Longboarding is a sport that originated in Hawaii in the 1950s and quickly became popular worldwide due to its exciting and challenging nature. Over the years, different styles of longboarding have emerged, and one of the most thrilling is freeriding. This style of longboarding involves performing tricks, slides, and spins on hills and flat surfaces, with an emphasis on creative expression and individual style.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of longboard freeriding, discuss the gear you need to get started, provide some tips and tricks for improving your skills, and highlight some of the top freeriding spots around the world.
What is Longboard Freeriding | Let’s Explore
To get started with longboard freeriding, the first thing you need is a longboard that is suitable for this style of riding. Freeride boards tend to be shorter than other types of longboards, typically around 36 to 42 inches in length, and are designed to be highly maneuverable and responsive. They usually have a symmetrical shape, a slight concave, and drop-through truck mounting, which lowers the center of gravity and enhances stability and control.
In addition to your longboard, you’ll need some safety gear, including a helmet, knee and elbow pads, and wrist guards. Falling is an inevitable part of freeriding, so it’s important to protect yourself from injury as much as possible.
Once you’ve got your gear sorted, it’s time to hit the pavement and start practicing. Freeriding involves a variety of techniques, including slides, spins, and stand-up tricks, which take time and practice to perfect. In the beginning, it’s best to start on a flat surface to get comfortable with the basic movements and build your confidence. You can then progress to gentle slopes and gradually increase the difficulty level as your skills improve.
One of the key factors in successful freeriding is maintaining control over your longboard at all times. This means being able to shift your weight smoothly and fluidly, using your body to initiate turns and movements, and keeping your eyes on the road ahead. It also means understanding the physics of longboarding and how to use friction, momentum, and gravity to your advantage.
As you progress in freeriding, you can start experimenting with different techniques and tricks, such as pendulum slides, shut-down slides, and 180-degree spins. These tricks require more advanced skills and a higher level of risk-taking but can add an extra layer of excitement and creativity to your riding.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Setup for Longboard Freeriding
Freeriding is one of the most popular styles of longboarding, allowing riders to hit the hills and perform slides while carving through the twists and turns. But to achieve the perfect freeriding experience, you need the best longboard setup for the job. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know to find your ideal freeriding setup.
Choosing the Right Deck
The deck is the foundation of your longboard setup and plays a vital role in your freeriding experience. Freeriding requires a stable and responsive deck that can handle high speeds and sharp turns. Look for decks with a moderate to deep concave, and a length of around 38 to 42 inches. You may also want to consider a drop-through or drop-down deck for added stability and easier slides.
Selecting the Right Trucks
The trucks are another essential component of your longboard setup. When it comes to freeriding, you want trucks that are stable at high speeds while still allowing you to turn smoothly and easily. Look for reverse kingpin trucks, which provide better control and stability at high speeds. Choose trucks that are wide enough to support your deck, but not too wide that they hinder maneuverability.
Picking the Right Wheels
Freeriding requires wheels with a good balance of speed and grip. Look for wheels with a durometer rating of 78A to 85A, which provides a good mix of grip and slide. You may also want to consider larger wheels, which offer more speed but require more effort to slide. Be sure to choose wheels that are compatible with your chosen deck and trucks.
Other Considerations
Other factors to consider when finding the best longboard setup for freeriding include bearings, grip tape, and bushings. High-quality bearings will allow your wheels to spin faster and more smoothly, while good grip tape will keep your feet firmly in place. Lastly, bushings can impact how your trucks turn and should be chosen based on your riding style and preference.
Our Top Picks for Freeriding Longboard Setups
Here are some of our top picks for longboard setups that are perfect for freeriding:
• Landyachtz Switchblade 40 Deck
• Caliber II Fifty Trucks
• Orangatang Kegel Wheels
• Bones Super Reds Bearings
• Vicious Grip Tape
• Blood Orange Hard Inverted Bushings
Safety Gear for Longboard Freeriding | Protect Yourself on the Slopes
Freeriding is an exhilarating sport that requires intense focus and bravery. It involves tackling steep, ungroomed terrain and pushing the limits of what’s possible on a snowboard or skis. While it can be an incredible experience, it’s important to remember that freeriding also comes with inherent risks. That’s why it’s essential to have the right equipment to keep you safe on the mountain. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the essential safety gear you need to protect yourself while freeriding.
Helmet:
We’ll start with the most obvious safety gear – your helmet. A good quality helmet keeps your head safe from impact and should be a non-negotiable item for all skiers and snowboarders. When buying a helmet, make sure it fits snugly and comfortably on your head, and that there is no movement when you shake your head. Look for a helmet that meets safety standards (such as ASTM F2040 or CE EN 1077), and consider buying one with MIPS (Multi-Directional Impact Protection System) technology for added protection.
Back Protection:
When freeriding, falls are inevitable. In order to protect your back from possible injury, a back protector is an essential investment. Look for a vest-style protector that covers your entire spine, and make sure it fits comfortably under your jacket. It’s important to wear a back protector that is specifically designed for snowsports, as it will be more durable and better equipped to handle the conditions of the mountain.
Goggles:
Goggles are incredibly important for visibility and eye protection. They keep your eyes safe from harmful UV rays and from wind, snow, and ice. A good pair of goggles should fit securely on your face without any gaps, and they should have a tint and shape suitable for the conditions of the day. For sunny days, look for goggles with dark tints, while for overcast days, choose lighter tints that provide better visibility.
Avalanche Safety Gear:
Finally, we come to avalanche safety gear. It’s important to remember that freeriding in ungroomed terrain comes with added risks, including the possibility of being caught in an avalanche. Avalanche safety gear includes a beacon, a probe, and a shovel. These tools are essential for rescuing someone who has been buried in the snow. Make sure you are properly trained in how to use these tools before going out on the mountain.
Conclusion
Longboard freeriding is a challenging and thrilling style of longboarding that allows riders to express themselves creatively and push their limits physically. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned rider looking for new challenges, freeriding offers endless possibilities for exploration and self-improvement. With the right gear, mindset, and practice, you can develop the skills and confidence to carve your own path and find your own style in this exciting sport. So grab your longboard, don your safety gear, and hit the road the thrill of freeriding awaits.