If you're here, you must be wondering whether a longboard or a regular skateboard is the best for you to learn on. The choice of which kind of skateboard to use might be challenging because each form has its own distinctive features and advantages. This is particularly valid for people who are just getting started and are purchasing their first skateboard or longboard.
SPOILER ALERT: Longboards are often considered the better choice for beginners due to their greater stability and ease of use.
Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of skateboard to assist you in making this choice.
Longboards
PROS
Let's start by looking at the advantages of longboarding. Longboards are distinguished from typical skateboards by their longer deck length, which can range from 33 inches to 60 inches, and their larger, softer wheels, which offer a smoother ride and better stability. Longboards are a wonderful option for novices because of these characteristics, making them more forgiving and simple to ride than standard skateboards. Because of their larger size and softer wheels, longboards are also a fantastic option for skateboarders who want to use their board mostly for cruising and transporting.
CONS
Longboarding, however, has certain drawbacks as well. Longboards often lack the agility and responsiveness of standard skateboards, which can make them more challenging to manage and less ideal for learning longboard tricks. This is one of the greatest disadvantages of longboards. Longboards might also be a disadvantage for people who need to carry their skateboard around with them because they are typically heavier and more difficult to store and transport than standard skateboards.
Screenshot from my review of the Magneto Dancer bamboo longboard.
I recommend the Magneto Bamboo Longboards as the best affordable option for beginner longboarders.
Skateboards
Pros
Let's now examine the benefits of traditional skateboarding. Traditional skateboards often have decks that are between 28 and 33 inches long and are more compact. They have trucks that are narrower and feature smaller, tougher wheels. Due to its superior agility and responsiveness compared to longboards, traditional skateboards are a wonderful option for riders interested in mastering tricks and feats. Because of its smaller size and tougher wheels, traditional skateboards are a particularly appropriate option for riders who want to utilize their skateboard for street skating or in a skatepark.
CONS
The disadvantage of classic skateboards is that, due to their smaller size and harder wheels, they are more challenging for beginners to ride around on. These characteristics make getting from point A to point B slow and challenging. In comparison to longboards, they are also typically less stable and practical for transit and cruising long distances.
Me riding the Magneto SUV Skateboard on a bank in Oceanside, CA.
I recommend the Magneto SUV Skateboard as the best affordable option for beginner skateboarders.
What is the Best Type of Skateboard for Beginners?
So, which type of skateboard is actually better for beginners - longboards or skateboards? In general, longboards are often considered the better choice for beginners due to their greater stability and ease of use. While traditional skateboards may be better suited for learning tricks, they can be more challenging for beginners to learn. This is due to their huge disadvantage for casual riding due to their smaller size and harder wheels. In the beginning, longboards can make novices feel more comfortable and confident because they are typically more forgiving and simple to ride.
Whether you choose a longboard or a traditional skateboard, the most important thing is to have fun and stay safe while skating. Remember to always wear protective gear, such as a helmet and knee pads, and to follow all local laws and regulations. With the right skateboard and the proper precautions, you can enjoy this exciting and dynamic activity for years to come. With the right skateboard and the proper precautions, you can enjoy this exciting and dynamic activity for years to come. So, go out there and start skating!
BTW, I just set up a new online shop featuring products from several brands I trust and recommend.
Learn how to longboard today! In this guide I go over some of the most frequently asked questions from people wanting to get into longboarding. It includes links to all the videos and resources you'll need to buy your first longboard and start having fun on the streets.