Caster Boards vs. Longboards

Caster boards and longboards both feature designs derived from the traditional skateboard. They are both means of transportation and self-expression, but require two very different riding styles and learning curves. Riders of both should wear safety equipment as risks include falling on hard surfaces which could result in serious injury.

  1. Deck

    • Longboards' and caster boards' deck styles differ greatly in material and design. The caster board features two small independent decks that rotate independently on a main shaft. They utilize a reinforced composite plastic decking material to withstand the constant flexing. Longboards have one long, wide deck that flexes as a unit. Composite wood reinforced with fiberglass and resin makes up a longboard deck. Riders have a large space to maneuver their feet on a longboard deck, while their feet are stationary on a cater board.

    Wheel Assembly

    • Longboards feature two wheels at each end that mount to a flexible truck that allows the board to turn. The wheels are stationary on the ground with no rotation. Caster boards feature one wheel on each end of the board with a caster setup that allows the wheel to rotate 360 degrees. Caster boards utilize a rollerblade type wheel which is taller and has a rounded edge. Longboards feature smaller wheels with a flatter profile for a better traction foot print.

    Riding Motion

    • The entire body is used on a longboard to carve the board in a large S pattern to maintain speed and navigate turns. On a caster board, the rider moves his legs independently in sequence to generate motion. The rider places their balance directly over the top of the caster boards. A longboard adjusts their center of balance from one side to the other while riding the board. Navigating sharp downhill corners requires the rider to have his body horizontal to the board during sharp corners, sliding the board out and balancing their weight on their hand.

    Terrain

    • Caster boards need a mostly flat terrain for optimum performance as they are not safe for steep inclines or rough terrain. A longboard's expanded deck allows it to handle steep declines at high speeds along with rough terrain with the proper wheels. Mostly flat parking lots, driveways and sidewalks are ideal surfaces to operate a caster board. You can utilize longboards on smooth and rough concrete and pavement roadways.