When you step into a longboard shop, you’ll quickly observe that longboards don’t come cheap. Most of them are priced in the hundreds of dollars, and the more high-end models can even reach into the thousands of dollars. At first glance, it may seem like highway robbery to ask for such a high price for a longboard, but the reality is far from what meets the eye. In this blog post, we’ll dissect the reasons why longboards are expensive, and provide you with insightful information that will help you understand their value and worth.
The Reasons for Why Longboards are Expensive
Here are some reasons that tell us Why Longboards are Expensive.
Quality Materials:
One of the reasons why longboards are expensive is that they’re manufactured using quality materials. Longboards use a variety of materials such as bamboo, carbon fiber, and different types of wood such as maple and birch. These materials may be more expensive to acquire, but they offer more durability and better performance. The better the quality of the materials, the more durable and reliable the longboard will be. Of course, this relates directly to the price, which is a testament to the value that you’ll receive.
High-End Components:
The components used in longboards drive up the cost. For instance, longboards use trucks, wheels, and bearings that are of higher quality compared to those used in regular skateboards. Longboard bearings, for example, cost more due to their larger size and higher precision quality. Premium longboard wheels come with better urethane that can handle higher speeds with increased grip, making your overall experience enjoyable and more efficient.
Designs and Features:
Longboards come with superior designs and features that help to improve their ride quality and performance. The design and shape of a longboard plays a vital role in its speed and stability. The more complex the design, the more extensive the work involved, which inevitably raises the price. Features such as flexible deck options and multiple mounting options also contribute to the cost of the longboard.
Branding:
When it comes to the cost of longboards, branding can also play a significant role. Brands that have been in the longboarding industry for a long time have built a solid reputation for quality and value. These brands have gained a loyal following over time, leading to them charging more for their products because of the perceived value. While you may find other excellent options, these reputable brands usually come with an accredited track record for building high-quality longboards.
Research and Development:
Lastly, the cost of longboards is driven by the research and development that goes into their creation. The best longboard companies invest a considerable amount of resources into research and development, resulting in cutting-edge technology and innovation. The R&D process is not cheap, and to recoup the cost, manufacturers have to price their longboards higher.
Hand Crafted vs. Mass Produced Expensive Longboards
Skateboarding is not just a sport, it is an art that has been prevalent for decades in the United States. In the recent past, the popularity of longboarding has soared, and the differences between handcrafted and mass-produced expensive longboards.
Explore the unique qualities and benefits of Handcrafted vs. Mass-Produced Expensive Longboards that will help you to make an informed choice for your riding style and preferences.
The Handcrafted Option:
Handcrafted longboards are created by skilled artisans who often use hand tools like chisels and gouges. They are made from the highest quality materials, which means they are often more expensive. These longboards are customized to meet the specific needs of the rider and are crafted with attention to detail to ensure perfection. When you purchase a handcrafted longboard, you are also buying a unique piece of art that might even increase in value over time. However, the production of handcrafted longboards is usually time-consuming and labor-intensive, which is why they are more costly.
The Mass-Produced Option:
Mass-produced longboards are pretty much what you would find on the shelves of your local sports store. They are typically cheaper than their handcrafted counterparts and often come in standard sizes and shapes. While they may not come with the level of customization that handcrafted longboards have, they are mass-produced to meet the needs of a broader market. These longboards are often made using cheaper materials, resulting in less durability. The advantage of mass-produced longboards is that they are readily available in many stores and are more affordable.
Price Differences:
When longboards are mass-produced, the manufacturer can cut down on costs, and this often results in a lower price tag. Handcrafted longboards take longer to make, and the quality of the materials used is often higher, meaning they are pricey. In general, the mass-produced alternative is substantially more affordable than the authentic handcrafted versions.
Performance Differences:
Since handcrafted longboards are custom-made, they often perform better than mass-produced models. Mass-produced boards usually cater to an average rider and may not take into account the individual’s specific style and preferences. Custom-built boards take into account things like the rider’s weight, height, riding style, and stance, and this can make a significant difference in performance.
Conclusion
To answer the question, of why are longboards so expensive, there are numerous factors to consider. First, they’re manufactured using quality materials that offer better durability and performance. Second, the components used in longboards are of higher quality than those used in regular skateboards. Third, designs and features are more complex, adding to their cost. Fourth, reputable brands have earned a reputation for quality, leading to charging more for their longboards.
Lastly, the research and development involved in longboard creation drives up their price. So, when you consider all these factors, it’s understandable why longboards may command eye-watering prices. But, the bottom line is, that they’re worth the investment, and you get what you pay for in terms of quality, durability, and long-lasting enjoyment.
Check out 7 Best Electric Longboard Under $500.