Starting your skateboarding journey comes with many choices. One key question is, “Is a longer skateboard better for beginners?” To answer, let’s look at how stability, ease of learning, and maneuverability vary with skateboard length.
Longer skateboards, much like surf longboards, have more stability because they’re longer and wider. This extra stability is great for beginners who are learning to balance and control their board. For example, longboards are usually 34″ to 46″ long and 8.5″ to 10″ wide. These sizes offer a stable base, making longboards potentially the best choice for newbies.
In surfing, beginners often start with longboards for a smoother ride and easier wave-catching. This principle applies to skateboarding too, with longer boards offering advantages for beginners. On the other hand, shortboards (31″ to 33″ long and 7.25″ to 8.5″ wide) offer agility but we’ll cover their benefits later.
Key Takeaways
- Longer skateboards generally provide increased stability due to their greater length and width.
- Longboards can range in length from 34″ to 46″ and in width from 8.5″ to 10″.
- Greater stability makes longboards an excellent choice for beginners learning to balance.
- The added length of longboards offers a more stable platform similar to longboards in surfing.
- Shortboards are generally more agile but less stable, catering to different skill sets and skating styles.
Understanding Different Skateboard Types
Getting into skateboarding means knowing the types of skateboards available. Each shape and size fits a particular style and experience. Classic skateboards are perfect for skate parks and streets. They usually measure from 7.75″ to 8.25″ in width and about 32″ in length. These boards balance size and maneuverability well. A width of 7.75″ or 8.0″ is ideal for beginners older than 10 years. For more laid-back rides, consider a cruiser instead.
Longboards are great for stable cruising and downhill races because they’re over 35 inches long. They started in Hawaii during the 1950s, looking a lot like surfboards. These boards are great for fast downhill rides. Shortboards, smaller than 35 inches, are perfect for quick moves and technical tricks. These are best for skate park lovers and street skaters.
Discover more about the best type for your skating style.
Mini-cruisers became popular in the 1970s. Their small size makes them easy to carry and great for quick, sharp turns. They usually have soft wheels, making rides on rough surfaces smoother. But, their plastic decks may not be ideal for learning advanced tricks. Wide decks and unique shapes define old-school skateboards. They offer stability, making them perfect for pools and ramps.
Cruisers and carvers focus on enjoyable, easy rides. Surfers looking to cruise on land designed carver skateboards in the mid-90s. They blend surfing and skating. Meanwhile, cruisers handle rough city paths well with their big wheels and solid build, offering a smooth ride.
Knowing these skateboarding basics helps in picking the right skateboard. A quality board can make learning easier and more fun. Always think about your skating style and preferences when choosing your beginner skateboard.
Advantages of Longer Skateboards for Beginners
Longer skateboards, known as longboards, are great for starting skateboarding. They offer more stability than shorter boards. Their decks, ranging from 33 inches to 60 inches, provide a larger area. This helps new skaters balance easier and grow confident more swiftly.
New skaters get more room to try out different foot positions. This reduces the fear of falling. Longboards, with their big, soft wheels, make for a smooth ride. They’re great for beginners to learn on easier surfaces before taking on harder skills.
Longboards are also awesome for casual rides and cruising. They’re less scary for newbies because of their design. For new riders, a Magneto Bamboo Longboard is a top choice. It’s well-made and easy to use. Knowing these perks can really help newcomers begin skateboarding and have a great time doing it.
Shortboards: The Other Side of the Coin
Although long skateboards are great for newbies, shortboards shine for advanced skateboarding. If you’re choosing a shortboard, you’ll love their light, compact design. This design helps with better control and maneuverability. These features are perfect for street skating and fancy moves in skate parks.
Shortboards usually measure from 7.25 inches to 8.5 inches wide and 28 inches to 32 inches long. These sizes aid in making quicker turns and improving air control. They are best if you’re already good at skateboarding.
However, shortboards are not easy for everyone. They are hard for beginners because of their agility and the precision needed for tricks. So, while beginners might start on longer boards, those who know the basics might want shortboards to get better.
When looking at shortboards, consider these deck sizes:
- For kids: The best sizes are 7.25 to 7.5 inches wide and 29 to 30 inches long. Prices range from $71.99 for the Element Seal Black Complete Skateboard to $100.00 for the Enjoi Box Panda Skateboard Complete.
- For adults and teenagers: Widths are from 7.75 to 8.25 inches and lengths from 29 to 31 inches. For instance, the Braille The Best Beginner Complete Skateboard is $109.99.
- For the pros: Wider decks of up to 8.5 inches, like the Arbor Inked Complete Skateboard at $119.95, give better stability for complex tricks.
Each size and price point matches different skills and likes.
Picking the right shortboard depends on your skills and skateboarding goals. For advanced moves or smooth navigation in skate parks, shortboards enhance the thrill of skateboarding.
Choosing the Right Skateboard
Getting the perfect skateboard greatly improves your skateboarding fun, especially if you’re starting out. You should think about the skating style you like, your own size, and your skating spots. This skateboard buying guide will help you pick a board that suits you.
The kind of skateboarding you enjoy affects your board choice. Cruiser boards are longer for better stability. Shortboards, however, are made for quick moves.
Your size matters a lot too. Skateboards vary in size, fitting different people. Beginners often start with boards that are 7.75″, 8.0″, or 8.25″ wide. Street skateboards are usually about 32″ long. Big skateboards usually have deck widths between 7.75″ to 8.0″. Kids under 10 years old, or shorter than 5ft, should try junior skateboards. These are 7.25″ to 7.5″ wide and around 29″ long.
| Age | Height | Recommended Board Size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 10 years | Under 5ft | Junior size (7.25″ – 7.5″ width, 29″ length) |
| Over 10 years | Over 5ft | Full-size (7.75″ – 8.0″ width, 32″ length) |
Here’s a quick guide to board sizes by age:
- Micro boards: For kids. They are 6.5 to 6.75 inches wide and over 27 inches long.
- Mini boards: Best for ages 2 to 5. These boards are 7.0 to 7.5 inches wide and 27.5 to 30.5 inches long.
- Mid boards: Good for 6 to 8-year-olds. They measure 7.25 to 7.35 inches wide and 30.5 to 31.5 inches long.
- Full boards: Fit for ages 9 and up. These are over 7.5 inches wide and 31.5 inches long.
Think about where you’ll skate. Different places need different boards. New skaters often like longer boards because they’re stable and easier to learn on. Skilled skaters might prefer shortboards for doing tricks and quick moves.
Also, think about the price. Starting with a complete skateboard is usually cheaper. Buying parts separately can add up.
This skateboard buying guide covers important points for picking the right board. It matches your skating goals and level, making skating more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts: Which is Best for You?
Choosing the right skateboard as a beginner is crucial. Think about what you want from skateboarding. A longer skateboard, such as a drop-down deck, suits those looking for stability and easy learning. Drop-down longboards have a lower center of gravity for better balance. They’re great for newbies.
If you dream of doing tricks and need quick moves, a shortboard is better. Shortboards are perfect for street skating and parks, but they might be harder to learn on. No matter your choice, pick a skateboard that matches your skate goals. It should make you feel confident and comfortable.
When selecting a skateboard, your body size and practice willingness matter too. Looking for tips or wanting to know about beginner-friendly boards? The Landyachtz Switchblade and Prism Theory V2 are versatile choices. The best beginner skateboard fits your style and helps you learn. Whether it’s a longboard or shortboard, enjoy your skateboarding journey!
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!