Keyword/ Best longboard
Longboarding is a thrilling and dynamic sport that encompasses a variety of riding styles, from cruising and downhill racing to freestyle tricks. One of the fundamental tricks in longboarding is the ollie a maneuver borrowed from skateboarding that involves lifting the board off the ground while jumping. But does the choice of wheel hardness affect your ability to execute this trick? In this article, we will delve into the world of longboarding to determine whether it is easier to ollie with hard wheels. And also explore the best longboard options for different riding styles.
Understanding Wheel Hardness
Before diving into the ollie technique and its relationship with wheel hardness, let’s first understand what it is and how it can impact your longboarding experience.
Wheel hardness is measured on the durometer scale, typically ranging from 78A (very soft) to 101A (very hard). Softer wheels have more grip and provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces. Making them suitable for cruising and carving. But harder wheels offer less grip and are better suited for sliding, tricks, and maintaining speed on smoother surfaces.
The Ollie Technique
The ollie is a trick that involves popping the tail of the board down. While simultaneously sliding your front foot up towards the nose, causing the board to leap into the air. In best longboard, the hardness of wheels can greatly impact ollie performance due to the need for precise footwork and timing. But, in longboarding, the relationship between wheel hardness and ollies is more complex.
Hard Wheels for Ollies
When it comes to executing ollies on the Best longboard, hard wheels do offer some advantages. Here’s how:
Responsive Pop: Hard wheels provide a more responsive pop when you pop the tail of your board. This means that you can generate more immediate lift, allowing for quicker and higher ollies.
Reduced Wheel Bite: Wheel bite occurs when the wheels come into contact with the deck during tricks, causing you to lose control. Hard wheels are less prone to wheel bite since they are less likely to compress and come in contact with the deck.
Smooth Slides: Hard wheels are better for sliding tricks, often involving footwork similar to ollies. Having hard wheels can help you transition from ollies to slides.
It’s important to note that while hard wheels can make ollies easier in some aspects, they also come with drawbacks.
Soft Wheels for Ollies
Shock Absorption: Softer wheels provide better shock absorption. Making it more forgiving when landing after an ollie. This can reduce the strain on your legs and joints.
Grip: Softer wheels offer more grip, which can help maintain control during the ollie setup and landing, especially on rough terrain.
Versatility: Softer wheels are more versatile and can handle various riding styles. Making them suitable for riders who enjoy both cruising and trick riding.
Choosing the Right Wheels for Ollies
The choice between hard and soft wheels for ollies ultimately depends on your riding style and personal preferences. If you’re primarily focused on tricks and best longboard with the impact of harder wheels on your ride. Then they might be a suitable choice. If you prefer a more versatile setup that allows for cruising. And trick riding, softer wheels might be the way to go.
Options for Ollies and Beyond
Now that we’ve explored the relationship between wheel hardness and ollies. Let’s take a look at some of the best longboard options for various riding styles, including ollies:
Loaded Dervish Same:
Type: Freestyle/Cruising
Features: Medium flex, cambered deck for control, and smooth carving.
Wheel Hardness: Depends on customization.
Landyachtz Switchblade:
Type: Downhill/Freeride
Features: Low deck for stability, drop-through trucks, and ample foot space.
Wheel Hardness: Typically paired with medium to hard wheels for sliding and control.
Arbor Pilsner:
Type: Cruiser/Street
Features: Shorter deck for maneuverability, kick tail for tricks, and versatile setup.
Wheel Hardness: Soft wheels for a comfortable cruise and ollies.
Sector 9 Mini Lookout:
Type: Freestyle/Downhill
Features: Drop-through deck design, ample wheel clearance, and a symmetrical shape.
Wheel Hardness: Depends on customization.
Loaded Tan Tien:
Type: Freestyle/Tricks
Features: Flexible deck, concave shape, and responsive performance.
Wheel Hardness: Medium to hard wheels for tricks and ollies.
Conclusion
In the world of longboarding, wheel hardness and the ability to ollie have a nuanced relationship. While hard wheels can provide advantages of responsiveness and reduced wheel bite. Softer wheels offer better shock absorption and grip, making them more versatile for various riding styles.
The choice between hard and soft wheels for ollies depends on your riding style and personal preferences. Experiment with different setups to find the right balance that suits your needs. And remember, the best longboard for you is the one that enhances your riding experience. And allows you to enjoy the thrill of ollies and other tricks to the fullest.