{"id":10398,"date":"2024-02-09T18:49:05","date_gmt":"2024-02-09T23:49:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/skateboardsalad.com\/general\/are-longboards-good-for-heavy-riders\/"},"modified":"2024-02-09T18:49:05","modified_gmt":"2024-02-09T23:49:05","slug":"are-longboards-good-for-heavy-riders","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/skateboardsalad.com\/boards-and-parts\/are-longboards-good-for-heavy-riders\/","title":{"rendered":"Longboards for Heavy Riders: Can They Handle the Extra Weight? (Find Out Now)"},"content":{"rendered":"
Ever caught in the crossfire of a skateboard vs longboard<\/strong> debate? It’s a battleground where every rider fiercely defends their turf.<\/strong> But hey, getting the fundamentals right \u2013 like selecting the best skateboard decks for street skating<\/a> or the snazziest sneakers to skate in<\/a> \u2013 is pivotal.<\/p> Today, we’ll tackle the question: Are longboards good for heavy riders?<\/strong> Let’s break down what you need to know to ride with confidence.<\/p>\n Key takeaways<\/strong><\/p> When it comes to choosing the right ride, heavyset skaters usually wonder if they can find solace in the realm of longboards. This list isn’t about shaming that extra stoke you’re carrying; it’s about embracing it and finding the perfect board to carve the streets. Whether you’re a chilled cruiser or an aspiring downhill demon, there’s a sturdy deck out there that won’t buckle under pressure.<\/p> So, let’s dispense with the fluff and dive into the meaty part: a hefty list specially tailored for heavy riders looking for their longboard soulmate.<\/p>\n A deck that’s robust enough to handle more weight is essential for heavy riders. Staying clear of flimsy materials is crucial; you’ll want to gravitate towards hard maple over bamboo<\/strong>, given its superior strength. A high ply count is non-negotiable; think 8 plies or more<\/strong> for that sweet spot of durability without compromising too much on agility.<\/p> It ensures you get a board that can take a beating without taking a bow.<\/p>\n Deck flex is also important. Too stiff and you might as well be riding a plank, too much flex and you’re flirting with a snap. Aim for a slight flex<\/strong> for a forgiving yet responsive ride.<\/p> Standing in the sweet spot of your board and feeling how it bends under your weight is the best litmus test for this. A good deck helps your heavy rider’s quest, but don\u2019t forget about the foundational pieces beneath. Check out our reviews of the best skateboard decks for street<\/strong> skating for more detailed insights.<\/p>\n Skaters with a bit more meat on their bones need trucks that don’t bend or break under pressure. You want something cast from the same stoic mold as Paris or Caliber trucks<\/strong>; brands revered for their durability. When you’re over the 230-pound mark, quality trucks will make sure you’re carving, not careening.<\/p>\n\n Bushings make a considerable difference too. Forget the standard squish and opt for bushings on the harder side of the durometer scale, like 90A \u2013 95A double barrels<\/strong>. This upgrade ensures your turns are smooth and the board’s responsiveness is just right.<\/p> Check out my top picks for the best beginner skateboard trucks<\/strong> to get started.<\/p>\n You probably think more about where the rubber meets the road than the average shredder, and for good reason. Heavy riders should target high-quality urethane wheels with a harder durometer<\/strong>. The aim is a ride that’s both cushy and controlled.<\/p>\n Big-name brands like Sector 9 Butterball or Orangatang<\/strong> hit the mark with wheels designed for heft. They keep you rolling over rough patches without issue. And if your ride includes cruising and commuting, the sweet durometer spot is typically 80A for those under 250 lbs, and 90A if you’re tipping the scales<\/strong> a bit more.<\/p> Discover more about wheel selection in our section on the best skateboarding wheels<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n Backing plates are like the unsung heroes for the longboard underdog. Solid ones like RipTide<\/strong> back your board up with that much-needed support. They may seem small, but they play a big role by evenly dispersing the load across a wider area, saving your deck from pressure points that could lead to cracking.<\/p>\n For heavier skaters, focusing on detail like this can be the difference between a nice day out and a sidewalk catastrophe. It’s not about scaring you off; it’s about preaching the good word of maintenance and reinforcement. Throw in a quality skate tool<\/strong> from our guide, and you’re golden.<\/p>\n “A good longboard deck helps your heavy rider’s quest, but don\u2019t forget about the foundational pieces beneath. Opt for bushings on the harder side of the durometer scale, like 90A \u2013 95A double barrels. This upgrade ensures your turns are smooth and the board’s responsiveness is just right.”<\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure> Speaking of endurance, heavyweight champs should set their sights on boards known for their incredible stamina<\/strong> \u2013 we’re talking about the likes of the Landyachtz Evo or Bustin Sportster<\/strong>. These boards offer the high ply count and solid construction that give you the longevity your skating sessions demand.<\/p>\n A sturdy board not only boosts your confidence but allows you to shred without the lingering fear of a mid-ride breakup. You’ll want a deck that’s praised in the streets, much like the Evo<\/strong> or Sportster<\/strong>, both notorious for being up to the task when it comes to supporting more substantial riders. For a comprehensive breakdown of boards that won\u2019t let you down, peek at our collection of best cruiser skateboards<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Hitting the pavement on a longboard is not only about the setup; it’s also about how you ride. Heavy riders have to keep a unique set of considerations in mind. These tips aren’t just about getting you moving; they’re about keeping you cruising safely and effectively.<\/p>\n Longboarding is a thrill, but every great ride is backed by care and precaution. Here are some more dos and don’ts to skate by:<\/p>\n Essentials to reduce the chance of injury and enhance your longboarding experience.<\/p>\n Choosing a longboard as your go-to ride has perks, but it’s not without its trade-offs, especially for heavy riders. Let’s weigh the pros and cons to give you a clearer picture of what to expect when you step on that board.<\/p>\n As a street skater with only a toe dipped into the world of longboarding, I’ve seen how the right board can provide a stellar ride, no matter the rider’s size. It’s my opinion that while longboards might not be everyone’s cup of tea, especially for those who favor the nimbleness of street boards, they certainly offer a welcoming deck for riders who are on the heavier side. With a sturdy, wide deck and the kind of wheels that laugh in the face of rough patches, longboarding opens a door to a world where the joy of skating isn’t just reserved for the featherweights.<\/p> If you’re in the market for some robust trucks to go with that new longboard, take a gander at our recommendations for the best skateboard bearings<\/strong>.<\/p>\n It\u2019s just my take, but I believe there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ in skateboarding or longboarding. Every rider has a unique balance, style, and preference. That’s why I reckon taking the time to research and invest in a high-quality setup that aligns with your individual needs is not just smart; it’s essential for enjoying the ride to the fullest.<\/p> And hey, if you’re heavy and you love to ride, more power to you \u2013 the skate park is big enough for all.<\/p>\n If you are a visual learner, check out this video titled ‘Best Longboards for Heavy Riders: A Comprehensive Guide In 2023!’<\/p>\n\n
Can heavy riders find their match in longboards?<\/h2>\n
1. Deck construction matters<\/h3>\n
2. Choose trucks built like tanks<\/h3>\n
3. The right wheels roll the distance<\/h3>\n
4. Don\u2019t skip the backing plates<\/h3>\n
5. Boards that go the distance<\/h3>\n
More longboarding tips<\/h2>\n
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\n \nDo<\/th>\n Don’t<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n Always wear protective gear, like helmets and pads.<\/td>\n Ignore any discomfort or pain while riding.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Opt for quality skate shoes for better grip and board feel.<\/td>\n Skimp on board maintenance or delay replacing worn out parts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Use slide gloves for added safety if experimenting with downhill or freeride.<\/td>\n Overload your board beyond its weight capacity.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Keep hydrated and take breaks during longer sessions.<\/td>\n Rush the learning process \u2014 patience is key.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Learn proper falling techniques to minimize injury risk.<\/td>\n Neglect local laws and regulations regarding skateboarding.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/figure>\n Advantages and disadvantages of longboarding for heavy riders<\/h2>\n
Advantages<\/h3>\n
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Disadvantages<\/h3>\n
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Opinion<\/h2>\n