditional skateboard, with a longer and wider deck and larger wheels. The larger wheels allow for a smoother ride and can handle rough terrain better than a standard skateboard. Longboards are available in different shapes and sizes, and riders can choose one depending on their riding style and preferences. Overall, longboards are a unique type of skateboard that offer a different riding experience than traditional skateboards.
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Anatomy Of A Skateboard And Longboard
Longboards and skateboards are both popular means of transportation and recreational activities. Newcomers in the world of skateboarding might wonder whether longboards are a type of skateboard or a unique piece of equipment in their own right. Well, longboards and skateboards have several similarities, including their basic design and purpose.
However, they also have significant differences worth exploring. In this blog post, we will zoom in on the anatomy of a skateboard and longboard and outline the key differences between them in detail.
Explanation Of Different Parts Of Skateboard And Longboard
A skateboard and a longboard both comprise a deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings. However, they can vary in shape, size, and materials.
- Deck: the deck is the flat board that supports the rider’s feet. Skateboard decks vary in size, ranging from 7. 5 to 8. 5 inches, while longboard decks usually measure from 33 to 54 inches, providing a broader stance and more stability.
- Trucks: trucks are metal parts that connect the wheels to the deck. They enable turning by pivoting from side to side and come in different widths, heights, and angles.
- Wheels: skateboard and longboard wheels typically range from 50mm to 75mm in diameter, with a durometer or hardness scale ranging from 75a to 101a. Longboard wheels are usually larger and softer than skateboard wheels, which makes them suitable for cruising and carving without worrying much about the surface type.
- Bearings: bearings are situated inside the wheel and enable it to rotate around the axle. Skateboard and longboard bearings have the same size, rating, and standard of the abec rating system.
Key Differences Between The Parts Of Skateboard And Longboard
Although skateboards and longboards share most parts, they often differ in shape, size, and materials used, resulting in four major differences:
- Deck shape: skateboards usually have a symmetrical and concave shape, making it easier to perform tricks and flips. Longboards, on the other hand, may have several shapes, including directional, pintail, and drop-through, with a flat or minimal concave shape. The various shapes translate to diverse experiences and performance.
- Truck types: skateboards often use standard kingpin trucks, while longboards almost always come with reverse kingpin trucks. Reverse kingpin trucks are more stable with a larger turn radius, making them ideal for cruising and carving at high speeds.
- Wheel size and hardness: longboard wheels are generally larger and softer than skateboard wheels, allowing more comfortable and efficient transportation on bumpy roads or uneven surfaces.
- Bearings: while both skateboards and longboards use the same bearing size and rating, longboards’ bearings tend to be more durable, have less friction, and remain cleaner due to their long-distance travel capabilities.
While skateboards and longboards share a general design, there are significant differences in their respective parts, resulting in different riding experiences, performance requirements, and functions.
Longboard Vs Skateboard: How Are They Different?
Longboarding and skateboarding may look similar at first glance, but they have significant differences that are worth knowing. Both longboards and skateboards are boards with four wheels, used for cruising, carving, and performing tricks. But as soon as you get closer and inspect the design and features of each board, you’ll notice how different they can be.
In this article, we’ll tackle the most prominent differences between longboard vs skateboard: how are they different? Let’s get started.
Wheelbase And Wheel Size
One of the most apparent differences between longboards and skateboards is their wheelbase and wheel size.
- Longboards often have a longer wheelbase, which refers to the distance between the front and rear trucks. Longboards’ wheelbase is typically around 24 to 36 inches, providing more stability and balance.
- Skateboards, on the other hand, have a shorter wheelbase than longboards. The standard wheelbase length is around 13 to 15 inches. Skateboards’ shorter wheelbase makes them more suitable for performing tricks and tight turns, but less stable at high speeds.
- Generally, longboards have more substantial and softer wheels than skateboards. Longboard wheels are between 65mm to 85mm in diameter, making them more suitable for cruising and downhill riding. Skateboard wheels are typically between 50mm to 60mm in diameter, making them better suited for street and park tricks.
Riding Styles
Longboards and skateboards also differ in terms of riding styles.
- Longboarding refers to riding a longboard for cruising, transportation, carving, and downhill racing. Longboards’ design makes them more stable and easier to control, making them perfect for beginners.
- Skateboarding, on the other hand, refers to riding a skateboard for performing tricks, riding through parks, and getting air. Skateboards’ design allows for more flexibility and maneuverability, making them ideal for doing tricks and jumps.
Shape And Length
Another difference between longboards and skateboards is their shape and length.
- Longboards have a distinct and unique shape, with a wide, longer deck and larger wheels. Their design allows the rider to have a more comfortable and stable ride, especially when cruising long distances or riding downhill.
- Skateboards have a narrow deck, designed to perform tricks and stunts. Skateboard decks typically range from 28 to 32 inches in length, while longboards’ decks can range from 36 to 60 inches.
Riding Speed
The last notable difference between longboards and skateboards is their riding speed.
- Longboards are built for speed and stability, making them suitable for downhill racing. Their wider wheelbase and larger, softer wheels provide more traction, allowing riders to safely control their speed.
- Skateboards, with their lighter weight and smaller size, are inherently slower than longboards. However, skateboards are ideal for riders who want to practice technical tricks, jumps, and creative maneuvers.
While there are similarities between longboards and skateboards, there are critical differences to consider. Each board is designed for various riding styles and speeds, and choosing between them is a matter of preference. We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between longboard vs skateboard: how are they different?
Happy riding!
Longboard vs Skateboard vs Cruiser (Comparison)
Similarities Between Longboards And Skateboards
Longboarding and skateboarding may look the same to an uninformed person, but there are distinct differences. Longboards are generally longer, wider and sturdier compared to skateboards, designed for faster and longer rides. On the other hand, skateboards are smaller and narrower, perfect for performing tricks and moves.
Both, however, have similarities that make them easily confused with each other. Here are the key similarities between longboards and skateboards.
Similar Riding Techniques
Riding a longboard and a skateboard have a lot of similarities when it comes to their basic techniques. Both board types require a rider to balance the board by placing the foot at the center while propelling themselves forward with the other foot.
In addition, both uses carving, pumping, and sliding techniques to control the board. These techniques are vital in maintaining balance, speed, and making turns.
Similarities In Materials Used
Another similarity that longboards and skateboards have is the materials used in producing the boards. Most boards are made out of wood, primarily maple, bamboo, or birch. Manufacturers use strong adhesives to bond the layers of wood together, making the board robust and durable.
Furthermore, both boards are often coated with grip tape to help hold the rider’s feet in a secure position while riding.
Similarities In Riding Terrain
Longboards and skateboards come in different shapes, sizes, and designs, making them suitable for various types of riding terrain. However, both boards can ride on similar types of surfaces, including skate parks, ramps, pavements, and hills. Moreover, riders can incorporate various riding techniques to navigate the terrains with ease.
Longboards and skateboards are similar in many ways, especially when it comes to their basic riding techniques, the materials used in constructing the boards, and the terrain where they can be ridden. However, each board type also has its unique features that differentiate them from the other.
These similarities only add to the confusion between the two boards but also provide a link between them.
Which One Should You Choose: Longboard Or Skateboard?
Longboard or skateboard: which one should you choose? If you’re new to the sport and don’t know much about it, deciding on the right board can be a daunting task. Each has its own unique features and is designed for specific types of riders.
In this blog post, we discuss the differences between longboards and skateboards, along with the factors to consider when choosing between them.
Factors To Consider While Choosing Between Longboard And Skateboard
Before you choose either a longboard or a skateboard, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:
- Riding style: your riding style and the type of terrain you’ll be riding on should be the deciding factors in choosing a board. Longboards are great for cruising and long-distance riding, while skateboards are better for performing tricks and stunts.
- Board size: longboards are typically longer and wider than skateboards, providing more stability and a smoother ride. Skateboards, on the other hand, are smaller and lighter, making them easier to maneuver and perform tricks with.
- Wheel size: longboards generally have larger wheels, which provide a more comfortable ride and better stability on rough surfaces. Skateboards, on the other hand, have smaller wheels, which are ideal for traction and maneuverability.
- Cost: longboards are generally more expensive than skateboards due to their larger size and greater durability. Skateboards, on the other hand, are more affordable and easier to replace or upgrade.
Brief Comparison Between The Pros And Cons Of Each
Longboards:
Pros:
- Ideal for cruising and long-distance riding
- Higher speed, stability, and smoother ride
- Perfect for downhill riding
- Ideal for riders who prefer comfort and refinement
Cons:
- Less portable due to larger size
- Harder to perform tricks and stunts
- Not ideal for street skating or technical riding
Skateboards:
Pros:
- Ideal for performing tricks and stunts
- More portable and easier to carry around
- Great for street skating and technical riding
- Offers a wider range of customization options
Cons:
- Less stable and not suitable for long-distance riding
- Smaller size can result in a bumpier ride
- Only suitable for riders who want to perform tricks and stunts
While both longboards and skateboards have their own unique features, it’s important to decide on the board that fits your individual needs and riding style. Consider the above factors when choosing between a longboard or skateboard to ensure you make a well-informed decision.
Conclusion
It can be concluded that a longboard is, in fact, a type of skateboard. Although there are some differences between the two, such as the size and shape, the fundamental design of a longboard shares its roots with a skateboard.
Both longboard and skateboard have developed into unique subcultures, each with its own style and spirit. However, the fact remains that both disciplines belong to the same family of board riding. Whether you prefer cruising, carving, or downhill racing, the important thing is to find the right board that fits your style and skill level.
In the end, the distinction between longboard and skateboard is not as important as your passion for riding and having fun. So, grab your board, hit the road, and revel in the thrill of carving your own path.
