Most people are familiar with skateboarding. It’s been around for ages and kids, teens and adults all across the U.S. engage in it as a fun past time. But there’s also a type of skateboarding called longboarding that has grown in popularity over the past few years. Below we’ll discuss some of the key differences (as well as similarities) of longboarding and skateboarding, and which one may be best suited to you.

We’ll start off with the skateboard. This is what many street riders prefer because of their concave, curved board. The upward slant of a skateboard’s tail and nose allow riders to perform tricks such as ollies and jumps.

A longboard is used as more of a transportation tool and for cruising. It isn’t ideal for tricks because of its long, uncurved surface. Riders can still perform tricks, though of a different nature. There are also many different types of longboards. Some are designed for downhill riding. Others are for dancing, crusing or sliding.

So while each board has their purpose, the differences are fairly obvious in nature. Skateboards are smaller (less than 35 inches in length usually) while longboards can be up to 55 inches long. They tend to be smoother and quieter than skateboards, which sound a lot louder running over pavement. Because of its design, longboards provide a more stable stance and more maneuverability as well. A longboard is designed to stay in contact with the ground and their wheels are softer, so they grip the ground better. They’re ideal for high speeds due to their turning capabilities, so extended downhill runs are great when using a longboard.

So the longboard is as it sounds, a longer board, and with larger wheels. It’s easier o control and to ride for longer, further periods of time on. It does take less time to get used to the feel of a longboard, but those with their heart set on skating shouldn’t be put off from learning how to ride a skateboard, too. If the skate park is your destination, then a skateboard is the best option here. Skateboards are great for tricks like kickflips and jumps.

As for which one is “cooler”, there really is no hard answer. It all depends on the riders’ preference, balancing abilities, and method of use. People tend to gravitate to skateboards for learning tricks, and longboards for easy cruising fun. Both have their rewards and take a bit of discipline to learn. And riders can switch back and forth between the two – both methods of riding use the same type of equipment, such as gloves and a helmet, which should always be worn in case of injury.

Both also are customizable, and riders often build their own decks in order to modify the board to their own preferences. They’re both made of the same materials (trucks, wheels, wood, bolts, etc.).

The skateboard’s design has come a long way and has been re-invented over the course of many years compared to the relatively new longboard. Skateboards are better suited to stairs and tricks that allow it to leave the ground. Most often riders who frequent skate parks and streets with curbs, stairs and other obstacles use a skateboard. Longboards, designed for downhill skating as mentioned earlier, are frequently found on college campuses and bike lanes.

The longboard vs. skateboard debate can go on and on, but it all depends on the rider and their needs. What areas are accessible to you? What kind of ride are you looking for? Are you near a skate park, city streets, and other urban areas? What are the roads like in your town? Do you need an alternative method of transportation? How important is it that you learn tricks? These are all questions the new boarder should ask themselves before choosing their board. But either way, engaging in one of America’s favorite past times is a great way to learn something new and have fun doing it.