Best Longboard For Beginners: Choosing the right longboard as a beginner can significantly impact your learning experience and enjoyment of the sport. With so many options available, it’s crucial to find a board that balances ease of use, stability, and control to help you build confidence and improve your skills. For beginners, the best longboards are typically designed with a focus on stability and maneuverability, allowing you to master the basics without feeling overwhelmed or out of control.
When selecting a longboard, consider factors such as deck shape, flex, and truck type. A wider deck with a more forgiving flex will provide a stable platform for learning, while softer wheels will offer a smoother ride on various surfaces. Additionally, trucks with a more moderate degree of turn can help with balance and carving. By focusing on these key features, beginners can find a longboard that enhances their learning curve and sets them up for a successful and enjoyable longboarding journey.
1. Best Overall: SECTOR 9 HIGHLINE
- DECK: 8” x 34.5”
- TRUCKS: Gullwing Mission
- WHEELS: 64mm 78a Nineballs
- BEARINGS: ABEC 5 Greaseball
Sector 9 has established a strong reputation in the longboarding community since 1993, and the Sector 9 Highline is a testament to their commitment to quality. This board stands out as an excellent choice for beginners due to its balanced design, which blends classic aesthetics with modern performance features. The Highline’s wide deck provides ample stability for new riders, helping them feel secure as they get accustomed to the basics of longboarding. It strikes the perfect balance between width and maneuverability, ensuring that the board is neither too cumbersome nor too challenging to handle.
The length of the Sector 9 Highline also contributes to its suitability for beginners. It is long enough to offer a stable ride while still being manageable for practicing turns and basic tricks. The inclusion of a kicktail is particularly beneficial, as it allows new riders to experiment with performing simple tricks or enhance their cruising experience. This added feature provides versatility, enabling riders to gradually advance their skills without the need for a separate trick board.
In terms of hardware, the Highline is equipped with Gullwing trucks, which, while not offering the sharpest turning response compared to reverse kingpin trucks, provide a stable and enjoyable carving experience ideal for beginners. Additionally, the large, soft wheels combined with ABEC 5 Greaseball bearings ensure a smooth ride over various terrains. This combination of components helps to create a comfortable and forgiving ride, allowing new riders to focus on developing their skills and confidence on the board. Overall, the Sector 9 Highline’s design and features make it a standout choice for anyone starting their longboarding journey.
2. Best Value: VOLADOR FREERIDE
- Brand: VOLADOR
- Color: Banana
- Age Range: Suitable for adults, youth, and kids above 5 years old
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Deck Length: 42 inches
- Deck Width: 9 inches
- Item Weight: 6.2 pounds
- Material: Maple wood
- Load Capacity: 200 pounds
- Wheel Size: 70 millimeters
Key Features:
- Longboard Engineering: Drop-through mounting for enhanced stability and push efficiency; adjustable 7” aluminum reverse kingpin trucks (50° for carving/freeriding, 45° for cruising/commuting).
- Wheels and Bearings: Softer 70x51mm 78A PU wheels with ABEC-9 precision bearings for shock absorption, kick efficiency, and traction, ideal for commuting.
- Materials & Manufacturing: 8-ply hardrock maple deck for durability with a generous 42” x 9” platform; A356 aluminum alloy trucks, used in aerospace for high-strength applications.
- Artwork: Custom art commissioned from Europe, Russia, and Asia, offering a diverse range of styles.
- Beginners’ Good Buy: Affordable yet high-quality, suitable for beginners and meeting standards of more experienced longboarders.
- Customer Service: Consistently ranked in the Top 5 longboard brands; committed to excellent customer service and handling quality issues.
While Volador might be categorized as a “budget” longboard brand, their products offer significant value, especially for specific segments of the market. For beginners who are hesitant to invest heavily in their new hobby or those looking to save some money, Volador provides a cost-effective solution without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. The Volador Freeride, in particular, is a noteworthy option that delivers a solid longboarding experience at a fraction of the cost of more premium boards.
The design of the Volador Freeride focuses on practicality and ease of use. It features a drop-through deck that enhances stability and ease of pushing, which is ideal for cruising and commuting. However, it lacks a kicktail, which limits its versatility for performing tricks but is still sufficient for some light hill riding. This design choice keeps the board affordable while catering to riders who prioritize smooth, stable rides over advanced maneuvers.
One area where Volador economizes is in the trucks, which may not provide the sharpest turning response. For those who desire a more refined turning experience, upgrading to aftermarket bushings can be a cost-effective improvement. Despite this, the large and soft wheels of the Volador Freeride ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride across various terrains, offering a gliding sensation that enhances the overall longboarding experience. This combination of features makes the Freeride a practical choice for those seeking a quality ride.
3. Best For Cruising: ARBOR MARTILLO ARTIST
- DECK: 9” x 31.75”
- TRUCKS: Paris Street 149mm
- WHEELS: 58mm 80a Arbor Shakedown
- BEARINGS: ABEC 5 Greaseball
At the heart of longboarding lies the unique blend of exhilaration and tranquility that comes with cruising along scenic trails or navigating city streets. A great cruising board delivers a stable ride that’s smooth and easy to maneuver, and the Arbor Martillo Artist board embodies all these qualities in one sleek package.
The deck’s wide yet shorter design enhances both stability and maneuverability, making it ideal for smooth rides, whether you’re learning in a parking lot or hitting up your local skatepark. The 50-degree Paris trucks provide quick, responsive turns, offering control without sacrificing stability. With grooves in the deck to prevent wheel bite, beginners can carve with confidence. The wheels strike a balance between comfort and performance, while the Greaseball bearings ensure you spend more time cruising and less time pushing, opening up the possibility for some controlled sliding as your skills progress.
The Arbor Martillo Artist board comes fully assembled and ready to ride straight out of the box, offering convenience and quality in one package. Measuring 31.75 inches in length and 9.00 inches in width, with a 14.625-inch wheelbase, this board is crafted from 7-ply Canadian Hardrock Maple, ensuring durability and a solid ride. The deck features a mellow concave with milled wheel wells, providing a comfortable and responsive ride. Finished with die-cut grip tape, it offers secure footing, making it perfect for riders of all skill levels.
4. Best For Commuting: ARBOR DROPCRUISER
- DECK: 9.75” x 38”
- TRUCKS: Paris 180mm
- WHEELS: 69mm 78a Arbor Easy Rider
- BEARINGS: ABEC 5
The Arbor Dropcruiser is an excellent choice for both the daily commute and leisurely rides through the park, offering a smooth and stylish way to navigate streets and sidewalks. While Arbor products are known for their versatility, the Dropcruiser stands out for its ability to handle urban environments with ease, making it particularly suited for those who prioritize comfort and stability in their ride.
One of the key features of the Dropcruiser is its low-set, drop-through deck design, which enhances stability by keeping the rider closer to the ground. The deck’s wide and long shape provides a spacious platform that feels secure, especially during longer rides. Although the absence of a kicktail limits trick potential, this design choice contributes to the board’s balanced and symmetrical feel, ideal for straightforward cruising.
Equipped with wide Paris trucks, the Dropcruiser excels in smooth, responsive turning, making it a joy to maneuver. The large Arbor Easy Rider wheels are soft enough to glide over various terrains effortlessly, absorbing vibrations from the ground. This combination of soft wheels and stable design ensures that longer commutes are not only manageable but also comfortable, reducing fatigue on your feet.
5. Best For Tricks: LANDYACHTZ STRATUS HOLLOWTECH
- DECK: 9.25” x 45.5”
- TRUCKS: 180mm Gen 6 Grizzly
- WHEELS: 63mm Landyachtz Fatty Hawgs
- BEARINGS: Landyachtz
A single glance at the Landyachtz Stratus Hollowtech reveals that this board is built for those with a passion for creativity and precision in their longboarding, particularly when it comes to technical moves and tricks. Its design is tailored for riders who aim to push the boundaries of what’s possible on a longboard, making it the go-to choice for anyone who envisions their future in longboarding as filled with complex tricks like shuvits and other advanced maneuvers.
Performing tricks on a longboard is often seen as a more advanced aspect of the sport, but if you’re someone who knows that mastering these skills is your ultimate goal, the Landyachtz Stratus Hollowtech is the board that will help you get there. The deck, crafted from a blend of maple and fiberglass, is the longest on this list, providing ample space for footwork and trick execution. Despite its length, the board is incredibly lightweight and flexible, offering the perfect platform for executing a wide range of tricks with ease and precision.
Every component of the Stratus Hollowtech is meticulously designed to enhance performance while minimizing weight. The Gen 6 Grizzly trucks are not only wide enough to offer the stability needed for technical tricks but are also engineered to keep the board agile and responsive without adding unnecessary bulk. The 63mm Landyachtz wheels, being smaller than average, further reduce weight and increase maneuverability, ensuring that the board remains fast and smooth on the cruise, while still being nimble enough for intricate moves. This advanced design makes the Stratus Hollowtech one of the most sophisticated boards on the market, justifying its higher price with the exceptional technology it offers to those dedicated to trick riding and longboard dancing.
6. Best For Kids: QUEST RORSHACK
- DECK: 6” x 34”
- TRUCKS: Aluminum
- WHEELS: 70mm
- BEARINGS: ABEC 5
When it comes to kids (and let’s face it, some adults too), interests can change as quickly as the weather. One moment they’re all in on longboarding, and the next, they’re moving on to the next exciting hobby. Given this unpredictability, it’s wise not to invest too heavily in a child’s first longboard. You want something affordable yet reliable, so you’re not left feeling like you’ve wasted money if their enthusiasm wanes.
That’s where the Quest Rorshack shines. This board strikes a perfect balance between cost and quality, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Its shorter length and narrower width are well-suited for younger riders, offering them a manageable size that’s easier to control. Despite its budget-friendly price, the Rorshack doesn’t skimp on safety or functionality. The deck, crafted from a mix of maple and bamboo, is both sturdy and slightly flexible, providing a comfortable ride that can withstand the bumps and scrapes of learning.
The Rorshack’s components are equally impressive for the price. It features reverse kingpin aluminum trucks that offer stability and smooth turning, making it easier for kids to navigate as they learn. The 70mm polyurethane wheels ensure a steady ride, providing enough grip for safe cruising while still allowing for some playful experimentation with tricks or small hills. This board is ideal not just for cruising around but also for kids who might want to try out a few tricks as they gain confidence, making it a versatile and practical choice for any budding longboarder.
7. Best For Speed: LANDYACHTZ DROP HAMMER
- DECK: 10” x 36.5”
- TRUCKS: 181mm Bear Grizzly
- WHEELS: 70mm 78a Hawgs Mini Monster
- BEARINGS: Landyachtz Space Balls
If your longboarding passion is fueled by a need for speed, the Landyachtz Drop Hammer is your ideal companion. Known for their expertise in the longboarding world, Landyachtz has crafted the Drop Hammer as a modern classic, perfect for riders who crave a fast, controlled ride. While it might not be the top choice for extreme downhill racing, this board excels at handling hills and provides a steady, controlled experience even at high speeds.
The Drop Hammer’s deck is designed with performance in mind. At 10 inches wide and 8 plies thick, the larger, heavier deck is an advantage when speeding downhill. This added weight contributes to greater stability, ensuring that you can maintain your balance when it matters most. The symmetrical shape of the board also enhances its versatility, allowing you to ride comfortably in any stance, whether you’re cruising or carving.
Equipped with Bear Grizzly 181mm reverse kingpin trucks, the Drop Hammer is built for freeriding and downhill longboarding. These trucks are a staple in the longboarding community, known for their reliability and smooth turning capabilities. Paired with Space Balls bearings, which are quiet, durable, and fast, this board offers an exhilarating ride. The large, soft Hawgs Mini Monster wheels further enhance the board’s versatility, making it not only a speed machine but also a great option for commuting and navigating various urban terrains or college campuses.
8. Best For Stability: LANDYACHTZ TUGBOAT
- DECK: 9” x 30”
- TRUCKS: 155mm Polar Bear
- WHEELS: 60mm 78a Fatty Hawgs
- BEARINGS: N/A
Falling off your board, wiping out, or taking a spill—whatever you call it, it’s almost inevitable when learning to ride a longboard. As a beginner, especially if you’re on the larger side or struggle with balance, choosing the right board can make all the difference in how safely and confidently you learn. A stable, easy-to-maneuver board can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls, giving you a safer and more enjoyable learning experience.
The Landyachtz Tugboat is an excellent choice for those seeking stability and strength without sacrificing the thrill of speed and carving. Its deck is both wider and shorter than many other boards, which not only enhances maneuverability but also provides a more secure platform for beginners. The design includes divotted wheel wells, a thoughtful feature that helps prevent wheel bite—a common issue that can easily throw off a rider’s balance. This combination of stability and agility makes the Tugboat an ideal board for those new to the sport.
Additionally, the Tugboat is equipped with standard kingpin trucks, offering steadier and less sensitive turning. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who might find overly responsive trucks intimidating or difficult to control. The wheels, though not the largest on the market, are still sufficiently big and soft, ensuring a smooth ride over rough terrain. They truly shine on smoother surfaces like asphalt and new skatepark concrete, making the Tugboat a versatile option for various riding environments.
Conclusion
When selecting the best longboard for beginners, it’s essential to consider a board that combines stability, ease of use, and durability. Boards like the Sector 9 Highline and the Volador Freeride offer excellent starting points, each catering to different needs and preferences. The Sector 9 Highline excels with its classic design, wide deck, and versatile features that allow new riders to build confidence and explore basic tricks. Its quality components, such as the Gullwing trucks and soft wheels, provide a smooth and stable ride, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable and enjoyable longboarding experience.
On the other hand, the Volador Freeride provides a more budget-friendly option without compromising on essential performance features. Its drop-through deck and soft wheels ensure a comfortable ride suited for cruising and commuting, while the potential for aftermarket upgrades allows riders to tailor their experience further. Both boards represent excellent choices depending on individual preferences and budget constraints, offering new longboarders a solid foundation to start their journey in the sport.
