A longboard is a type of skateboard defined by its longer deck (typically 33 to 59 inches) and its use of larger, softer wheels compared to a standard skateboard. This design prioritizes stability, a smooth ride, and the ability to maintain momentum, making it well-suited for cruising, carving, and high-speed downhill riding. The velocity a longboard achieves depends highly on the propelling force. Speed generated by pushing on flat ground is fundamentally different from the speed achieved using gravity on a steep slope. Understanding longboard velocity requires looking at both the casual, human-powered pace and the extreme limits of the sport.
Average Cruising Speeds
The typical speed for a longboard rider casually pushing on flat or slightly inclined ground falls within a narrow range. An average rider using a longboard for transportation can maintain a consistent speed between 5 and 10 miles per hour (8 to 16 km/h) with moderate effort. This makes the longboard an efficient tool for short to medium-distance commuting.
More experienced riders who use a strong, sustained push or rhythmic pumping can briefly maintain speeds closer to 12 to 15 miles per hour. This sustained speed relies heavily on the rider’s physical fitness and pushing efficiency. For long-distance trips, the overall average speed often settles lower, around 5 to 8 miles per hour, due to the continuous effort required and navigating various terrains.
Factors Determining Longboard Velocity
The longboard’s equipment influences speed by managing friction and maximizing roll. Larger wheels, typically 65 millimeters in diameter or more, cover more distance per rotation and maintain speed over rougher surfaces by rolling over small debris. Wheel hardness, or durometer, also plays a role. Softer wheels (75A–80A) offer better grip and shock absorption on uneven pavement, while slightly harder wheels tend to be faster on smooth surfaces.
The quality of the bearings, which are rated by the ABEC scale, affects how efficiently the wheels spin with minimal resistance. Better-quality bearings reduce internal friction, allowing the wheels to sustain momentum for longer periods after pushing, thus contributing to higher cruising speeds and greater coasting distance. However, even with optimal equipment, the rider’s technique and physical characteristics are equally significant in determining velocity.
The rider’s weight, stance, and pushing style contribute to the overall speed equation. A heavier rider may accelerate slower but can maintain speed more effectively due to greater momentum, especially on a slight decline. Adopting an aerodynamic stance, known as a tuck, minimizes wind resistance, which becomes a major factor in slowing the board down as speeds increase above 15 miles per hour. Furthermore, the environment itself dictates performance, as smooth asphalt offers minimal rolling resistance compared to rough, cracked pavement, and even a slight downward slope can dramatically increase the achievable speed.
Extreme Downhill Speeds
The maximum speeds a longboard can achieve are reached in specialized downhill scenarios where gravity is the primary force of acceleration. These velocities are achieved on steep, closed roads. Professional downhill longboarders regularly reach speeds between 40 and 60 miles per hour, often engaging in races or “bombing” hills.
The standing downhill speed world record is currently documented at 91.17 miles per hour (146.73 km/h), demonstrating the maximum potential velocity when aerodynamic drag is minimized and gravity is maximized. Achieving these velocities requires specialized safety equipment, including full-face helmets and leather racing suits, to protect the rider in the event of a crash. The longboards used for these speeds feature precision trucks and wheels designed for maximum grip and stability at high speed, contrasting with the gear used for casual riding.