What Size Longboard is Best for Dancing? Complete Guide

Key Takeaways

• The ideal longboard for dancing typically ranges between 42-50 inches in length
• Width should be at least 9.5 inches to provide enough foot platform space
• Longer boards (45-50 inches) offer more room for dancing moves but less maneuverability
• Medium-length boards (42-45 inches) balance dancing capability with some freestyle tricks
• Flex level should match your weight and preferred dancing style
• Symmetrical shapes with kicktails are optimal for dancing and performing tricks
• Top dancing longboard brands include Loaded, Timber, Landyachtz, and Kahuna Creations

Introduction to Dancing Longboards

Longboard dancing has become one of the most creative expressions of skateboarding, combining fluid movements, technical tricks, and artistic style. But finding the right board for dancing isn't as simple as grabbing any longboard off the shelf. The board's size plays a crucial role in how you'll perform those cross-steps, pirouettes, and ghost rides.

I've been dancing on longboards for over eight years now, and I've tried everything from tiny 38-inch decks to massive 55-inch platforms. Trust me—size really does matter when it comes to dancing longboards! In this article, I'll break down exactly what dimensions work best for different dancing styles, skill levels, and body types.

Understanding Longboard Dancing

Before diving into the specifics of board size, let's quickly cover what longboard dancing actually involves. Unlike downhill or cruising, dancing is about performing fluid steps, spins, and freestyle tricks while riding. The board essentially becomes your dance floor, which is why having adequate space matters so much.

Common dancing moves include:

• Cross-stepping (moving your feet across the board)
• Peter Pans (spinning 180° with your feet)
• Pirouettes (spinning on one foot)
• Ghost rides (jumping off and back onto the board)
• Shuvits and various flip tricks

Each of these moves requires different amounts of foot platform space, which is why choosing the right size board is essential.

Length: The Most Important Factor

When it comes to dancing longboards, length is arguably the most critical dimension. Here's a breakdown of how different lengths affect your dancing experience:

45-50 Inches: Pure Dancing Boards

Longboards between 45-50 inches are considered ideal for pure dancing. These longer decks provide maximum foot platform space, allowing for smooth cross-steps and complex dance moves without your feet hanging off the edge.

The Gravity Illuminati 55" Dancing Longboard sits at the upper end of this range and offers an enormous platform for dancing. However, be aware that boards this long can be harder to transport and less maneuverable for tricks.

Another excellent choice in this category is the Loaded Bhangra V2 48" Dancing Longboard, which has become something of a gold standard in the dancing community.

Benefits of 45-50" boards:

• Maximum space for complex dance moves
• More forgiving for beginners learning foot positioning
• Stable platform for balance-dependent moves

Drawbacks:

• Heavier and less portable
• More difficult for technical freestyle tricks
• Require more space to store and transport

42-45 Inches: The Versatile Middle Ground

Boards between 42-45 inches offer a sweet spot between dancing capability and freestyle performance. They provide enough space for most dancing moves while remaining maneuverable enough for technical tricks.

The Loaded Boards Mata Hari 44" Dancer Longboard exemplifies this category, offering enough dancing platform while still being responsive for tricks.

Benefits of 42-45" boards:

• Good balance between dancing space and trick capability
• More portable than longer options
• Easier to control for intermediate dancers

Drawbacks:

• Slightly limited space for dancing compared to 48"+ boards
• May feel cramped for taller riders

38-42 Inches: Freestyle-Focused Dancing

Boards between 38-42 inches lean more toward freestyle with dancing as a secondary focus. These shorter decks are more responsive for flip tricks and technical maneuvers but offer less space for elaborate dance steps.

The Timber Axolotl 41" Freestyle Dancing Longboard Deck is perfect for riders who want to incorporate more technical tricks into their dancing routine.

Benefits of 38-42" boards:

• More responsive for technical tricks
• Lighter and easier to carry
• Better for urban environments with limited space

Drawbacks:

• Limited platform for pure dancing moves
• Can feel cramped for cross-steps
• Less stable for beginners

Width: Creating a Proper Dance Floor

While length gets most of the attention, width is equally important for a good dancing experience. Most dancing longboards range from 9-10 inches wide.

9.5-10 Inches: Optimal Dance Platform

For most dancers, a width between 9.5-10 inches provides the ideal balance between having enough foot platform and maintaining board responsiveness.

The Loaded Boards Tarab II 47" Dancing Longboard features a generous width perfect for dancing.

Benefits of wider boards (9.5"+):

• More stable platform for balance
• Better foot placement options
• More forgiving for imprecise footwork

9-9.5 Inches: Balanced Performance

Slightly narrower boards between 9-9.5 inches offer good dancing capability with enhanced responsiveness for tricks.

The DB Longboards Rumba 45" Dancing Longboard Deck falls into this category, offering a good balance for dancers who also enjoy tricks.

Wheelbase: Defining Your Dance Style

The wheelbase (distance between the trucks) affects how responsive or stable your board feels. For dancing, wheelbase typically ranges from 28-33 inches.

• Longer wheelbase (30-33 inches): More stable, better for fluid dancing movements
• Shorter wheelbase (28-30 inches): More responsive, better for technical tricks and pivots

Flex: Finding Your Bounce

Flex is a crucial but often overlooked aspect of dancing longboards. The right amount of flex depends on your weight and dancing style:

Soft Flex

• Better for lighter riders (under 150 lbs)
• Creates a bouncy, energetic feel
• Helps absorb impact from landing tricks
• Provides more feedback for cross-steps

Medium Flex

• Suitable for average weight riders (150-185 lbs)
• Balanced between responsiveness and stability
• Good all-around option for most dancers

Stiff Flex

• Better for heavier riders (185+ lbs)
• Provides more stability for technical tricks
• Less bouncy but more predictable

Most dancing longboard brands offer multiple flex options for their decks. For example, the Timber Tortuga v2.0 45.5" Dancing Freestyle Longboard Deck comes in different flex ratings to match your weight and style.

Deck Shape: Optimizing Your Dancing Experience

The shape of your longboard significantly impacts your dancing capability. Here are the most common shapes for dancing:

Symmetrical Shapes

Most dancing longboards feature symmetrical shapes, meaning the nose and tail are identical. This design allows for dancing in both directions and performing tricks from either end.

The Landyachtz Tony Danza Spectrum 39" Symmetrical Longboard is a perfect example of a symmetrical dancing deck.

Kicktails

Functional kicktails at both ends help with technical tricks like manuals, pivots, and tiger claws. Most dedicated dancing boards feature double kicktails.

The Dusters Wanderlust 47" Teal/Purple Dancing Longboard features functional kicktails for trick versatility.

Top Dancing Longboard Brands and Models

Based on size and performance, here are some of the best dancing longboards on the market:

Loaded Boards

• Loaded Bhangra V2 48" Dancing Longboard: The gold standard for pure dancing
• Loaded Tarab II 47" Dancing Longboard: Premium board with excellent flex patterns
• Loaded Mata Hari 44" Dancing Longboard: Versatile mid-length option

Timber Boards

• Timber Flamingo V3 49" Dancing Longboard Deck: Spacious platform with excellent construction
• Timber Tortuga v2.0 45.5" Dancing Freestyle Longboard Deck: Well-balanced mid-length option
• Timber Kiwi 46" Dancing Freestyle Longboard Deck: Versatile all-around dancer

Kahuna Creations

• Kahuna Creations Pohaku Sunset 46" Longboard: Beautiful design with great dancing platform
• Kahuna Creations Pohaku Bamboo 46" Longboard: Natural flex pattern ideal for dancing

Other Notable Options

• Gravity Illuminati 55" Dancing Longboard: Extra-long platform for maximum dancing space
• Madrid Turntable Fiberglass Pole 46" Dancing Longboard Deck: Durable construction with great flex

How to Choose the Right Size for You

Selecting the perfect dancing longboard size depends on several factors:

1. Your Height and Weight

• Taller riders (6'0"+): Consider longer boards (45-50")
• Shorter riders (under 5'8"): Consider mid-length boards (42-45")
• Heavier riders (185+ lbs): Look for stiffer flex ratings
• Lighter riders (under 150 lbs): Consider softer flex options

2. Your Dancing Style

• Pure dancing: Go longer (45-50")
• Mixed dancing/freestyle: Choose mid-length (42-45")
• Freestyle-focused with some dancing: Consider shorter options (38-42")

3. Your Experience Level

• Beginners: Mid-length boards (42-46") offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability
• Intermediate: Consider what style you're developing and choose accordingly
• Advanced: You likely already know your preference, but consider having multiple boards for different styles

4. Practical Considerations

• Storage/transportation: Longer boards are harder to transport
• Local terrain: Consider where you'll be dancing most often
• Budget: Quality dancing longboards range from $150-$400+

Setting Up Your Dancing Longboard

The right setup complements your board size for optimal dancing performance:

Trucks

• Width: Match your deck width (180mm trucks for most dancing boards)
• Angle: 50° angles are versatile for dancing
• Brands: Paris V3, Caliber, Bear Trucks all work well

Wheels

• Size: 65-70mm is ideal for dancing
• Durometer: 78a-83a provides good grip with some slide capability
• Shape: Round-lipped wheels work best for dancing and slides

Bearings

• Standard ABEC 7 or higher bearings work fine
• Consider ceramic bearings for higher performance

Maintenance Tips for Dancing Longboards

Dancing puts unique stress on your longboard. Here's how to keep it in top condition:

1. Regularly check for stress cracks around the truck mounts
2. Replace grip tape when it begins to wear (many dancers use clear grip or localized grip patches)
3. Rotate your wheels to ensure even wear
4. Keep bearings clean and lubricated
5. Tighten all hardware before each session

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 40-inch longboard good for dancing?

A 40-inch longboard can work for dancing, especially if you're shorter or focusing on technical tricks alongside dancing. However, most dedicated dancers prefer boards 42 inches or longer for more platform space.

What's the difference between dancing and freestyle longboarding?

Dancing focuses on fluid, dance-like movements across the board (cross-steps, peter pans, pirouettes), while freestyle emphasizes technical tricks (flips, shuvits, manuals). Many riders combine both styles, which is why versatile mid-length boards are popular.

Do I need a special longboard for dancing?

While you can practice basic steps on any longboard, a purpose-built dancing board with appropriate length, width, flex, and kicktails will significantly improve your experience and progression.

Can beginners start with dancing longboards?

Absolutely! Many beginners actually find longer dancing boards more stable and forgiving for learning. Start with basic cross-steps on a 44-48" board with medium flex for the best beginner experience.

How much should I expect to spend on a quality dancing longboard?

Quality dancing longboards typically range from $180-$400 complete. Premium options from brands like Loaded can cost more, while budget-friendly choices from brands like Landyachtz or DB offer good value around $200-250.

What size trucks do I need for a dancing longboard?

Most dancing longboards use 180mm trucks to match their wider decks. Some riders prefer slightly narrower 165mm trucks for more responsive turning.

Should I use grip tape on my dancing longboard?

Many dancers use partial grip tape setups (grip patches in strategic locations) or clear grip tape to maintain some slide ability for dance moves. Full grip provides more security but less slide capability.

Can I dance on a drop-through longboard?

While possible, drop-through longboards aren't ideal for dancing. Top-mount boards with kicktails provide better leverage for tricks and a more suitable platform for dancing moves.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Dancing Platform

The ideal dancing longboard size ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, physical attributes, and dancing style. For most dancers, a board between 44-48 inches long and 9.5-10 inches wide strikes the perfect balance between ample dancing space and manageable transport.

Remember that the best board is the one that feels most comfortable under your feet. If possible, try standing on different sizes before making your final decision. Many longboard shops offer test rides, and connecting with the local longboard dancing community can provide opportunities to try different setups.

Whether you choose a massive 50-inch pure dancer or a nimble 42-inch freestyle-oriented board, the joy of longboard dancing comes from finding your personal flow and style. The right size board simply makes that journey more enjoyable.

Happy dancing!