Longboarding has taken the world by a storm. A distant cousin of the skateboard, longboards are very similar to them in more ways than one. Besides longboards being, well, longer, they’re also faster due to the nature of their wheels. Also, longboards aren’t used for regular skating, but rather for specific and particular activities such as slalom racing, downhill racing, etc. So, it’s no surprise that a great many good companies are now bringing some of the best longboards for beginners in the market, whether it’s a boy or girl. Not only are longboards available for both professionals as well as novices, but also they come in different styles and shapes. Moreover, all longboards come with a specific set of features that perfectly suit certain abilities and riding styles.
In fact, many amateurs think skateboards are it and are unaware of the existence of the amazing wheels that are longboards. So, if you want to move upward, then it’s time to move to the bad boys – the longboards! However, longboarding can be an intimidating activity for beginners. This is especially true for those who’ve never snowboarded or skateboarded before in their life. So, we’ve put together a list of the best in the market, besides also including a rather helpful guide to choosing them. To that end, here are the 13 best and good longboards for beginners, notwithstanding whether it’s a boy or girl.
How To Choose The Best Longboards for Beginners?
If you’ve never ridden the Best Surfboards for Beginners or the Best Bodyboards for Beginners, don’t fret. Longboarding is an easy enough spot, provided you have the best longboards accompanying you. Longboards come in as many as eight shapes ranging across a maneuverability and stability spectrum. As they lessen in maneuverability, the longboards increase in terms of stability. These include the double kick popsicle, cambered pintail, pintail with kicktail, double kick cutaway, drop-through double-kick cutaway, drop-through symmetrical cutaway, drop-through directional cutaway, and double-drop drop-through symmetrical cutaway. So, what else do you look for in good longboards? Read on.
Deck
The deck is the basis of any longboard. So, it’s an important factor to consider when you go to purchase a longboard. Usually, a majority of the decks of longboards are made from either bamboo or maple. While bamboo is more flexible, maple tends to be more durable and long-lasting. Thus, it really boils down to personal preferences and what one is looking for in a longboard. Other common materials used to make longboards are carbon fiber, polycarbonate, aluminum, fiberglass in the construction of a longboard deck.
Trucks and bushings
Trucks are the specific T-shaped piece of metal that connects the wheels of the longboard to the deck of the longboard. Basically, there are two main types of longboard trucks – the reverse kingpin and the traditional kingpin ones. As compared to traditional kingpin trucks, reverse kingpin trucks are more stable. So, traditional kingpin trucks aren’t exactly suitable for speed. That’s why beginners are recommended to go with reverse kingpin trucks, which is what most longboards today have as it is.
Another factor is the bushings, which are the small pieces of urethane that make your trucks turn. As a beginner, you need to know how to loosen or tighten your trucks. That’s because loosening the trucks makes them less stable and more responsive to turning and vice versa.
Wheels
Finally, we come to the wheels of the longboard, whose durometer (hardness/softness) and diameter are the two main factors to consider. Basically, shorter boards work better with smaller wheels, while longer decks work better with larger wheels. If you go the other way round, then it can cause wheel bite. Generally, most good beginners’ longboard wheels have a durometer reading in the range of 70A and 90A, which 90A being the hardest and 70A being the softest. While hard wheels are easier for sliding, softer wheels offer a smoother ride since they have a better grip.
Are Longboards Easier to Ride than Skateboards for Beginners?
The long and the short of it is, yes! Longboards, especially the wider and longer ones with drop-through decks are particularly easier to ride. Since the drop-through lowers your center of gravity, it helps maintain your balance better than a skateboard. Longer and wider boards are more forgiving if you lean to either side, forward, or back. In fact, the drawbacks, if any are for more skilled riders and not for beginners. In the end, if you want to longboard, then simply pick up a board and start longboarding! If you diligently work on your skills, then you’ll be riding them easily in no time. Also, the safety factor in both longboarding and skateboarding is the same, which is why you should also pick up one of the Best Skateboarding Helmets.
White Wave Bamboo Longboards
13
One of the best longboards for beginners is the White Wave Bamboo Longboards. Weighing just 3.5 lbs, this slightly weighty longboard is very useful in stabilizing the board for the rider. The great length of 39.5 inches and the extensive base are very helpful as they allow sashaying and cruising at high speeds sans any resistance. Moreover, the high-density plastic deck is extremely durable, thus lasting you a long time. What’s more, it also comes with 7-inch aluminum trucks that boast ultrahigh rebound bushings. As for the bearings, the longboard has durable and fast hellion bearings with in-built spacers. Meanwhile, the high-rebound urethane wheels ensure that you drift along smoothly even on slightly bumpy paths. It might not be compact, but you’ll have no problem even carrying it in your backpack since it’s very lightweight.
Pros:
- An easy carry.
- High-quality build.
- Canadian maple deck.
- The weight offers stability.
Cons:
- The trucks are squeaky and rather loud.
Playshion Freestyle Longboard
12
A good longboard for beginners girl is the Playshion Freestyle Longboard since it’s perfect for multiple styles of longboarding such as freestyle, free-ride, downhill, curving, etc. The longboard deck is flexible and yet sturdy as it’s designed from 8-ply flex hardwood maple, complete with a symmetrical and flat design. Despite being slightly concave in the middle, the deck helps the rider secure her feet to the board and with carving and turning. Moreover, the drop-through technology, the 4-inch ground clearance, and 7-inch reverse kingpin aluminum trucks can handle all kinds of sliding. With a weight capacity of up to 250 lbs, the Playshion longboard even has durable 78A polyurethane wheels that are wide enough for greater control. Rounding up the features are the ABEC-7 bearings that offer a pleasant and smooth ride. The best part? They weigh just 7 lbs!
Pros:
- Easy to maneuver and control.
- Lightweight and stylish deck.
- Suitable for beginners and skates of all ages.
Cons:
- The wheels tend to be slightly squeaky.
Minority Downhill Maple Longboard
11
One of the best longboards for beginners is the Minority Downhill Maple Longboard. Weighing just 7.5 lbs, this Minority longboard is considered the ultimate in longboard design. Crafted in the classic downhill drop design, the longboard’s low gravity construction is perfect for going downhill or speeding. It comes in a host of designs ranging from avant-garde looks to strikingly vintage ones, thus appealing to a wide range of riders. With a wide 10-inch deck made of 100 percent maple wood, the longboard is tough enough to hold 220 lbs. What’s more, the unique symmetrical shape avoids wheel bite from all angles. In addition, the 7-inch aluminum reverse kingpin trucks are adjustable for ensuring a versatile riding style and greater maneuverability. Finally, the board saves a lot of energy and time with the ABEC-9 precision bearings and round-edged 78A high rebound PU wheels.
Pros:
- Sturdy, wide, and well-designed deck.
- Soft yet tough wheels.
- ABEC 9 precision bearings.
Cons:
- The deck might be slightly too wide for some beginner skaters.
Rimable Drop-through Longboard
10
Yet another good longboard for beginners girl is the Rimable Drop-through Longboard. There’s a lot to like about the longboard, starting with the covered deck layered with nine plies of maple wood and a 7-inch aluminum truck. The sturdy longboard boasts 85A hardness wheels, thus ensuring that it lasts you a long while. Besides a high-speed bearing, the longboard also boasts a low deck height which makes it easy for pushing. Plus, the 9.5-inch wide deck is very useful for taking powerful turns. Adding to the longboard’s unbeatable nature are the 70mm PU wheels that ensure ultra-low rolling resistance for an extremely smooth and comfortable ride. Since the deck and wheels ensure maximum stability, this longboard is a great choice for those beginners who love zipping and flying downhill. Finally, its ease of pushing is perfect for simply kicking around the campus or town or even for long-distance riding.
Pros:
- Ensures flexibility and stability.
- Suitable for low-speed carving.
- Possible to keep complete control and change the speed.
Cons:
- Slightly draftier.
- Holding a grip becomes slightly difficult.
The Quest Super Cruiser Longboard
9
One of the best longboards for beginners who’re on a budget is the Quest Super Cruiser Longboard. The cruiser longboard features a hardwood maple/bamboo deck with some vintage and cool abstract graphics. The 44-inch California-designed artisan longboard has a multi-ply deck that’s shaped so to provide stability and comfort for riding in style. There’s a lot to like about this longboard, such as the 7-inch aluminum trucks and the genuine ABEC 7 speed bearings. Adding to the stability and comfort factor are the durable 70 mm PU wheels that not only help you move smoothly but also prevent wheel bites during sharp turns. All in all, it’s a great starter board and gets you from point A to point B in a decent enough amount of time. If you’re a beginner longboarder who’s interested in carving or cruising, then you can’t get one better than this.
Pros:
- Comes with a kicktail.
- Long-lasting and durable.
- Great grip.
- Well-designed.
Cons:
- Not-so-durable bearings.
Sector 9 Aperture Longboard
8
What’s a good longboard for beginners girl who’s 13 years or above? It’s the Sector 9 Aperture Longboard, which boasts a very comfortable ride thanks to its deck length of 36 inches. What’s more, it keeps you thoroughly stable when you’re flying downhill at great speeds. At the same time, you can take sharp turns and ride as fast as you want with great ease since the longboard’s low center of gravity keeps your feet firmly rooted on it. You’ll also fine Sector 9 ABEC 5 bearings and Gullwing Sidewinder trucks, aside from 80A wheels. If that wasn’t enough, the double-kingpin on the Fractal allows beginners to learn skills such as some camera-worthy slides and turns. Weighing just 6.9 lbs, the deck of this longboard can easily hold riders who weigh up to 150 lbs.
Pros:
- Allows for fast turning and speedy rides.
- Can go for longer rides on these.
- Compact design and great graphics.
Cons:
- The wheels are slightly smaller.
Volador Freeride Longboard
7
One of the best high-quality longboards for beginners at an affordable price is the Volador Freeride Longboard. The beginner-friendly board is perfect for longboard starters to perform basic tricks and perfect their skills. Featuring an 8-ply hard rock maple wood shock-absorbent deck, the longboard is very durable, stable, and long-lasting. it has a maximum weight capacity of 250 lbs and comes in as many as 10 beautiful, vibrant, and cool deck design options. The standard-sized 70 mm wheels with a 78A durometer offer both pace and grip while going over bumpy surfaces smoothly. Besides coming fully assembled, one of the highlights of the longboard is that the baseplate angle of its truck is adjustable. This will give you both turning support as well as stability.
Pros:
- Comes in various styles and designs.
- Relatively lightweight.
- Good wheel clearance.
- Shock absorbent deck.
Cons:
- The white wheels can get dirty very quickly.
Retrospec Zed Bamboo Longboard
6
Yet another good longboard for beginners girl is the 44-inch Retrospec Zed Bamboo Longboard, which is designed from ethically sustainable bamboo and sports a strikingly vintage Californian look. Adding to the sturdiness of the 8-ply construction is durable maple wood, complete with a kicktail. Since the longboard allows for easy maneuvering and controlling, it’s perfect for beginner riders who live in urban areas. Apart from all of the above, the board’s sturdy yet lightweight 7-inch aluminum trucks have extra riser pads that give you a more smooth and stable surf-like ride and reduce vibrations as well. The longboard also comes with smooth and reactive gliding reverse kingpin trucks, along with precision ABEC-7 bearings. Finally, it has 85A PU wheels with a rock finish that is extremely long-lasting, durable, and robust. The best part is its dual design, allowing it to be used as both a skateboard and a longboard!
Pros:
- Wheel wells eliminate wheel bites.
- Smooth 70mm wheels.
- Stable and flexible.
- Very spacious maple and bamboo deck.
Cons:
- Can feel slightly wobbly.
Landshark Island Style Longboard
5
One of the best longboards for beginners is the Landshark Island Style Longboard. Costing just $80, this longboard is perfect for beginners who simply want to start out by leisurely cruising around their town. One of the standout features of this longboard is the fully grip-taped concave 8-ply maple deck. Not only does it allow better control over your board during the ride, but it also provides additional traction for your feet. Moreover, the wide aluminum trucks not only allow you to enjoy more foot placing on the board, but are also great for balancing. Additionally, you can enjoy quick and speedy acceleration thanks to the 61mm PU wheels and high-quality ABEC-7 carbon steel bearings. Finally, pushing yourself forward is also a breeze thanks to the deck cutouts that prevent any sort of wheel bites.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Carbon steel bearings.
- Lightweight yet durable.
- No wheel bites.
Cons:
- The wheels are squeaky.
MBS All-Terrain Longboard
4
A good longboard for beginners girls who want to ride longboards off-road is the MBS All-Terrain Longboard. The something of a hidden gem suits riders of all ages and allows you to move from point A to B with maneuverability and stability. What’s more, the longboard also boasts safety comfy foot placement, control, and grip. However, one of this longboard’s attractive features is the all-terrain wheels that roll over literally anything with ease, including bumps, asphalt, and what-not. The massive 100 mm wheels have a sharp lip and large contact patch that ensure good grip and control even at top speeds. And despite the suggested weight limit being 220 lbs, the longboard can easily handle weights up to 250 lbs without any issues. Rounding up the features is the 78A durometer wheels providing the perfect balance between traction and speed.
Pros:
- Great center of gravity.
- Easy to turn.
- Good wheel clearance.
- The all-terrain wheels have extra grip.
Cons:
- On the heavier side.
Magneto Kicktail Cruiser Longboard
3
Yet another of the best longboards for beginners is the Magneto 44 inch Kicktail Cruiser Longboard, which is also great for seasoned riders. The 44-inch longboard has a beautifully designed bamboo deck that allows you to cruise around in style. The versatile board can be used for everything from freestyle longboarding to cruising. Besides the bamboo deck build, the longboard features a nice sand grit finish for additional grip. Hence, you don’t need to add grip tape on your deck that could cover up the beautiful and cool design. Moreover, the wheels are nicely soft wheels and increase the road holding capabilities of the longboard, this making it easier for you to ride on any terrain and turn whatever way you want. All in all, the flawless finish and smooth roll of this longboard make it an excellent buy.
Pros:
- Extra grip.
- Aesthetic bamboo deck.
- Smooth wheels.
- Versatile and highly functional.
Cons:
- Not very durable.
Atom Drop-Deck Longboard
2
Atom has long dominated the longboard industry, and for good measure; its boards are excellent in quality, and the Atom Drop-Deck Longboard is no exception. A good longboard for beginners girl, this 41-inch longboard might be modest to look at but don’t be fooled by its looks. Firstly, it can carry heavier riders weighing up to 300 lbs despite a suggested weight limit of 220 lbs. Secondly, it boasts a really strong full maple laminate deck. The wide-lip urethane wheels and reverse kingpin trucks steal the show while offering superb performance. If that wasn’t enough, the high-quality 80S grip tape offers an excellent grip, with the longboard offering an overall smooth turning and stability. All in all, this beginner-friendly longboard is one of the best budget options for beginners to have great fun with their first board.
Pros:
- Excellent durability.
- Great reverse kingpin.
- Grippy wheels.
Cons:
- The bushings are average.
Junli Freeride Skateboard Longboard
1
Occupying the top spot on the list of best longboards for beginners is the Junli Freeride Skateboard Longboard, whether it’s a boy or a girl. This 41-inch longboard has a stunning design and comes in a whole boatload of color options. It also comes with highly durable PU wheels which when combined with ABEC-11 high-speed bearings roll extra-fast while retaining traction. What’s more, the longboard holds its own against other heavyweights on this list. If that wasn’t enough, the cold-press 8-ply maple incorporated in the deck makes the board all the more sturdy. Plus, the anti-slip brushed black surface even allows you to have extra control of the board. Rounding up the features is the highly elastic PU support pad and responsive aluminum trucks, making this the best longboard for a beginner ever.
Pros:
- Smooth riding experience.
- Lots of features.
- Sturdy and durable.
- Great for downhill rides.
Cons:
- Practically none.
