Longboard Decks: Shape, Material & Design

Longboard deck designs define the riding experience and vary widely to suit different styles and preferences. The shape influences maneuverability and stability, where pintails offer smooth carving and drop-throughs enhance stability. The construction material, often maple or bamboo, affects the board’s flex and durability. Concave, the curvature across the width of the deck, impacts foot grip and control, with options ranging from mellow to aggressive. The artwork, which includes graphics and finishes, reflects personal style and can also impact the board’s visibility and aesthetics.

Contents

The Soul of Your Ride: Unveiling the Mysteries of Longboard Decks

Okay, picture this: you’re about to embark on an epic longboarding adventure, wind in your hair, sun on your face… but wait! Before you go chasing that perfect sunset, let’s talk about the unsung hero beneath your feet – the longboard deck. Think of it as the foundation of your entire riding experience, the very platform upon which your stoke is built.

And trust me, choosing the right deck isn’t just some minor detail. It’s like picking the right wand in Harry Potter – it determines everything!

Why is it so important? Well, your deck choice has a HUGE impact on how your longboard performs, how comfortable you feel while riding, and even the style you exude as you cruise down the street. A longboard deck isn’t just a piece of wood; it’s an extension of you.

Think of it like this: would you wear hiking boots to a ballet class? Probably not (unless you’re feeling particularly rebellious). The same principle applies to longboarding. You want a deck that’s perfectly suited to your unique riding style and preferences. If you go longboarding without knowing what you want, it is like using hiking boots at a dance competition (you can dance with it, but you will not win).

So, are you ready to dive deep into the world of longboard decks? Buckle up, because this guide is your roadmap to understanding every key aspect – from the crazy shapes and materials to the nitty-gritty details that affect performance and design. By the end of this, you’ll be a deck-choosing guru, ready to find the perfect soulmate for your feet. Let’s get rolling!

Deck Shapes: Finding the Perfect Form for Your Style

So, you’re diving into the wild world of longboarding, eh? Awesome! But before you start dreaming of epic rides and carving up the streets, let’s talk about something super important: deck shapes. Think of your longboard deck as the soul of your ride. It’s not just a piece of wood you stand on; it’s the foundation that dictates how your board feels, how it handles, and ultimately, what kind of adventures you can have. Choosing the right shape is like finding the perfect pair of shoes – once you get it right, everything else just falls into place.

Deck shape isn’t just about looks (though, let’s be real, style points matter!). It’s about functionality. Each shape is designed with a specific riding style in mind. Are you dreaming of mellow cruises along the boardwalk? Or maybe bombing hills at breakneck speeds is more your thing? Perhaps you’re envisioning yourself dancing across your board with elegant footwork? Whatever your longboarding dreams, there’s a deck shape out there ready to make them a reality.

To help you navigate this exciting world, let’s break down some of the most popular longboard deck shapes. Consider this your cheat sheet to finding the perfect form for your unique riding style.

Pintail: The Surf’s Up, Landlocked Cruiser

Imagine gliding down the street with the smooth, flowing feel of surfing. That’s the Pintail experience. This classic shape, with its distinctive pointed tail, is all about easy cruising and mellow vibes. They are awesome boards to make a statement.

Characteristics: Surfboard-inspired shape with a pointed tail.
Ideal Riding Style: Cruising, carving, mellow rides.
Typical Applications: Beachfront boardwalks, campus cruising, casual commutes.

Drop-Through: Low and Stable, Ready to Roll

Want a board that feels glued to the ground? Look no further than the Drop-Through. This shape is designed with truck mounts that pass through the deck, lowering your center of gravity for unmatched stability.

Characteristics: Truck mounts pass through the deck, lowering ride height.
Ideal Riding Style: Downhill, commuting, long-distance pushing.
Typical Applications: City commutes, carving, tackling moderate hills with confidence.

Drop-Down: Maximum Stability for Speed Demons

Take the Drop-Through concept, crank it up to eleven, and you’ve got the Drop-Down. These boards feature a lowered platform where you stand, providing an ultra-stable ride that’s perfect for pushing your speed limits.

Characteristics: Lowered platform for maximum stability.
Ideal Riding Style: High-speed downhill, racing, pushing limits.
Typical Applications: Bombing hills, racing, situations where staying planted is paramount.

Cruiser: Compact and Ready for Anything

Think of the Cruiser as the Swiss Army knife of longboards. These compact and versatile decks are designed for everyday riding and navigating urban landscapes with ease. They are also a good choice for portability!

Characteristics: Shorter length, versatile shape.
Ideal Riding Style: Everyday riding, navigating urban environments, short commutes.
Typical Applications: City streets, sidewalks, quick errands.

Freeride: Sliding into Control

If you’re itching to learn how to slide and drift with style, the Freeride deck is your weapon of choice. These boards are designed for controlled slides at speed, allowing you to carve your own path down the mountain.

Characteristics: Designed for sliding and controlled drifts.
Ideal Riding Style: Freeride, downhill, sliding.
Typical Applications: Learning to slide, controlled downhill runs, mountain roads.

Freestyle: Unleash Your Inner Trickster

Ready to pop ollies, manuals, and impress your friends with some sweet tricks? The Freestyle deck is your playground. These lightweight and maneuverable boards are built for creative expression and pushing your limits.

Characteristics: Lightweight, maneuverable, often with kicktails.
Ideal Riding Style: Freestyle, tricks, creative riding.
Typical Applications: Skateparks, flat ground, adding flair to your rides.

Dancer: Flow with Style

Imagine yourself gracefully walking across your board, performing intricate footwork with style and flair. That’s the Dancer experience. These longer boards provide ample space for expressive movement.

Characteristics: Longer length for footwork and flow.
Ideal Riding Style: Dancing, freestyle, expressive riding.
Typical Applications: Flat ground, parks, expressing yourself on wheels.

Double Drop: The Ultimate in Stability

For those who crave the ultimate in stability, the Double Drop combines the best of both worlds: drop-through and drop-down mounting. The result? A board that feels incredibly locked-in and confident at high speeds.

Characteristics: Combines drop-through and drop-down mounting for maximum stability.
Ideal Riding Style: High-speed downhill, racing, long-distance.
Typical Applications: Bombing hills, racing, extended rides.

Symmetrical: Balanced for Switch Riding

Want a board that feels the same no matter which way you’re facing? Symmetrical decks are designed with a balanced feel, making them ideal for switch riding (riding in either direction).

Characteristics: Identical shape on both ends for a balanced feel.
Ideal Riding Style: Switch riding, freestyle, general riding.
Typical Applications: Learning to ride switch, freestyle tricks, varied terrain.

Asymmetrical: Specialized Performance

For riders seeking a unique and optimized feel, Asymmetrical decks offer specialized designs that enhance turning or control. This can be a good choice for some people looking for better control.

Characteristics: Different shapes on each side, designed for specific performance characteristics.
Ideal Riding Style: Carving, downhill (depending on design).
Typical Applications: Carving, downhill, specialized riding styles.

Key Deck Features: Unlocking Performance and Comfort

Alright, so you’ve got your deck shape picked out, but the journey doesn’t end there! It’s like choosing the blueprint for your dream house – now we need to talk about the interior design. We’re diving deep into the special features longboard decks have, that seriously affect how your ride feels and performs. These are the details that take a deck from ‘meh’ to ‘magnificent!’ Let’s get to it, shall we?

Kicktail (Single/Double): Pop It Like It’s Hot!

Ever wanted to pop an ollie, navigate a pesky curb, or just look extra cool doing a manual? That’s where the kicktail comes in. A kicktail is the upturned end of the deck, giving you leverage to lift the front (or both ends, if you’re rocking a double kicktail) of your board.

Single Kicktail: Great for cruising and navigating obstacles with a bit of flair. Think of it as a stylish way to hop over a rogue pebble.
Double Kicktail: Now we’re talking serious maneuverability. Double kicktails let you pop tricks from either end, opening up a whole new world of freestyle possibilities.

Concave (Radial, W-Concave, Flat-Cave): Feel the Curve

Concave refers to the curvature of the deck’s surface between the edges. It’s like a subtle hug for your feet, giving you extra grip and control. There are a bunch of different types, each with its own distinct feel:

Radial Concave: A gentle, rounded curve that’s super versatile and comfortable. It’s the classic concave, offering a good balance of control and foot freedom.
W-Concave: Features a raised spine down the center of the deck, creating pockets for your feet to lock into. This gives you incredible control and responsiveness, especially when sliding.
Flat-Cave: This is more of a gentle, flatter version of the radial concave, it offers an acceptable feel with less concave or no concave at all.

Camber: Spring in Your Step

Camber is when the deck has a slight upward arch in the middle. When you stand on it, the deck flattens out, creating a springy, lively feel. It’s like your board is always eager to bounce back into action, giving you extra energy and responsiveness. It’s great for carving and pumping.

Rocker: Low Rider

On the flip side, rocker is when the deck has a slight downward arch. This lowers your center of gravity, making the board super stable, especially at high speeds. It also makes it easier to slide and control your board. Think of it as sinking into your ride for maximum stability.

Mounting Style (Top Mount, Drop Through, Flush Mount): How Low Can You Go?

The way the trucks are attached to the deck also makes a big difference!

Top Mount: The classic setup, where the trucks are mounted directly underneath the deck. This gives you maximum responsiveness and leverage for turning.
Drop Through: The deck sits lower because it is mounted through a hole in the deck, lowering your center of gravity and increasing stability. Ideal for downhill and commuting.
Flush Mount: Flush mounting involves integrating the mounting hardware (like nuts and bolts) into the deck’s surface so that they are level with the top of the deck. This method creates a smoother, more streamlined interface between the trucks and the deck. By recessing the hardware, you reduce the risk of it interfering with your feet or causing discomfort during rides.

Each of these features plays a crucial role in how your longboard performs and feels. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your riding style and preferences!

Dimensions Demystified: Length, Width, and Wheelbase

Okay, so you’ve got your eye on a new deck, but all those numbers are making your head spin? Don’t sweat it! Think of deck dimensions like the recipe for your perfect ride. Get the proportions right, and you’re in for a treat. Get them wrong, and… well, let’s just say you might end up face-planting more than you’d like. Let’s break down how length, width, wheelbase, and even thickness play a starring role in your longboarding adventure. It’s all about finding the right fit for your style and your size.

Length: Long or Short, What’s Your Sport?

When it comes to deck length, it’s a bit like choosing between a limousine and a Mini Cooper. Longer decks (think 40 inches and up) are your go-to for chilled-out cruising and stable downhill runs. They give you plenty of foot space and a planted feel. Shorter decks (under 40 inches)? Those are the whippersnappers of the longboard world. Super maneuverable and perfect for carving through crowds or busting out some freestyle tricks.

Width: Wide or Narrow, How You Gonna Barrow?

Deck width is all about finding that sweet spot where your feet feel comfy and in control. A wider deck (9 inches or more) gives you more real estate to work with, which translates to stability. If you’ve got bigger feet or just like a more secure stance, wide is the way to go. Narrower decks (less than 9 inches) are more responsive and make turning a breeze. Great for carving and riders with smaller feet!

Wheelbase: The Secret Sauce of Stability

Wheelbase is the distance between your truck mounting holes, and it’s a sneaky little dimension that has a big impact on your ride. A shorter wheelbase makes your board turn on a dime – ideal for carving and navigating tight spaces. On the flip side, a longer wheelbase plants your feet and keeps you feeling rock-solid, especially when you’re bombing hills or cruising at higher speeds.

Deck Thickness: Thin or Thick, What’s the Kick?

You might not think about it, but deck thickness contributes to how your board performs and lasts. Thicker decks (usually achieved with more plies of wood) are stiffer and can handle more abuse. Thinner decks tend to have more flex, which some riders love for the springy feel it adds to their ride. They can also absorb vibrations a little better, making for a smoother cruise.

Finding Your Perfect Fit: Guidelines

Okay, so how do you put it all together? Here’s a cheat sheet:

Cruising: Medium length (38-42″), medium width (8.5-9.5″), longer wheelbase.
Downhill: Longer length (40″+), wider width (9″+), longest wheelbase possible.
Freeride: Medium length (38-41″), medium width (9-10″), adjustable wheelbase.
Freestyle: Shorter length (36-40″), medium width (8.5-9.5″), shorter wheelbase.
Dancer: Longest length (42″+), medium width (9-10″), longest wheelbase.

Remember: These are just guidelines! The best way to find your perfect dimensions is to try out a few different boards. And don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s half the fun!

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Deck Construction

Alright, let’s talk about the soul of your longboard—the materials that make up the deck. It’s like picking the ingredients for your favorite dish. The materials drastically impact how your board feels, rides, and holds up over time. Think of it this way: a flimsy deck is like trying to make pizza on a wet noodle; it’s just not going to work! So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and see what makes these decks tick.

Maple: The OG Material

Maple, especially the Canadian and Hard Rock varieties, is the workhorse of longboard decks. It’s the reliable friend you can always count on. Why? Because it’s strong, durable, and offers a balanced flex. It’s like the Goldilocks of deck materials; not too stiff, not too soft, but just right. If you’re just starting out or want a dependable all-arounder, maple is your go-to.

Bamboo: The Eco-Friendly Flex Master

Next up, we have bamboo. Picture this: you want a board that feels like it’s dancing with you, smooth and responsive. Bamboo is your answer. It’s known for being incredibly flexible, lightweight, and, best of all, eco-friendly. So, you can shred knowing you’re doing something good for the planet. It’s the yoga instructor of longboard materials, all about that flow and zen.

Fiberglass: The Strength Booster

Now, let’s crank things up a notch with fiberglass. Think of it as the protein powder for your deck. It adds strength and stiffness while keeping things lightweight. By itself it is fragile, but is very strong when combines with other materials. Fiberglass is like the secret ingredient that makes your deck tougher and more responsive.

Carbon Fiber: The High-Performance Superstar

If you’re chasing top-tier performance, carbon fiber is where it’s at. This stuff is seriously high-tech, offering unparalleled strength and an incredibly lightweight feel. It’s the material they use in race cars and fighter jets, so you know it means business. Carbon fiber decks are for riders who demand the absolute best and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Composite: The Mix-and-Match Marvel

Last but not least, we have composite decks. These are the mad scientists of the longboard world, combining different materials to achieve specific properties. A common example is a maple core with fiberglass layers. This gives you the best of both worlds: the durability and flex of maple combined with the added strength and stiffness of fiberglass. Composites are all about customization and fine-tuning the ride to your exact preferences.

Construction Techniques: The Art of Deck Building

Ever wondered what makes a longboard deck, well… a deck? It’s not just slapping some wood together! The way a deck is built has a HUGE impact on how it rides, feels, and lasts. Think of it like baking a cake – the ingredients matter, but the method is what makes it delicious. Let’s dive into the secrets behind the scenes!

Ply Count: Strength in Numbers (and Layers!)

The number of plies, or layers of wood, is a big deal. Generally, more plies mean a stronger and stiffer deck. Imagine a stack of paper – one sheet is flimsy, but a whole ream is pretty sturdy, right? More plies help the deck resist bending and breaking, which is crucial when you’re carving hard or bombing hills. However, more plies can also mean a less flexible ride, so it’s a balancing act.

Core Material: The Heart of the Deck

The core material is the, well, core of the deck! It affects everything from weight to flex and overall feel. Maple is the classic choice, known for its balance of strength and flex. But you might also find bamboo cores for a more responsive ride, or even exotic materials like foam for super-lightweight decks. Each material brings its own unique flavor to the ride, so experiment to find what you like!

Lamination Techniques: Holding It All Together

Lamination is how those layers are bonded together. Think of it as the glue that holds the whole delicious longboard cake together. Proper lamination ensures that the layers act as one cohesive unit, maximizing strength and durability. Without good lamination, your deck could delaminate, which is a fancy way of saying it falls apart. No one wants that!

Resin Type: The Glue That Binds (and Protects)

Finally, let’s talk about resin. This is the adhesive used to bond all those layers together. The type of resin used affects the deck’s strength, water resistance, and even its flex characteristics. Epoxy resin is a common choice, known for its high strength and excellent bonding properties. A good resin will not only hold the deck together but also help protect it from moisture and other environmental factors, keeping your ride looking fresh for longer.

Design Details: Grip, Edges, and Aesthetics – More Than Just Looks

Okay, let’s talk about the fun stuff! While the shape and material of your longboard deck are crucial for performance, the design details are what give your board its personality – and can even subtly affect how it rides. Think of it as the difference between a functional car and a customized hot rod; both get you from A to B, but one does it with flair.

Grip Tape: Stick With Style (and Safety!)

First up: grip tape. This isn’t just some sandpaper slapped onto your board!

Applied/Not Applied: Some decks come with grip tape pre-applied. It’s convenient, sure, but choosing to apply it yourself gives you way more control. Plus, if you mess up, you can just reapply it.
Patterned/Custom Cut: Standard grip tape is fine but why not let your personality shine? Custom-cut grip tape lets you add designs, logos, or even just cool patterns, transforming your deck into a work of art. You could cut a checkerboard pattern, a wave, or even your initials!

Edges: Finding Your Edge (Literally!)

Believe it or not, the edges of your board play a role! They affect how you can grip the board and can alter slide capabilities.

Rounded: Think smooth slides and forgiving transitions. Rounded edges are super comfortable if you plan to do a lot of sliding and don’t want harsh edges digging into your hands or feet.
Sharp: If carving is your game, sharp edges give you maximum grip. These edges allow for intense angles and keep you glued to the board. They’re less comfortable for sliding, though.
Beveled: Can’t decide? Beveled edges offer a compromise, blending a bit of grip and a bit of slide. It’s the best of both worlds if you like a versatile ride.

Graphics and Finishes: Making it Yours

This is where your board truly becomes an expression of you! Longboards are as much a lifestyle and artform.

Screen Printing, Heat Transfer, Laser Etching, Grip Tape Art, Stained Wood: These are just a few ways graphics get onto your deck. Screen printing offers vibrant colors, heat transfer allows for detailed images, laser etching creates a clean and modern look. And don’t forget grip tape art – using your grip tape as a canvas can be just as awesome.
Color (Solid Colors, Gradients, Multi-Colored): Simple and Bold? Or a rainbow of colors? Your choice!
Finish (Matte, Gloss, Natural Wood): A matte finish is subtle and grippy, a gloss finish is shiny and eye-catching, and a natural wood finish shows off the raw beauty of the deck.
Art Styles (Abstract, Geometric, Realistic, Cartoon, Lettering/Typography): From mind-bending abstract patterns to photo-realistic landscapes, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re into clean, geometric designs, wacky cartoons, or bold typography, your board can reflect your unique style.

Performance Factors: Flex, Stability, and Turning – The Holy Trinity of Longboarding!

So, you’ve got your deck picked out (or at least you’re closer!), but how do all those fancy shapes and materials actually translate to what you feel under your feet? That’s where performance factors come in. Think of it as the secret sauce that determines if your longboard is a chill cruiser or a speed demon. Let’s break down the big three: flex, stability, and turning.

Flex: Bend It Like Beckham (…But on a Longboard)

Stiff: Imagine a plank of wood. Not much give, right? Stiff decks are all about responsiveness and energy transfer. Great for downhill, freeride, and anyone who wants a super-connected feel with the road. Feels more stable at high speed!
Medium: The Goldilocks zone. A little flex for comfort, but still plenty of control. Perfect for all-around riding, carving, and cruising. Its a balance.
Flexible: Think mellow vibes and smooth rides. Flexy decks absorb bumps like a champ and offer a really surfy feel. Ideal for cruising, carving, and dancers looking to add some spring to their steps. Great for longer rides!

Stability: Staying Upright When Things Get Sketchy

Nobody wants to eat pavement. Stability is key, especially when you start pushing your limits.

Wheelbase: A longer wheelbase is the foundation of a stable ride, keeping you planted when speed increases.
Deck Shape: Drop-through and drop-down decks lower your center of gravity, making you feel like you’re glued to the road. Pintails, while stylish, aren’t known for their high-speed stability.
Mounting Style: As mentioned earlier, Drop-Through and Drop-Down deck mounting Styles are designed for optimal stability.

Turning Radius: Making Turns That Would Make a Fish Jealous

Want to weave through pedestrians or carve epic lines? Turning radius matters!

Deck Shape: Decks with a shorter wheelbase or a tapered shape will turn sharper. Think cruiser or freestyle boards.
Truck Setup: This is where it gets really interesting. Looser trucks mean easier turning, but less stability at high speeds. Tighter trucks are the opposite.
Concave: The shape of the deck also plays a role in turning radius. Aggressive Concave allows for more control of board steering while leaned over and carving.

Foot Placement: Where You Stand is Where You Steer

Finally, let’s talk about where you put your feet. Features like concave and kicktails are designed to give you more control and leverage.

Concave: Locks your feet in, giving you a more responsive feel and better control during turns and slides.
Kicktails: Allow you to lift the front of the board for quick maneuvers, ollies, and navigating obstacles.

Manufacturing Methods: It’s How the Magic Happens, Folks!

Ever wonder how a bunch of wood (or bamboo, or space-age composite!) turns into that sweet deck you’re about to shred on? It’s not fairy dust (though we wish!). It’s all about manufacturing, and it’s surprisingly interesting. So, let’s peek behind the curtain and see how these decks are born.

Pressing Techniques: Squeezing Out the Perfect Shape

This is where the layers of wood (or whatever material) become one. Think of it like making a multi-layered sandwich, but with way more pressure and precision. There are two main ways to do this:

Cold Press: This is the more traditional, slower method. The layers are glued together and then pressed in a mold at room temperature. It takes longer, but some say it results in a more natural flex and avoids stressing the materials too much. Think of it like slow-cooking a delicious stew – good things take time!
Hot Press: Speed demons, this one’s for you. Hot pressing uses heat and pressure to bond the layers much faster. It’s more efficient for mass production and can also create a stiffer, more uniform deck. It’s like microwaving that stew – quick and easy, but maybe not quite as flavorful.

CNC Machining: Robot Precision for a Human Ride

Once the deck is pressed, it often goes under the knife…or rather, the CNC machine. CNC stands for “Computer Numerical Control,” which is a fancy way of saying “robot that follows instructions.”

CNC machines precisely cut out the deck shape, drill the truck mounting holes, and even carve out features like wheel wells. It’s all about accuracy and consistency.
This ensures that every deck is shaped identically, giving you a predictable and reliable ride every time.

Sealing: Protecting Your Investment

Finally, your precious deck needs a coat of armor to face the elements. This is where sealing comes in.

Waterproofing: Longboards and water don’t usually mix. Sealants prevent the wood from absorbing moisture, which can cause warping, cracking, and just generally ruining your day.
UV Protection: The sun is also a deck’s worst enemy. UV rays can fade graphics and weaken the materials. UV-resistant coatings help keep your deck looking fresh and strong for longer.
Think of it like sunscreen for your longboard – essential for a long and healthy life!

Top Longboard Deck Brands: A Quick Overview

Alright, shredders, let’s talk brands! Because just like you wouldn’t trust a gas station burrito, you shouldn’t slap any old piece of wood under your feet. These brands are the real deal, crafting decks that can handle your carving, cruising, and maybe even that questionable curb jump you’ve been eyeing.

First up, we have Loaded Boards. These guys are like the Apple of the longboard world – sleek, innovative, and always pushing the envelope with their flexy, dance-friendly designs. Think smooth rides and buttery carves!

Next, Landyachtz comes in with the Canadian maple goodness. These guys are the workhorses of the industry, known for their durable, dependable decks that can handle just about anything you throw at them. Bombing hills? Cruising the seawall? Landyachtz has you covered.

Then there’s Sector 9, the OGs of the surf-inspired scene. These guys were around when longboarding was still a fringe sport, and they’ve been pumping out stylish, cruisable decks ever since. Think sunshine, palm trees, and endless summer vibes.

Don’t forget Arbor, the eco-conscious crew that blends sustainability with sweet performance. Their decks often feature beautiful wood veneers and a focus on environmentally friendly construction. Ride green, ride clean!

Original Skateboards are next! These guys are all about flow and carving. They focus on making surfy, carvy decks that bring the feeling of riding a wave to the pavement.

And lastly, Bustin Boards from the concrete jungle of NYC. Bustin brings that East Coast edge with versatile decks ready for anything from crowded city streets to laid-back boardwalks.

Navigating the Numbers: Metric vs. Imperial in the Longboard Universe

Alright, shredders, let’s talk numbers! Not the kind you’re doing on your taxes (yikes!), but the kind that actually matter when you’re scoping out your dream deck. You’ve probably noticed longboard specs floating around with two sets of units: metric and imperial. What’s the deal?

Think of it like this: it’s like ordering a pizza. Some places ask for it in inches, and others might want the diameter in centimeters. Both get you a delicious pizza, but you need to know which language they’re speaking!

Decoding the Systems: A Quick Rundown

The Metric System: The cool kid that’s popular almost everywhere else on the planet. You’ll see millimeters (mm) and centimeters (cm) popping up everywhere.
The Imperial System: Our pal from the United States, where inches and feet still rule the roost. Here, you’ll be seeing inches (” or in) taking the center stage.

Why does this matter for your longboard? Well, whether you’re measuring the length, width, or wheelbase of your deck, knowing which system is being used is key. Imagine thinking you’re getting a super-long dancer deck when it’s actually a stubby little cruiser! Tragedy averted, my friends, with a little bit of knowledge.

Your Cheat Sheet: Conversion Tools

Don’t stress about doing mental math while you’re trying to decide between a drop-through and a pintail. The internet has your back! Here’s a simple conversion to keep in mind:

1 inch = 2.54 centimeters

But, for the sake of ease, here’s a quick conversion chart to keep you in the know:

Inches (“)	Centimeters (cm)
30	76.2
35	88.9
40	101.6
45	114.3

Or, better yet, bookmark a reliable conversion tool:
https://www.metric-conversions.org/length/inches-to-centimeters.htm

Knowing these numbers in both systems means you can shop confidently, compare specs easily, and ultimately, nail that perfect deck for your unique riding style! Now you’re equipped to understand the numbers, so go forth and find the deck of your dreams!

So, there you have it! From classic pintails to futuristic composites, the world of longboard deck designs is as diverse as the riders who cruise on them. Hopefully, this gave you some inspiration for your next board! Now get out there and shred!