The question of whether you can ollie a longboard or cruiser often comes up, especially for those transitioning from skateboarding or exploring different board types. While it’s technically possible, it’s important to understand that cruisers and longboards aren’t primarily designed for tricks like ollies. They present unique challenges due to their construction, making them less ideal for technical maneuvers compared to a traditional skateboard. Let’s break down why.
Why Ollieing is Tougher on Cruisers and Longboards
It’s essential to acknowledge that while tricks on a cruiser are possible, and there are a range of tricks that are specific to longboarding, they are different from skateboard tricks. Trying to force a skateboarding style onto these boards often leads to frustration. Let’s look at the key differences that make ollies and similar tricks more difficult on cruisers and longboards.
The Impact of Big, Soft Wheels
Cruisers and longboards are characterized by their large, soft wheels, designed for a smooth ride and absorbing vibrations on varied terrains. While they excel in comfort and cruising, these wheels introduce significant challenges when attempting tricks. Unlike the hard, smaller wheels of a skateboard, which offer minimal bounce upon landing, soft wheels have a high degree of rebound. This makes landings less stable, increasing the chances of losing balance. Landing an ollie or kickflip requires precise, simultaneous contact of all wheels. However, the soft wheels can cause the board to bounce unpredictably, leading to shaky landings and potential slams.
a longboard, skateboard, and cruiser lined up on a paved surface, showcasing their different shapes and sizes
The Challenge of Kicktails and Noses
Many cruisers do come equipped with a kicktail, which does make ollies and other basic tricks achievable. However, they often require significantly more effort compared to a traditional skateboard. Longboards, on the other hand, often lack a pronounced kicktail, making it extremely challenging to get the necessary pop for an ollie. The combination of weight and the absence of a proper kicktail makes it hard to lift the longboard off the ground. While highly skilled riders can pull off impressive tricks on longboards, the average rider will find it much more difficult compared to a standard skateboard.
The Role of Concave in Board Control
Concave refers to the curvature of the board’s surface. While some cruisers do feature some level of concave, the shape is not as aggressive or designed for tricks as a typical skateboard. Many longboards also have concave, but the shape is tailored more for foot placement and stability during cruising, rather than for performing tricks. The subtle concave of a cruiser or the more specialized concave of a longboard does not provide the same level of foot grip and control required for complex maneuvers.
Finding the Balance: Tricks and Cruising
Many riders want a board that does it all: cruising and tricks. Unfortunately, there’s no single board that perfectly excels in both areas. While there are “cruiser skateboards,” which resemble traditional skateboards with softer wheels, even these have limitations for more advanced tricks. It’s usually about making trade-offs. For example, wheels under 95A will give a smooth ride, but make tricks more difficult. A 95A wheel and a 55mm wheel may be the sweet spot for a smoother ride and the ability to do tricks, although you may have to push more.
A key consideration is the wheel hardness, measured in durometer (A). Softer wheels (lower A number) offer a comfortable ride, but they’re not ideal for tricks. Harder wheels (higher A number) allow for easier trick execution, but compromise the smooth ride. The board setup will need to reflect your primary riding goals.
The Intended Purpose of Cruisers and Longboards
Cruisers are designed primarily for commuting and short-distance travel, not for performing complex tricks. Even with a kicktail, they lack the responsiveness and “pop” of a skateboard. Longboards, conversely, are built for long-distance riding, carving, and downhill cruising. Ollieing a longboard is challenging because they are heavier and lack the standard kicktail to initiate the trick.
a longboard, skateboard, and cruiser lined up on a paved surface, showcasing their different shapes and sizes
While it’s possible for skilled riders to do tricks on both cruisers and longboards, it’s important to recognize their limitations. The focus should be on using them for their intended purpose, which is cruising and distance riding, not for attempting to emulate skateboarding tricks.
Can You Ollie with Cruiser Wheels?
Yes, you can ollie with cruiser wheels if you are familiar with the technique. However, the soft nature of the wheels will increase the chance of instability and make the landing less secure. The bounce from the wheels can make the board slip out from under you, making it a less consistent ride. For technical tricks, harder wheels are recommended.
Can You Ollie a Longboard?
While technically you can ollie a longboard if its shape allows, it’s generally more difficult. Longboards are often heavy and typically don’t have a kicktail, making it hard to get the pop needed for an ollie. Longboards, designed for long-distance and cruising, have their own set of tricks, distinct from skateboard tricks. These include:
- Frontside Body Varial
- Backside Body Varial
- Nose Manual
- Fakie Frontside Pivot
- Fakie Backside Pivot
- Hippie Jump
- Early Grab
- Apple Sauce
- Look Back
- Nollie Frontside Shuvit
- Nollie Backside Shuvit
- Frontside Boneless 180
- Ghostride Kickflip
- Frontside No-Comply 180
- No-Comply Pirouette
- Frontside Tiger Claw
- Backside Tiger Claw w/ Natalie Pluto
- No-Comply Pop Shuvit
Final Thoughts
Cruisers, longboards, and skateboards each serve different purposes and come with their own limitations. A skateboard is excellent for tricks but not ideal for long rides. A longboard is built for distance but not for technical street tricks. Cruisers can be used for some basic tricks, but they are not meant to be a replacement for a standard skateboard. Ultimately, the best board for you depends on your individual preferences. Choose your setup based on your riding style and goals.
