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What Kind of Electric Skateboard Should I Buy?

by Thomas Oliphant on August 17, 2023

 

A vast array of electric skateboards are available in the market, so choosing one can be challenging. This article takes you through the different types of electric skateboards available in the market, their pros and cons, and guide you in making an informed decision.

Types of Electric Skateboards

Electric skateboards come in various types, each suited to different riding styles and terrains. Understanding these types will help you choose the best electric skateboard. Let's take a closer look at each type.

Electric Longboard

As their name indicates, electric longboards are characterized by their longer deck, generally between 36 and 42 inches. Because of the long deck, the skateboards are stable and offer a smoother ride. Furthermore, the large frame makes it easy to balance and hence beginner friendly

Longboards are well known for their speed and maneuverability. And as such, they are ideal for carving and simply experiencing the thrill of the ride. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting, longboarding can be fun and rewarding. Better yet, they are also ideal for skateboard racing. They are designed with dual hub motors but generally are not as powerful as other types. Their speed ranges between 20-35 miles per hour.

Pros:

  • Longboards have a longer deck, providing a stable and faster ride, making them ideal for beginners and professionals alike. 
  • Larger wheels with air-filled pneumatic tires offer a smoother ride, even on rougher pavements.
  • Longboards are well-suited for daily commuting due to their exceptional battery range and just because it's fun. 

Cons:

  • The longer deck makes longboards less agile and less suitable for sharp turns.
  • Due to their size and weight, longboards may be less portable and harder to carry.

Who Should Buy an Electric Longboard?

If you're looking for a smooth and efficient way to get around town, a longboard is what you need! Longboard electric skateboards are best for riders who prefer getting outside and riding around while exploring new areas. They are also great for high-speed performance compared to short electric skateboards or all-terrain boards.

All Terrain Electric Skateboards    

All-terrain electric skateboards are built to handle a variety of surfaces, including roads, rough roads, dirt paths, and even grass. They have larger, more rugged wheels, pneumatic tires, and a more robust suspension system. As a result, the all-terrain electric skateboard is more stable and comfortable even when off-roading. 

The range and speed of all-terrain electric skateboards can vary significantly based on the model and battery capacity. The pneumatic tires provide a much better grip, stability, and blazing speed on all terrains. All-terrain electric skateboards are versatile enough to ride on various terrains, expanding your skateboarding possibilities.

Pros:

  • All-terrain electric skateboards are designed to handle both on-road and off-road conditions.
  • All-terrain boards often feature robust suspension systems for a smoother, more stable, and faster ride on uneven surfaces.

Cons:

  • Due to their sturdier build, all-terrain electric skateboards can be heavier, affecting portability.
  • Their weight can be limiting for those who enjoy exploring more remote areas.
  • All-terrain electric skateboards are more expensive. 

Who Should Buy All-terrain Electric Skateboards?

Are you an adventure seeker looking for a new adrenaline rush? All-terrain electric skateboards are best suited for riders who crave adventure and want the freedom to explore different types of terrain. From cruising through city streets to conquering rugged mountain trails, an electric skateboard is the ultimate companion for any adventure.
All-terrain boards are also more forgiving on rough surfaces and when encountering road hazards. On the downside, they are not as portable. So, the adventures are limited to those locations that are easily accessible.  


Off-road Electric Skateboard 

Off-road electric skateboards are the rugged, adrenaline-pumping cousins of all-terrain boards. These powerful machines are designed to conquer challenging off-road trails and rough terrains (in addition to but not limited to all other types of e-skating). And as such, they have huge wheels and wide boards (usually between 36 and 42 inches) to navigate uneven terrain. 

Off-road electric skateboards boast large, knobby tires and powerful motors to tackle even the most challenging terrains. The wheels are generally tires with thick treads to provide traction in the loose soil. They generally require heavy power and speed to navigate rugged terrains and hence have two (sometimes four) motors for that power. 

Pros:

  • Off-road electric skateboards have very powerful motors to help navigate challenging terrains.
  • Off-road electric skateboards can handle various terrains, from streets and sidewalks to dirt trails, gravel paths, grass, and light off-road tracks. 
  • Off-road skateboards offer an adrenaline-filled experience helping you enjoy nature in a new and exciting way.

Cons:

  • Off-road electric skateboards are more expensive than regular ones due to their specialized features and rugged construction.
  • Off-road electric skateboards are often heavier and bulkier than standard skateboards.
  • Like all electric skateboards, riding off-road involves inherent risks, such as uneven terrain, obstacles, and potential crashes.

Who Should Buy an Off-road Electric Skateboard?

Off-road skateboards are built for thrill-seekers who want to ride on unpaved surfaces, gravel paths, and forest trails. These boards are ideal for experienced riders who are comfortable with the potential risks and challenges of off-road riding. However, beginners may also enjoy off-road electric skateboards as long as they start slowly and take the time to develop their skills. 

Electric Street Skateboard

Electric street skateboards are ideally designed for urban commuting and city cruising. They are also ideal for racing, carving, high-speed, and group rides. Electric street skateboards balance portability (not always, though), speed, and range making them an excellent choice for everyday transportation.

Electric street skateboards are designed with urban environments in mind having more prominent (street) wheels (<115mm diameter) and a flexible board. These boards are perfect for weaving through traffic, commuting to work or school, and getting around the city efficiently. Their compact size and lightweight build make them easy to carry when not riding.

Pros:

  • Electric street skateboards are perfect for an urban setting, making them an excellent choice for daily commuting. They are also great for road racing, group rides, and exploring scenic areas. 
  • Electric street skateboards are often suitable for riders of all levels, including beginners.
  • Street skateboards can help reduce commuting time by avoiding traffic jams.
  • Street electric skateboards are compact compared to other electric skateboards (or bicycles), making them easy to store when not in use.

Cons:

  • Street skateboards are optimized for smooth pavements and may perform poorly on rough terrain.
  • Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, can affect the performance of electric skateboards, limiting their use during certain seasons.

Who Should Buy Shortboard Electric Skateboards?

Street electric skateboards are ideal for all your e-skating needs, including racing, exploring, group rides, and gentle outdoor fun. They are also a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation (definitely more fun than your bicycle, scooter, car, or motorcycle). These skateboards are well-suited for urban commuters with relatively smooth and paved routes for their daily travel. 

Electric Shortboards

Shortboard electric skateboards, as the name suggests, have a shorter deck compared to longboards, typically ranging from 30 to 36 inches. They are more compact and maneuverable, making them suitable for urban commuting and performing tricks. 

Electric shortboards offer speeds between 20 and 25 miles per hour. They are generally agile at slow speeds and, combined with their small size, make them ideal for tricks and carving. They are excellent for navigating crowded streets and weaving through traffic.

Though their speed can vary, shortboards are generally less powerful than longboards and turn sharper. On the other hand, they are lightweight and portable. Our Collection of Shortboards: Click Here

Pros:

  • Shortboards are compact, making them highly maneuverable and perfect for urban commuting.
  • Their smaller size makes shortboards easy to carry and store when not in use.
  • Shortboards tend to have powerful motors, allowing for quick acceleration and responsiveness.

Cons:

  • Shortboards may not offer the same stability as longboards, making them less suitable for beginners.
  • The smaller deck and wheels may result in a slightly bumpier ride on rough terrains.

Who Should Buy Shortboard Electric Skateboards?

If you're after a ride that boasts agility, maneuverability, and portability, then a shortboard electric skateboard is the perfect choice. These boards are designed to easily handle even the busiest of streets, offering a responsive ride that will impress. 

While electric shortboards do not offer the same speed as longboards, they are the best to do tricks on. They are smaller and lighter, above all, more agile. 

Legal Considerations

Are electric skateboards legal in the US?

The short answer is Yes! Electric skateboards are permitted as long as they are used in areas where bicycles are allowed, except sometimes in walking-only areas. However, the legal situation may vary depending on local bylaws and enforcement practices.

Most law enforcement officials do not concern themselves with e-skaters. So ride with respect for others and take responsibility for our actions. This will help to ensure that e-skating remains legal and unregulated. Lastly, do your part to be safe and courteous riders!


Wrapping Up 

Skateboarding as it exists today emerged in the late 1940s and was a massive thing in the US, especially in California. The first skateboards were made from rollerskates attached to boards. Since then, it has increased in popularity and has had many changes leading to the invention of electric skateboards in the late 1990s.

Electric skateboards are much more than fun. Not only is it a compact mode of transportation, but also exhilarating, thrilling, and intoxicating. According to experts, electric skateboarding is also beneficial for health. They also provide low-impact cardio as you ride your e-skate around. 

Skateboarding has come a long way since its inception in the late 1940s, and the introduction of electric skateboards revolutionized the entire industry. From longboard electric skateboards for comfortable cruising to off-road electric skateboards for adventurous thrills, various options suit different riding styles and terrains. However, the question is, which skateboard should you buy? 

Given the vast array of options, the answer to that question is easy. Purchase a couple (or more) boards to ride in all terrain as your mood strikes. Do a basic analysis of the terrain and plan your ride accordingly. 

Ultimately, whether you're a seasoned skateboarder or a novice, the world of electric skateboards holds something for everyone. 

Fun and adventure are the priority when it comes to electric skateboards. Lastly, be responsible and use common sense by always wearing a helmet and pads for safety.