Downhill Longboards

Downhill longboards for speed, control and safety

Downhill boards are built for high speed, sharp turns and maximum stability on steep hills. Here you’ll find selected downhill boards designed to give you control when the pace really picks up. Decks, trucks, wheels and bushing setups are optimised for speed and stability rather than tricks and play.

Whether you’re riding technical downhill with powerful slides or chasing top speed on long descents, construction is crucial for both experience and safety. That’s why it’s important to choose a board that matches your style, skill level and the terrain you plan to ride.

How to choose a downhill board: key parameters

A good downhill setup is about balancing stability, responsiveness and grip. Here are some of the most important aspects to consider when comparing models:

• Deck shape and flex Most downhill decks are stiff with little flex to avoid instability at high speed and to provide precise steering.
• Wheelbase (distance between trucks) A longer wheelbase, typically 65–75 cm, provides more stability, while a shorter wheelbase makes the board more playful but also more twitchy at high speed.
• Truck angle and width Lower angles, around 40–45°, and wide trucks keep the board steady, while higher angles turn faster but can feel unstable when going downhill.
• Wheel size and durometer Large wheels, 70–75 mm, roll more smoothly over rough surfaces, and slightly softer urethane offers more grip, while harder wheels slide more easily.
• Griptape and concave Coarse griptape and a pronounced concave or foot pockets help your feet lock in place so you can maintain position in turns and slides.
• Bushings and stability Stiffer bushings and properly tightened kingpins reduce wobble and make the board more predictable at high speed.

It’s the combination of these parts that determines whether the board feels stable at 40–60 km/h and if you have the precise control needed for safe slides and emergency braking.

Types of downhill setups and terrain choice

Downhill boards can generally be divided into platforms built purely for speed and hybrids that also work for freeride. Classic downhill decks often have a lower centre of gravity, such as micro-drop or drop-through designs, for extra stability, while topmount decks offer the most grip and direct steering.

For technical downhill with many hairpin turns and slides, many riders choose a setup between freeride and downhill: a topmount deck, pronounced concave, medium to hard wheels and a truck setup that allows both carving and controlled slides. For fast, open descents focused on pure speed, the priority is maximum stability: a longer wheelbase, wider trucks, stiff bushings and wheels with strong grip.

The terrain also influences your choice. On uneven country roads, it’s beneficial to have slightly larger wheels and a setup that can handle small stones and cracks in the asphalt. If you’re riding on smooth mountain roads abroad, you can go for harder wheels and stiffer trucks since the surface is more predictable.

Level, safety and practical use

Downhill is a high-risk discipline, and safety must always come first. As a starting point, you should have solid skateboarding experience and be confident with slides and speed control before attempting serious downhill riding. If you’re intermediate, start with milder slopes, softer wheels and a more forgiving setup that makes it easier to practise braking techniques.

Protective gear is non-negotiable: a full-face or downhill-specific helmet, gloves with pucks, knee and elbow pads, and durable clothing are strongly recommended. Always practise on familiar routes with clear visibility, check the asphalt for holes and gravel, and never ride faster than you can stop safely within your visible distance.

In everyday use, a downhill board can also serve for transport on longer, faster stretches where you want smooth rolling and reliable grip, but it’s not the most agile choice for short trips or city riding. Choose it mainly if your focus is on hills, speed and controlled slides.

Once you’ve determined your skill level, terrain and desired speed, you can choose a downhill board from our curated selection and build a setup that matches your style and gives you confidence on the descent.