Surfing, no matter what level you're in, is like a drug. You always long for that feeling, that rush, and you keep coming back for more.
So, just as how the surfers back in the 1950's got the idea to surf the streets when the waves were flat, it's pretty much the same how it dawned on me to get into longboarding primarily to have more shred time on land and improve my surfing through muscle memory. This method is also used by Surf Coaches around the world. [Source: SurfScience.com]
First off, choosing a board
After doing some research, reading forums and customer reviews from renowned board shops, I finally found the perfect beginner board for my needs. And behold, the Pintail 40 from Original Skateboards.
These two videos sealed the deal and made me fall in love with the Pintail 40:
My Setup
- Pintail 40 deck with Original laser cut grip
- Original S8 200mm trucks
- Abec 11 Flashbacks 70mm 81a
- Bones Super Reds Bearings
I picked Pintail 40 over the other sizes (37", 42", and 46") because it's just the right size for my height (5'5") and weight (120lbs).
It has very surfy feel due to Original's patented S8 spring-loaded trucks. They have 3 tension springs to choose from, Black is the softest, Red is medium which they say is perfect if you're transitioning from regular longboard trucks to spring-loaded trucks, and White is the hardest which is recommended for heavier riders.
Abec 11 Flashbacks 81a are well known for their buttery smooth slide, but still soft enough at 81a duro and have that grip when you need them.
Lastly, for my bearings I chose the ever reliable Bones bearings.
I'm really happy with this new found sport, it's a good way to cross-train and improve my surfing while on land but more importantly I'm loving the sport itself. I'm actually looking on building a new board set up for Freeride/Freestyle real soon. Stoked!
BONUS INFO: Surf Training Drills
