Choosing the right long distance skateboard matters a lot. It influences your skating experience, whether you’re just cruising or going for an Ultraskate race. There are many longboards for different needs, styles, and skill levels. Knowing what each board offers helps pick the right one.
Boards that are low to the ground make pushing easier. This means you get tired less quickly. In races, the size of the wheels, the truck configuration, and the deck design are vital. For example, the last Ultraskate race winner had 100mm wheels. Companies like Pantheon make longboards especially for these needs, fitting every rider’s likes.
Longboards come in different price ranges and setup complexities. Beginners might like entry-level double drop boards since they’re cheaper. However, bracket boards offer more customization but are pricier. Knowing these differences helps you choose the best skateboard for travel. Let’s explore more on picking the perfect long distance board.
Key Takeaways
- Long distance pushing ranges from 5 miles to over 1000 miles.
- Wheel sizes of 80mm or larger are typical for long-distance boards.
- A deck that is low to the ground enhances pushing efficiency.
- Different trucks affect the board’s height and maneuverability.
- Price ranges vary from affordable double drop boards to high-end bracket boards.
Understanding Long Distance Skating
Long distance skating includes endurance skateboarding and skating over long distances. It’s a fun way to see different places and test your limits. To get good at it, you need to know the basics and how it’s different from regular skateboarding.
The equipment for long distance skating differs a lot from regular skateboards. Longboards are used, and they’re much longer, ranging from 28 to 59 inches. The average skateboard is about 36 inches long. Longboards have wider trucks and bigger, softer wheels, giving a smoother ride than smaller, harder wheels on skateboards.
How much a board bends, or its flex, is important too. For longboards, you want less bend for more stability when going fast. This is great for long skate trips. The change to longboards started in the 1990s by surfers wanting a stable board for cruising. That’s how modern longboards came about.
Knowing these differences shows why longboards are better for long trips. Skateboards are designed for tricks with their curved ends. Longboards have flat ends that make cruising easier. This is key for endurance skateboarding. Here’s a look at some design differences between longboards and skateboards:
| Design Element | Longboards | Skateboards |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 28-59 inches | Approximately 36 inches |
| Truck Width | 150-180 mm | Matching deck width |
| Wheel Size | Larger & Softer | Smaller & Harder |
| Flex | Low | Soft-Medium |
| Flat Nose & Tail | Yes | No |
Given these points, longboards are specially made for long skating trips. They give you the comfort and performance needed for long distances. Think about these elements when planning your next long skate journey to have fun and smooth experience.
Key Features of Long Distance Skateboards
Choosing the right board for long journeys means paying close attention to its features. The length and width of the skateboard are crucial. Longboards, for example, are usually 35 to 60 inches long and 9 to 10 inches wide. This size gives you more stability for longer rides.
Wheels are key too. Longboards come with bigger, softer wheels. These wheels help you go faster and ride smoothly over different kinds of surfaces. The board’s weight distribution and how flexible it is also matter for a good ride. You want a board that is balanced. It shouldn’t be too stiff or too bendy, so you feel comfortable while riding.
Let’s not forget about trucks. The trucks on longboards are usually between 150mm and 180mm wide. This depends on how wide the board is. If the deck is 9 inches or more across, go for 180mm trucks. They help keep the skateboard stable.
Safety is very important. An ideal skateboard comes with safety gear like helmets, kneepads, gloves, and the right shoes. Also, make sure to warm up for about 10 minutes before you start skating. Focus on stretching your hips and legs. This helps prevent injuries.
Top Skateboard Types for Long Distance
Longboarding is great for those who love long rides. It’s because they’re stable and easy to control. Longboards are long, over 33 inches, and they’re really fast. This makes them perfect for downhill. Pintail longboards are cool because they don’t let the wheels touch the board too much. This is good when you’re turning tightly.
- Pintail Longboards: Help prevent wheelbite, enhancing safety during deep carves.
- Twin Tip Longboards: Allow for deep carves and faster downhill rides. Perfect for those seeking performance.
- Cruiser Longboards: Such as the Zed 44”, are excellent for beginners due to their maximum deck space.
- Mini Cruisers: Smaller and ultra-lightweight, making them easy to carry and ideal for short urban commutes.
Cruiser boards are smaller, from 22 to 35 inches. The Zed 44” is good for new skaters and city rides. Mini cruisers are even smaller and easy to carry around. For tricks, go for double kick skateboards. They have narrow decks and small wheels that are good for flying stunts.
Carver skateboards are really cool because they let you feel like you’re surfing or snowboarding. They have a special front truck that lets you turn really sharply. They’re for those who want an extra thrill.
| Skateboard Type | Recommended Use |
|---|---|
| Longboards | Ideal for downhill skating due to their speed and stability. |
| Twin Tip Longboards | Suitable for deep carves and fast downhill rides. |
| Cruiser Longboards | Best for beginners and urban commutes due to their deck space. |
| Mini Cruisers | Ultra-lightweight and portable, perfect for short commutes. |
| Double Kick Skateboards | Essential for beginners interested in trick skating. |
Electric longboards like the Tidal Rev can go up to 12.5 miles and reach 24 mph. They’re great for daily commutes. Carving longboards are over 36 inches long and have soft wheels. This makes carving easier.
Whether you need a long cruiser for stability, or a mini for easy carrying, knowing about different skateboards improves your rides. It makes every journey fun and smooth.
Recommended Brands for Long Distance Skateboards
Choosing the right skateboard brand is crucial for long-distance skateboarding. Each brand has unique features that offer comfort, stability, and durability. Here, we compare top brands and their models to help you decide wisely.
| Brand & Model | Overall Score | Ride Comfort | Range (miles) | Speed (mph) | Weight (lbs) | Braking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backfire Zealot S2 | 76 | 5.4 | 26.1 | 30.8 | 23.3 | 9.4 |
| Ownboard Carbon Zeus Pro | 87 | 8.4 | 33.3 | 34.1 | 30.2 | 9.4 |
| Onewheel Pint | 76 | 8.0 | 10.0 | 14.2 | 25.5 | 10.0 |
| Meepo V5 | 64 | 5.5 | 10.9 | 24.6 | 17.6 | 8.7 |
| JKing Jupiter-01 All-Terrain | 73 | 7.0 | 12.3 | 25.5 | 23.2 | 8.7 |
| Onewheel GT | 83 | 8.2 | 25.0 | 19.8 | 35.6 | 10.0 |
Looking for a brand? Consider Landyachtz, Loaded, Comet, Pantheon, Zenit, and Arbor. These brands provide various options, from budget to premium models. Their focus on engineering and material quality makes them stand out.
Brands like Loaded offer limited lifetime warranties. Comet and Zenit have similar guarantees, showing their dedication to durability. For skaters who care about the environment, Arbor is appealing because they’ve planted over 500,000 trees.
Carver Skateboards and YOW Surf lead in surfskates. Their advanced truck systems, like the Carver CX.4 and YOW Surf trucks, enhance maneuverability. They’re perfect for tight turns and smooth rides over long distances.
Comparing Price Ranges of Long Distance Boards
Looking into long-distance skateboards means checking out different prices. You’ll find affordable options that all bring their unique perks.
| Category | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Ultra Budget Electric Skateboards | $150 to $299 |
| Standard Beginner Electric Skateboards | $300 to $799 |
| Intermediate Level Electric Skateboards | $800 to $1,499 |
| High-End Electric Skateboards | $1,500 to $2,000 |
| Premium Skateboards | Over $2,000 |
Most electric skateboards are priced from $400 to $2,200. With each price range, you get different features suited for either beginners or experts. For example, the WowGo 3E has dual 650W motors and goes up to 28 mph. It’s a great choice for those wanting more than a basic board.
For new riders, boards priced between $300 to $799 offer a good balance. They’re affordable yet functional, perfect for learning long-distance skating. Find the right board for you by checking this guide.
Keeping skateboard pricing in mind makes finding the right board easier. Affordable doesn’t mean low quality. Many budget-friendly boards are durable and great for adventures.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Board
When you’re getting into skateboarding, picking the right board matters a lot. A skateboard buying guide can help you choose by looking at your skill level, what you want to do with it, and what you like. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
Type of Skateboard: Classic skateboards work well for many things like street skating and tricks. Longboards are great for downhill racing and cruising around. If you’re just starting, a complete skateboard is a good choice because it’s ready to go. As you get better, you might want to create a custom board or upgrade parts. Skaters who are really into it often pick custom setups with top-notch parts.
Price Considerations: Starting with a complete skateboard is easier on the wallet, which is nice for beginners. As you skate more, you’ll know more about what you want. This can lead you to keep using complete skateboards or start building your own. Skateboard decks can cost anywhere from $34.95 to $129.95. The most expensive is the Heroin Eggzilla 3 at $129.95, and the cheapest is the Mini Logo Chevron Detonator at $34.95.
Material and Construction: Much of the time, skateboards are made from North American maple for its strong build. A typical skateboard deck has 7 layers of wood for the best mix of strength and bend. Decks also have different shapes to match how you skate and your skill level.
Deck Size and Width: Your skateboard’s deck size should match your height and shoe size. For example, short kids might like mini boards, and taller people should choose full-size boards. Heavier skaters should use wider decks for better support. Your shoe size can guide you on deck width: Men’s US size 6.5 to 9 and Women’s US size 8 to 10.5 might go for 7.5″ to 8.0″. Bigger feet might want 8.0″ to 9.0″.
Wheelbase: The wheelbase changes how a board moves. A longer wheelbase is good for a smooth ride and downhill skating. A shorter wheelbase lets you turn quickly, which is great for tricks and street skating.
In the end, using a detailed skateboard buying guide will help you pick right. Whether you’re just starting or looking to get better, the right board is key.
Maintenance Tips for Long Distance Boards
Keeping your long distance skateboard in great shape is key for a smooth ride. Doing regular skateboard maintenance not only makes your board last longer but also keeps it performing well. Here are some top tips to care for your longboard.
Regular Cleaning: Dirt and grime can slow you down and wear out parts. Cleaning your bearings every 50 hours of riding, or after skating in wet conditions, is a good rule. Use a bearing cleaner and lubricant to keep them in great shape.
Check and Tighten Hardware: Check your trucks, bolts, and nuts often. If they’re loose, you could lose control or damage your board. Tighten them up to stay stable and safe. Use the right sizes, from 7/8″ to 1 1/4″, depending on your riser pads.
Maintaining your longboard includes caring for your deck. Replace your grip tape if it’s smooth or very dirty. There’s standard grip tape for everyday use, coarse for downhill, and clear to show off your deck’s design.
Wheel and Bearing Maintenance:
- Softer Wheels (75a-80a): These have better grip, perfect for beginners and intermediate skaters.
- Harder Wheels: They’re faster but bumpier on rough surfaces.
- ABEC Ratings: ABEC 3 for casual rides, ABEC 5 for freeriding, and ABEC 7+ for downhill or racing.
Choosing the right wheels and keeping them clean are crucial for different skate styles. Here’s what you need to know about wheel sizes and hardness:
| Riding Style | Wheel Height | Wheel Width | Durometer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cruising/Carving | Approx. 75 mm | 55 mm | 75-80a |
| Downhill | 70-75 mm | 55 mm | 78a-83a |
| Freeride | 65-70 mm | 45 mm | 80a-86a |
| Freestyle | 55-65 mm | 45 mm | 75a-80a |
By paying attention to these maintenance tips, you can enjoy longer, smoother rides on your longboard. It’s simple but can make a huge difference in your skating experience.
Final Thoughts on the Best Long Distance Skateboard
Finding the perfect skateboard for travel is a key choice. If you’re skating across town or across the country, a good skateboard is important. The journey of long-distance skateboarding began in 1976 with Jack Smith. It continues to inspire, like Chad Caruso’s recent 3,162-mile trip across all 50 states.
Different boards meet different needs. According to our guide, cruisers are best for comfort, stability, and versatility. Caruso used one to skate an average of 55 miles a day for 57 days. This shows the cruiser’s strength and ability.
If you want speed and to ride on rough surfaces, longboards are great. They have bigger wheels, from 54mm to over 60mm. Boards like the Meepo Hurricane Ultra X or Evolve Hadean are top choices for long trips. The right wheel hardness, or durometer, makes a big difference on your ride.
In conclusion, picking the right skateboard means thinking about what you need, like wheel size and hardness. No matter if you’re new or experienced, the right skateboard makes your ride better. It leads to a smoother, more efficient 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!