A longboard is essentially a surfboard with wheels. Over time they have changed shape. They are most commonly used for cruising, downhill racing, slalom racing, or transportation. Longboards can be shaped in various different ways, depending on the type of riding intended.[1] Their greater weight and bulk makes them less suitable for many skateboarding tricks, but contributes to a fluid motion by providing more momentum. Longboarding is often compared to surfing on concrete, and the design allows big turns or quick short carves similar to a surfboard.
Longboard equipment is very similar to skateboard equipment. Many longboarders wear gloves and a helmet. Wrist, elbow, and knee protection are always recommended. Also in the sliding and downhill disciplines, riders wear "slide gloves" which are a specialized glove made out of a strong material such as leather, and have "pucks" attached, which are usually made of delrin, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (often shortened to UHMW), or corian. Polyethylene cutting boards are also sometimes cut into pucks and used, but it is not recommended as they are less resistant to heat and will sometimes melt when used on rough pavement. Most longboards measure between 90 and 150 cm (35.4-60 inches). Shorter boards may still be referred to as longboards when their main purpose is in line with that of longboarding (i.e. downhill & cruising). There are several different shapes of longboards including but not limited to: pintails, flat nose riders, and boards shaped like a longer shortboard. Pintails permit looser trucks and larger diameter wheels better suited for carving or a "surfy" feel. Mid-length boards, 94-127 cm (37-50 inches) are the most versatile.
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