If you’re looking to dive into the world of longboarding or upgrade your current setup, finding the best longboard brands can be overwhelming. With so many choices on the market, how do you know which brand suits your style, budget, and needs? In this guide, we’ll break down the top longboard brands of 2024, explore their unique qualities, and help you decide which one is right for you.
What Makes a Longboard Brand the Best?
When searching for the best longboard brands, several factors come into play:
- Quality of Materials: High-quality materials, such as Canadian maple, bamboo, and fiberglass, contribute to the board’s durability and performance.
- Rider Support and Community Engagement: The best brands often support local and international longboarding events and maintain a strong presence in the community.
- Innovation: Top brands are constantly innovating with new designs, shapes, and technologies to enhance the riding experience.
- Sustainability: Many of the leading brands are committed to sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials and minimizing waste.
Now, let’s explore some of the best longboard brands based on these criteria.
Top Longboard Brands of 2024
Landyachtz
- Price Range: $150-$300
- Founded: 1997, British Columbia, Canada
- Warranty: 1 year
Landyachtz is a staple in the longboarding community, known for its commitment to sustainability—planting a tree for every board sold. Their boards are designed for various riding styles, from downhill racing to casual cruising. They offer a wide range of shapes and sizes, making them suitable for both beginners and seasoned riders.
Why Choose Landyachtz?
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality longboard that supports environmental causes, Landyachtz is an excellent choice.
Arbor Collective
- Price Range: $140-$250
- Founded: 1997, Venice, California, USA
- Warranty: 2 years
Arbor Collective started in snowboarding and expanded into longboarding, bringing its commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. Arbor’s boards are known for their premium materials and stunning designs, often incorporating wood and bamboo. The brand has planted over 500,000 trees, making it a top choice for eco-conscious riders.
Why Choose Arbor?
Arbor offers stylish boards with an emphasis on sustainability. Perfect for riders who want a blend of performance and environmental responsibility.
Loaded Boards
- Price Range: $205-$450
- Founded: 2002, Culver City, California, USA
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Loaded Boards is renowned for its high-performance decks crafted from bamboo and fiberglass. Their boards are designed for a smooth, responsive ride, catering to advanced riders who prioritize quality and innovation. Loaded is a pioneer in the longboard community, continually evolving its products and supporting rider events.
Why Choose Loaded?
Choose Loaded if you want a high-end, durable board with top-notch materials. Ideal for freeriding, dancing, and downhill enthusiasts.
Pantheon Longboards
- Price Range: $270-$430
- Founded: 2014, Indian Hills, Colorado, USA
Pantheon Longboards is relatively new but has quickly earned a reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Founded by Jeff Vyain, a passionate long-distance skater, Pantheon focuses on ergonomic designs that enhance performance and comfort. Their boards are perfect for those who enjoy long-distance skating and commuting.
Why Choose Pantheon?
Opt for Pantheon if you’re into distance skating and need a board that offers stability, speed, and comfort over long rides.
Comet Skateboards
- Price Range: $225-$300
- Founded: 1997, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
Comet Skateboards is dedicated to creating eco-friendly boards using sustainable practices. Known for their minimalistic and robust designs, Comet caters to riders who want a simple yet effective board. Their focus is on providing quality boards that are both environmentally and socially responsible.
Why Choose Comet?
Comet is perfect for riders who prioritize sustainability and straightforward design without compromising on quality.
Zenit Longboards
- Price Range: $185-$300
- Founded: 2012, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Warranty: 1 Year
Zenit Longboards stands out for their handmade boards, crafted using epoxy resin and premium wood. Their boards have a unique, high-end feel that sets them apart from mass-produced alternatives. Zenit caters to both beginners and advanced riders, offering a variety of shapes and styles.
Why Choose Zenit?
Choose Zenit if you value handmade craftsmanship and are looking for a board with a unique feel and top-notch materials.
Choosing the Right Brand Based on Your Needs
- Budget: If you’re just starting and have a limited budget, consider brands like Arbor or Comet. They offer excellent boards at a more affordable price range.
- Experience Level: Beginners might benefit from the versatility of Landyachtz or Arbor, which offer boards suitable for various riding styles.
- Specific Riding Style: For those interested in downhill racing or freeriding, Loaded and Pantheon are great choices due to their focus on performance and stability.
- Sustainability: If eco-friendliness is a priority, Arbor and Comet are leading brands in this area.
Where to Buy the Best Longboards
Look for reputable retailers that specialize in skateboards and longboards to ensure you’re purchasing a quality product. Here are some suggestions:
- Concrete Waves: Known for their extensive selection of longboards, including top brands like Landyachtz and Arbor.
- Tactics: Offers a wide range of longboards and skate gear with frequent discounts and sales.
- Longboards USA: Specializes in a variety of longboard brands, including some unique and lesser-known options.
Find Your Perfect Ride
Choosing the right longboard brand depends on your personal preferences, budget, and riding style. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, there’s a brand out there that’s perfect for you. Explore your options, try different boards, and enjoy the ride!
