The year 2020 might not have had many highlights, but one thing that caught us off guard at SkateHut was the surge in skateboarding popularity. Both kids and adults were either discovering it for the first time or returning to it after a long break. It was wonderful to connect with and hear about so many skaters from the 90s, who decided to dust off their joints and ankles to get back on their boards.
Concurrently, many individuals were also getting interested in longboarding and cruising. Two of the main questions we were asked were,"What is the difference between the two?" ” and “ "Aren't they the same?"A piece of wood, two trucks, four wheels, eight bearings, yet the experience and use of the two couldn't be more distinct, each in their own beautiful way.
So, we're going to break it down simply so you can make a more informed choice when selecting your first board. A question to consider is,"Do I want to get into tricks or just want to ride around?"While you can certainly perform tricks and cruise on skateboards, longboards, and cruisers, the experience varies greatly due to the wheels' size, softness, and the shape and length of the boards.
Differences in Skateboard and Longboard Wheels
The main difference between skateboard wheels and and longboard wheels is in size and durometer. Typically, skateboard wheels range from 50mm to 56mm in height, and their durometer (urethane density) is harder, allowing them to roll better on smoother surfaces like concrete and wood found outdoors and in parks. Longboard and cruiser wheels, in contrast, are much larger and wider, ranging from 60mm to 80mm, enabling them to achieve higher speeds when rolling and going downhill. The durometer for longboard wheels is generally much softer to absorb road vibrations at higher speeds for a smoother ride.
For more information about wheels, visit our skateboard wheels buying guide .
Differences in Skateboard and Longboard Decks
A standard skateboard measures 31 inches in length, with widths typically ranging from 7” to 8.5”. As described by the skateboarding legend Rodney Mullen, "skateboarding is a puzzle." With its two kick tails and gentle concave, a skateboard can be maneuvered to perform numerous tricks that are continually evolving even today. A longboard, on the other hand, is longer and wider, with a much longer wheelbase between the trucks, providing a more stable ride. Make no mistake, longboards can reach very high speeds, and the extra space allows riders to better distribute their weight. Having a comfortable and balanced stance is crucial when going fast, but for everyday riding, the extra room offers a much more relaxed experience when simply commuting from one point to another.
So when choosing a board, keep these aspects in mind: what kind of riding are you interested in? There's a perfect board and shape for you out there, and our expert customer service team is available to help you find yours. Call us on +44 330 027 0202. Enjoy safe and happy riding!