Here’s the scenario – summer is upon us and you dig out your longboard only to realize that it’s definitely time to trade the old ride in for a new one. With all the flatground pushing we do here in the midwest, one of the most fun styles of longboard you can ride is a carving longboard. Something that rides like a snowboard and offers an effortless, smooth way to get around town. New boards for 2014 are arriving by the day so we put together a little list to help you narrow down your choices. In no particular order, here are some of our favorite carving longboards for the 2014 season!
Loaded Vanguard
The board that started it all for Loaded and one of the best carving longboards in the industry is none other than the Loaded Vanguard. This cambered masterpiece has a true twin shape and excellent flex that makes this an amazing flatground / carving board. The sleek sidecut allows for great torsional flex and in turn offers great energy transfer for pumping and carving. Available in up to 5 flex patterns for every weight rider so you can find the perfect flex for your personal preference. Loaded recommends this board for speeds under 25 mph due to it’s flexy nature, although the brave may push those limits. Whether you are a beginner or seasoned rider, this is a board that anyone can fall in love with.
Never Summer Heist
For the snowboarder looking to get that same feeling in the off season, take a look at the Never Summer Heist. Lightweight thanks to the high end fiberglass and super springy from the cambered shape, this board is one seriously fun and easy ride. The drop through construction has the Heist sitting super low so each push feels effortless and smooth. The slight kick at the nose and tail offers some versatility for ollies and other flat ground tricks. Plus, an added bonus inspired by their snowboards includes P-tex nose and tail protectors. Yes, they thought of everything.
Arbor Axis
A classic beauty from Arbor is definitely making our list. The Arbor Axis is one of the best looking and most reasonably priced carving longboards that we can find. Flat ground pushing, carving, sliding, you name it, the Axis can do it. Low riding drop through construction for easy “ergonomic” pushing, sturdy and faithful maple wood plies under your feet all topped off with their premium wood top for that classic Arbor look. This board offers minimal flex so those looking to dabble in downhill might find this setup to be a good transition board and toss some slide wheels on her and you got one super fun ride.
Arbor Mind State
Once upon a time, a downhill board and a pintail had a baby…that baby is the Arbor Mind State. Pretty much the best of both worlds, the Mind State takes the laid back pintail ‘surfy’ style and mixes it with drop through construction and an open wheel well to give the rider some serious cruiser board perfection. A good carving board is easy to ride and that’s exactly what the Mind State is. An effortless push thanks to the drop thru trucks, very slight flex for a smooth ride and fiberglass reinforcement for a lightweight, durable, bouncy feel. Not sure exactly what you want in your next longboard? The Mind State can probably give you what you are looking for.
Sector 9 Sand Blaster
For those looking for that high-end flexy feel at a fraction of the price, we recommend the Sector 9 Sand Blaster. Equipped with the ultimate carving truck, this board will cut and carve turns like you’ve never done before. The Gullwing Sidewinder trucks have a double kingpin which allows these trucks to cut corners like you would on a much smaller board. Since the Sidewinders do sit a little bit higher, Sector 9 went with a drop through construction to keep this board riding nice and low for an effortless push. The fiberglass and 5 ply maple sandwich allow this board to flex and bend while keeping a very strong, lightweight overall feel. For the in-expensive flex under $250, the Sand Blaster is the only way to go.
I hope this little write up gives you a good place to start when searching for your next ride. After all, with summer upon us, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a brand new board!