Noseriding still is the quintessential longboarding maneuver, but modern logging is a wide, open world where riders execute a long list of creative moves.
The longboard movement is here to stay and has been attracting a growing number of former shortboard-only fanatics.
More than a lifestyle, longboard surfing is a highly pleasant experience.
There are basically two main types of longboards: the noserider longboard and the high-performance longboard (HPLB).
From a construction perspective, both longboard designs can be made from the following materials:
- Polyurethane (PU), fiberglass, and polyester resin;
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and epoxy resin;
It's up to you to decide what's best for you. The classic polyurethane foam offers a natural feel but will require more regular ding repairs.
On the opposite side of the spectrum, the EPX/epoxy core is lighter, extremely responsive, more durable, and will always look good after removing old wax.
Noserider Longboard For Trimming, High-Performance Longboard For Maneuvering
A noserider has more foam throughout the board. It is wider and tends to have a rounded rail all the way through the back of the board.
Most of the noserider boards have a single-fin setup. This unique classic template was shaped for riding small, peeling point breaks or beach breaks.
Noseriders are typically slower than a traditional surfboard so that you can stay in the pocket without having to stall or turn.
Their relatively flat bottom means that they're designed for trimming and going on a straight line. For noseriders, it's all about enjoying soft, slow-breaking waves.
With its flat rocker, the noserider will paddle easily into mushy, flat-faced waves, and its increased stability will allow surfers to perform cross-stepping moves effortlessly.
The high-performance longboard, also known as HPLB, features a narrow width, a slightly narrower nose, and less width in the tail area.
The HPLB has more rocker than a nose rider and always comes with a multiple-fin configuration for punchier waves and faster glides down the line.
With this longboard, you're ready to surf steeper waves and perform almost the same maneuvers you would execute on a shortboard.
Interestingly, surfers who transition from a shortboard experience tend to do better on HPLB models because they don't stuff the nose of the board so often.
The high-performance longboard is also great for catching more waves because it will allow you to sit outside and paddle for nearly any roller you see approaching.
The Mini-Mal
If you're still not happy with noseriders and HPLB boards, you can always try the new hybrid designs.
The most popular hybrid longboards feature square tails for creating lift and counterbalancing nose riding weight.
The mini-mal, also known as funboard, will adapt to almost any type of wave conditions. It usually ranges from 7' to 8'6''.
A mini-mal will not only be a great backup board for shortboard aficionados, but it will also be an incredible learning vehicle for first-timers.
The mini-mal is a smart choice for the mid-spring to late summer months when small and unexpected swells arrive at our favorite surf breaks.
Words by Luís MP | Founder of SurferToday.com