Best Longboard for College:
Heading off to college often means navigating campus quickly and efficiently. A longboard can be an ideal solution for getting around, offering both speed and convenience while adding a fun element to your daily routine. Whether you’re new to longboarding or looking to upgrade your ride, finding the best longboard for college involves considering factors like portability, durability, and ease of use. In this guide, we’ll explore some top picks that are perfect for cruising through campus, tackling hills, and even fitting into tight dorm spaces. Get ready to ride in style and comfort as you make your way to class.
When you’re a college student, getting around campus quickly and efficiently is essential. With the hustle and bustle of classes, social events, and extracurricular activities, having a reliable mode of transportation can make a significant difference in your daily routine. Longboards offer an excellent solution for college commuting, combining speed, portability, and fun. This guide will explore the best longboards for college students, focusing on key features, pros and cons, and specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a Longboard for College?
Longboards are particularly well-suited for college students for several reasons:
- Portability: Many longboards are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry to class, store in a dorm room, or fit under a desk.
- Speed and Efficiency: Longboards allow for faster travel across campus compared to walking, helping you save time between classes.
- Versatility: Longboards can handle a variety of terrains, from smooth sidewalks to rougher paths, making them ideal for diverse campus environments.
- Fun Factor: Riding a longboard is an enjoyable way to get around, adding a bit of excitement to your daily routine.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Longboard
When selecting a longboard for college, consider the following factors:
- Size and Weight: Opt for a board that is easy to carry and store. A length of 28 to 40 inches is generally ideal for campus commuting.
- Material: Look for durable materials like bamboo or maple, which provide a good balance of weight and strength.
- Wheel Size and Durometer: Larger wheels (around 60mm to 90mm) provide a smoother ride over rough surfaces, while softer wheels (78A to 83A) offer better grip and comfort.
- Deck Shape: Consider whether you prefer a drop-through or top-mount design. Drop-through boards are lower to the ground, making them stable and easier to push, while top-mount boards offer more maneuverability.
- Trucks: Choose high-quality trucks that provide stability and control. Look for brands like Paris or Gullwing for reliable performance.
Top Recommendations for College Longboards
1. Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout Longboard
Specifications:
- Length: 36 inches
- Width: 9.5 inches
- Wheelbase: 27.5 inches
- Wheels: 70mm, 78A durometer
- Trucks: 7″ Gullwing Charger II
The Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout is a versatile cruiser designed for both comfort and performance. Crafted from a blend of bamboo and maple, this longboard delivers a smooth ride with just the right amount of flex and pop, making it perfect for carving and cruising around campus. Its construction ensures stability and responsiveness, allowing you to easily navigate tight spaces and handle long rides with ease. Whether you’re gliding down pathways or weaving through crowds, the Sector 9 Bamboo Lookout offers a reliable and enjoyable ride, making it an ideal choice for students who need both functionality and style.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Durable construction ensures longevity.
- Responsive for carving and maneuvering.
Cons:
- May not be as stable at higher speeds compared to larger boards.
2. Landyachtz Dinghy Blunt Cruiser Skateboard
Specifications:
- Length: 28.5 inches
- Width: 8 inches
- Wheelbase: 16.5 inches
- Wheels: 60mm, 78A durometer
- Trucks: 5″ Polar Bear
The Landyachtz Dinghy is a compact and portable cruiser, designed with a blunt nose that excels in navigating tight spaces on campus. Its small size makes it incredibly easy to carry between classes or store in your dorm room. Despite its compact build, the Dinghy offers a stable and smooth ride, ideal for quick commutes and weaving through crowded areas. The durable construction ensures longevity, while the responsive trucks and soft wheels provide excellent maneuverability. Whether you’re cruising to class or exploring the campus, the Landyachtz Dinghy delivers convenience and performance in a compact package.
Pros:
- Highly maneuverable, ideal for quick turns.
- Easy to carry and suitable for beginners.
- Fun and responsive ride.
Cons:
- Limited stability at higher speeds due to its small size.
3. Arbor Pilsner Bamboo Longboard Cruiser
Specifications:
- Length: 37 inches
- Width: 9.5 inches
- Wheelbase: 27.5 inches
- Wheels: 70mm, 78A durometer
- Trucks: 7″ Paris V2 180mm
The Arbor Pilsner is a versatile cruiser that combines a classic shape with the durability of bamboo and maple construction, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. This board is designed to accommodate various riding styles, whether you’re cruising, carving, or commuting around campus. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, while the soft wheels and responsive trucks offer excellent maneuverability and control. The Arbor Pilsner’s blend of performance and style makes it an ideal all-around board for riders of all levels, delivering a reliable and enjoyable ride in any setting.
Pros
- Stable and responsive, suitable for different terrains.
- Eco-friendly materials and construction.
- Comfortable for longer rides.
Cons:
- May be too large for some students to carry comfortably.
4. Pantheon Pranayama Longboard
Specifications:
- Length: 38 inches
- Width: 9 inches
- Wheelbase: 27.5 inches
- Wheels: 85mm, 77A durometer
- Trucks: 180mm Paris V2
The Pantheon Pranayama is a top-mount commuter board engineered for efficiency and comfort, ideal for long-distance rides. Its design emphasizes stability, providing a smooth and controlled experience, especially when commuting across campus. The board’s low ride height reduces fatigue, making it easier to push and brake, while the spacious deck offers plenty of room for a comfortable stance. Built with high-quality materials, the Pantheon Pranayama delivers both durability and performance, ensuring a reliable ride for daily commutes. Whether navigating tight spaces or cruising over longer distances, this board is perfect for riders seeking comfort and efficiency.
Pros:
- Stable and responsive, ideal for long pushes.
- Comfortable for extended rides.
- Good for both commuting and casual riding.
Cons:
- May not be as maneuverable in tight spaces compared to smaller boards.
5. DB Longboards Double Drop Longboard
Specifications:
- Length: 33 inches
- Width: 9 inches
- Wheelbase: 29 inches
- Wheels: 90mm, 78A durometer
- Trucks: TKP trucks
The DB Double Drop series is crafted for long-distance pushing, offering a blend of stability and portability. These boards feature a double drop design, which lowers the center of gravity, providing a stable and smooth ride, especially over extended distances. The low deck height reduces fatigue, making it easier to push for longer periods while maintaining comfort. Despite their focus on long-distance performance, the DB Double Drop boards remain portable, making them convenient for daily commuting or travel. Whether you’re cruising through the city or embarking on a long ride, these boards deliver comfort and control.
Pros:
- Excellent for long-distance commuting.
- Stable and easy to foot brake.
- Large wheels roll smoothly over rough surfaces.
Cons:
- May be less agile for tight turns compared to shorter boards.
Choosing the Right Longboard for Your Needs
When selecting a longboard for college, it’s essential to assess your specific needs and preferences. Here are some questions to consider:
- What is your primary use for the longboard?
- Are you looking for a board primarily for commuting to class, or do you want something versatile for cruising and carving?
- How far do you need to travel?
- If you have a long distance to cover, consider a commuter-style board that offers stability and comfort over longer rides.
- What is your skill level?
- Beginners may prefer smaller, more maneuverable boards, while more experienced riders might opt for longer boards that allow for more advanced techniques.
- How important is portability?
- If you need to carry your board frequently, look for lightweight options that are easy to store.
- What type of terrain will you be riding on?
- Consider the surfaces you’ll encounter on campus. If you’ll be riding on rough paths, larger wheels will provide a smoother ride.
Maintenance and Care for Your Longboard
To ensure your longboard remains in good condition throughout your college years, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regularly Check the Hardware: Periodically inspect the trucks, wheels, and bearings for any signs of wear or loosening. Tighten any loose bolts to maintain performance.
- Clean the Wheels and Bearings: Dirt and debris can accumulate on your wheels and bearings, affecting performance. Clean them regularly to ensure a smooth ride.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your longboard in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or damage. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Protect the Deck: Consider using grip tape or a protective cover to prevent scratches and damage to the deck.
Conclusion
Choosing the best longboard for college involves considering various factors, including portability, stability, and suitability for your riding style. The longboards highlighted in this guide offer a range of options to suit different needs, from compact cruisers to stable commuter boards. By assessing your requirements and preferences, you can find the perfect longboard to enhance your college experience, making transportation fun and efficient.Investing in a quality longboard not only provides a practical mode of transportation but also adds an enjoyable element to your daily routine, allowing you to navigate campus with style and ease. Whether you’re cruising to class, hanging out with friends, or exploring the campus, a longboard can be a fantastic companion throughout your college journey.
