If you’ve been scrolling through longboard reviews online, chances are you’ve seen the name Ten Toes longboard pop up. Maybe it was the Zed Bamboo Cruiser with its vintage surf style, or the Drop-Through model promising stability and speed. Either way, Ten Toes (also known as Retrospec) has carved a place for itself as a go-to brand for beginner and budget-friendly longboards.
But the big question is: Are Ten Toes longboards actually worth it?
That’s exactly what this guide will cover. We’ll break down the history, types, pros, cons, comparisons, and everything you need to know before buying a Ten Toes longboard.
What is a Ten Toes Longboard?
Ten Toes started out as Ten Toes Board Emporium, a company inspired by the laid-back surf culture of the 1960s. Over time, it rebranded as Retrospec, but most skaters and longboarders still know the boards as Ten Toes longboards.
Unlike ultra-premium brands like Loaded or Landyachtz, Ten Toes focuses on entry-level longboards. They’re designed for:
- Beginners learning to ride.
- Cruisers who just want a stylish, fun board.
- Budget-conscious skaters who don’t want to drop $200+ on their first board.
Types of Ten Toes Longboards
Ten Toes has released several popular models, each serving a slightly different riding style. Here are the main ones:
Zed Bamboo Cruiser (44”)
The Zed is probably the most famous Ten Toes longboard. With its 44-inch pintail shape, bamboo + maple deck, and vintage Americana graphics, it screams beach boardwalk vibes.
- Best for: Cruising, carving, commuting.
- Pros: Stylish, stable, affordable.
- Cons: Heavy, not great for tricks.
Ten Toes Drop-Through / Drop-Down
This board sits closer to the ground, giving you more stability and control. Its symmetrical design helps prevent wheel bite while carving.
- Best for: Downhill, long-distance pushing, commuting.
- Pros: Very stable, smooth ride.
- Cons: Parts are lower quality compared to higher-end brands.
Ten Toes Quip Mini Cruiser
The Quip is a small, lightweight cruiser that feels more like a skateboard than a longboard.
- Best for: Urban riding, college campuses, short commutes.
- Pros: Compact, portable, fun to ride.
- Cons: Not ideal for speed or long distances.
Other Styles
- Kicktail models for sharper turns and tricks.
- Special editions with retro-inspired graphics.
- Discontinued boards that still pop up on resale sites.
Key Features of Ten Toes Longboards
Most Ten Toes longboards share the same basic build:
- Deck: Bamboo + Canadian maple, giving a balance between flex and strength.
- Trucks: Reverse kingpin aluminum trucks for stability.
- Wheels: 70mm PU wheels (soft enough for cruising).
- Bearings: ABEC 7 or ABEC 9 (good, but not pro-level).
- Bushings: Medium hardness, decent for beginners.
- Design: Retro surf-inspired graphics that stand out.
Benefits of Choosing a Ten Toes Longboard
Why do so many beginners choose Ten Toes as their first board?
✅ Beginner-friendly – Stable and forgiving.
✅ Affordable – Usually under $100, making it cheaper than most longboards.
✅ Stylish design – Vintage surf look that feels timeless.
✅ Versatile – Good for commuting, cruising, and learning to carve.
✅ Widely available – Easy to buy on Amazon, Retrospec, and other retailers.
Downsides & Common Complaints
Of course, Ten Toes isn’t perfect. Here are some common complaints found in reviews and rider forums:
❌ Parts can wear out quickly – Stock trucks, bearings, and bushings aren’t the most durable.
❌ Kingpin issues – Some riders report snapped kingpins after heavy use.
❌ Not for advanced riders – These boards aren’t built for hardcore downhill, dancing, or freestyle tricks.
❌ Heavier boards – Especially the Zed, which can feel bulky to carry.
Pro Tip: If you buy a Ten Toes longboard, consider upgrading the trucks and wheels over time for a much smoother ride.
Ten Toes Longboard vs Other Brands
How does Ten Toes stack up against the competition?
Ten Toes vs Sector 9
- Sector 9 = higher-quality, surf-inspired, more expensive.
- Ten Toes = budget-friendly, entry-level, similar vibe but not as durable.
Ten Toes vs Arbor
- Arbor = eco-friendly builds, premium wood, stylish.
- Ten Toes = cheaper alternative with similar looks.
Ten Toes vs Loaded Boards
- Loaded = high-performance, used by pros, $200+.
- Ten Toes = under $100, good for casual cruising.
Ten Toes vs Landyachtz / DB Longboards
- Landyachtz/DB = legendary durability, technical riding.
- Ten Toes = only good for beginners, not meant for advanced tricks.
Who Should Buy a Ten Toes Longboard?
Ten Toes longboards are ideal if you are:
- A beginner learning how to ride.
- A casual cruiser who wants a stylish board for beach boardwalks or city streets.
- A student commuting around campus.
- A budget rider who doesn’t want to overspend.
If you’re an experienced rider or want to do advanced tricks, you’ll outgrow a Ten Toes pretty quickly.
Tips for Riding and Maintaining Your Ten Toes Longboard
To get the most out of your Ten Toes:
- Upgrade parts: Swap out trucks, wheels, and bearings for better performance.
- Check hardware regularly: Tighten kingpins and bushings.
- Protect your deck: Nose & tail guards help prevent chips.
- Ride safely: Helmet, pads, and gloves if you’re downhill riding.
- Store properly: Keep it dry and avoid leaving it in the sun or rain.
Where to Buy Ten Toes Longboards
You can find Ten Toes longboards at:
- Amazon – usually the cheapest option.
- Retrospec official site – direct from the brand.
- Longboard retailers – both online and physical skate shops.
- Second-hand sites – eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace.
Best Alternatives to Ten Toes Longboards
If you want to explore other options, here are some solid alternatives:
- Budget: Yocaher, Magneto.
- Mid-range: Arbor, Landyachtz Dinghy.
- Premium: Loaded Boards, Sector 9.
FAQs About Ten Toes Longboards
Are Ten Toes longboards good for beginners?
Yes! They’re stable, affordable, and easy to ride, making them perfect for newcomers.
What size Ten Toes longboard should I get?
The 44” Zed is great for cruising and beginners. The 41” Drop-Through works for longer rides and stability. The Quip mini cruiser is best for portability.
Are Ten Toes and Retrospec the same brand?
Yes. Ten Toes rebranded under the name Retrospec, but the boards are still widely known as Ten Toes.
Can I upgrade the trucks and wheels?
Absolutely! Many riders recommend upgrading for a smoother, longer-lasting ride.
How long do Ten Toes longboards last?
With proper care, a couple of years for casual use. If you upgrade the parts, even longer.
Conclusion
The Ten Toes longboard is one of the best entry-level boards out there. It’s not going to win any awards for professional downhill racing or freestyle tricks, but that’s not the point.
If you’re new to longboarding, want a stylish board to cruise around town, or need an affordable ride to get from A to B, Ten Toes is a fantastic choice. It looks good, rides smooth enough, and won’t break the bank.
And hey—once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll know exactly what kind of longboard to upgrade to. But for now? Ten Toes gets the job done.
