What makes a great cruising longboard, and how do you know which one is right for you? Navigating the world of longboarding can be quite thrilling, especially when it comes to finding the best board for your cruising adventures. With so many options available, it can be a bit overwhelming to choose the perfect companion for your rides along smooth pathways, gentle hills, or coastal roads. Let’s explore the essentials you need to consider when picking a longboard for cruising and highlight some of the best choices that will enhance your experience.
Understanding Longboarding for Cruising
Longboarding is an exhilarating activity that combines elements of surfing and skateboarding, allowing you to glide smoothly over various surfaces. Cruising specifically refers to riding for pleasure and comfort over moderate distances. Whether you’re venturing to the beach or commuting around town, cruising longboards are designed to offer the stability and maneuverability you need for a relaxed, enjoyable ride.
What is a Longboard for Cruising?
A longboard designed for cruising typically features a longer and wider deck than traditional skateboards. This design ensures a stable and smooth ride, balancing speed with control. Cruising boards often have softer wheels that offer a better grip and smoother ride over rough pavement, with trucks that allow for easy turning and carving.
Why Choose a Longboard for Cruising?
The appeal of cruising lies in its simplicity and relaxation. You can cruise along at your own pace, enjoying the scenery as you go. Longboards for cruising provide an excellent way to improve your balance and coordination without the need for advanced tricks or high-speed antics. They are perfect for beginners who want to get comfortable on a board or anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely ride.
Key Features to Consider for Cruising Longboards
When selecting a cruising longboard, it’s vital to focus on certain features that influence performance and comfort. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced rider, considering these aspects will help ensure you find a board that suits your needs and enhances your cruising experience.
Deck Length and Width
The deck of your longboard is its main platform, and its size will play a crucial role in your comfort and stability. Generally, longer and wider decks are better for cruising as they offer more space for your feet and greater stability.
- Length: Look for decks that range from 32 to 42 inches, depending on your size and comfort preferences.
- Width: A width of 8 to 10 inches will provide ample space and stability.
| Feature | Ideal Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 32″ to 42″ |
| Width | 8″ to 10″ |
Flexibility and Shape
A deck’s flexibility affects how it absorbs shock and deals with different terrains. Flexible decks are more forgiving on bumpy surfaces, which makes them ideal for cruising.
- Flexible Decks: Absorb road vibrations, ideal for long rides.
- Stiff Decks: Offer more control and are generally better for speed.
The shape of the deck also affects your ride’s comfort. Concave shapes help keep your feet in place when turning, while flat decks provide ample standing space.
Wheel Type and Size
Wheels significantly impact your cruising experience, as they affect how smoothly your longboard rolls over surfaces.
- Size: Larger wheels (70mm to 76mm) can tackle cracks and debris more easily than smaller wheels.
- Hardness (Durometer): Opt for a lower durometer (78A to 87A) for softer wheels that provide a smoother ride.
Trucks
The trucks affect your board’s turning ability and stability. For cruising, reverse kingpin trucks are commonly recommended. They allow for deeper turns and a more responsive ride, which makes navigating winding paths and carving down gentle slopes easier.
Bearings
Bearings determine how smoothly your wheels will roll. Higher-quality bearings can significantly enhance your longboard’s cruising ability by allowing for longer, smoother rides. Look for ABEC-rated bearings, typically ABEC 5 or higher for cruising.
Top Longboards for Cruising
Now that you have a clearer idea of what to look for in a cruising longboard, let’s explore some of the highest-rated options available. These boards are known for their comfort, stability, and performance.
Atom Drop Through Longboard
The Atom Drop Through Longboard is a favorite among cruiser enthusiasts, mainly due to its drop-through deck design that offers a lower center of gravity. This design stabilizes the ride and makes it easier to push, ideal for long cruising sessions.
- Length: 40 inches
- Deck Material: Maple laminate
- Wheel Size: 70mm
Sector 9 Lookout Complete Longboard
Sector 9 is well-regarded in the longboarding community, and the Lookout Complete Longboard is no exception. With its bamboo construction, this board is lightweight and flexy, providing a smooth ride with a natural feel.
- Length: 42 inches
- Deck Material: Bamboo
- Wheel Size: 74mm
Landyachtz Dinghy
For those looking for a more compact option with excellent maneuverability, the Landyachtz Dinghy is a superb choice. While smaller than traditional longboards, it offers a versatile ride that’s perfect for crowded city streets.
- Length: 28.5 inches
- Deck Material: Canadian maple
- Wheel Size: 63mm
Arbor Fish Solstice
The Arbor Fish Solstice combines aesthetics with function, offering a beautiful design with top-tier performance. Crafted from sustainable materials, this board is perfect for environmentally conscious riders.
- Length: 39 inches
- Deck Material: Sustainable wood
- Wheel Size: 65mm
Personalizing Your Cruising Experience
Once you’ve selected your longboard, it’s time to personalize it to suit your cruising preferences. Accessories and adjustments can make your rides even more enjoyable and tailored to your needs.
Grip Tape
Customizing the grip tape on your deck can enhance both the aesthetics and performance. Adding or changing the grip tape is a simple way to ensure your feet stay firmly planted while you ride.
Protective Gear
While cruising is generally safe, wearing protective gear can prevent injuries. Consider investing in helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads, especially if you’re new to longboarding.
Maintenance
Regularly maintaining your longboard can extend its lifespan and keep it performing well. Cleaning the bearings, tightening the trucks, and replacing worn-out wheels are simple maintenance tasks that can ensure a smooth ride.
Conclusion
Selecting the best cruising longboard involves understanding your personal preferences and the features that enhance your ride. From deck size and flexibility to wheel type and truck design, each element plays a crucial role in how your longboard performs. With options like the Atom Drop Through, Sector 9 Lookout, and Landyachtz Dinghy, there’s a perfect board out there for every cruiser. By personalizing your longboard and taking proper care of it, you can enjoy endless cruising adventures in comfort and style.
May your cruising journeys be smooth and the wind always gentle at your back, as you discover the freedom and joy that comes with longboarding.
