Longboard vs Skateboard:Which One Choose?

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Since the 1970s, skateboarding culture has become a symbol of youth energy, freedom, and street sports. Within this culture, different styles have emerged over time, and two of the most popular are skateboards and longboards. Even today, many people are still trying to figure out which board suits them better. That’s why searches like “Longboard vs Skateboard” are so common. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the differences between the two sports, their areas of use, their advantages, and which one is more suitable for different purposes.

Skateboard (Kaykay)

A skateboard is typically around 80 cm long with a narrow shape and both ends curved upward. It is mainly trick-oriented: jumping down stairs, performing moves on ramps, or showcasing acrobatics in skateparks. Skateboard wheels are smaller and harder, which provides more friction and control on the ground.

 

Longboard

As the name suggests, a longboard is a longer board, usually ranging from 90 to 150 cm. Its wheels are larger and softer, which makes riding smoother. Longboards are mainly used for city commuting, cruising, downhill riding, and covering longer distances.

Design Differences

Size: Skateboards are generally shorter and narrower, which makes them lighter and easier to control for tricks. Longboards, on the other hand, are longer and wider, offering more stability and comfort for long-distance rides.

Shape: The ends of a skateboard (nose and tail) are noticeably curved. These kicktails allow for jumping tricks such as ollies and kickflips. Longboards usually have flat or only slightly curved ends, making them better suited for speed, balance, and smooth cruising.

Wheels: Skateboard wheels are small and hard (usually around 99A), providing high maneuverability in skateparks, ramps, and smooth surfaces. Longboard wheels are larger and softer (around 75A), reducing vibrations even on rough roads and delivering a smoother, faster ride.

Trucks: Skateboard trucks are narrower, tighter, and more responsive, which helps the board change direction quickly during tricks. Longboard trucks are wider and allow for deeper turns, making them more suitable for carving and stable cruising.

 

Purpose of Use:

Skateboard:

  • Performing tricks in parks and on ramps
  • Sliding on street obstacles like stairs and rails
  • Technical moves (ollie, kickflip, grind)

Longboard:

  • Transportation and daily commuting
  • Downhill speed riding
  • Dancing (longboard dancing) and cruising

Ease of Learning

Skateboard: Due to its small wheels, vibration is higher and it is not comfortable for long distances.
Longboard: With its soft wheels and wide deck, it offers a smoother and faster ride. It provides fluid movement even on uneven asphalt roads.

Which Sport Is Safer?

In skateboarding, performing trick moves increases the risk of falling. Wrist, elbow, and knee injuries are common. With longboarding, the risk comes from speed—especially in downhill riding, where protective gear is essential. Overall, cruising on a longboard is generally safer compared to skateboarding.

Who Is It More Suitable For?

Skateboard Suitability:

  • Those who want to perform tricks in parks and on the streets
  • People who enjoy adrenaline, acrobatics, and showmanship
  • Anyone interested in professional skate culture

Longboard Suitability:

  • Those looking for a comfortable means of transportation
  • People traveling long distances within the city
  • Riders who enjoy dancing, speed, or smooth cruising

Learning to Stop at High Speeds

The faster you go, the more important it becomes to know how to stop. Here’s a brief summary of stopping techniques based on speed levels:

Low Speeds: Use foot braking or step off the board.

Medium Speeds: Carving (turning back and forth) is effective for slowing down, but you should be comfortable with sharp turns.

High Speeds: To maintain control, use sliding or reduce speed by tucking into a crouched position. Practice first on gentle slopes, then progress to steeper hills.

Cost and Durability

Skateboards are generally more affordable, but they can break more easily when performing tricks. Longboards are more expensive, yet they are more durable since they are designed primarily for transportation.

Which One to Choose in Different Situations?

If you say, “I want to do tricks on ramps and learn moves on the street,” → You should choose a skateboard.

If you say, “I’ll use it for commuting to school or work, and I enjoy downhill speed,” → A longboard is more suitable.

Conclusion: Longboard vs Skateboard

There is no single right answer to the question, “Longboard or skateboard?” It completely depends on your purpose and style:

  • If you want a trick-oriented sport, choose a skateboard.
  • If you want a comfortable ride and transportation, choose a longboard.

Remember, both sports help you gain balance, confidence, and a sense of freedom. No matter which one you choose, don’t forget to use protective gear.