Longboard vs Surfskate: The Differences and Similarities

Longboarding and surfskating are both popular board sports that give riders different ways to ride. Both are exciting and fun, but they are different in many ways, such as how they are ridden, what equipment they use, and what they are used for.

Riding Styles and Experience

Longboards are made to be used for freeriding, cruising, and racing downhill. They have a smooth, stable ride and are great for people who want to go long distances or just take it easy. 

Surfskates, on the other hand, are made to make you feel like you’re surfing on the sidewalk. With their unique front trucks, surf skates can make tight turns and move quickly, making them great for practicing carving and pumping like you would on a surfboard.

Board Design and Components

Longboards are usually longer and wider than skateboards, and they have bigger wheels that make them more stable and give them better grip. They come in different sizes and shapes based on the type of riding they are made for. You can also build a longboard easily.

Surfskates are usually shorter than longboards and have a special front truck that moves like a surfer’s board. This front truck lets the surfskate turn and pivot more sharply than a longboard, making it feel more like surfing.

Commuting and Transportation

Longboards are better for getting to work because they are more stable and have a smoother ride. They can handle longer distances with ease and make riding more comfortable. 

Surfskates are fun for practicing carving and pumping in a surf style, but they are not good for commuting because they are made for riding in parking lots and parks.

Dance and Freestyle

Most of the time, longboards are better for traditional longboard freestyle moves and dancing. But some surfskates can also be used for dancing and nose riding, like the Hamboards Huntington Hop and Logger.

Pumping and Carving

Surfskates are great at pumping and carving because they have a unique front truck that lets riders gain speed without touching the ground. Pumping and carving can also be done on longboards, but they have to be set up and used differently.

Conclusion: Surfskating vs Longboarding

The choice between a longboard and a surfskate comes down to how you ride, what you like, and what you want to do. 

A longboard may be the better choice if you want a stable, smooth ride for cruising or commuting. On the other hand, a surfskate might be the best choice if you want to try to surf on land and practice carving and pumping like you would on the water. 

Both types of boards are different, so you might want to buy both so you can get the best of both worlds.

Surfskate vs Longboard FAQs

Williams Jayson

I am a longboarding enthusiast and a blogger. On this blog, I share tips, tricks, and advice based on my experience. I am dedicated to helping newbies improve their skills and enjoy this fun activity to the fullest.