Longboarding has gained immense popularity as an alternative form of transportation and a recreational activity. Longboards are ideal for cruising, commuting, downhill riding, freeriding, and doing tricks. With so many options available in the market, it can be tough to choose the best longboard that suits your riding style and meets your needs. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve rounded up the top longboard brands in the USA, their key features, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Types of longboard
There are several types of longboards, each designed for a specific style of riding. Some of the most popular types of longboards include:
- Cruising Longboards: These boards are designed for leisurely riding and are ideal for commuting, cruising around town, or exploring new places. They typically have a flexible deck and large wheels, which provide a smooth and comfortable ride.
- Downhill Longboards: These boards are designed for high-speed riding and are perfect for downhill racing and long-distance runs. They typically have a stiff deck, large wheels, and trucks that are specifically designed for stability at high speeds.
- Freeride Longboards: These boards are designed for a mix of cruising and downhill riding and are ideal for riders who enjoy doing tricks and sliding. They typically have a flexible deck, large wheels, and trucks that are designed for stability and control.
- Freestyle Longboards: These boards are designed for performing tricks and are ideal for riders who enjoy skateboarding and snowboarding. They typically have a flexible deck and trucks that are designed for quick turns and maneuverability.
- Dance Longboards: These boards are designed for performing dance moves and are ideal for riders who enjoy freestyling and dancing on their boards. They typically have a flexible deck, large wheels, and trucks that are designed for stability and control.
- Pintail Longboards: These boards are designed for cruising and have a classic surfboard shape. They have a long, narrow deck and a pointy tail, which makes them ideal for riders who enjoy a smooth, stable ride.
- Drop Through Longboards: These boards are designed for downhill riding and have a lower center of gravity, which makes them easier to control at high speeds. They have a deck that is mounted through the trucks, which lowers the rider’s center of gravity and increases stability.
- Mini Cruiser Longboards: These boards are smaller versions of cruising longboards and are ideal for riders who need a compact board for commuting or cruising in tight spaces. They have a small deck and wheels, making them easy to carry and maneuver.
No matter which type of longboard you choose, it’s important to consider your riding style and needs, as well as the quality and durability of the board.
How Do We Choose the Best longboard Rods for You?
Choosing the best longboard for you depends on several factors, including your riding style, skill level, and personal preferences. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a longboard:
- Riding Style: Different riding styles require different types of longboards. For example, if you want to use your longboard for cruising or commuting, a cruising longboard might be the best choice. If you’re interested in downhill riding or racing, a downhill longboard might be a better option.
- Deck Material: The deck material can affect the stiffness and durability of the longboard. Decks can be made from materials such as maple, bamboo, or carbon fiber. Maple is the most common and affordable material, while bamboo and carbon fiber are more expensive but offer more stiffness and strength.
- Deck Shape: The shape of the deck can also affect the ride of the longboard. Different shapes, such as pintail, drop-through, or flat, offer different riding experiences. Pintail longboards are ideal for cruising and provide a stable ride, while drop-through longboards are better for downhill riding and provide more stability and control.
- Trucks: The trucks are the metal components that attach the deck to the wheels. Different truck widths and designs can affect the stability and maneuverability of the longboard. Trucks that are wider and have a more aggressive design are better for downhill riding, while narrower trucks with a more relaxed design are better for cruising and commuting.
- Wheels: The wheels of a longboard can affect the ride quality, speed, and grip. Wheels come in different sizes, shapes, and durometers (measure of hardness), so it’s important to choose the right ones for your riding style. Softer wheels are better for rough terrain, while harder wheels are better for smooth surfaces.
- Bearings: The bearings are the components that allow the wheels to spin. High-quality bearings can make a big difference in the speed and smoothness of the ride. ABEC (Annular Bearing Engineering Committee) ratings indicate the precision of the bearings, with higher ratings indicating higher precision and smoother rides.
- Budget: Longboards can range in price from under $100 to several hundred dollars. Your budget will play a role in what type of longboard you can afford and what features and components are included.
By considering these factors, you can find the best longboard for your riding style and needs. It’s also a good idea to test ride different longboards to get a feel for their ride and performance before making a final decision.
List Of Top 15 Best Longboard Brands In USA
Quest Super Cruiser Longboard
Quest Super Cruiser Longboard is one of the most popular and highly rated longboards on the market. It’s a 44-inch bamboo and maple hybrid board that offers stability, control, and comfort. The board features a sturdy deck, large wheels, and a smooth ride. The design is classic and sleek, making it a stylish option for commuting and cruising.
Atom Drop Through Longboard
Atom Drop Through Longboard is a high-performance board that is ideal for downhill riding and freeriding. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity and makes it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a 7-ply maple laminate, which is strong and durable. The board also features a reverse kingpin truck that provides excellent stability and responsiveness.
Santa Cruz Lion God RastaDrop Down Longboard
Santa Cruz Lion God Rasta Drop Down Longboard is a stylish and well-made board that is perfect for cruising and commuting. The deck is made from a durable and lightweight bamboo and maple hybrid, which offers stability and comfort. The drop-down design of the board provides a lower center of gravity, making it easier to control and ride at high speeds.
Atom Longboards Atom Drop Through 40 Inch Longboard
Atom Longboards Atom Drop Through 40 Inch Longboard is a versatile board that is perfect for riders of all skill levels. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control and ride at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 7-ply maple laminate, and the board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride.
Yocaher Professional Speed Drop Down Longboard
Yocaher Professional Speed Drop Down Longboard is a high-performance board that is ideal for downhill riding and freeriding. The drop-down design lowers the center of gravity and makes it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a strong and durable 7-ply maple laminate, and the board features large wheels that provide a smooth ride.
Sector 9 Lookout Drop Through Longboard
Sector 9 is a well-known brand in the longboarding industry and the Lookout Drop Through Longboard is one of their best offerings. This board is designed for stability and speed, making it ideal for downhill riding and freeriding. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 9-ply maple laminate, and the board features large wheels that provide a smooth ride.
GoldCoast Longboards Soul Trawler Longboard
GoldCoast Longboards is a brand that is dedicated to providing quality products for longboarding enthusiasts. The Soul Trawler Longboard is a well-designed board that is ideal for cruising and commuting. The deck is made from a strong and durable bamboo and maple hybrid, which provides stability and comfort. The board features a classic design, making it a stylish option for riders who are looking for a board that is both functional and stylish.
Atom Drop Through Longboard 39 Inch
Atom Drop Through Longboard 39 Inch is a high-performance board that is designed for stability and speed. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 7-ply maple laminate, and the board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride. This board is perfect for riders who are looking for a board that can handle high speeds and tight turns.
Atom Drop Through Longboard 41 Inch
Atom Drop Through Longboard 41 Inch is a versatile board that is perfect for riders of all skill levels. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 7-ply maple laminate, and the board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride. This board is ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Quest Skateboards Super Cruiser Longboard
Quest Skateboards Super Cruiser Longboard is a classic board that is perfect for cruising and commuting. The board is 44 inches long and is made from a bamboo and maple hybrid, which provides stability and comfort. The board features a sturdy deck, large wheels, and a smooth ride. The design is classic and sleek, making it a stylish option for riders who are looking for a board that is both functional and stylish.
Quest Skateboards Atom Drop Through Longboard
Quest Skateboards Atom Drop Through Longboard is a high-performance board that is perfect for riders who are looking for speed and stability. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 7-ply maple laminate, and the board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride. This board is ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Santa Cruz Lion God Rasta Drop Through Longboard
Santa Cruz Lion God Rasta Drop Through Longboard is a stylish and high-performance board that is perfect for riders who want to stand out from the crowd. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable 9-ply maple laminate, and the board features large wheels that provide a smooth ride. This board is ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Bamboo Skateboards Drop Through Longboard
Bamboo Skateboards Drop Through Longboard is a well-designed board that is perfect for riders who are looking for a board that is both functional and stylish. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable bamboo and maple hybrid, which provides stability and comfort. The board features large wheels that provide a smooth ride, making it ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Atom Drop Through Longboard 41 Inch Bamboo
Atom Drop Through Longboard 41 Inch Bamboo is a high-performance board that is perfect for riders who are looking for speed and stability. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable bamboo and maple hybrid, which provides stability and comfort. The board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride, making it ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Atom Drop Through Longboard 39 Inch Bamboo
Atom Drop Through Longboard 39 Inch Bamboo is a well-designed board that is perfect for riders who are looking for a board that is both functional and stylish. The drop-through design lowers the center of gravity, making it easier to control the board at high speeds. The deck is made from a durable bamboo and maple hybrid, which provides stability and comfort. The board features large, soft wheels that provide a smooth ride, making it ideal for commuting, cruising, and downhill riding.
Conclusion
these are some of the best longboard brands in the USA that offer high-quality products for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a board for cruising, commuting, downhill riding, freeriding, or doing tricks, these brands have got you covered. When choosing a longboard, be sure to consider your riding style and needs, as well as the quality and durability of the board.
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a longboard brand?
When choosing a longboard brand, you should consider factors such as the type of riding you plan to do (cruising, freeriding, downhill, etc.), your skill level, your budget, and the quality and durability of the components. You should also consider the reputation and customer reviews of the brand, as well as the customer support and warranty offered by the company.
What are the most popular types of longboards?
The most popular types of longboards are cruisers, freeride boards, downhill boards, and danceboards. Each type of board is designed for specific riding styles, and it is important to choose the right board for your needs to ensure that you have the best possible experience.
Are there any longboard brands that are specifically designed for beginners?
Yes, there are many longboard brands that are specifically designed for beginners. These brands often offer more affordable and entry-level boards that are easy to ride and suitable for those who are just starting out.
Can I use a longboard for commuting?
Yes, many people use longboards for commuting. Longboards are a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to cars and public transportation, and they can be a fun and enjoyable way to get around. When choosing a longboard for commuting, you should consider factors such as the weight and size of the board, as well as the stability and maneuverability of the deck.
Are longboards safe to ride?
Longboarding can be a safe and enjoyable activity when proper safety gear and riding techniques are used. It is important to always wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as elbow and knee pads, when riding. Additionally, riders should learn and follow proper riding techniques and avoid riding in dangerous or high-traffic areas.
How long does a longboard last?
The lifespan of a longboard can vary greatly depending on the quality of the components, the frequency of use, and the type of riding it is used for. In general, a high-quality longboard can last several years if properly maintained and used. However, more extreme forms of riding, such as downhill and freeriding, can put more stress on the components and result in a shorter lifespan.
