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So you’ve been poking around the world of longboarding and keep bumping into this thing called a drop down longboard. Maybe you saw one in a shop, maybe some YouTuber was bombing a hill on it, or maybe one flew past you on the street and you thought, “What the hell was that?”
Good question. What makes these boards special? And more importantly… is this the board you should be riding, or just another shiny distraction?
Let’s cut the fluff. Here’s everything you need to know: what they are, how they ride, why some riders swear by them (and others don’t), the best models, and how to squeeze the most fun out of one.
What the Heck Is a Drop Down Longboard?
Picture a normal skateboard. Now imagine the standing platform dips down lower in the middle, closer to the ground. That’s it. That’s a drop down longboard.
That small tweak changes a lot:
- Lower center of gravity → more stability.
- Pushing feels easier → less effort every time you kick.
- Comfier → your legs don’t hate you after a long ride.
Some terms you’ll hear tossed around:
- Drop deck – pretty much the same idea.
- Double drop – drop down deck plus drop-through trucks (a super low ride).
- Drop through – similar, but trucks are mounted through the deck cutouts instead of the platform being pressed down.
How drop down longboards Work
Deck shape: the “drop” comes from bending or pressing the deck so your feet sit lower. You’re literally closer to the street—more balance, more control.
Trucks & wheels: usually reverse kingpins (smooth carving kings). Lower deck = less chance of wheelbite.
The ride feel? Compared to a top mount:
- More stable (hello downhill confidence).
- Less twitchy (turns are smoother, not sharp).
- Easier to ride (even if you’re brand new).
Types of drop down longboards
- Standard Drop Down – the classic. Just the deck dropped lower.
- Double Drop – the lowrider of longboards. Extra stable, perfect for distance pushing.
- Freeride & Downhill Drops – stiff, grippy, built for speed and slides.
- Cruising & Commuter Drops – softer flex, comfy for city streets and long rides.
Drop down longboard vs. Other Setups
Quick and dirty breakdown:
- Drop down longboard → stable, comfy, best for cruising/freeride.
- Drop Through → lower than average, flexible, easy to push.
- Top Mount → ultra responsive, grippy, loved by hardcore downhill racers.
- Pintail → good for carving, casual cruising.
Think of it like cars: drop downs are SUVs—comfortable, steady, can do a bit of everything. Top mounts? Sports cars. Fast, sharp, less forgiving.
Why People Love drop down longboards
✅ Stability you can trust (especially if you’re new).
✅ Pushing feels like a breeze.
✅ Great commuter choice—less leg burn.
✅ Perfect for sliding—low deck = easy control.
✅ Longer rides without feeling destroyed.
The Downsides (Yes, There Are Some)
❌ Less agile—tight carves are tougher.
❌ Not the racer’s first choice—pros want more grip.
❌ Heavier (all that material adds up).
❌ Your feet are stuck between the drops—not much wiggle room.
Best Uses
- Cruising & commuting: roll to school, work, or the coffee shop without sweating buckets.
- Downhill: a forgiving option to learn speed control.
- Freeride & sliding: super fun and confidence-boosting.
- Long-distance pushing: stack up the miles without murdering your legs.
Choosing Your Drop Down
- Length & wheelbase: 38–42 inches = the sweet spot.
- Deck material: maple (tough), bamboo (light/flexy), or hybrid (best of both).
- Flex & concave: stiffer = speed; more concave = slide control.
- Wheels: soft/big for comfort, harder for sliding.
- Price: under $100 for beginner boards, $300+ for pro downhill beasts.
Top Brands & Boards
- Landyachtz Evo – downhill legend.
- Yocaher Drop Down – solid budget pick.
- Atom Drop Deck – beginner-friendly classic.
- Santa Cruz Drop Down – style + strength.
- Sector 9 Drop Down – surf-skate vibes.
Tips for Riding
- Keep your feet between the drops for max stability.
- Tighter trucks for speed, looser for carving.
- Learn to slide before you go full-speed downhill (seriously).
- Helmet, gloves, pads—don’t be a hero.
Maintenance Basics
- Clean your bearings.
- Rotate/replace wheels.
- Swap grip tape when it’s dead.
- Don’t leave your board baking in the sun or damp basements.
FAQs (The Stuff Everyone Asks)
Are drop downs good for beginners?
Yes. Stable, forgiving, and won’t throw you off at the first crack in the pavement.
Can you do tricks?
Not really. Too chunky for flips. But slides, carves, and speed? That’s their game.
Drop down vs. drop through for cruising?
Both are good. Drop downs = sturdier. Drop throughs = lighter and flexier.
Double drop better than single?
More stable, yes. But also heavier and less responsive.
Final Word
The drop down longboard is like that reliable friend—you can take it anywhere, and it won’t let you down. New to longboarding? Grab one. Experienced and looking for a comfy cruiser or freeride machine? Still a great choice.
It’s not the flashiest board out there, but it’s smooth, stable, and fun as hell.
