For a beginner, the differences between a longboard and a skateboard may be difficult to gauge, and you may be asking yourself, where do I start? In reality, there are several significant differences between the two board styles which will have a huge effect on how you skate.
So, before you make a purchase, read through our skateboard vs longboard guide to learn how they differ and which will best suit your ability and the way you want to learn to skate.
Physical differences between longboards and skateboards
The primary differences between longboards and skateboards is their size and shape. Size-wise, a classic skateboard will only vary slightly in length, ranging from 28-33”. Similarly, they width range is not extensive and usually varies between 7.25-8.75”. The range of longboard sizes on the other hand, is much greater. They can start around 30” and go all the way up to 60” and possibly beyond.
In terms of shape, classic skateboards are almost always the same symmetrical rectangular shape, with curved edges. A skateboard deck will also always feature a double kick, meaning each end of the board curves upwards. These can differ slightly in steepness and the central concave of the deck but for the most part, they are quite straightforward.
Longboards, on the other hand, offer much more variety in shape, profile and materials. When purchasing a longboard, you will find that you have a choice of nose and tail options: e.g. a pintail board will feature a pulled in, narrow pointed nose and tail; blunt boards feature a wider, rounder nose and tail; while twin-tip boards taper into points at both ends. You can pick a longboard deck shape based on your riding style, which we will cover later in this article.
Trucks and wheels
Further differences amongst the two boards are the trucks and the wheels. One point to note is that you may see two size measurements when looking at trucks: hanger length and axle length. The hanger is the bulkier part of the truck which houses the axle. This will always be the smaller measurement, while the axle measurement includes both the hanger and axle i.e. the full length of the truck.
Trucks on a longboard will always be significantly longer than those on a classic skateboard which usually have an axle length of 7.25-8.75”. You’ll notice that these are the same sizes as a classic deck width -this is because on a double kick skateboard, the axle length of the trucks should be the same width as the deck.
Longboard trucks however, can range from 6” to around 10”. Ideally, a longboard will have trucks that are a similar to the width of the deck. However, it is not uncommon to find a board with trucks that are slightly wider than the deck as this adds stability to your ride—the main reason longboards have longer trucks in the first place.
The pattern in terms of sizing continues when it comes to skateboard and longboard wheels. Longboard wheels will always be larger than the wheels on a classic skateboard. They are wider and have a greater diameter so offer a smoother, faster and more stable ride.
On the other hand, skateboard wheels are smaller and harder making them more suitable for performing tricks. You can find out more about longboard wheels in our comprehensive longboard wheels guide, which also highlights the difference between them and a classic skateboard wheel.
Choose a board based on your riding style
The decision between longboard and skateboard should be informed by how you want to ride. A double kick skateboard is designed for tricks and to be ridden at the skate park. Having kick tails at each end allows the board to skated in either direction and popped from each end giving you the ability to ollie, kickflip and practice many other flip tricks. The short length and design of the trucks and wheels also makes it much more suited to riding ramps, rails, boxes etc. than a longboard ever could be. If you want to rip up the skatepark, go classic.
Alternatively, longboards are suited to many different pursuits. If you’re looking for a board that offers comfortable cruising and commuting around town, freestyle riding, longboard dancing, or even downhill riding, then a longboard is for you.
Given there are many different styles of board and riding, you will probably still be left wondering exactly which longboard you should go for. But don’t worry, we’ve got that covered in our longboard guide.
Skateboard vs longboard – which is best?
You may have gathered already, one isn’t better than the other. It all comes down to how you want to use your board and where you want to take your skating. If you’re unsure, and you really just want to get used to riding around/cruising, a longboard at the shorter end of the scale may be your best bet. This will have you rolling smoothly and effortlessly on a stable first setup.
At Two Bare Feet we offer a comprehensive range of classic skateboards and longboards, in a variety of colours, sizes, deck designs, materials and shapes. If you feel a little overwhelmed by the choices, or you’re not sure what you’d like, feel free to ask our friendly team for advice.
