How to Ride a Surf Skate? Beginners Guide

The realism of surf skating is expanding! In recent years, surf skate longboards have grown due to their ability to provide a thrilling riding experience that blends the elements of surfing and skateboarding into a unique combination. Surf Skate longboards are designed to mimic the feeling of surfing on land, allowing riders to carve and pump their way down the pavement just as they would on a wave in the ocean.

In simple words, the surfboard skateboard is a type of board that is specially made to longboard for surfing the streets. So, how to ride on a surf skate and how they come with the specific design of front trucks that permits riders to stimulate the motion, flow, and flow of surfing.

Let’s explore what makes surf skate longboards so unique and delve into the different types of boards available, as well as some tips for getting the most out of your surf skate experience. So, let’s begin.

What is a Surfskate Longboard?

Surfskate longboards are essentially longboard skateboards designed to mimic the feeling of surfing on land. The boards typically have a longer wheelbase than traditional skateboards, which makes them more stable at higher speeds and allows for smoother carving and pumping.

They also often have a wider nose and tail than traditional skateboards, which makes it easier to perform surf-style manoeuvres like cutbacks, bottom turns, and top turns.

The trucks on a surf skate longboard also differ from those on a traditional skateboard. Rather than being mounted perpendicular to the board, the trucks on a surf-skate longboard are often angled or “carved” to allow for more dynamic turning and pumping. This carving action mimics how a surfboard moves when ridden on a wave and is a key feature that makes surf skate longboards unique.

Types of Surf Skate Longboards

Many surf skate longboards are available on the market, each designed for different riding styles and skill levels. Some of the most popular types include:

1. Carver Boards

Carverboards are designed to mimic the feeling of carving on a surfboard. They typically have a longer wheelbase, wider nose and tail than traditional skateboards, and specially designed trucks that allow maximum carving and pumping.

These boards are great for riders who want to work on their surf-style maneuvers and get a true surfing experience on land.

2. Pumping Boards

Pumping boards are designed for riders who want to generate speed and momentum without pushing off the ground. These boards are typically longer than traditional skateboards, with a longer wheelbase and a more pronounced concave shape allowing maximum pumping action.

However, the pumping boards are great for cruising around town or for riders who want to work on their pumping technique.

3. Downhill Boards

Downhill boards are designed for riders who want to tackle steep hills fast. These boards are typically shorter than other surf skate longboards, with a more pronounced concave shape and stiffer construction for added stability at high speeds.

They often have larger wheels and specialized trucks, allowing maximum control and maneuverability.

4. Mini Cruiser Boards

Mini cruiser boards are smaller and more compact than other surf skate longboards, making them great for cruising around town or commuting. Boards of this type usually feature smaller wheels and a shorter wheelbase than other longboards for surf skating, enhancing their ability to navigate through confined areas with greater ease.

However, mini boards are a great option for riders who want a more portable and versatile board that can be used for various riding styles.

How to Ride on a Surfskate Longboard

Riding a surf skate longboard is a fun and exciting way to experience the feeling of surfing on land. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Start on a flat surface: Find a smooth and flat area to practice riding your surf skateboard. This will help you get comfortable with the board before attempting to ride on hills or other challenging terrain.

Stand on the board: Place your front foot near the front truck bolts and your back foot on the tail of the board. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart, with your toes pointing towards the nose of the board.

Start pushing: Use your back foot to push the board forward, just like you would with a regular skateboard. Once you gain some speed, place your back foot on the board and start shifting your weight from side to side to turn.

Practice carving: Carving is the key to riding a surf skate longboard. To carve, shift your weight to the heel or toe edge of the board and lean in that direction. This will cause the board to turn in that direction, mimicking the feeling of surfing.

Find your balance: It can take some time to find your balance on a surf skate longboard. Practice shifting your weight and carving until you feel comfortable on the board.

Experiment with different terrain: Once you feel comfortable riding on flat surfaces, try riding on hills or other challenging terrain. This will help you improve your balance and carving skills.

Riding Tips on a Surfskate Longboard

Practice Your Carving

Carving is one of the key elements of surf skate longboarding, so it’s important to practice this skill as much as possible. Try to focus on carving deep turns and pumping your board to generate speed and momentum.

Start Slow

If you’re new to surf skate longboarding, starting slow and working your way up to higher speeds is important. Begin by practicing on flat ground and gradually working your way up to hills and more challenging terrain as you gain confidence and experience.

Stay Loose

Surfskate longboarding requires a lot of fluid movement and flexibility, so staying loose and relaxed is important while riding. Keeping your weight balanced over the board and maintaining bent knees is essential for maximum control and balance.

Use Your Arms

Just like in surfing, using your arms to pump and generate momentum can be incredibly helpful when riding a surf-skate longboard. Use your arms to help you carve and pump, and focus on keeping your body in a fluid, rhythmical motion.

Wear Protective Gear

Similar to any high-risk activity, it is crucial to wear protective equipment when using a surf skate longboard. Wearing a helmet and knee and elbow pads can safeguard you from injuries in the event of a mishap or fall. 

Ride with Friends

Surfskate longboarding is a fun and social activity, so try to ride with friends and other riders in your community. Not only is this a great way to meet new people and make friends, but it can also be a helpful way to learn new skills and techniques from more experienced riders.

FAQs

Conclusion

To sum up, surf skate longboarding presents an exceptional and exhilarating opportunity to enjoy the excitement of surfing while on solid ground. With various boards available, there’s something for every riding style and skill level.