Why Shape Is So Important for Longboard Decks

Scott

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• Publié par: seorumer
• Publié le: 13 avril 2016
• Nombre de lectures: 2
• Langue: English

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Why Shape Is So Important for Longboard Decks Longboard skateboarding is a sport that has undergone quite a few changes over the last 50 years. Among those changes has been the development of several different deck designs with varying shapes. Experienced longboarders know that the shapes have little to do with cosmetics and everything to do with board performance. Why is shape soimportant for longboard decks? Because shape determines what you can do with a board safely and comfortably.

To illustrate this point, we will consider three of the most common deck shapes used by today's skaters. These are:  the classic pintail;  the twin; and  the cutout. Within these three shapes, there are subtle variations that accomplish different things. Needless to say that a longboarder's choice of decks is largely determined by the kind of skating normally done. It is not unusual for veteran skaters to have boards in multiple shapes for different types of skating.

The Classic Pintail Longboard decks with a classic pintail shape resemble traditional surfboards. These have a wide center that narrows at both ends, with the rear end being somewhat pointed. This shape is considered classic because it is the one adopted by the pioneers of longboarding back in the 1950s and 60s. Longboard skateboarding was born out of a desire to practice surfing moves on land when the water was not suitable for breaking out the surfboard. As you might expect, surfers created their longboards in shapes that mimicked their surfboards. Today, pintail boards are preferred by cruisers who like a more fluid, surfing-life experience. The Twin Longboard decks shaped like long rectangles with rounded corners are known as 'twins.' This board design was developed in the 1990s by skaters who wanted the option of being able to either cruise or do tricks on a single, all- purpose board. The twin shape is still very popular as a first skateboard for new skaters. One of the main features of the twin is that it can move in either direction effortlessly and with little risk of wheel lock. Many skaters that swear by the twin love the fact that the setup can be easily adjusted to accommodate different needs. The same board can be used for cruising and hitting the local skate park just by swapping out wheels. The Cutout The cutout shape was born out of a desire to go extremely fast without sacrificing turning stability. This shape is basically a long rectangle with a wide body and narrower ends that can easily accommodate wider wheels and racing setups. Cutouts are preferred by longboarders who do a lot of downhill speed riding because they offer a combination of stability and turning control. Cutout longboards are bidirectional, like twins, and offer the most wheel clearance of all longboard varieties. The decks tend to be more flexible as well, increasing the ability to freestyle as you cruise. Make no mistake, though; you will not find a cutout longboard slashing the banks at your local skateboard park. With so many decks to choose from, it can be hard to know what you need or want. As you can see from the example provided, the choice of deck shape determines how a longboard is best used. For new skaters, the best option is probably the twin or mini-cruiser. Both offer exceptional control and stability that new skaters need to gain confidence. As for veteran skaters, choose a deck shape that suits your skating style. Whether you mainly cruise, freestyle it or carve the steepest hills, there is a board that will work well for you.