If you're interested in picking up a longboard and cruising around town, or if you're looking to dive into the worlds of longboard dancing or downhill racing, you've come to the right place. It’s not hard to learn to longboard. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to get started, from the basics of longboarding to the different styles of riding to how to pick the best longboard for you. 

# Everything you need to know to about Longboarding and how to get started

## What is longboarding?

Longboarding is a type of skateboarding that involves riding on a longboard, a skateboard with a longer deck and larger wheels. **Longboards are generally more stable and easier to ride** than traditional skateboards, making them popular for cruising and transportation. Though longboarding is a type of skateboarding (on a longer board), it’s definitely got its own vibe –generally more relaxed and laid-back vibe compared to the fast-paced style of skateboarding.

The point of longboarding, like any other activity or hobby, can have different meanings and purposes for different people. Some people enjoy longboarding as a form of transportation, using it as a way to get around town or commute to work or school. Others enjoy it as a form of exercise, using it as a way to get outdoors and stay active. Some longboarders enjoy the thrill and adrenaline rush of downhill riding, while others prefer the activity as a form of creative self-expression and creativity. Still others prefer cruising and exploring new places on their boards.

Longboarding can also be a social activity, with groups of friends getting together to ride and hang out. Finding community through a shared activity can be a really positive mental health tool!

<Image alt="field full of longboard skaters holding their boards during Beyond the Board in Houston" caption="The Houston Longboard Community posing after an event with Beyond the Board in 2022" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5-29+TX+Houstin+Bird+Island+Race+-+R5+765+-+edit+5mp.jpg" />


### Is longboarding the same as skateboarding?

Yes and no. A longboard is a type of skateboard. The main key difference between longboarding and skateboarding is (obviously) the size and shape of the board. Longboards have longer decks, often ranging from 32 inches to 60 inches, and are wider than traditional skateboards. This makes longboards more stable and easier to ride, especially at slower speeds. Longboards also have larger wheels, which provide a smoother ride and make it easier to roll over cracks and obstacles while riding around town.

Another difference between longboarding and skateboarding is the style of riding. Longboarding is often associated with a more relaxed and leisurely style of riding, with a focus on cruising and enjoying the ride. Skateboarding, on the other hand, often involves more fast-paced tricks and stunts. However, there is overlap between the two, and many longboarders enjoy incorporating tricks and slides into their riding style.

### Longboarding compared to surfing and snowboarding

Do you already know how to surf or snowboard? Which sport is harder to learn differs per person. In our opinion, longboarding is easier than snowboarding and surfing. We find a feeling of safety in being able to bail on a board on land and more comfort in having full mobility of both feet. As soon as you stand on a longboard, you’re learning and improving. And there are so many accessible places to learn how to longboard – you don’t need an ocean or a mountain, all you need is your street, a deck, and four wheels!

## The history of longboarding since the 1950s

The history of longboard skateboarding can be traced back to the 1950s, when surfers in California started riding skateboards as a way to practice their surfing moves on land when the waves were flat. As skateboarding gained popularity, the first longboards began to appear in the 1970s.

Early longboarders saw the sport as a form of self-expression, with a focus on cruising and enjoying the ride. This laid-back, relaxed culture was a departure from the fast-paced, trick-focused style of traditional skateboarding. Longboarding quickly gained popularity among surfers and skateboarders, and the sport began to evolve and develop its own unique culture.


<Image alt="vintage skateboard with natural wood finish and lines on a clean backdrop by Shred Shack" caption="This photo from Shred Shack shows how different boards from 1960s looked." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Shred+Shack+old+school+board.png" />


Over the years, longboarding has continued to grow and evolve, with different styles and techniques emerging. Today, longboarding is enjoyed by people all over the world, with a diverse community of riders and a rich culture that celebrates the freedom and creativity of the sport.

### Who helped popularize modern longboard skateboarding?

There have been many individuals and groups who have contributed to the popularization of longboarding over the years. Some of the key figures in the history of longboard skateboarding include:

#### Adam and Adam
[Adam Colton’s iconic tutorial videos](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIxVXVsngQ8) on YouTube date back to 2006. Adam Stokowski has been pioneering freestyle on longboards since the late 2000s.
#### Brycin Stryker Lyons
Brycin is the founder of [COASTLONGBOARDING](http://www.coastlongboarding.com/), one of the first zines to be specifically tailored to longboarders (and downhill in particular). He’s also the organizer of the longest running downhill skate race—Attack of Danger Bay.
#### Loaded Boards
[Loaded Boards](https://i.loadedboards.com/172-2.htm) is a longboard manufacturer that was founded in the 2000s. The company has played a key role in the popularization of longboarding. They're known for their high-quality boards and media that put a smile on the faces of riders all around the world.
#### Concrete Wave Magazine
Started in 2002 by [Michael Brooke](https://ampskate.com/articles/michael-brooke-endless-wave), was a unique contribution to the skate community early in the sport’s history. Brooke’s first magazine, International Longboarder, was the world's first longboard magazine, running from 1999–2002.
#### DockSession
The DockSession is a weekly longboard meetup that started in April 2014 in Paris, France by [Lotfi Lamaali](https://www.lotfiwoodwalker.com/). DockSession has now expanded to over 20 countries around the world to become a worldwide longboard connection. The main intentions of the DockSessions are to help grow the longboard community and showcase skilled riders. Most importantly, it's there to create a link between all longboard communities around the world, help meet new people, have fun and spread the stoke!

<Image alt="Lotfi Lamaali selfie wit big group of longboarders at DockSession in Paris" caption="Lotfi Lamaali at one of the original DockSession events in Paris 2014." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Docksession-group-photo.jpg" />

## What are the different longboard riding styles?

There are different ways you can ride a longboard. The style you like may affect the board you pick or the places you go to ride.

### Cruising

Cruising is an easy-going style of riding around and having fun. You don’t need to know any tricks to cruise—just how to push, ride, and stop.

You can add carves (or deep, connected turns) to your cruising style to help you slow down, turn, and maintain momentum.

### Freestyle

Freestyle riders mix different styles together, including moves more common with skateboarding, like street skating. It can include longboard dance steps, tricks like kickflips, and slides.

### Dancing

Longboard dancing has been steadily growing in popularity. This style is more accessible because it can be done on flat ground, and doesn’t involve high-risk flip tricks. Dancing on a longboard looks like fancy footwork and carving while maintaining balance.

### Downhill

Downhill longboarding is the most dangerous of the styles because you’re going down hills that could have car traffic at speeds as high as 60 MPH. Downhill riders use slide gloves with plastic pucks on the palm to control slides around road bends. They often wear full-face helmets and full leather suits to avoid road rash.

### Freeriding

Freeride longboarding is a style that’s in between downhill and freestyle. Freeriders make their way down a hill but can creatively incorporate slides and tricks. They still use slide gloves to help control movement.

## Longboard anatomy

If you’re totally new to skateboarding and longboarding, here’s what you need to know when talking about boards:

All longboards have 3 basic components—the deck, the trucks, and the wheels.

- The deck is the platform you stand on. Some decks are directional, meaning they have a nose (front of the board) and tail (back of the board). Some decks are symmetrical, meaning the nose and the tail are shaped the same. Longer decks are more stable but slower to carve.
- The trucks are the axles attached to the deck that pivot and allow for turning. Wider trucks are more stable but slower to carve. If the board extends past the trucks, that’s known as a “kicktail.” [Click to learn more about longboard trucks.](https://ampskate.com/articles/longboard-trucks-101-top-4-brands)
- The wheels attach to the trucks. Bigger wheels will roll faster but are heavier and take more effort to get to top speed.

<Image alt="diagram of a skateboard showing the anatomy including the deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and griptape" caption="Skateboard anatomy graphic from Sisteen Street" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Skateboard+Anatomy+Sisteen+Skate.png" />

## How to pick the best longboard for you

The best longboard for you depends on where and how you plan to ride. To get you started, think about these questions:

- What style of longboarding do you like?
- Where do you want to ride your longboard?

The best longboard for bombing a roughly-paved hill will be different from the longboard you use to just cruise on smooth pavement by the beach. Imagine it like this: you wouldn’t (or shouldn’t!) buy a sports car to go off-roading.

When you go into a skateshop or look online to buy a board, you can either buy just the deck, or you can buy the deck, trucks, and wheels all together and pre-assembled (called a “complete”). Buying a complete longboard as your first board makes total sense. But as you ride more and start to better understand the differences in longboard decks, trucks, and wheels, you’ll want to customize your board to be exactly what you’re looking for.

Regardless of what longboard you buy, it will be easier to ride a longboard than a skateboard or a Penny board. That’s because the longer deck and softer wheels will be more forgiving with balance, will make speed easier to maintain, and will give you a smoother ride. 

### What makes a good longboard?

A good longboard is one that you’ll have fun and be safe riding. How much you should spend on your first longboard could be anywhere from $10 (if you buy second-hand off someone) to $300 (for a performance-level complete setup). Like with guitars, it all depends how a board *****feels***** to you. 

Different boards use different materials for the deck depending on the shape and flexibility. Maple is the most common material used, where you’ll see 6–9 ply (thin layers) glued together. Some boards might have bamboo, fiberglass, or even carbon fiber mixed in for added strength, durability, or feel.

Generally, we recommend just walking into your local skate shop to find a quality board. If you buy a cheap board online without knowing the brand, you could put yourself at risk if the board breaks on you (we’ve seen it happen!).

### What kinds of longboard deck shapes are there?

The most noticeable difference between two boards will be the deck, so that’s what we’ll focus on when explaining the different types of boards.

#### Cruiser boards

Cruiser boards are typically cheaper and smaller (26–35”) than most other longboards—making them accessible and easy to bring with you. They’re made for riders that want something simple and affordable.

**Best for:**

- Cruising
- Carving
- Commuting

#### Pintail boards

Pintail boards are named for their distinct, surf-inspired shape of being wider at the nose and narrower at the tail. Pintail decks are generally flexier, which is good for cruising and carving, but bad for commuting. These boards are often a bit more affordable making them a great choice for beginner longboarders.

**Best for:**

- Cruising
- Carving

#### Dance and freestyle boards

[Boards for longboard dancing and freestyle](https://ampskate.com/articles/longboard-dancing-decks-101-top-3-brands) are big (up to 48”), stable, symmetrical, and typically have a bit of flex. This makes them both comfortable to ride and perfect for longboard tricks.

If you want something to vibe around on and learn some tricks, dance and freestyle boards are the way to go. 

**Best for:**

- Dancing
- Freestyle
- Carving

#### Downhill and freeride boards

Downhill and freeride boards are generally similar in shape. These types of longboards are the most versatile of any category.

A board for racing is typically going to be smaller and minimalistic.

Freeride boards are often mid-sized with symmetrical decks. However, they can have directional decks with a flat nose and kicktail that make them look a bit like cruisers.

**Best for:**

- Freeriding
- Downhill

#### Drop through boards

Drop through boards have symmetrical, rigid decks without kicktails. The tail and nose have a hole cut out, and the trucks are mounted flush with the deck. This keeps the board lower to the ground, making it more stable at high speeds. But that also means they’re not as great at slower speeds, and tricks can be pretty limited.

**Best for:**

- Commuting
- Downhill
- Freeriding

#### Drop platform boards

Drop platform boards have symmetrical, rigid decks without kicktails. The trucks are still mounted under the deck, but the middle platform of the deck is lowered. These boards are more stable at high speeds, but aren’t as good at slower speeds, and tricks can be pretty limited.

**Best for:**

- Downhill
- Freeriding
- Freestyle

## How do I start longboarding?

You can teach yourself to longboard! Grab your helmet, any other protective equipment you need, some skate shoes with flat, all-rubber soles, and your board. Find a quiet, flat spot with lots of space with no cars around. 

<Image alt="Brooke Johnson teaching the basics of longboarding in Miami" caption="Brooke Johnson teaching the basics of longboarding during a Beyond the Board event in Miami." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/6-11-FL-MIA-Lessons-%2B-Scavenger-Hunt---R5-113---edit-SMALL.jpg" />

### Goofy or regular stance?

The first thing you need to learn on a longboard is your stance. Try standing on the board with your left foot in front, then switch sides. One should be naturally more comfortable and easier to balance.

- If your left foot is in front, you’re regular.
- If your right foot is in front, you’re goofy.

Still struggling? Get a friend to push you from behind — whichever foot you stick out to catch yourself with should be your front foot.

Once you know your stance, it’s important to find your foot position on the board. Unlike a bicycle, longboards and skateboards don’t have specific places for your feet, hands, etc. This makes it difficult to know how to properly position yourself for maximum comfort and stability. Your basic riding position should be with your feet balanced right through the center of the board with your heels and toes touching each rail (long edge). In general, you should ride with your feet pointed forward slightly to make sure you’re steering from the front.

One common problem is that people ride with their back foot too far off the toe-side and their front foot too far off the heel-side edge. This creates a huge imbalance in weight distribution and will make it much more difficult to get comfortable with any speed or tricks.

But the biggest tip we can give you on your stance is this: bend your knees when longboarding! This will help you connect with your body to provide a better feeling of stability and balance. 

### Longboarding basics

#### Push

Foot position when pushing is a little different than when riding. When riding, your front foot will be at around 45º whereas it’ll be straight forward when pushing. This makes your stride more natural and ergonomic.

<TrickTipCard slug="push" />

#### Stop

It’s important to never go faster than you can comfortably stop. In the beginning, jumping off your board definitely counts as a way to stop! You might feel fine riding at 30mph, but you never know when some car is going to pull out of a driveway or run through a stop sign. It happens more often than you think!

There are 3 main ways you can learn to slow down and stop on your longboard: foot braking, carving, and sliding.

##### Foot Brake

<TrickTipCard slug="footbrake" />

##### Carve

Turning on a longboard involves leaning your weight to one side or another. As you work up your balance, you can make slightly sharper turns, called carves. Because longboards are more flexible than skateboards, turning and carving will be easier and smoother.

<TrickTipCard slug="carve" />

##### Slide

Sliding is definitely the most advanced way to slow down, but it’s also the most useful when going at high speeds. If you don’t have gloves, get ‘em and use ‘em! Some people also call slides a "powerslide" or “check slide” because you’re checking your speed to slow down.

<TrickTipCard slug="heelside-180-stand-up-slide" />

<TrickTipCard slug="toeside-stand-up-slide" />

#### Fall

Yes, there is a right way to fall. And it’s important to know as soon as possible. Simply put, you want to transfer the momentum of your downward fall into sideways movement by rolling. This way, the fall gets distributed across your whole body, instead of having just one body part take the brunt of the fall.

Longboard dancing guru and [DockSession](https://www.instagram.com/docksession/) founder, Lotfi Lamaali, even created a video on getting started with [safety and learning how to fall on your longboard](https://www.youtube.com/watch).

Now go out there and try it all yourself! 

### The first three tricks to learn on a longboard

We put together an article together about [the first tricks to learn on a longboard](https://ampskate.com/articles/3-easy-steps-to-start-longboard-dancing-for-beginners) and included instructional steps (with a video) that you can follow.

## Conclusion

Longboarding is a fun and accessible activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking to cruise around town, explore new places, or even get into downhill racing, there's a style of longboarding that's right for you. By following the tips and advice outlined in this beginner's guide, you can get started on your longboarding journey with confidence and excitement. Remember to always prioritize safety and gradually build up your skills and techniques over time. 

Happy riding 🤙

The Ultimate Guide to Longboard Skateboarding for Beginners

Are you ready to add some flair and style to your longboarding skills? Look no further than longboard dancing! This exciting and visually stunning discipline combines smooth steps and freestyle tricks as you carve and glide down the pavement. It may look effortless, but it takes balance, creativity, and plenty of practice to perfect your flow. 

Learning to longboard dance is accessible to anyone with a board and a smooth surface to ride on. Get started with these three easy steps for beginners: the 180 Step, the Cross Step, and the Peter Pan. 

With just a few hours of practice, you'll be impressing others and feeling more confident in no time. So grab your board and get ready to dance!

<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qukKyM-4Lyo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>

## First 3 beginner longboard dance steps to learn

### 1. The 180 Step

The 180 Step is one of the most alluring longboard dancing tricks for beginners because it's super functional. It’s one of the simplest ways to switch your riding stance from regular to goofy (or vice-versa). After just a few short hours of practice, impressing others and feeling more confident will be easier with this longboard dancing trick.

<TrickTipCard slug="180-step" />

### 2. The Cross Step

The Cross Step is another popular longboard dancing move. It feels super flowy to perform when you incorporate it into a carve.

<TrickTipCard slug="cross-step" />

### 3. The Peter Pan

The Peter Pan is quite similar to the 180 Step except you keep your feet moving, one over the other. You can do this until you get tired. 

<TrickTipCard slug="peter-pan" />

After shifting your body weight on the edge, you will be swinging over your feet. If you keep your body weight in the center, you will face problems while performing Peter Pan.

## Is longboard dancing easy?

Longboard dancing might look smooth and graceful, but it’s not as easy as it looks. A rider needs balance, creativity, and a lot of practice to make their flow stylish. You might have longboard surfing and skateboarding skills but when it comes to longboard dancing, you'll need something extra. Longboard dancing is a very visual (and subjective) discipline where you combine smooth steps and longboard freestyle tricks while carving.

The popularity of longboard dancing is increasing day by day. It's already very popular in South East Asia, Latin America, and Europe. For beginners wanting to get more involved in longboarding, longboard dancing is the most accessible discipline. All you need is a board and a smooth, flat piece of asphalt.

## Conclusion

We hope this helps get you started! Remember, the biggest step to progress is the first one you make to get on your board :)

3 easy steps to start longboard dancing for beginners

Understanding how longboarders talk is important for breaking down trick tips and feeling more comfortable when talking to other skaters. Here are the most important terms. If you don’t see a word in this list that you need help with, reach out to us!

## Basic longboarding terms

### Goofy

A riding stance with your right foot in front.

### Regular

A riding stance with your left foot in front.

### Switch

A riding stance with your back front in front (opposite of how you normally ride).

### Bail

To jump off your board.

### Mongo

When you push with your back foot on the board and your front foot striking the ground.

### Toeside

The side of your board that your toes are on.

### Heelside

The side of your board that your heels are on.

### “Car!"

Get your ass out of the road because a car is coming.

### Steez

Style with ease, the ultimate compliment to any rider. “Yo, that was steezy!”

### Bomb a hill

To go really fast down a hill.

### Stoked

To be excited!

### Line

The path you take down a street and the tricks you put together along that path.

## **Trick terms**

### Nollie

A trick stance where your front foot is on the nose of your board in your normal stance.

### Fakie

A trick stance where your back foot is on the nose of your board in your switch stance.

### Frontside (FS)

Rotational movement for a trick that's done with the front side of your body facing the direction you’re moving. That normally means  counterclockwise for a regular rider and clockwise for a goofy rider.

### Backside (BS)

Rotational movement for a trick that's done with the back side of your body facing the direction you’re moving. That normally means clockwise for a regular rider and counterclockwise for a goofy rider.

### Carve

To combine turns to make an S-shape.

### Pop

A maneuver where you use straight downward force on the tail or nose of the board to get it in the air.

### Scoop

A maneuver where you use downward force on the tail or nose of the board to get it in the air in a particular direction.

### Slide

When you carve hard to either side and your wheels break traction and slide sideways.

### No-Comply

A category of tricks where one of your feet gets planted off of the board to initiate the trick.

## **Gear terms**

### Baseplate

The part of the truck that attaches to the deck. These come in different angles for more or less turn.

### Bearings

The mechanical component that’s inserted into the wheels to make them spin.

### Bushings

A urethane components that sit on the kingpin of the trucks. They come in different shapes and sizes and affect how your board carves.

### Complete

A fully-put-together board with deck, trucks, wheels, bearings, and hardware.

### Deck

The part of the longboard that you stand on. Decks are usually made of wood, bamboo, resin, carbon fiber, or plastic. They come in different shapes and sizes.

### Full face

A type of helmet that covers your face and has a visor (popular for downhill skating).

### Grip tape

The sandpaper-like material on top of a deck. Not all decks come with grip tape, and you can put as much or as little grip tape on your deck as you like.

### Hanger

The metal part of the truck that the wheels mount to. The hanger is attached to the board and rest of the truck using the kingpin.

### Kingpin

The main bolt that holds the skate truck and bushings together.

### Pivot cup

A urethane component that connects the truck hanger with the baseplate.

### Riser pads

A piece of plastic that sits between the bottom of your deck and your trucks.

### Truck

The entire turning component that includes hanger, baseplate, bushings, and kingpin. It attaches to the deck.

### Wheel base

The distance between two mounted trucks measured from the inner mounting holes.

Longboard lingo

Learning new tricks on a longboard or skateboard can be both exhilarating and frustrating. While the sense of accomplishment that comes with landing a new trick can be incredibly satisfying, it can be challenging to manage your mindset and frustrations when progress is slow and you feel like giving up. 

Here are some tips for keeping your head up and persevering through the tough times:

## 1. Set realistic goals

It's essential to set achievable goals when learning new [tricks on a longboard](https://ampskate.com/tricks) (or skateboard!). Start with the basics, and gradually work your way up to more complicated maneuvers. Don't get discouraged if you don't master a new trick immediately—it takes time and practice to improve. Oftentimes, we see an awesome skate clip online, but we don’t see all the behind-the-scenes hours and progress that went into landing the trick or nailing the line.

## 2. Stay positive

A positive attitude is crucial when learning new tricks on a longboard or skateboard. Focus on enjoying the process and celebrate your small victories. Positive self-talk can go a long way in keeping you motivated and determined.

A great example of positive self-talk is using a mantra. This could be a simple affirmation like “I got this,” or "Go girl,” or “You flow” or another simple phrase. When you start hearing a negative internal dialogue, repeat your manta over and over. Negative self-talk is part of the game. It’s the same as in meditation. The bad thoughts won’t just disappear. They’re like clouds and you need to learn to just accept and don’t listen to them. You got this. 

## 3. Take breaks and rest when you're injured

When you're feeling frustrated or burnt out, it's essential to take a break and rest. Pushing yourself too hard can lead to injury, which can set you back even further. 

If you're injured, give yourself time to recover before attempting any new tricks. We all know how hard the struggle can be to see others skating when you’re hurt. But you’re only doing yourself a disservice by getting back on the board too soon. Take the opportunity to practice physical therapy and self-compassion.

## 4. Visualize success

Visualizing yourself successfully landing a new trick can help you overcome mental blocks and build confidence. Before an attempt, picture yourself executing the trick flawlessly, and believe in yourself.

## 5. Be consistent

Consistent practice is essential when learning new tricks on a longboard. If you really want to improve, set aside dedicated practice time and make it a priority. Every session counts, and the more you practice, the faster you'll improve and the more consistently you’ll land tricks.

This can be as simple as an established warm-up routine at the beginning of each session where you go through 5 tricks you know you can do and 5 tricks you’ve been working on most recently.

 <Image alt="iceberg of learning new longboarding tricks" caption="A trick always consists on way more things than just starting and sending it" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/skateofmind.png" />

## 6. Mix it up

Variety is essential to avoiding burnout when learning new tricks on a longboard. Try practicing different tricks, experiment with different terrain, or switch up your board. Maybe the setup you’ve got at the moment is not ideal for the trick, or maybe the location you’re skating has too many people to make you feel comfortable messing up. Mixing it up can keep you motivated and excited to keep learning. Plus, it’s fun to be creative.

## 7. Film yourself

Filming yourself attempting new tricks can be incredibly helpful. You can watch the footage to identify areas where you need to improve your technique and celebrate small victories along the way. It's also a great way to track your progress over time, which can be motivating when you feel like you're not improving. Sharing is caring. Especially in a social media world full of perfect 15 second reels, it might be encouraging for others as well to follow your progress.

## 8. Break it down

Breaking down a trick into smaller components can make it more manageable and less overwhelming. Focus on mastering each component before putting them together into the full trick. Maybe you’re not succeeding with the trick because a simple movement is missing that you need to master first. You can’t run a marathon without learning how to walk, can’t you? This can help you build confidence and make you progress faster.

## 9. Leave it (for now) 

Maybe today is just not the right day to go for that specific trick and you’re stuck. To loosen up your session, just leave it for now and do a few lines or tricks you feel comfortable with. Your comfort zone can give you back some confidence and joy. At the end of the day, longboarding is all about having fun. Don't take yourself too seriously and enjoy the process of learning new tricks. It's okay to fail and make mistakes. That's how we learn and improve! Remember to laugh, enjoy the ride, and have fun with your fellow skaters… which leads to the last part of this article…

## 10. Connect with your skate community

Connecting with other skaters who are also learning new tricks can be incredibly motivating. Join a local skate group, connect with your favorite riders online, or reach out to that one person that got your trick that you want to learn already up their sleeves. And if it won’t work and you’re stuck, check out communities such as [@skateofmindsociety](https://www.instagram.com/skateofmindsociety/) on social media to remind yourself that we’re all in the same boat.

Skate of Mind is a great space for thoughts, worries and anxious minds. You can share your journey, celebrate each other's progress, commiserate on frustrations, and stay inspired. 

Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

In conclusion, learning new tricks on a longboard skateboard can be challenging, but with the right mindset and approach, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Stay positive, stay motivated, and keep pushing yourself to improve. With consistent practice and dedication, you'll be landing new tricks in no time.


It’s all about the mindset: 10 tips when learning new tricks 

Today I'm going to share my experience and thoughts on the <a href="https://i.loadedboards.com/172-111.htm" rel="nofollow">Loaded Chinchiller</a> longboard. I had the opportunity to test this board out with my friend [Lance](https://www.instagram.com/boarderants/) at the iconic Venice Beach, and I have to say, we were both quite impressed. In this article, I'll dive into the details of this brand new longboard and provide you with a comprehensive review to help you decide if it's the right board for you.

<center><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y593QebdMv0" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe></center>

>**TLDR**: The Loaded Chinchiller is a compact, comfy, and versatile longboard designed for carving, pumping, and freestyle. With unique features like a subtle flex, mild rocker and concave, and playful proportions, this innovative longboard is perfect for those looking for a fun and intuitive ride. The short tail might take some getting used to, but overall, it's a fantastic board that's well worth the investment.

## **Longboard Specifications and Product Details**

Before we get into our personal experience with the Chinchiller, let's quickly go over the board's specs and product details: 

- 34 inches long
- 8.5 inches wide
- 21 inch wheelbase

It features a mild rocker and concave, with a subtle flex that provides a smooth ride while still being stiff enough for more technical tricks and slides.

This board is designed for carving, pumping, and freestyle, and its compact size and lightweight construction make it a nimble and responsive ride. 

The complete setup includes Paris V2 150mm 50° trucks, Orangatang 65mm Love Handles wheels, Loaded Jehu V2 bearings, and Loaded button head hardware. 

The MSRP for the complete setup is $299, while the deck alone is priced at $189.

<Image alt="Loaded Chinchiller longboard against a palm tree" caption="The Loaded Chinchiller perched against a palm tree." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Loaded+Chinchiller+1200-2.jpg" />

## **Design Concept and Construction**

The Chinchiller was designed in collaboration with [Kyle Chin](https://www.instagram.com/kylechin/) as a unique interpretation of the carving experience, focusing on comfort and inspiration for play. The board's construction features a vertically laminated bamboo core sandwiched between triaxial fiberglass skins and bio-based epoxy resin, providing high strength in a thin, lightweight construction. The snowboard-style top and bottom sheets add abrasion resistance and vibration damping.

The board's graphics were created by RETOKA, a design studio founded by the Barcelona-based artist duo Toni López and Zara Castellanos. Their innovative digital art pieces showcase their distinct visual language and passion for exploring the possibilities of color, shape, light effects, and movement.

<Image alt="rider holding the Loaded Chinchiller showing colorful griptape on the top" caption="The colorful griptape on the Chinchiller." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Loaded+Chinchiller+1200-7.jpg" />

## **Unique Features and Benefits**

The Loaded Chinchiller's playful proportions and slim outline shape make for an intuitive foot placement and telepathic handling. As Lance pointed out during our test, "The way it's composed looks like it's gonna be really intense. I love the flex." The mild concave keeps your toes and heels comfortably secure, while the rocker between the trucks cradles your feet for a locked-in feel and enhances stability.

One of the Chinchiller's most notable features is its **resistance to wheel bite**. With 65mm wheels and CNC-milled wheel wells, the board stiffens up just before wheel bite, providing a lot of play and movement without the worry of face planting. As I mentioned in the video review, "It's nice to have that peace of mind of not wheel biting."

<Image alt="close up of longboard trucks on loaded chinchiller showing new bushings being added" caption="No wheelbite even with the softer Orangatang Knuckles bushings." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Loaded+Chinchiller+1200-8.jpg" />

## **Personal Experience and Review**

Lance and I had a blast testing the Chinchiller in Venice Beach. The board's pumping and carving capabilities truly stood out.

<Blockquote title="I'm loving this thing, it is so flowy!" body ="- Lance Lynn" />

The subtle flex and playful proportions provided an enjoyable and unique ride, making it easy to see why the Chinchiller has the hype from longboard enthusiasts.

One aspect of the board that took some getting used to was the shorter tail. While it still provided ample leverage to ollie and kickflip, it required a bit of adjustment to execute these maneuvers effectively. However, the compact and streamlined design of the board more than made up for this learning curve.

We also appreciated the durability and construction of the Chinchiller. The board's bio-based composite construction and snowboard-style top and bottom sheets gave it a sturdy, reliable feel, while the vertically laminated bamboo core and triaxial fiberglass skins provided the perfect balance between strength and weight.

As Lance mentioned during our session, "It's a solid board. It's flexy, but it's not too flexy. It's got a good rigidity to it." The combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design details make the Chinchiller a fantastic investment for those looking for a versatile and well-rounded longboard.

<Image alt="Lance Lynn doing a 1 foot nose manual on the Loaded Chinchiller" caption="Lance Lynn with a steezy 1-foot nose manual." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Loaded+Chinchiller+1200-4.jpg" />

## **Final Thoughts**

In conclusion, the Loaded Chinchiller is an dope new longboard that offers a unique and enjoyable riding experience. With its innovative design features, high-quality construction, and versatility in disciplines, it's a fantastic option for riders who want a compact, comfy, and responsive set-up.

While the shorter tail may require some adjustment for those used to longer boards, the Chinchiller's overall performance and fun factor make it well worth the investment. Whether you're a seasoned longboarder or just starting out, the <a href="https://i.loadedboards.com/172-111.htm" rel="nofollow">Loaded Chinchiller</a> is a great addition to your collection that's sure to provide hours of big chillin' and low-key thrillin' rides.

Happy skating!

>**Transparency Disclaimer**: Loaded sent us this board for free. We only accepted it under the conditions that we could share our honest thoughts. Reviews on Amp will always be real and honest. It’s in our values as a company to provide reliable and objective information. All proceeds from affiliate links go towards improving and maintaining these resources for the community.

Loaded Chinchiller Longboard Review: Big Chillin' with a Low-Key Thrillin' Ride

Longboarding has gained a lot of traction since 2020 and it’s no surprise that Dancing and Freestyle are right at the forefront leading the charge. Compared to other disciplines of longboarding, longboard dancing is a more approachable and stylish place for many riders to start.

In this article we are going to walk you through the basics of longboard dancing and take a look at some of the most popular longboard dancing and freestyle decks from 3 leading brands in the scene: Landyachtz, Zenit Boards, and Pepper Boards.

 <Image alt="3 longboarders on longboard dancing decks from Zenit Boards, Landyachtz, and Pepper Boards" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+MAIN+2.JPG" />

## But wait, can you longboard dance on any longboard?

Yes. You can longboard dance on **any** longboard. Although, the best boards for longboard dancing are generally 42” - 48” and have a symmetrical shape. This allows ample space for you to step around and to focus on your flow rather than being distracted by whether your board is forwards or backwards.

## Popular Longboard Dancing and Freestyle Decks

### Landyachtz

 <Image alt="3 Stratus longboard dancing decks from Landyachtz" caption="3 variations of the Landyachtz Stratus." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Landyachtz.JPG" />

Leading the charge is [Landyachtz](https://landyachtz.com/) with their colorful series of decks. Since the late 90s Landyachtz’s has been designing and building boards in their Vancouver headquarters. Over the years they’ve been refining and perfecting their craftsmanship using only the finest Canadian Maple wood.

#### “Stratus” by Landyachtz

<Image alt="Landyachtz Stratus longboard dancing deck ridden by Rachid Moujahid" caption="Rachid Moujahid on the Landyachtz Stratus." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Stratus.JPG" />

**Length**: 45.5”

**Width**: 9.25”

**Wheelbase**: 27.5” - 29.5”

**Flex rating**: 5/10. Perfect blend of stiff and flexy.

Pressed on all Canadian Maple, the Stratus Sanctuary 46” Deck has a snappy Flex, a symmetrical shape and big mellow kicktails for all your freestyle and dancing needs. This board is simple and a great choice for beginners and pros like [Rachid Moujahid](https://www.instagram.com/rachid_483/), a Landyachtz team rider.

### Zenit Boards

<Image alt="3 Zenit longboard dancing decks" caption="The Zenit Hana, Jig, and Tango." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Zenit.JPG" />

All the way from Montreal (Quebec, Canada) with over 10 years in the board manufacturing industry, [Zenit boards](https://zenitboards.com/) have been producing high quality innovative decks for all styles of longboarding. Zenit became one of the most popular longboard dancing brands during 2020 because they were able to keep up with production while many other brands had insane production delays.

#### “Tango” by Zenit Boards

<Image alt="Zenit boards Tango longboard dancing deck ridden by Alexanda Sabeh" caption="Alexandra Sabeh on the Zenit Boards Tango." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Tango.JPG" />

**Length**: 42.5”

**Width**: 9.5”

**Wheelbase**: 25.5” - 27.5”

The Tango is built with pre-tensioned and pre-cured fiberglass which makes it strong, yet flexible. The wide 9.5” platform gives more space to make dance steps more comfortable at speeds. This is currently the board of choice for french rider, [Alexandra Sabeh](https://www.instagram.com/alexandrasrll/).

### Pepper Boards

<Image alt="3 Pepper Boards longboard dancing decks" caption="The Pepper Boards Flow, Bastet, and Katana." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Pepper.JPG" />

Based all the way in Russia dominating the European longboard scene, [Pepper boards](https://pepperboards.com/) have a plethora of dancing decks ranging from 38” - 48”. What sets Pepper apart from the competition is their unique construction featuring a vertically laminated wood core and soft urethane rails. This helps to keep their longboards lightweight and durable.

#### “Bastet” by Pepper Boards

<Image alt="Pepper Boards Bastet longboard dancing deck ridden by Kate Voynova" caption="Kate Voynova on the Pepper Boards Bastet." url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/HOUCE+longboard+dancing+decks+Bastet.JPG" />

**Length**: 44”

**Width**: 9.5”

**Wheelbase**: 28” - 29.5”

Named after the goddess of joy and love, the Pepper Bastet is slightly shorter than the average longboard dancer. It’s unique shape allows you to easily perform tricks and stylish steps. The Bastet is a go-to favorite for [Kate Voynova](https://www.instagram.com/katevoynova/).

## Which size longboard should I get for dancing?

The ideal size of your longboard depends on your skating style and how big you are. In general, boards around 42” - 44” are best for smaller riders or riders that are more into [freestyle tricks](https://ampskate.com/tricks?category=freestyle). Longboards that are 46” - 48” are best for bigger riders or riders that prefer to stick with longboard dancing and don’t mind the extra size and weight for tricks.

## How do I get started with longboard dancing?

It’s important to have basic balance and maneuvering before working on any particular steps. Once you feel comfortable enough to give your first longboard dancing steps a try, we recommend the 180 Step, Cross Step, and Peter Pan as the first moves to learn. Tap the cards below to check the full tutorial and discover new [longboard dancing steps](https://ampskate.com/tricks?category=dance).

<TrickTipCard slug="180-step" />
<TrickTipCard slug="cross-step" />
<TrickTipCard slug="peter-pan" />

You can read more about [longboard dancing for beginners](https://ampskate.com/articles/3-easy-steps-to-start-longboard-dancing-for-beginners) by clicking on the link.

Longboard Dancing Decks 101: A Look at 3 Top Brands

The past year has been great for the longboard dancing scene. I run the Instagram [@longboardance](https://www.instagram.com/longboardance/) where I share videos from riders all across the world and connect the community. I’ve had a chance to watch a **lot** of longboard dancing and freestyle content. Here are some of the trends that I saw in 2022.

## Riders are embracing freestyle and dancing combos

There are so many different styles of riding right now! One of the most exciting things about longboard dancing in 2022 was how freestyle and dancing were being mixed together. Many riders are combining more technical moves of freestyle (like kickflips and manuals) with the fluidity of dance steps to unlock new, creative and unique moves.

Some examples include:

### AJ the Kid
<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CofT0aAKO4e/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

### Vladimir Zephyr 
<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CkoI9zrKVSQ/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

### B-Board Kamel 
<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CisTiHxKO5B/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

## Longboard dancing is becoming more mainstream

This last year, quite a few longboarders were featured in commercials and advertising materials for some big name brands, including Facebook.

Here’s a photo series of Terri the Elf for Laisha Magazine in Israel.

<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/p/CjIBgsUqo4v/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

I’m glad to see longboarding make its way into the media and hope more people will learn about that amazing sport.

## Communities and learning opportunities are growing

As more people learn about longboarding, they have also been looking for communities to ride with and learn from.

Valeriya is an amazing rider and founder of the very cozy and inspirational Longboard Camp in Portugal.

<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CXtlymCoQji/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

Also, Kate Voynova and Timur Totoev have both played a huge role in the development of the Russian longboard scene: making events, teaching people, creating a school, "[Flip N Flow](https://www.instagram.com/flipnflow/)", for longboard dancing and just being helpful and awesome for every beginner.

<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cla-XmqqnlQ/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

## Videos use upbeat music

Longboard dancing is a dynamic and high-energy sport, and some of the most popular videos on Instagram capture this excitement. Riders dance with fast feet to upbeat music, and that keeps us engaged.

Jian Peng of Locus Longboards is doing wonders in longboard freestyle. How he rides seems impossible to do.

<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CbNSGOTAjks/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

## Raw lines are rare

With the exception of competition videos, almost all longboard dancing content features multiple clips or trick attempts. This is great because it allows riders to showcase different lines and combos without the pressure of having to get them all in one take.

Here’s Abou Seck. He’s the smoothies—when he’s dancing on a longboard, it looks like he was born to do it.

<iframe width="320" height="440" src="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CaALd03qD6j/embed" frameborder="0"></iframe>

## 2023 Longboard dancing trend predictions

If I had to take a guess at what videos will be most popular in 2023, I think they’ll be short and packed with tricks and lines. As recording equipment and editing tools become more available and easier to use, that will allow for videos to be more creatively styled as well.

We might also see more trick tips from different people, because we as a community support each other and like providing educational resources for new people!

I wish y’all the best this year. Keep riding, keep learning, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!


2022 Longboard dancing trends

It’s a macabre reality that all of us will die. In a generation or two, even our memory might be forgotten. Some people distract themselves from this truth. Others face it head-on—seeking out spaces to create legacy and impact on individuals and communities around them today. Michael Brooke believes skaters fall into this second category. 

A skateboarding historian and former editor of two legendary skate magazines, Michael has most recently been working as a funeral director’s assistant. 

His first magazine, International Longboarder, was the world's first longboard magazine, running from 1999–2002. Michael's second publication, [Concrete Wave](https://concretewaves.com/), was a unique contribution to the skate community early in the sport’s history. 

 <Image alt="cover of international longboarder magazine summer 1999" caption="Cover of International Longboarder magazine, Summer 1999" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Michael_Brooke_2.png" />

But Michael’s work at the funeral home has been hugely impactful on his perspective. Therefore, it would be natural that Michael would be well-positioned to write a book about skateboarding, death, and spirituality. The book, [The Endless Wave](https://ooksvision.wixsite.com/endlesswave), which was released November 2021, covers themes of individual legacy, grief, the importance of shared history, and how skating fits into these oftentimes difficult topics. 

I myself have never shied away from morbid topics. (Michael would probably say that it’s a reason that skating appealed to me as a sport). My mindset of amor fati, ironically enough, fuels my optimism and focus on living a full, regret-free life. So I was thrilled to get a chance to sit down with Michael to talk about his book, skating, and death more broadly.

If you’re interested, check out Michael’s free book, [The Endless Wave](https://ooksvision.wixsite.com/endlesswave), as well as his recent work with Billy James of [Shred Shack](https://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=4AF1Nm&m=Iff3aaLnFb0MQv&b=BiQlmNZEmT5vqavMTJdMAQ).

---


**Laura: How does the experience of skating parallel the ups and downs of the human experience?** 

**Michael:** While skating, at some point we will most likely feel a range of emotions: from good to great to bad and somewhat ugly...and yes, even destructive. But skateboarding is an amazing outlet.

It can feel great to just get out there and push on a longboard. That’s the good….and you want to share this stoke with everyone you meet.

But then WHAM! You hit a rock and you’re thrown off your board and you give yourself a huge bruise. That’s the bad…and you work through the pain knowing that it will pass (eventually).

Then there’s the ugly - the times when people don’t understand why you’re doing this (at YOUR age!) or you face scorn from a bunch of street skaters who don’t think longboarding is skateboarding. That’s the ugly part….and you take those feelings and you work through them and you become stronger.

**Laura: I care a lot about making skating a more inclusive sport/activity for all. There was a lot of aggression that came hand-in-hand with 90s “skate and destroy” culture that came from the anti-establishment / counter-cultural mindset. Should we as a community hold onto that legacy?** 

**Michael:** I think built into the DNA of skateboarding is a “question authority” mentality. This grew out of the fact that not everyone appreciates skateboarders in their neighborhood. And it's been going on for over 60 years!

This mentality can lead to all sorts of beliefs and actions. But things change and get refined. I like the fact that skateboarding can be counter-cultural. 

I will admit there are times when you feel like you just want to explode, and skateboarding provides an amazing outlet. I say that as a former teenager with a great deal of angst. I also say it as a 58-year-old who loves the feeling of just letting off steam after a rough day at work.

But what I love even more is how inclusive it has become. The legacy of skateboarding is really about freedom - the joy that you experience on any terrain with any type of board. 

 <Image alt="michael brooke homemade ramp 1975" caption="Michael hitting a homemade ramp, 1975" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Michael_Brooke_4.png" />


**Laura: That resonates so much with me. Everyone deserves access to that feeling of freedom and flow. So how do the concepts of flow, serendipity and death fit together?**

**Michael:** As skaters, we find flow in the act of riding. But beyond the act of skateboarding, we encounter fellow skaters and situations. 

For example, a skateboard allows you to travel faster than walking…you can cover a lot of ground quickly. This is a very unique thing. Think of this way - you can only play tennis on a tennis court and golf on a golf course.

You have remarkable portability in a dense urban environment with a skateboard (unlike a bike which you can’t really transport in the same way). 

And as a result of these two elements, you can find a tribe of like minded people (or just ride with yourself and explore) - time passes quickly when you’re out there riding - that’s the flow.

But here’s the thing: you just never know who you might run into or what could happen. That’s where serendipity comes into play.

Skateboarding can lead to so many things...if you let it. That's why I always say I've never graduated flow state.

Death is the final frontier and the one thing that many people hate talking about. Well as a skateboarder for almost 48 years and somebody who works in the death care field, I felt it was time to use skateboarding as a catalyst to strike up these conversations.

Being surrounded by so much death gives you a newfound appreciation for life. If my book winds up being read by a younger skater who is fearful of death but it makes them less fearful, then it's done its job.

**Laura: Death is inescapable. As is the grief that comes with it. But as you highlight in the book, grief can also be experienced through injury – the loss of physical agency, an inability to skate, real impacts on mental health. What can each of us learn through these moments of grief?**

**Michael:** This is an extremely difficult question to answer. The truth is that everyone has their own way of coping with grief and it's based on their own personal experiences and who they are grieving for.

As a funeral director's assistant, I've seen grief up close now for 4½ years. Sometimes grief comes because the living person wasn't able to communicate exactly how they felt about the person who is now dead. Regret can be like an acid that burns in the grieving person's heart.

The other thing I've seen right away at funerals is when a family has invested time in the children and grandchildren. The eulogies are filled with stories, and while they are bittersweet, these memories are like a soothing balm to the grieving family and friends.

One critical thing I would recommend is that a friend of mine has created an app called [Encircle Grief](https://www.encirclegrief.com) that helps people deal with grief. It's an amazing new tool and gives you prompts on how to best support those who are in mourning along with those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

**Laura: It sounds like managing grief comes down to being honest with your emotions and vulnerable with your community. How are skaters uniquely positioned against the fear of change, regret, etc?**   

**Michael:** I'd like to think that somehow in its own special way, skateboarding allows people to maintain a youthful spirit. Age really is just a state of mind.

Skateboarding is always changing. And this change can be difficult for some to process including the actual skateboarding industry itself.

**Laura: Change forces each of us to be honest with ourselves about what matters.** 

**Michael:** Right. You can never go back to your past, but what you can do is take things that you enjoyed in your past and bring them to your present.

When skateboarders find a unique spot, they immediately want to grab their board and try it. And when skaters meet up with other skaters, there's a lot of information that is exchanged and a lot of pure stoke that is experienced. 

To net it out I'd say this: Being part of a community of skaters is really the best way to charge through life.

**Laura: Community is so important. It’s one of the best tools we have for mental health. The pandemic, for example, was emotionally hard on all of us.** 

**Michael:** Ever since the pandemic finished, people have been anxious to get back to a groove of meeting up and living into that feeling of wellbeing. People are riding for their minds, facilitating meetups to ride locally, with small meaningful groups that can support each other emotionally. 

 <Image alt="iceberg illustration of what goes into a skate trick failure injury mentality" caption="Illustration of what goes into landing a trick, from @skateofmindsociety" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Michael_Brooke_6.png" width="400px"/>

**Laura: Absolutely. There are even online communities, like [Skate of Mind Society](https://www.instagram.com/skateofmindsociety/), that provide spaces for talking about mental health and difficult emotions, particularly as it pertains to skating.** 

**Michael:** There’s something there for sure. We as a society in North America still aren't prepared for these hard conversations. We're not prepared for the death onslaught. Funeral homes are certainly not prepared. Unlike the concrete wave, which is a fixed thing, we’re continually riding the endless wave of life. And that’s where the book’s title comes from. 

There are very few skaters who are in their 70s, but that's coming in twelve years from now. I'm 70. It's not that far away. 

**Laura: Are there ways you think that we can bridge that intergenerational gap to learn from each other, or people who are further along in “the current,” metaphorically speaking?**  

**Michael:** I think Bob Marley said it best: “If you know your history, then you would know where you coming from, then you wouldn't have to ask me, who the heck do I think I am.”

If you understand the history of skateboarding and you understand what the pioneers of skateboarding achieved, it will give you such an incredible perspective and insight.

The truth is that skateboarding has a rich history filled with some of the most remarkable stories and individuals.

**Laura: Well I, for one, am thankful that you’re still cataloging and sharing these stories.**

**Michael:** Thanks, and I want to thank Billy James over at [shredshack.com](https://shredshack.com/) for getting me back into skateboard media.

---

Read  [The Endless Wave](https://ooksvision.wixsite.com/endlesswave) now, for free and online.


Michael Brooke on riding the endless wave of life

What is a longboarding line and why should you care? You may have seen a really cool video online of a longboard dancer combining tricks or moves together. Odds are, the video has at least one “line” in it.  

In this post, we'll be exploring the different styles of longboarding and what makes a good line in each of them, with examples on how it's judged in competitions. So buckle up and get ready to add some serious knowledge to your longboarding arsenal!

## What is a longboarding line?

A “line” in longboard dancing and freestyle is the collection of tricks you string together along a path. In order to be considered a line, the tricks or moves have to be completed continuously and consecutively, one after the other. Multiple pushes in the middle of a line would break it. 

> Although, a transition push like a [lookback](https://ampskate.com/tricks/lookback) is ok as long as it doesn't break the flow and is performed seamlessly.

For example, a line might consist of a Frontside Pivot followed by a Cross Step followed by an Aero Grab.

<TrickTipCard slug="frontside-pivot" />
<TrickTipCard slug="cross-step" />
<TrickTipCard slug="aero-grab" />

In downhill skating, a line may be considered the path you take through a particular corner. “Race lines” are the most efficient path possible down the hill.

### A line or a combo?

A “line” is different from a “combo”  which is when 2 tricks are performed back-to-back without needing to adjust foot or body placement. Therefore, a combo is a smaller collection of tricks than a line. 

A line can consist of multiple combos or single tricks strung together. 

### A line or a run?

A “line” is also different from a “run,” which is a term that encompasses an entire attempt, including combos, lines, slides, and pushes. A run is the longest collection of tricks. 

In downhill skating, a run is the entire length of the hill from top to bottom. The term “run” can also be used as a way to refer to the road itself.

For example, in the [So.. You Can Longboard Dance](https://sycld.nl/) competition, your entire 1-min performance or submission video would be considered a run.

Or, to use music terminology:

- A **trick** is a note
- A **combo** is two notes tied together
- A **line** is a phrase
- A **run** is a song

 <Image alt="aerial drone image of a beautiful windy road with hairpin corners in the french alps" caption="A downhill run in the french alps - photo by Brandon DesJarlais" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Snapseed+33+(1).jpg" />
 
## What makes a good line?

The qualities of a line that impresses folks and looks steezy depends on the style of longboarding that you’re skating. In general, a good longboard line is one where all tricks and combos flow together seamlessly.

### Longboard dancing and freestyle competitions

If you enter into a longboard dancing competition, you will likely be judged [according to ILDFF rules](https://ildff.com/rulebook/) (International Longboard Dance and Freestyle Foundation) on how well you can execute a run. According to their rulebook, a well-executed run shows a good degree of difficulty, variety, and aesthetics. 

#### Scoring scale

The judges will award points on a scale of 0 to 10 (in increments of .5) for 3 categories to grade overall presentation, based on the following scale.
- 0 - very poor
- 3 - poor
- 5 - average
- 7 - good
- 9 - very good
- 10 - outstanding

#### ILDFF judging categories 

ILDFF-sanctioned longboard dancing competitions are judged by the following categories:

1. Degree of difficulty of maneuvers and commitment
2. Variety (dancing, freestyle, manuals, innovative moves)
3. Aesthetic and personal expression (style of execution, creativity of tricks and routines)
4. Consistency (ability to land tricks, sequences, or lines without bailing and while maintaining full control)

#### Flow factor

The ILDFF has also implemented a "Flow Factor". This is a judge's opportunity to appreciate remakable performances in terms of overall flow.

The flow factor acts as a multiplier to the total score with the following options:
- ×0.9 - Underperforming multiplier - athlete's performance does not look harmonious or well connected. 
- x1.0 - Standard multiplier - applied as default value. The run is balanced and well connected. 
- x1.1 - Outstanding multiplier - exceptionally good flow and transitions throughout the entire run.

### Slopestyle freeride competitions

If you enter a freeride slopestyle competition, the judging will be based on combining lines of [downhill tricks and slides](https://ampskate.com/tricks?category=downhill) in a single run.
Standards for how these competitions are judged have not yet been established. Rules and criteria is expected to vary based on the particular host.

## What are some examples of a line?

You can find them just about anywhere on the internet if you follow longboarders. 
We’ll also be highlighting lines in our upcoming “Line of the Week” series. Stay tuned!

What's a longboard line? A guide to tricks, combos, and runs

What's a longboard line?

Are you a longboarder looking to improve your ride? Understanding the anatomy of a skate truck is essential to getting the most out of your set-up. From hangers to baseplates, axels to kingpins, understanding the technical names and functions of each part can help you make informed decisions when it comes to choosing the right trucks for your needs. But with so many brands and types to choose from, it can be overwhelming. 

In this blog post, we'll dive into the differences between Reverse Kingpin Trucks and Traditional Kingpin Trucks, and take a closer look at the top 4 most popular longboard truck brands on the market - Paris Trucks, Bear Trucks, Caliber Trucks and Air Trucks - to help you make the best choice for your riding style. Whether you're into carving, cruising, downhill or longboard dancing, this guide has you covered.

## Longboard and Skateboard Truck Anatomy

<Image alt="Diagram showing the 7 parts of all reverse kingpin longboard skateboard trucks" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Longboard+truck+parts+diagram+by+HOUCE.JPG" /> 

Skaters of all disciplines know how essential a set of trucks is to their complete set-up. Without them your wheels will have nothing to hold onto your deck when riding and you loose the ability to turn. Every skate truck, regardless of design is made up of 7 parts shown in the diagram above.

1. Hanger
2. Baseplate
3. Axel
4. Kingpin
5. Pivot Cups
6. Bushing
7. Mounting Holes

> Interested in learning more about the technical names of longboard parts? Read our article on [longboard lingo](https://ampskate.com/articles/longboard-lingo).

## Reverse Kingpin Trucks vs Traditional Kingpin Trucks

<Image alt="Graphic showing the differnt skatebaord truck types: (TKP) Traditional Kingpin trucks and (RKP) Reverse Kingpin trucks" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/longboard+skateboard+truck+types.JPG" />

When it comes to trucks, there are two types: Traditional Kingpin (TKP) trucks and Reverse Kingpin (RKP) trucks. The TKP trucks made for street skateboards as they sit lower and are more suited for skateboard tricks and grinds. RKP Trucks are designed for longboards as they stand taller and are designed for deeper carves and turns.

## Top 4 Most Popular Longboard Truck Brands

### Paris Trucks

<Image alt="Graphic of Paris Trucks brand created by HOUCE" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Paris+Trucks+graphic+by+HOUCE.JPG" />

Leading the charge is Paris Trucks with their latest V3 180mm 50° trucks. Their signature open bushing seat design and their tried and true truck geometry, make these the perfect truck for all your carving, cruising and [longboard dancing](https://ampskate.com/tricks?category=dance&orderBy=alpha) needs.

### Bear Trucks

<Image alt="Graphic of Bear Trucks brand created by HOUCE" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Bear+Trucks+graphic+by+HOUCE.JPG" />

Following up and closing the gap real hard is from Canada is Bear Trucks by Landyachtz and their new Gen 6 Grizzlies. These are arguably the best performing cast longboard trucks incorporating new technology from their DH/Freeride trucks that improve its strength and refined its steering geometry.

### Caliber Trucks

<Image alt="Graphic of Caliber Trucks brand created by HOUCE" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Caliber+Trucks+graphic+by+HOUCE.JPG" />

Next up we have the Caliber III. Updated to satisfy the modern downhill skater 184mm hangar for stability and easier slide initiation. The Caliber III comes in a raked and rake-less option to suit multiple riding styles. The 50° baseplate option provides a sharper turn radius, ideal for cruising, carving and freestyle/dance. They also make a 44º option that's much more stable a high speeds.

### Air Trucks

<Image alt="Graphic of Air Trucks brand created by HOUCE" caption="" url="https://amp-skate-images.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/Air+Trucks+graphic+by+HOUCE.JPG" />

Coming in at just 860g, Air Trucks from Hong Kong are currently the lightest cast trucks on the market. They’re low and feature a rake-less geometry which make them exceptionally good for [freestyle longboarding](https://ampskate.com/tricks?orderBy=alpha&category=freestyle). It’s no coincidence some of the most technical riders in the world are on them.

## Which longboard trucks are best?

The best longboard truck for you will depend on your riding style and preferences. Ultimately, it's important to experiment and try different longboard trucks to find the one that works best for you. Each brand has its own unique features and strengths, and it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision. Whether you prioritize weight, strength, or turn radius, there's a truck out there that will help you get the most out of your longboarding experience. So, don't be afraid to mix and match, experiment and find the perfect set up for you. Happy riding!

Longboard Trucks 101: A Breakdown of the Top 4 Brands

Interview with Brenno Brélvis about longboarding and malandragem

Are you tired of asking your friends to film your skate sessions? Or, maybe you want to document your progress and share it with the world. Whatever your reason, filming yourself longboardingg can be a great way to troubleshoot difficult tricks and create compelling videos. And with the right setup, you can even continue listening to music while you film.

In this post, we'll show you how to film yourself longboarding while listening to music in just five simple steps. We'll cover the supplies you'll need, the best location and camera position, and how to edit your footage. Whether you're looking to share your tricks on social media or simply want to document your journey, this guide has you covered. So grab your skateboard and wireless ear buds, and let's get started!

### Supplies

To record yourself, all you really need is a smartphone. But if you want to improve your filming, you should also grab:

- A tripod (you can find one for as low as [$15](https://www.amazon.com/UBeesize-Phone-Tripod-Wireless-Compatible/dp/B07837W5NX/ref=asc_df_B07837W5NX/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312106635483&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15159826146749122344&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014221&hvtargid=pla-568581364026&psc=1))
- Wireless headphones
- Chalk (optional)

## 5 steps to create your best video yet

### Step 1 - Find a spot to film

Location matters a lot when it comes to filming yourself. When you’re filming with a friend, you can record on busy streets or skateparks. But when you’re by yourself, you want to make sure your phone doesn’t get run over or stolen. Find a quiet spot where you feel comfortable leaving your phone on the ground. 

### Step 2 - Position your camera

First, decide whether you want to film vertically or horizontally. If you film vertically, it’s easier to edit and share on Instagram or TikTok, but it leaves you less room to land a trick. If you film horizontally, it gives the clip a more cinematic effect—but editing it to view vertically can be difficult. 

Then, find a good spot to place your camera. Having a tripod helps a lot with this step. Ideally, you’d find a bench or surface about hip-high, across the street. After all, you don’t want a shot where the majority of the screen is pavement or sky. And you want to give yourself enough space to land the trick. 

### Step 3 - Know your framing

Once you’ve got the camera positioned, you’ll need to know what space you’ve got to work with that’s in frame. It’s tempting to use the fisheye or wide-lens setting on your phone, but that can seriously distort your body (and the tricks)! Try to use normal zoom. Find the edges of the shot by finding markers in space, like a tree or parking lines, that are just barely in shot. If you brought chalk, you can draw lines on the ground where you’re in frame.

### Step 4 - Capture the video (while listening to music)

Your smartphone’s back camera is always going to be better quality, so use that! 

You can listen to your music while you record yourself on certain iPhones. It works in all versions of iOS 14 (including the latest iOS 14.5 betas) and requires no third-party apps:

1. Start playing the track you want to hear while recording.
2. Open the Camera app and stay in Photo mode.
3. Start recording your video by holding down the shutter button at the bottom of the screen.
4. Keep it held down while shooting, or slide the button to the right to lock it in video recording mode.
5. Press the stop button when you’re done.

>If you have an Android, you can download apps like [Together](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.istaunch.video.recorder.music.playing) to record while playing music.

To get really fancy, record multiple takes of your line or trick with different camera angles.

### Step 5 - Edit your footage

You can download free apps like Splice or iMovie to edit the videos on your phone. Some pro-tips for editing:

- Keep clips short and concise. Once you’re out of the shot, cut the clip.
- Use multiple cuts to keep the energy of the video up (unless the point is to show a raw and unedited line!). Put clips from different angles back-to-back. Using multiple clips in a row with the same framing can feel bland.
- Try to match the tricks and cuts to music. See if you can have the cuts or the trick landing match the beat of the music. This is an artform!

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