Best Longboard Brands: The Unsung Heroes of Asphalt Surfing
Prepare to drop in and ride the wave, fellow asphalt surfers! If you're in search of the perfect gear to make every hill your own personal pipeline, then you've clicked your way to the right place.
You see, the longboard isn't just a plank of wood with wheels attached - oh, no - it's your steadfast companion, your four-wheeled steed, your conduit to street-surfing stardom. And we're here to help you pick the crème de la crème of the lot - the best longboard brands you can find.
Don't be that kook cruising on some generic brand that's bound to bail on you mid-ride. No, siree! Our mission here is to save you from the faux pas of faceplants and asphalt kisses.
To help you glide through the gritty urban jungle or the hushed suburban streets, we've compiled the ultimate list of the best longboard brands that have carved out their names in the world of street surfing. So, lace up, grab your helmet, and prepare to dive into the wild world of top-tier longboarding. Let's get this pavement party started!
Top 5 Longboard Brands Reviews
At a Glance
Best Ride
9.8
PROS:
- Smooth Ride: Arbor longboards are known for their smooth and effortless ride, making carving and cruising an enjoyable experience.
- Quality Construction: The boards are often made with durable materials like nine layers of wood, increasing their longevity.
- Unique Designs: Arbor offers unique, visually appealing designs that add an aesthetic value to the product.
Best Versatility
9.4
PROS:
- Ideal for Beginners: With their user-friendly design, these boards are great for beginners learning to skateboard.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The various designs and artwork on the boards are really visually appealing.
- Versatility: The boards serve as both a recreational ride and a practical mode of transportation.
Best Value
9
PROS:
- Affordability: Magneto is one of the most budget-friendly, complete longboard, options in the market.
- Beginner-Friendly: These boards are great for beginners due to their stability and ease of use.
- Size: The size of the boards is fantastic as they accommodate taller and heavier riders.
Deep Dive
Having personally experienced a variety of the best longboard brands over the years, I can confidently say that Arbor is a brand that rarely disappoints. The Arbor Fish Longboard, for example, is a testament to the brand's commitment to deliver a smooth and effortless ride.
The blend of gummy wheels and Paris trucks creates an unrivaled cruising experience, letting you carve through any path with ease and stability. With a deck made of nine layers of wood, the board's sturdiness and durability are clear indicators of the brand's attention to quality and endurance.
The brand's aesthetic appeal is another striking aspect that sets it apart from many others in the market. From the unique moon phase and snake design on the Arbor Fish to the attractive natural grain finish, the visual appeal of these boards is undeniable.
However, it's essential to note that some board designs can vary from the pictures, with rounded ends instead of the expected square ones. While this doesn't affect performance, it might be a slight disappointment for those expecting a precise match to the product images.
The standout feature of Arbor, in my opinion, is their focus on customer service. There have been instances where customers received different sizes than what they ordered.
However, the company is extremely attentive and always endeavors to rectify any issues promptly and efficiently. That said, I did find some inconsistency in their product delivery and packaging, which could be an area of improvement for the brand.
The Arbor Fish Longboard, while an excellent product overall, might not be ideal for everyone. Larger riders might find the board too small, and those who prefer harder wheels may find the soft wheels unsuitable.
Additionally, despite being quite sturdy, some boards have been reported to arrive with minor scratches and cracks, indicating some quality control issues that the brand should address.
In conclusion, Arbor is a reliable brand that combines functionality, aesthetic appeal, and customer service. While there may be occasional issues with product delivery and minor quality inconsistencies, the brand's overall performance and the satisfaction of the majority of its users are indications of its high standards in the longboarding community.
That's why we've put them at #1 on our list of the best longboard brands.
Pros
- Smooth Ride: Arbor longboards are known for their smooth and effortless ride, making carving and cruising an enjoyable experience.
- Quality Construction: The boards are often made with durable materials like nine layers of wood, increasing their longevity.
- Unique Designs: Arbor offers unique, visually appealing designs that add an aesthetic value to the product.
Cons
- Product Inconsistency: There have been cases of customers receiving products that slightly differ from what was pictured.
- Delivery and Packaging Issues: Some customers have reported damaged or improperly packaged products upon delivery.
- Quality Control: There have been a few reports of minor defects like scratches or cracks in the boards upon delivery.
We think these longboards are "fast" and "cool-looking," and their sturdiness is totally legit. The bigger wheels contribute to a more comfortable ride, enabling you to smoothly navigate over rough streets and sidewalks without issue.
The Landyachtz brand is also noted for its aesthetic appeal, and we noticed that their boards often draw positive attention from onlookers.
The Landyachtz brand features an assortment of designs to suit varied preferences, from a cat named Dumptruck to a crystal cave design. However, the size and the structure of the boards are key elements of their appeal.
The proportionality of these boards makes them comfortable for a wide range of users, allowing folks of all body types to enjoy the ride. They're also versatile, serving well as both a recreational ride and a practical mode of transportation around campus or through the neighborhood.
However, it's not all smooth riding with Landyachtz. A few users report issues with the condition of their board upon arrival, including scratches and partially opened packaging.
Some even express disappointment at receiving a different design or board version than what was advertised.
In addition, the board’s handling at higher speeds leaves some room for improvement, and we recommend taking time to break it in before tackling challenging terrain.
Despite these flaws, our Landyachtz board offers good value for the price, is well-constructed, and provides an enjoyable ride, and that's why it makes our list of the best longboard brands on the market.
Pros
- Ideal for Beginners: With their user-friendly design, these boards are great for beginners learning to skateboard.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The artwork on their boards is awesome.
- Great for Carving: The boards are excellent for carving.
Cons
- Packaging Issues: Some users reported their boards arrived in less than ideal condition, with packaging partially open or insufficient to protect the board.
- Inconsistency in Product Description: Some users were disappointed to receive a different design or board version than what was advertised.
- Break-in Period: A few users mentioned that the boards could be stubborn to break in and required some adjustment time.
Magneto stands out as a solid, value-for-money longboard brand, offering a range of boards to suit different styles and skill levels. The boards' aesthetics are notable, and we appreciate the simple, attractive designs and the attention to detail.
As for performance, the boards provide a smooth, enjoyable ride, with impressive flexibility and reliability. The large size of the boards and their durability are great for riders of varying weights and heights, and we think beginners would find Magneto boards to be excellent for learning the ropes of longboarding.
While the boards provide decent speed, the overall ride quality is significantly enhanced with upgraded bearings, which might be something to consider once you get going with the board. The stock bearings and bushings, although functional, often leave us desiring more in terms of performance.
We've also observed that the bushings can be quite noisy and stiff, which may detract from the overall riding experience.
The board’s size and weight, which is notable for its stability and durability, might not be suitable for everyone. Smaller or lighter users might find the boards cumbersome and challenging to handle due to their size. In addition, some users may feel the board is too large for their preference or difficult to carry due to its weight.
In terms of build quality, we found the Magneto boards well-built and sturdy, but there have been some concerns. Reports of stress cracks appearing on the boards are not uncommon, and some users have also encountered issues with the grip tape and texture on top of the board wearing out over time.
Overall, Magneto longboards present an affordable and attractive option for beginners and intermediate riders. While they have a few drawbacks in terms of component quality, their impressive durability, design appeal, and overall rideability make them a brand worth considering, especially for those on a tighter budget.
With a few upgrades, these boards could provide an even better riding experience. However, we still consider them to be one of the best longboard brands you can find.
Pros
- Affordability: Magneto is one of the most budget-friendly options in the market and provides great value for you money.
- Beginner-Friendly: These boards are recommended for beginners due to their stability and ease of use.
- Handling Minor Obstacles: We appreciate the board's ability to handle minor obstacles like twigs, leaves, and pavement cracks.
Cons
- Bearings: The most commonly reported issue pertains to the quality of the bearings. We suggest replacing them for a better experience.
- Bushings: The bushings feel a bit too stiff and of poorer quality.
- Traction: The traction on the boards could definitely use some improvement.
Sector 9 is a long-standing brand known for its well-built longboards, a fact exemplified by the robustness of their boards, with some users even reporting over a decade of use. This longevity is further testament to the brand's high-quality construction, as seen in their bamboo decks and the clear grip traction that offers a firm and secure footing.They are particularly excellent for downhill riding styles, thanks to their exceptional design and balance.
That said, the brand does have some aspects that may be seen as a drawback by some . The wheels, for example, have been don't seem to spin as well as those of some other longboard brands.
Moreover, a few users have reported that their boards, despite seemingly solid construction, snapped unexpectedly under normal use.
Despite these potential cons, Sector 9 boards offer a remarkably smooth ride, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced riders alike. The brand particularly excels in the way their boards handle carving and their superior turning radius.
We find these boards easy to get used to and enjoy the smoothness and the visually pleasing graphics on the boards.
The flexibility of the bamboo deck adds to the comfort of the ride, allowing for easy, long carves across the pavement. While there's no kicktail, the board is still maneuverable enough for riders to change directions as needed. The clear grip tape can get dirty over time, but this does not affect the performance of the board and seems to be more of an aesthetic concern.
In summary, Sector 9 offers durable, smooth-riding longboards that are well-suited for both beginners and experienced riders. Though some users reported issues with the wheels and board snapping, our overall consensus is that these boards offer excellent value for the price, especially considering their long lifespan.
They are ideal for those who want a reliable, high-performing board for cruising or downhill riding styles. They are one of the best longboard brands you can find.
Pros
- Reliable Traction: The clear grip tape offers secure footing and remains effective over time.
- Good Turning Radius: The boards have a good turning radius, enhancing their maneuverability.
- Versatility: These boards are suitable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
Cons
- Wheel Quality: We noticed that the wheels do not spin as well as those on boards from other longboard brands.
- Lack of Kicktail: The absence of a kicktail on some models is a drawback, limiting the board's maneuverability.
- Limited Slide Capability: We noticed that the boards can be difficult to slide on due to the grip of the wheels.
Loaded Longboards is undoubtedly a paragon of quality, delivering high-performance products with stunning aesthetics. The boards exhibit a perfect balance between durability and flexibility, allowing riders to glide smoothly across various terrains and perform tricks with impressive ease.
Moreover, they are lightweight and characterized by their distinctively sophisticated design patterns, which not only enhances their visual appeal but also contributes to their overall functionality. The brand appears to be committed to customer satisfaction, as indicated by their prompt and effective customer service.
In terms of the board's construction, Loaded Longboards places a significant emphasis on high-quality components. The longboard deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings all work harmoniously together to create a smooth and speedy ride.
We particularly appreciated the board's springiness, vibration absorption, and speed retention, asserting that these features contribute to a unique and superior ride compared to other longboards.
However, despite everything we mentioned above, Loaded Longboards does come with a few caveats. The grip tape may initially feel a bit unusual, requiring some adjustment time.
Also, some riders have raised concerns about the board's finish, noting occasional issues with uneven or hazy coating.
We should point out that the flex, while generally appreciated, could be a disadvantage for heavier riders, who might experience "bottoming out" on uneven surfaces.
Overall, Loaded Longboards strikes a commendable balance between form and function, providing an exceptional riding experience across the board. Although they may carry a higher price tag, they seem to justify this with superior performance and quality.
Nonetheless, prospective buyers are advised to carefully consider their weight and intended use to ensure they select the most suitable flex level. The brand's commitment to customer service should also provide reassurance, as they can offer guidance for first-time longboard owners.
In conclusion, Loaded Longboards presents an attractive option for both novices and seasoned riders looking for one of the most reliable, high-performing longboard brands - which is why we've included it in our list of the best longboard brands.
Pros
- Premium Components: Reviewers praised the quality of the trucks, wheels, and bearings that come with the boards.
- Good for Different Skill Levels: Both beginner and professional riders should appreciate the boards for their versatility and suitability for different skill levels.
- Excellent for Tricks and Cruising: The flexibility and light weight of the boards make them suitable for both tricks and cruising.
Cons
- High Price Tag: The boards are quite expensive, although we still feel that the price is worth it for serious riders.
- Potential for Bottoming Out: Some heavier riders may find that the boards could bottom out on uneven surfaces.
- Quality of Bearings: We feel that the bearing quality doesn't match the quality of the rest of the board, and could benefit from replacement.
Comprehensive Buying Guide for the Best Longboard Brands
Heads up, pavement pirates! If you're looking to join the ranks of asphalt conquerors and sidewalk surfers worldwide, you're gonna need more than just a pair of Vans and an insatiable desire for adventure.
A righteous ride is a must, and that's where we come in. Welcome to the most comprehensive buying guide for longboard brands this side of the internet. Get ready to get schooled, because class is now in session!
Discovering the Longboarding Universe
Life's a journey, right? Well, longboarding is like a microcosm of that journey. It's not just about going from Point A to Point B, but rather how you get there - carving your own path, finding your flow, and having one hell of a good time doing it.
So let's take the first step into the longboarding universe together, shall we?
Understanding the Basics: What to Consider When Buying a Longboard
Getting into longboarding can be daunting, like standing at the edge of a vert ramp staring into the abyss. But hey, no worries!
First things first, consider your ride style. Do you prefer chilled cruiser boards or a daring downhill daredevil? Your riding style sets the tone for the type of board you'll need.
Then think about where you'll be riding and your skill level. Each board has its own personality - some are flirty and fun, others are as serious as a wipeout on a concrete wave.
Dive into Diversity: The Four Longboard Riding Styles
Longboarding is as diverse as a bowl of skittles and twice as fun. It's not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. In fact, the beauty of longboarding lies in its diversity.
Cruising: Surfing the Streets
Cruising is like the chill, laid-back cousin in the longboarding family. It's all about leisurely rides and good vibes.
Cruising boards are typically built for comfort and are great for commuting, running errands, or just enjoying a sunset ride along the boardwalk. Remember, life's a wave, cruise it!
Downhill: The Thrill of Speed
Downhill longboarding is for the adrenaline junkies. It's all about hitting high speeds and harnessing the raw power of gravity.
Downhill boards are designed for stability and control even when you're blazing down slopes like a bat out of hell. Safety gear is a must in this arena, folks. Helmets and knee pads aren't just fashionable, they're life-savers.
Freeride: For the Slide Lovers
If cruising is a lazy Sunday drive and downhill is a Formula 1 race, then Freeride is a drift competition. It's about sliding, speed checks, and riding both regular and switch on both steep and moderate hills.
Freeride boards are versatile beasts built for precision and control. Get ready to get sideways!
Freestyle: The Artistic Side of Longboarding
Freestyle longboarding is where creativity takes center stage. It's a blend of street skating tricks, dancing, sliding, and basically anything your wild imagination can conjure up.
Freestyle boards tend to be symmetrical with kicktails and a solid amount of flex for trick versatility. Here's where you can truly let your freak flag fly!
Demystifying the Design: Anatomy of a Longboard
Just like every superhero has an origin story, every longboard has a blueprint. The design is more than just a sick graphic on the bottom of the longboard deck.
It's a complex combination of features that come together to create the board's overall performance and ride feel. Let's get our hands dirty and break down the design.
The Blueprint: Longboard Design Essentials
Much like a finely tuned instrument, a longboard is composed of various parts, each playing a vital role.
Two key aspects dictate the general feel and directionality of your board: the shape and the symmetry. Let's roll into these details.
Directional Longboards: The One-Way Wonders
Directional longboards are like a one-way ticket to shred city. They're designed to go forward and have a distinct front and back.
These boards are perfect for downhill and cruising where stability and control are king. Directional doesn't mean dull, though! Expect the ride of your life when you hop on one of these babies.
Twin (Symmetrical) Longboards: Balancing the Scales
On the flip side, we've got symmetrical or "twin" longboards. These bad boys are perfect mirror images from tip to tail.
This balance makes it easier to ride switch (in the opposite direction) and pull off tricks where you're landing the opposite way you took off. It's like having two boards for the price of one!
The Lowdown on Deck Styles: Choose Your Steed
Decks styles are like the different breeds of a horse. They each have their own strengths and are suited for different tasks.
From the lower center of gravity on drop-through decks for high-speed stability, to the high responsiveness of top-mount decks for intricate carving, it's all about picking the right horse for your course.
Inside the Innovation: Pioneering Design Features
Every generation of longboard design brings about new, groundbreaking features to enhance your ride.
From kicktails for agile maneuvering to wheel cut-outs to avoid pesky wheel bites, each design innovation aims to make your ride safer, smoother, and more enjoyable.
Kicktail Longboards: Add a Kick to Your Ride
A kicktail on a longboard is like having a secret weapon. It's the upward curve at the end of the board that lets you pop it off the ground. Think ollies, flips, and tight turns - all made possible with a kicktail.
It's not just a design feature, it's a door to a whole new world of tricks and maneuvers.
Wheel Cut-outs: Avoiding Wheel-bite
Wheel cut-outs or "wheel wells" are those grooves on your board deck that allow for wheel clearance during sharp turns or deep carves. Without these, you risk wheel bite - when your wheel rubs against the deck, causing a sudden and often catastrophic stop.
Wheel cut-outs are the peace treaty in the war between wheels and decks.
Concave Decks: Enhancing Control and Stability
Concave decks are like a bear hug for your feet. They curve upward along the width of the board, creating a more secure foothold.
This means better control, more stability, and easier slide initiation. They come in different shapes and depths - from mellow to steep, radial to tub, each offering a unique ride experience.
Wheelbase Length: The Balance of Maneuverability and Stability
The wheelbase - the distance between your front and rear axles - is a bit like Goldilocks' porridge.
Too short and your board can feel twitchy and unstable. Too long and it may turn like a cruise ship. But get it just right, and you've got a perfect balance of stability and maneuverability.
The Flex Factor: Understanding Board Flex
Board flex is like the rhythm in a song. Stiff boards are stable (think heavy metal), while others are flexible and responsive (more like jazz).
Your board's flex can affect everything from the comfort of your ride to how well you can pump for speed or pop tricks. It's all about finding your groove.
Built to Last: Longboard Construction
Not all longboard brands are created equal. They're built from various materials, each with its own pros and cons. From traditional maple to lightweight bamboo, to high-tech composites, the material not only influences the weight and durability of your board but also how it rides.
Turning Tricks: The Role of Longboard Trucks and Bushings
Trucks and bushings are the unsung heroes of the longboarding world. They affect everything from how your board turns and carves to its overall stability.
Think of trucks as the steering wheel of your board and bushings as the suspension.
Rolling with It: Longboard Wheels
Longboard wheels are like the shoes of your board. They connect you to the pavement and can dramatically change your ride.
From size and hardness to shape and material, each aspect plays a crucial role. So, whether you're cruising, sliding, or going downhill, remember - keep rolling and keep exploring.
Smooth Operator: Longboard Bearings
Bearings are the heart of your wheels. They determine how smoothly and quickly your wheels spin. While they might be small and often overlooked, they play a huge role in your ride.
From ABEC ratings to materials and lubrication, it's time to give these tiny powerhouses some well-deserved love.
Conquer the Market: How to Shop for the Best Longboard Brands
Now that we've got the basics down, let's talk about the nitty-gritty of shopping for your dream longboard.
There are a few things to keep in mind here, from the reputation of the brand and the durability of materials to the board length, bushings, and, of course, your budget.
Making a Name: Importance of Brand
A brand is more than just a name or a logo. It's a promise of quality, performance, and after-sales service. When choosing the best longboard brands, consider their reputation, their commitment to innovation, and how they respond to customer feedback.
Remember, a good brand will not only sell you a product but also an experience. That's why we gave you our top 5 best longboard brands guide above. So you'd have the information you'd need to make an informed decision. Go check it out again if needed!
Price: Getting the Best Bang for Your Buck
While we all wish money grew on trees, the reality is, budget matters. However, don't let a hefty price tag fool you into thinking it's the best option.
Often, with a little research and patience, you can find great boards at a more affordable price. So whether you've got a wallet full of cash or just a few bucks, there's a board out there for you.
Pro-Approved: What Longboard Brands do Professionals Use?
Ever wondered what boards the pros ride? From downhill daredevils to freestyle phenoms, each pro has their own preferred board setup. By understanding what the pros use, we can gain insights into what works best for each riding style. So strap in, because we're about to drop in on the pros' secrets.
Price Range and Value for Money
Great, high quality longboards don't have to break the bank. With the right information and a keen eye, you can find a board that offers great value for money. We'll explore various price ranges and highlight longboard brands and models that offer top-notch performance without emptying your wallet.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Your Asphalt Surfing Companion
Choosing your first (or next) complete longboard is a significant milestone in your skateboarding journey. It's like finding your perfect asphalt surfing companion. So take your time, do your research, and most importantly, listen to your gut. After all, the best longboard brands for you are the ones that makes you excited to skate every day. Happy shredding!