Though not easy, freestyle longboarding is fun and a perfect way to destress yourself after a hectic day.
Besides being one of the most athletic riding styles, it burns a lot of calories. So, if hitting the treadmill or working out at the gym isn’t your cup of tea, freestyle longboarding is perfect for shedding a few extra pounds.
Whether you want to perform stunts on stairways or cruise down the hills, having the right freestyle longboard will make your ride enjoyable.
After retiring from school, I hired Mrs. Maloney, a skateboard tutor, who taught me the tricks to cruising on a longboard. Of course, she also shared her topmost recommendations with me that were worth investing in.
Hello, I’m Stacy Smith, and today, I’ll walk you through the five best longboards for freestyle riding. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Top 5 Longboards For Freestyle
1. Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard Longboard
Available in more than ten color combinations, the Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard Longboard is engineered for freestyle riding for sports enthusiasts of all age groups. Thanks to the lightweight design, you can cruise smoothly down the hills, sea beach, and other areas.
Product Highlights
This 41-inch longboard features an ultra-high elastic PU support pad and highly responsive seven-inch aluminum alloy trucks. Therefore, it provides excellent control and stability while cruising.
Furthermore, its 9.5-inch wide deck is constructed out of a cold pressed eight-ply natural maple, which makes it compatible with rough terrains. Adding to that is its brushed black surface that is designed to be anti-slip, providing excellent traction at high speeds and uneven surfaces.
What’s more, the longboard sports three wheels with ABEC-11 high-speed bearings, so you can cruise down the concrete without any worries.
Thanks to the wide turning radius of 12 inches, you can perform freestyle tricks efficiently. Of course, it boasts a lightweight silhouette, adding to ease of use and maneuverability.
That’s not all; the board features a shock-absorbing ring at the center that eases the strain on the ankles and knees of the rider, making it perfect for all sports enthusiasts.
What’s There To Like About It?
When Mrs. Maloney was teaching me freeriding style, she suggested I buy the Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard Longboard. Despite being lightweight, the board provides excellent traction on all types of surfaces, including rugged and uneven ones.
Moreover, I liked that it came with an all-in-one t-tool that allows riders to disassemble it without hassles. And the best part is that the brand backs the longboard with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can claim a full refund in case of quality issues within 30 days of ordering.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
For the price paid, it’s one of the best freestyle longboards that can take the beating of a learner. However, the only downside is that adjusting the trucks is slightly challenging, particularly if you’re a beginner. Other than that, it’s a bang for the buck!
Pros and Cons of Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard Longboard
Pros
Cons
- TRUCKS: Highly responsive 7-inch aluminum alloy trucks and ultra high elastic PU support pad,providing control and stability.
- DECK: 41 IN long x 9.5 IN wide deck made of cold press 8-ply natural maple with max load weight 330Ibs; brushed black surface for antislip. No assembly required.
- WHEELS:Durable 70mm X 51mm 80A PU wheels with rock finish, ABEC-11 high speed bearings.
2. Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard
With a ten-inch wide deck and four polyurethane wheels, the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard guarantees a smooth and comfortable freestyle ride. Thanks to the super sturdy deck, it can withstand riders up to 330lbs.
Product Highlights
If you’re looking for a longboard that makes freestyle slalom simple, the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard is the one for you. Boasting nine layers of high-quality maple, it offers outstanding stability, making it perfect for down-the-hill rides. As it’s built from a highly durable material, it can bear a maximum weight of 330lbs, which is impressive.
On top of that, the product features high rebound polyurethane wheels that supply a lot of traction so that you can maneuver uneven surfaces with ease.
Equipped with seven-inch aluminum alloy trucks and anti-slip emery paper, it adds to a smooth and safe riding experience. Thanks to the PU-casted bushing, it offers excellent control in both smooth and rugged grounds. Over and above that, this longboard is available in plenty of color combinations, including classic black, seashore, and green, so you’re spoilt for choices.
Even better, it comes pre-assembled, which means it’s ready to use right out of the box.
What’s There To Like About It?
A few years back, I received the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard as a gift from my father on my birthday. Without a doubt, its lightweight design and sturdy body make it easy for riders to perform freestyle techniques.
Beginners will appreciate the fact that it comes fully assembled, which means you can ride on it as soon as you receive it. Thanks to the t-tool, adjusting the stiffness of the trucks is easy-peasy and can be done single handedly.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Sturdily built and lightweight, the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard is perfect for beginners and professionals alike. After having used it for quite a few years, I’ve noticed that its edges are slightly rough than the Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard. But, considering its price and performance, I’m sure you would ignore this minor flaw.
Pros and Cons of Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard
Pros
Cons
- Perfect Design--42-inch Longboard Skateboard designed for cruising, made 9 layers of high-quality Canadian maple. Suitable weight and lighter weight makes freestyle slalom easier and dancing more stable. The seething longboard is your everyday choice for getting from A to B in style and improving those freestyle skills. Feel free to play around with this one.
- Sturdy and Stable--Super durable deck is made of high-quality Canadian maple,durable to withstand riders up to 330lbs,offers perfect balance between toughness and weight.Equipped with genuine alluminium 7 Inch alloy trucks add more comfort to your skateboarding experience.
- Smooth and Speedy Ride--Reactive and smooth gliding reverse kingpin trucks with precision abec-11 bearing, PU casted bushing-95A.Built for an unsurpassed smooth ride in the neighborhood,skate parks,ramps,pools and other smooth surfaces or even rough ground.
3. Playshion Drop Through Freestyle Longboard
Another top-notch option that you can consider for practicing freestyle techniques is the Playshion Drop Through Freestyle Longboard. With dimensions of 38.95 x 9.8 x 3.65 inches, it’s perfect for kids above eight years of age.
Product Highlights
Much like the previous products, the Drop Through Freestyle Longboard from the house of Playshion is designed out of aluminum and maple. Therefore, you can rest assured that it will withstand the test of time, and you’ll be able to maneuver through rough terrains without any issues.
Though the board is 39” long and 9.1” wide, it can bear up to 250 lbs weight, which makes it perfect for both children and adults. The eight-ply maple deck is equipped with 70 x 51mm PU wheels, which makes for a comfortable riding experience.
Furthermore, you can quickly tighten or loosen the seven-inch aluminum alloy trucks as per your needs.
Even better, the board weighs only seven lbs., so you can easily carry it wherever you want. Needless to say, it comes fully assembled, which means you won’t have to break yourself into a sweat for assembling it.
What’s There To Like About It?
Originally, I bought this for my 15-year-old grandson because I read raving reviews on the internet. Honestly, the product is worth the hype as it is easy to turn and stable enough to add to a smooth riding experience.
Unlike other longboards, it’s easy to push and brake, thanks to the low-clearance ground feature. Another thing I really appreciate is that tightening or loosening trucks is not much of a task.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though not a detrimental flaw, one thing I noticed was that the grip tape started bubbling after a few uses, which wasn’t an issue with the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard. In case you notice such bubbles, simply cut a line into it and spread it out.
Pros and Cons of Playshion Drop Through Freestyle Longboard
Pros
Cons
- 39" x 9.1“ drop through longboard for beginner
- Strong but Flexible Eight Ply Maple Deck make longboard can Hold Up to 250 LBS weight
- Big Soft 70x51mm PU Wheels combined with ABEC-9 Bearings for Smooth Ride
4. FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard
Looking for a longboard that will let you perform basic to advanced stunts? If yes, the FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard will fit the bill. With super smooth PU wheels and a robust deck, you are sure to enjoy a comfortable riding experience.
Product Highlights
Measuring about 41” x 9”, the FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard comes pre-assembled and can support up to 330lbs of weight.
Of course, its durability is top-notch as it features high-density eight-layer grade Canadian maple wood, providing stability to the rider while cruising. On top of that, the deck is equipped with an emery non-slip surface, which provides the much-needed traction to keep your feet gripped during stunts.
Furthermore, its super smooth HR82A anti-shock PU wheels coupled with Abec-9 Chrome steel and SHR95A supper soft bushings enhance the riding experience.
All things aside, its aluminum alloy trucks and steel axle are thick, sturdy, and reliable, making this longboard safe for both kids and adults. Blue, gray, night black, or psychedelic - it’s available in over ten options, so you can choose the one you find the most appealing.
Additionally, I’d like to mention that the package includes a 1/8-inch Allen key, a 9/16-inch, 3/8-inch, and a 2-inch socket.
What’s There To Like About It?
Those looking for a longboard for freestyle riding which can accommodate all family members must go for the FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard. Made out of high-quality materials, it is highly durable and can withstand a lot of abuse, so that you can perform a variety of tricks on it.
Unlike other brands, I appreciate that this longboard comes with all the professional tools needed to tighten or loosen nuts.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Though sturdy and easy to cruise along, the deck isn’t as flexible as the Playshion Drop Through Freestyle Longboard. That’s because it’s slightly thicker than the latter and other boards that I’ve possessed. Nevertheless, it doesn’t compromise on stability and traction, so it’s worth every cent.
Pros and Cons of FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard
Pros
Cons
- SUITABLE FOR ALL LEVEL PRSEZEZLSKATERS: 41 x 9 inch full size design, this Skateboard is ideal for Beginner and Pro doing some basic stunts and other tricks.
- DURABLE & STABLEPRSEZEZL : High density 8 layer grade A canadian maple wood skateboard with emery non-slip surface provides a stable and more powerful grip during skating; Max supporting weight 330 lbs, suitable for adults and kids.
- SMOOTH & SPEEDY RIDE: PRSEZEZL Super smooth 70x51mm HR82A anti-shock PU wheels with super smooth degree Abec-9 Chrome steel and SHR95A supper soft bushings deliver a very smooth ride. Comes with All-in-One Skate T-Tool, has everything you need to tighten up or repair your skateboard.
5. Windrunner 41inch Freeride Longboard
Designed for freestyle riding, the Windrunner 41inch Freeride Longboard ensures a super smooth ride and is fun to turn, so you can perform limitless stunts. Thanks to the anti-slip and wear-resistant surface, you be sure that it will last for the coming years.
Product Highlights
To begin with, the Windrunner 41inch Freeride Longboard steals the show with its 80A PU wheels that sport ABEC-11 bearing and PU-casted bushing-95A. Therefore, you can rest assured that you won’t face even the slightest discomfort while performing freestyle riding stunts.
Besides, it features a tough eight-layer maple deck that adds to its durability, so you can cruise down the hills, concrete, and other uneven surfaces easily. On top of that, the 41-inch deck boasts an anti-slip coating that delivers outstanding traction during rides.
Along with that, the rugged aluminum alloy truck allows you to make sharp turns while keeping the wheels anchored to the board.
Aside from black and white, it’s available in green life, sea wave, and skull color options. Much like the previous longboards, it can support up to 330 pounds, so it can be used by people of all age groups.
What’s There To Like About It?
I’d be honest - this longboard lives up to its claims of making freestyle riding easier and more comfortable. Of course, its durable PU wheels provide excellent traction, allowing me to remain stable even on rugged surfaces.
Another noteworthy feature is its anti-slip surface that allows me to keep my feet locked on the board, no matter the surface. Also, it is super easy to ride, making it an excellent option for beginners.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Sturdy, easy to ride, and beginner-friendly, the longboard is one of the best options that you can consider for freestyle riding. Upon opening the parcel, I had to tighten the rear wheels because they were slightly loose, which wasn’t the case with the FISH SKATEBOARDS 41-Inch Downhill Longboard. Other than this seemingly minor issue, the board offers excellent value for money.
Pros and Cons of Windrunner 41inch Freeride Longboard
Pros
Cons
- VERSATILE BOARD:41-inch Cruiser Longboard Skateboard designed for cruising,made of high density natural maple to add strength and stiffness,makes freestyle easier.
- STURDY&STABLE:Super durable deck is made of High-quality nature maple,durable to withstand riders up to 330lbs,offers perfect balance between toughness and weight.Equipped with genuine aluminium 7 Inch alloy trucks add more comfort to your skateboarding experience.
- SMOOTH&SPEEDY RIDE:Super smooth 70mm 80A PU wheels with precision ABEC-11 bearing,PU casted bushing-95A,providing super flexibility and effective cushioning,making you enjoy an unsurpassed smooth ride.
Buyers Guide
Even after knowing the best options, are you still not able to decide which longboard to go for? If yes, don’t worry because you’re not alone. At times, even professionals need help when it comes to choosing the best longboards for freestyle riding.
This is because there are plenty of factors that you’ll have to pay attention to while shopping for longboards; only then will you be able to choose the right one. Having said that, I decided to put together a list of all the factors that you must keep in mind to avoid investing in the wrong one. So, let’s check them out.
1. Budget
For newbies who’ve just ventured into the world of longboards, I suggest preparing a budget so that you don’t end up buying one that costs a fortune.
Though you may come across some very cheap options, I suggest refraining from investing in them. That’s because they aren’t made with the best materials, which means they won’t last for the coming years.
Always go for the brands that are reputable, even though you may have to shell out extra cash. That’s because they construct their products with high-quality materials and back them with a satisfaction guarantee.
2. Size
The next important thing that you must consider is the size of the longboard. Of course, there isn’t a “one-size-fits” approach when it comes to longboards.
Though 41” and 42” are the most preferred option, you can go for smaller longboards. While 30” longboards are perfect for children, I suggest adults should go for 42” ones. And, since the latter is lightweight, it is perfect for average height people and intermediate to advanced riders.
But, if you’re looking for a heavy option, going for a 46” longboard will be the best bet. However, it has a large space, making it challenging to control while performing stunts. That is why we suggest going for it only if you’re a professional. Another thing I’d like to mention is that it is great for cruising downhill roads, but performing tricks on it is also not easy either.
3. Durability
In my opinion, a longboard should be durable enough to withstand rugged, concrete and other uneven surfaces and daily wear and tear. Certainly, you’ll have to spend a tad bit to get your hands on a longboard that will last long.
Out of all the options on the market, I suggest going for the ones made out of Canadian maple. That’s because it is resilient to withstand heavy abuses and flexible enough to handle difficult terrains. In addition, you’ll be able to make sharp turns without any difficulty.
Besides the deck, you must take into account the materials used for the construction of wheels and their size. Basically, opt for longboards that are equipped with wheels made out of soft PU materials because they offer excellent grip, ensuring a comfortable ride.
Also, make sure you purchase from brands that are popular because they don’t compromise on quality.
4. Weight
Buying a longboard only to find out that it is heavy-- sounds like a nightmare for every longboard rider. That is why when shopping for longboards, look for options that are lightweight so that you can carry them anywhere you go.
Contrary to heavy ones, the lightweight boards allow you to perform tricks and make sharp turns relatively with ease.
5. Wheels
Another important factor that you must consider is the wheel of the longboard. As already mentioned, you must go for wheels made out of softer PU materials because they are more durable than others.
However, you must keep in mind to go for boards that are equipped with wheels of about 70mm in diameter. Opting for large wheels is a big no-no because they aren’t as efficient as small ones.
The best way to know the specifications of the wheels is to look at the product description on the manufacturer’s website.
6. Satisfaction Guarantee
If you’re a beginner, choosing the right longboard may appear too much of a task. And that’s where satisfaction guarantee enters the picture.
More often than not, longboards come with a satisfaction guarantee of 30 days, which means you can order them, try them and return them in case of quality issues. However, keep in mind that not every brand backs its products with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, which speaks volumes about their products.
So, make sure you always check whether the product is backed by a satisfaction guarantee or not before placing your order.
7. Capacity
Last but not least, don’t forget to consider the load capacity of the longboard you’re planning to buy. From 250-pound to 330-pound, longboards are designed for every type of rider, but it’s important to get your hands on the right one.
When buying a longboard, don’t forget to check its load capacity to avoid ordering the wrong one.
Frequently Asked Questions
For young riders, anything between 28” to 32” is considered ideal, but if you’re a pro at freestyle riding, a 42” longboard will be the best bet.
Yes, if you’re a beginner, you can go for a drop-through longboard. That’s because it is low to the ground, which is why it’s easy to turn and ride, making it user-friendly.
My Final Recommendation
With that, I’ve reached the end of my guide on the best longboards for freestyle.
Not to deny, freestyle longboarding is fun and an excellent hobby for people of all age groups. So, whether you’re a fifteen-year-old kid or a forty-year-old man, you can easily master the art of riding a longboard with practice and dedication.
However, make sure you invest in a high-quality longboard from a reputable brand, only then will you be able to enjoy riding it.
Before I wrap my guide, I’d like to reiterate my favorites. The Junli 41-Inch Freeride Skateboard Longboard is my top pick because of its lightweight design and durability. However, if you’re looking for a longboard that can withstand up to 330lbs, the Seething 42-Inch Longboard Skateboard is the best bet.
On that note, I’ll call the curtains for the day. Till then, take care and stay safe!