Santa Barbara, with its beautiful coastal roads and scenic bike paths, is a paradise for longboard enthusiasts. The city’s mild climate and stunning landscapes make it an ideal place to enjoy the thrill of longboarding. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, choosing the right longboard can make all the difference in your riding experience. Here, we’ll explore the best longboards for riding in Santa Barbara, considering factors like terrain, skill level, and personal preference.
1. sector 9 fractal
The Sector 9 Fractal is a top choice for Santa Barbara’s mix of paved paths and gentle slopes. This longboard is designed for cruising and carving, featuring a drop-through design that lowers the rider’s center of gravity, making it more stable at higher speeds. The Sector 9 Fractal is perfect for riders who enjoy the scenic views Santa Barbara has to offer while cruising through its scenic bike paths.
2. Landwalker Longboard
For those looking to tackle the more rugged terrain that surrounds Santa Barbara, the Landwalker Longboard is an excellent option. It’s designed with off-road capabilities in mind, equipped with larger, softer wheels that can handle rough trails and uneven surfaces. This longboard is ideal for adventurous riders who wish to explore beyond the city limits and into the beautiful wilderness areas nearby.
3. Arbor Swoon Rocker
The Arbor Swoon Rocker is a favorite among longboarders who enjoy the urban landscapes of Santa Barbara. With its rocker profile, this longboard provides a more responsive and playful ride, perfect for carving through the city’s streets and bike paths. It’s designed for all levels of riders, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to enjoy the views of the city from a different perspective.
4. Bustin Boards YoFace
For a more customizable longboard experience, Bustin Boards’ YoFace is a standout option. This longboard features an adjustable wheelbase, allowing riders to tailor the board to their riding style and the specific terrain of Santa Barbara. Whether you’re hitting the hills or cruising along the beachfront, the YoFace can be adjusted to provide the perfect ride.
5. Globe Big Blazer
The Globe Big Blazer is designed for speed and stability, making it a great choice for Santa Barbara’s long, winding roads. With its large, 81mm wheels, this longboard can reach high speeds while maintaining a smooth ride, even on rough surfaces. It’s perfect for experienced riders looking to push their limits and enjoy the thrill of speed in a safe and controlled environment.
Choosing the Right Longboard for Santa Barbara
When selecting a longboard for riding in Santa Barbara, consider the following factors: - Terrain: If you plan to stick to paved paths and gentle slopes, a cruiser or carving longboard might be the best choice. For off-road adventures, look for a longboard designed with larger, softer wheels. - Skill Level: Beginners might prefer a drop-through or drop-deck longboard for its stability, while more experienced riders might enjoy the challenge and responsiveness of a top-mount or rocker profile longboard. - Personal Preference: Consider what you enjoy most about longboarding. If you’re looking for speed, a longboard with larger wheels might be ideal. For carving and tricks, a more playful, rocker-profile longboard could be the way to go.
Conclusion
Santa Barbara offers a unique longboarding experience, with its combination of urban landscapes, scenic bike paths, and rugged wilderness areas. The right longboard can enhance your riding experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the city and its surroundings to the fullest. Whether you’re cruising, carving, or speeding through the hills, there’s a longboard out there designed to meet your needs and preferences. Remember, the best longboard is one that matches your riding style, the terrain you plan to conquer, and the fun you’re looking to have.
What type of longboard is best for beginners in Santa Barbara?
+Beginners in Santa Barbara would benefit from a longboard that offers stability and ease of control. Drop-through or drop-deck longboards are excellent choices because they lower the rider’s center of gravity, making the board more stable at lower speeds.
Can I use the same longboard for both on-road and off-road riding in Santa Barbara?
+While some longboards are versatile and can handle both on-road and off-road conditions, they might not perform optimally in either environment. For the best experience, consider the primary terrain you’ll be riding on and choose a longboard accordingly. However, if you’re looking for a compromise, a longboard with adjustable wheelbase and the ability to switch between harder and softer wheels could provide a decent performance in both scenarios.
How do I maintain my longboard to ensure it lasts and performs well in Santa Barbara’s climate?
+Maintenance is key to extending the life of your longboard. Regularly check and tighten all bolts, clean the bearings, and apply lubricant as needed. In Santa Barbara’s coastal climate, it’s also important to protect your longboard from excessive moisture by storing it in a dry place and using rust-resistant hardware.
