Longboard cruising refers to a riding style where you ride around casually. It’s typically done on mellow surfaces like sidewalks, bike paths, residential areas, or college campuses.
Compared to other styles, there’s really no main objective. It’s more focused on the soulful experience.
Clearing up confusion
Beginners commonly get cruising and longboarding confused.
Cruising is a riding style of longboarding. Almost any type of longboard can fit into the “cruising” category. So there’s really no difference between cruising and longboarding. Unless you’re referring to cruiser skateboards.
This article covers the differences between a cruiser skateboard and longboard.
Cruising vs carving
Cruising is when you ride around in a chill manner. Carving is when you make smooth, sweeping turns by shifting your weight. The two go hand in hand. If you’re cruising, you’ll most likely incorporate carving.
Cruising Setups
As I mentioned above, you can cruise on any type of longboard. But the below characteristics will make cruising more enjoyable. Remember these aren’t strict guidelines, just suggestions based on my experience.
Cruising shapes
- Drop-down
- Drop-through
- Kicktail
Drop-down and drop-through longboards are great shapes for cruising because they have a lower center of gravity. This makes it easier to push and balance. Longobards with kicktails are also a good option.
Cruising wheels
- 65mm – 85mm+
- 78a – 83a
Having large, soft, and grippy longboard wheels will make cruising much more enjoyable. Sharp or rounded edges come down to your riding style. Sharp if you’re focused on deep carving and rounded if you want it to be easier to powerslide.
