Top 10 Longboard Brands 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Riders of All Levels

Key Takeaways

Introduction: The Longboard Landscape in 2025

The longboarding world ain't what it used to be. As we cruise into 2025, the market has evolved with brands that constantly push boundaries in design, sustainability, and performance. Whether ur a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding what sets each manufacturer apart is crucial for finding that perfect board.

I've been riding longboards since 2008 and have tested hundreds of decks across all major brands. What surprises me most is how the industry has matured—companies that were once just garage startups have developed distinct identities and engineering philosophies that translate directly to the riding experience.

This guide breaks down the top 10 longboard brands of 2025, analyzing their unique strengths, weaknesses, and what kind of rider each brand serves best. Let's dive into what makes these companies stand out in today's competitive market.

The Evolution of Longboard Brands

Longboarding's roots trace back to surfers in the 1950s looking to "surf the sidewalk" when waves were flat. Since then, the sport has exploded into various disciplines—cruising, downhill, dancing, freeride—and brands have specialized accordingly.

Most of today's top brands didn't exist before the 1990s. Sector 9, founded in 1993, and Arbor, which began in the late 90s, were among the early modern longboard manufacturers. These companies have grown alongside the sport, adapting their designs to meet evolving rider demands and pushing innovation forward.

What's changed most dramatically is the approach to materials and construction. Early longboards were essentially oversized skateboards, but modern decks feature complex laminations, specialized flex patterns, and environmentally conscious materials. Companies like Arbor have pioneered sustainable construction while others like Loaded have focused on technical performance.

As we look at 2025's landscape, these companies have carved distinct niches based on their unique values and engineering expertise.

Selection Criteria for Top Brands

How'd we determine which brands made the cut? Our evaluation looked at several key factors:

• Construction quality: The materials and manufacturing processes that determine durability and performance
• Innovation: New technologies and design approaches that improve the riding experience
• Product range: Variety of offerings for different riding styles and skill levels
• Value proposition: Price relative to quality and performance
• Rider feedback: Real-world experience from the community
• Company values: Environmental practices, community involvement, and brand ethos
• Customer support: Warranty policies and post-purchase support

I personally tested flagship models from each brand, focusing on how they performed in their intended riding disciplines. My team also interviewed longboard shop owners across the country to gather industry perspectives on brand reliability and customer satisfaction.

Let's get into the specifics of each brand and why they've earned their spot in our top 10.

Top Premium Brands

Arbor: Environmental Innovation with Style

Arbor has established itself as an industry leader over its 25+ year history by combining performance with environmental responsibility. What truly distinguishes this brand is its pioneering approach to sustainability.

Their commitment to using responsibly sourced wood and recycled materials sets them apart in an industry that hasn't always been known for environmental consciousness. The boards feature beautiful wood grain finishes that showcase the natural materials—you can actually see the sustainability in the design.

I've been riding an Arbor Axis Flagship for the past six months, and lemme tell you, the ride quality matches the visual appeal. The bamboo construction provides excellent flex without sacrificing stability, making it ideal for cruising and carving through urban environments.

Where Arbor falls short is accessibility. Similar to Loaded, they position themselves in the premium segment, with complete setups often starting around $250-300. This makes them less accessible to beginners or riders on tight budgets. But if you can afford the investment, these boards tend to last for years of regular riding.

Best for: Environmentally conscious riders who don't mind paying more for sustainable materials and refined aesthetics.

Popular models:

• Arbor Pilsner Foundation - Perfect compact cruiser
• Arbor Axis Bamboo - Versatile all-around longboard
• Arbor Fish Groundswell - Stylish pintail design

Loaded: Premium Performance for Serious Riders

If there's one brand that serious longboarders consistently respect, it's Loaded. These guys have built a reputation for creating some of the highest-performing boards on the market, particularly for dancing, freestyle, and carving disciplines.

Loaded's engineering approach is more technical than most. Their decks feature complex bamboo and fiberglass layups with carefully calibrated flex patterns tailored to specific riding styles. The Bhangra V2 exemplifies this philosophy—a dancing-specific board with reinforced nose and tail, optimized concave, and multiple flex options.

The downside? Loaded boards come with premium price tags, often reaching $300-400 for a complete setup. However, most riders consider them worth the investment due to their exceptional durability and performance.

Something I've noticed from riding Loaded boards is the attention to detail in every component. From their Icarus drop-through design with its unique "W" concave to the precisely calculated camber on the Vanguard, the company clearly tests extensively before releasing products.

Best for: Dedicated enthusiasts willing to invest in high-performance equipment that will last for years.

Popular models:

• Loaded Bhangra V2 - Premium dancing longboard
• Loaded Icarus - Responsive carving platform
• Loaded Tan Tien - Versatile all-arounder

Top Mid-Range Brands

Sector 9: Versatility for All Skill Levels

As one of the most recognizable names since 1993, Sector 9 has built a reputation for quality across a diverse product range. Based in San Diego, they back their products with professional team sponsorships and consistently earn high marks for board construction and technical support.

What makes Sector 9 special is their versatility—they offer something for literally everyone. From their Bambino cruisers for casual riders to their downhill-focused boards for speed demons, the brand covers all bases without sacrificing quality.

I've owned three Sector 9 boards over the years, and they've always delivered consistent performance at reasonable prices. Their complete setups typically range from $150-250, positioning them as a solid mid-range option that balances quality and accessibility.

The company also gets points for their component quality. Their in-house Nineballs wheels and quality bearings ensure that even their pre-built completes perform well right out of the box.

Best for: Riders who want reliable quality across all longboarding disciplines without breaking the bank.

Popular models:

• Sector 9 Striker - Versatile drop-through design
• Sector 9 Nineballs Wheels - Industry standard urethane
• Sector 9 Bambino - Compact cruiser

Landyachtz: Custom Quality at Mid-Range Prices

This Canadian brand has earned recognition for its balance of quality, comfort, and affordability. Landyachtz excels in creating custom boards with exceptional comfort and variety at mid-range prices.

What's impressive about Landyachtz is their ability to deliver premium-feeling boards at mid-range prices. Their decks feature Canadian maple construction with precise concave shapes, and they're assembled with quality components like Bear trucks and Hawgs wheels.

The Dinghy mini-cruiser revolutionized the portable longboard market, creating an entire category of small boards that ride like much larger decks. This innovation has become one of the brand's signatures.

I've found Landyachtz boards to be particularly durable in rough conditions. My Freedive Reef has survived two Chicago winters of salt and moisture without significant deterioration—something I can't say for some other brands I've tried.

Best for: Intermediate riders or beginners willing to invest a bit more in their first setup for better quality and longevity.

Popular models:

• Landyachtz Ripper - Versatile kicktail design
• Landyachtz ATV Perfecto - Hybrid cruiser/street deck
• Landyachtz Butter Lines - Dedicated surfskate

Madrid: Heritage and Innovation

With roots dating back to the 1960s surfboard scene, Madrid brings decades of board-shaping expertise to the longboarding world. Their cultural impact is significant, with boards appearing in iconic productions like "Back to the Future" and "Stranger Things."

Madrid's strength lies in its design heritage and manufacturing experience. These guys know how to shape a deck that rides well. Their traditional shapes like the [Retro Explosion

](https://longboardsusa.com/products/madrid-retro-explosion-in-red-29-old-school-longboard) showcase their classic design sensibilities, while newer models like the Spade series demonstrate their willingness to innovate.

One thing I've always appreciated about Madrid is its consistency. Their decks have that classic, solid feel that comes from decades of refinement. The concave shapes feel natural underfoot, and the construction quality is reliable across their entire lineup.

Madrid tends to be slightly less experimental than some newer brands, which could be seen as a weakness for riders seeking cutting-edge designs. But for many, that traditional approach is actually a strength—you know exactly what you're getting.

Best for: Riders who appreciate heritage design with proven performance and reasonable pricing.

Popular models:

• Madrid Retro Explosion - Classic old-school design
• Madrid Spade Tidal - Modern drop-through design
• Madrid Build-A-Board - Customizable blank deck

DB Longboards: Sustainable Performance

DB began as a college startup focused on longboards and skimboards from the Pacific Northwest and has grown while maintaining strong environmental principles. Their zero-waste manufacturing approach demonstrates a commitment to sustainability without compromising quality.

What separates DB from the pack is its specialization in downhill and freeride longboards. The Wanderer and Coreflex series are particularly popular among riders who enjoy speed and technical sliding maneuvers.

I had the chance to test their Dagger V3 last summer, and it's one of the most stable drop-through decks I've ridden. The company clearly understands downhill geometry—the board felt confidence-inspiring even at higher speeds.

The only real downside I've found is that DB's specialization in downhill and freeride makes them less appealing to dancers or pure cruisers. Their lineup is growing to include more versatile options, but their strength remains in technical riding disciplines.

Best for: Technical riders focusing on downhill and freeride who value environmental responsibility.

Popular models:

• DB Dad Bod - Compact cruiser
• DB Wanderer - Dedicated freeride design
• DB Coreflex Compound - Advanced drop-through construction

Best Brands for Beginners

Atom: Budget-Friendly Quality

Atom has carved out a niche as a provider of affordable options that don't sacrifice essential quality. Their primary advantage is producing beginner-friendly boards at accessible price points—most complete setups come in under $150.

I often recommend Atom to friends who're just testing the waters with longboarding. Their All-Terrain series offers remarkable value, with features you wouldn't expect at this price point, like CNC-machined trucks and abrasion-resistant wheels.

As a budget-oriented brand, there are some tradeoffs. The components won't perform like premium options, and durability can be an issue with heavy use. But for casual riders or beginners, these limitations rarely become problematic.

The brand's philosophy seems centered on making longboarding accessible to everyone, and they succeed in that mission. Their boards provide a solid introduction to the sport without requiring a significant financial investment.

Best for: Beginners, casual riders, and budget-conscious shoppers who want functional equipment without breaking the bank.

Popular models:

• Atom All-Terrain - Affordable all-purpose board
• Atom Drop Through 41" - Entry-level commuter
• Atom Pintail 39" - Classic shape for beginners

Retrospec: Value-Oriented Performance

Retrospec has established itself as a brand offering good performance at competitive prices. Their boards bridge the gap between ultra-budget options and mid-range brands, with completes typically priced between $100-180.

What impresses me about Retrospec is their attention to material quality despite the lower price point. Their decks use Canadian maple that's surprisingly durable, and components like their 180mm Slant Reverse Kingpins and ABEC-7 bearings provide a smooth, stable riding experience.

The Zed series showcases their approach to classic longboard designs. Available in pintail and drop-through configurations, these boards offer accessible entry points to different riding styles without overwhelming beginners with too many options.

Where Retrospec falls short is in pushing innovation. They focus on proven designs rather than developing new technologies or shapes. For most beginners, this conservative approach is actually beneficial—you get reliable performance without paying for experimental features.

Best for: New riders looking for a step up from the absolute cheapest options without entering mid-range price territory.

Popular models:

• Retrospec Zed Pintail - Classic cruiser design
• Retrospec Zed Kicktail - Versatile all-purpose board
• Retrospec Tidal - Drop-down design for stability

Specialty Brands

Prism: Young Innovation

As the newest brand among our top ten (founded in 2015), Prism brings fresh perspectives to longboard design. Despite their relative youth, they've quickly established a reputation for quality boards that deliver excellent riding experiences.

Prism's standout quality is its approach to deck profiles and concave designs. The Origin V2 features one of the most comfortable standing platforms I've tried, with radial concave that locks your feet in perfectly for slides and technical maneuvers.

The company has also developed a strong artistic identity, collaborating with artists for their limited series decks. The Liam Ashurst Series exemplifies this approach, with distinctive graphic designs that stand out from the typical longboard aesthetics.

Being newer does mean they have less brand recognition compared to industry veterans, which can be a hurdle for some consumers. However, their growing reputation among serious riders suggests they're doing something right with their designs.

Best for: Riders who appreciate innovative concave designs and distinctive artwork, particularly those focusing on freeride and technical sliding.

Popular models:

• Prism Tallboy - Artist series pintail
• Prism Origin V2 - Technical freeride deck
• Prism Hindsight - Downhill-oriented design

Santa Cruz: Classic Design with Proven Performance

With deep roots in skateboarding culture dating back to 1973, Santa Cruz brings their expertise to the longboard market with classic designs and reliable construction. They've maintained their relevance through decades of skating evolution by staying true to their core values of quality and performance.

Santa Cruz stands out for their iconic graphics and classic shapes. Their longboards feature the same attention to detail as their legendary skateboards, with durable construction and consistent performance characteristics.

While their longboard lineup isn't as extensive as some dedicated longboard brands, what they do offer is well-executed. Their complete setups provide good value, typically ranging from $150-220, positioning them in the competitive mid-range segment.

I've found Santa Cruz boards to be particularly suitable for riders transitioning from traditional skateboarding to longboarding. The familiar feel and reliable quality make for an easy adjustment to the longer platform.

Best for: Skaters who appreciate heritage brands and classic design aesthetics with proven performance.

Popular models:

• Santa Cruz Knox Punk Reissue - Classic design
• Santa Cruz Lion God Cruiser - Versatile mini-cruiser
• Santa Cruz Classic Dot Cruzer - Traditional cruiser shape

Comparing Brand Specialties and Riding Styles

Different brands have developed specializations that make them better suited for certain riding styles. Here's a breakdown of which brands excel in different disciplines:

Cruising and Commuting

• Best Premium Option: Loaded Icarus - Responsive and comfortable for distance
• Best Mid-Range Option: Sector 9 Striker or Landyachtz Ripper - Versatile platforms with good component quality
• Best Budget Option: Retrospec Zed - Affordable and beginner-friendly

Downhill and Freeride

• Best Premium Option: Loaded Tesseract - Technical perfection for high speeds
• Best Mid-Range Option: DB Wanderer or Prism Origin - Specialized designs for sliding and speed
• Best Budget Option: Atom Drop Down - Stable platform at an accessible price

Dancing and Freestyle

• Best Premium Option: Loaded Bhangra or Tarab - Purpose-built for dancing with ideal flex patterns
• Best Mid-Range Option: Madrid Fiberglass Pole - Spacious platform with good pop
• Best Budget Option: Limited options in the budget range for true dancing decks

Surfskate/Carving

• Best Premium Option: Loaded Coyote - Responsive turning with quality components
• Best Mid-Range Option: Landyachtz Butter or Sector 9 Sidewinder - Specialized for pump and carve
• Best Budget Option: Retrospec Tidal - Affordable carving platform

Material and Construction Differences

The brands also differ significantly in their approach to materials and construction:

• Sustainable Focus: Arbor (recycled materials, responsibly harvested wood) and DB (zero-waste manufacturing)
• Technical Composites: Loaded (bamboo-fiberglass layups) and Prism (specialized concave molds)
• Traditional Wood Construction: Madrid and Santa Cruz (maple decks with traditional pressing methods)
• Value Engineering: Atom and Retrospec (simplified construction to meet price points)

These material choices directly impact how the boards feel and perform. Composite decks typically offer better vibration dampening and varied flex patterns, while traditional maple construction provides consistent pop and durability. Your riding style and personal preferences should guide which construction type you choose.

Best Value Brands for 2025

When considering the price-to-performance ratio, certain brands stand out as offering exceptional value:

1. Sector 9 - Their mid-range pricing delivers near-premium quality across a wide variety of styles.
2. Landyachtz - Slightly higher prices than Sector 9, but with noticeable quality improvements.
3. DB Longboards - Specialized performance for technical riding at reasonable price points.
4. Retrospec - The best performance you'll find in the sub-$180 range.
5. Atom - Unbeatable entry point for beginners with tight budgets.

For the best deals, consider:

• End-of-season sales (typically October-November)
• Previous year models when new graphics are released
• "Blem" decks with cosmetic imperfections but full structural integrity
• Complete setups, which are usually better value than building a custom board

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Match

After analyzing the top 10 longboard brands for 2025, it's clear that the "best" brand depends entirely on your individual needs, riding style, and budget. Here's my advice for different rider profiles:

• For beginners: Start with Sector 9, Retrospec, or Atom—reliable brands with forgiving characteristics that won't break the bank.
• For commuters: Landyachtz and Sector 9 offer excellent city-friendly options with dependable quality.
• For technical riders: Loaded, Prism, and DB provide specialized designs for advanced techniques.
• For eco-conscious riders: Arbor and DB lead the industry in sustainable practices.
• For value seekers: Retrospec and Atom deliver the most functionality per dollar spent.

Remember that even within each brand, different models serve different purposes. Don't just shop by brand—consider the specific design features that match your intended use.

The longboarding community has never had more quality options to choose from. Whether your priority is sustainability, performance, or affordability, there's a perfect board waiting for you among these top brands of 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are expensive longboard brands actually worth the extra money?

For serious riders, yes. Premium brands like Loaded and Arbor use higher-quality materials, more sophisticated construction techniques, and better components. This translates to improved performance, better durability, and a more refined riding experience. Casual riders might not notice

these differences, but they become apparent with regular use and progression. Think of it like a musical instrument—beginners won't fully appreciate a professional-grade guitar, but they'll grow into it as their skills develop.

What's the best longboard brand for a complete beginner?

Sector 9 hits the sweet spot for most beginners. Their boards offer good quality at reasonable prices ($150-220 range) with forgiving ride characteristics. If budget is your primary concern, Atom and Retrospec make solid starter boards under $150. The Retrospec Zed Pintail is particularly beginner-friendly with its stable platform and smooth ride.

How long do longboards from these top brands typically last?

With regular use (several times weekly), premium brands like Loaded and Arbor typically last 3-5 years before showing significant wear. Mid-range brands like Sector 9 and Landyachtz generally provide 2-4 years of solid performance. Budget brands might need replacement after 1-2 years of regular riding. However, these timeframes vary drastically depending on your riding style, local conditions (wet vs. dry climate), and maintenance habits.

Are there any female-owned longboard brands worth considering?

While not in our top 10 list, several female-owned brands are making waves in the industry. Sabre Trucks (co-founded by Lois Bryant) produces excellent components, and Meow Skateboards makes quality female-focused decks. The market is still predominantly male-owned, but diversity is slowly improving, with more women taking leadership roles in established companies.

What's the difference between a $100 and a $300 longboard?

The difference lies in materials, construction methods, and component quality. A $300 board typically features:

• Premium wood/composite materials with specialized layups
• Precision-machined trucks with tighter tolerances
• High-rebound urethane wheels with proprietary formulas
• Sealed bearings with better lubricants
• More complex, performance-oriented concave patterns

A $100 board will get you rolling, but will have generic components, simpler construction, and fewer specialized features. For casual cruising, the differences might not matter much, but they become significant for specialized disciplines or frequent riding.

How do I maintain my longboard to maximize its lifespan?

Regardless of brand, proper maintenance extends your board's life:

1. Keep it dry—water damages bearings and can delaminate decks
2. Rotate wheels periodically for even wear
3. Clean bearings every 2-3 months (more in dusty/wet areas)
4. Check and tighten hardware regularly
5. Store indoors away from extreme temperatures
6. Apply grip tape cleaner occasionally to maintain traction
7. Watch for early signs of deck wear (cracks near truck mounts)

Can I mix components from different brands?

Absolutely! Many experienced riders create "frankenboards" with their favorite components from various manufacturers. Popular combinations include Loaded decks with Paris trucks and Orangatang wheels, or Madrid decks with Caliber trucks and Sector 9 wheels. Mixing brands allows you to customize your setup to your specific preferences and riding style.

I hope this guide helps you navigate the excellent options available in 2025's longboard market. Whether you're cruising the boardwalk, bombing hills, or learning to dance on your deck, there's never been a better time to be a longboarder. Feel free to share your experiences with these brands or ask questions in the comments!

Happy riding!