Longboarding Guide

Longboarding is a general term used to describe a specific type of board in both surfing and skateboarding. These boards are distinct because they are longer in length and wider in width than traditional-size boards. If you always have wanted to learn how to surf, longboards provide more room to master your footwork leading to quicker balance control. Likewise, skateboarding longboards allow novice athletes to quickly gain confidence while mastering how to control the direction of the board with their feet.

  1. Skateboard Longboarding Equipment

    • Skateboard longboarding gets its roots from surfing. To be successful and safe at this sport, pick up the necessary handcrafted skateboard made to extend an average skateboard by at least two to three feet. You'll also want to wear a helmet and wrist guards while getting comfortable on your board because there's a good chance of falling and hitting your head or landing with your wrists pushing hard against the pavement. Avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your longboard skateboard or bearing problems on your wheels by avoiding water. Knee caps and elbow guards also are recommended. Don't forget to secure a tool kit from the board supply store to swap out your wheels as needed and fix minor repairs should they arise.

    Skateboard Longboarding Skills and Tips

    • The first few skills to master when trying to become comfortable on your longboard is to familiarize yourself with how it rides and feels differently beneath you as compared with a traditional-size skateboard. Before you begin attempting tricks, figure out how to control and manipulate your speed, as well as skillfully brake. Once you're ready to try something harder, begin with tricks that further your ability to move the board in a specific direction "on command" as you see fit. Novice longboarders also benefit from attending workshops and camps to learn how to successfully manage themselves on their boards under watchful supervision.

    Water Longboarding Equipment and Basics

    • Longboarding in the water requires a surfboard that is extra large in size, typically nine to 10 feet in length. According to traditional surfers and savvy longboarders in the know, this type of board is believed to be the easiest type of surfboard to learn how to surf. Individuals have more room to move around on the board when when first learning how to stand erect and maintain their balance because of the widened middle areal. Once you feel comfortable on your longboard, take the next step and sign up for a friendly amateur competition.

    Water Longboarding Clubs

    • Organizations and clubs established and created to benefit water Longboarding enthusiasts are situated around the globe in various cities. From the shores of Australia and the United Kingdom to the East Coast of the United States and stretching all the way to Southern California, both novices and experienced longboarders gather to enjoy each other's company and head out into the water together. One such group, Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club in California, allows its members to access useful information, as well as get advice or tips on the sport. The club supports environmental conservation, encourages families to join it for runs and sponsors various beach-related activities to promote the sport. Another similar lively organization based out of Australia is the Surfcoast Longboard Club.