The popularity of longboarding continues to soar, and enthusiasts are increasingly seeking ways to enhance their skills and compete with others. While traditional longboards are designed for urban use, they may not deliver the high speeds and stability needed for downhill riding.
Enter drop-through longboards, specifically engineered to address these requirements. Tailored for high speeds and stability, these boards are ideal for downhill rides and efficient travel between locations. With a plethora of options available in the market, selecting the right drop-through longboard can be a daunting task.
In this article, we’ll delve into a review of some of the best drop-through longboards, aiming to provide you with valuable insights to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to elevate your longboarding experience, our discussion will guide you through the options available, helping you find the perfect drop-through longboard for your needs. Let’s dive into the details without further delay!
AT A Glance Drop Through Longboards
| Product | Features | ||
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Best For Cruising Atom Drop Through |
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Check Price |
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Best For Freeride Volador 42inch Freeride |
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Check Price |
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Versatile Retrospec Rift |
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Check Price |
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Best For Beginners B BAIJIAWEI Drop Through |
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Check Price |
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Best For Downhill MINORITY Downhill Maple |
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Check Price |
Top 5 Best Drop Through Longboards
Keep longboard reviews reading to decide which one fits you most.
1. Atom Drop Through Longboard
Best For Cruising
Atom is the number one in our best drop through longboard review. If you’re in search of the best longboards for cruising, then this one’s for you. Now, go through Atom Drop-Through Longboard review.
1stly, Atom Drop Through comes with a maple-bamboo-made deck. The mix of composite materials is capable of carrying 250 lbs. of weight. Drop-through deck is 40-inch by 9-inch, size says for itself. Besides, 70mm diameter by 51mm wide wheels work well for cruising. Where lubricated ABEC-9 bearings are ready for high speed. Moreover, reverse kingpin trucks take this board to the top-up level. No matter whether you’re a beginner or an expert on cruising, This Drop Through is for you. One last point, some users may be uncomfortable with the price. The price of the longboard is a little expensive, but it’s worth it.
Key Features
- Durable maple-bamboo mix deck.
- Reverse KingPin aluminum trucks.
- High rebound rounded wheels.
- High-speed ABEC-9 bearings.
Pros:
- Special board to cruise on.
- Suitable for beginners-expert.
Cons:
- Pricey, but 100% worth it.
Verdict: It’s one of the best drop through longboard for cruising style.
2. Volador 42inch Freeride Longboard
Best For Freeride
Volador is one of the top longboard brands for drop-through longboards. Their 42inch longboard is 2nd pick in our drop through longboard review.
First of all, its drop-through design deck is 42 inches long and 9 inches wide. Besides, the drop-through deck is made of high-quality 8-ply maple wood. Hardrock maple wood made it hard to hold 250 pounds of weight.
The deck’s size and self-balancing property make it the best longboards for freeride. Plus, these best freeride longboards are also suited for beginners. Moreover, high rebound polyurethane wheels are an add-on for performance. These 70mm standard wheels are flexible as well as shock absorbent. It added ABEC-9 bearings, that’s the top-rated bearings on longboards.
Furthermore, 7-inch reverse kingpin aluminum trucks are another feature of this longboard. You can adjust the truck’s baseplate angle from 45- 50 degrees. Another attractive thing about the deck is its wide range of designs. It has multiple design options that are a good point. Most importantly, you can get all things at an affordable price.
Key Features
- Hardrock 8-ply maple deck.
- High rebound polyurethane wheels.
- High-rated ABEC-9 bearings.
- Reverse kingpin aluminum trucks.
Pros:
- Suitable for starters to experts.
- Simple facilitates for freeride.
- Several design options.
Cons:
- The trucks need to be tightened before 1st use.
Verdict: If you’re trying to find the best freeride longboards, then this one is the best option.
3. Retrospec Rift Drop-Through Longboard
Retrospec Rift has a drop-through deck for different styles of longboarding. Such as commuting, carving, cruising, or downhill riding. While making it 3rd position in best longboard reviews?
Constructed from Canadian maple wood, the deck is durable as well as stable. As durable as to tolerate almost anything you throw at it. You can go with up to 220 pounds of weight. Rift Drop-Through Longboard is specifically designed for speed. Its ABEC-7 grade bearings are best for speed. Then, 70x51mm polyurethane wheels work well for further adventures. What’s more, reverse kingpin aluminum trucks added more appeal to the riders. All in all, this classic drop-through longboard is designed for different styles of riding. You can confidently ride that retro surf style.
Key Features
- Canadian maple-made deck.
- Reverse KingPin aluminum trucks.
- ABEC-7 grade steel bearings.
- High-quality polyurethane wheels.
Pros
- Different riding styles.
- Durable as well as stable.
- Desirable for top speed.
Cons:
- Limited warranty.
4. B BAIJIAWEI Drop Through Longboard
Best For Beginners
Is it possible to get a drop through longboard below 40 dollars? The answer is yes 100%. You can easily get a longboard for under 40 dollars. Usually, the price range is suitable for beginners most. B BAIJIAWEI Drop Through has everything you need to do your ride. This best beginners drop through longboard is a great option to go to the next level.
First of all, B BAIJIAWEI Longboard comes with an 8-ply hardwood maple deck. It’s lightweight but durable to hold up to 220 lbs of weight. Sizing of the deck is 41-inch long x 10-inch wide. Plus, 70×52 mm polyurethane wheels are added for going to speed. Each wheel is wrapped with two ABEC-11 speed bearings for speed riding. Moreover, sturdy but light aluminum truck has a polished finish.
All of the materials are eco-friendly to protect the user’s health. B BAIJIAWEI is for those who like cruising, carving, freestyle, and downhill.
Key Features
- Durable hardwood maple deck.
- High rebound polyurethane wheels.
- High-speed ABEC-11 bearings.
- Powder-coated aluminum trucks.
Pros:
- Multiple colors options.
- Lightweight but durable.
- Environmental materials.
Cons:
- Some parts need replacement.
Verdict: In search of the best drop through longboard for beginners? Then the B BAIJIAWEI Drop Through Longboard is reasonable for you.
5. Minority Downhill Maple Longboard
Best For Downhill
Are you looking for the best downhill longboards? Downhill is one of the most demanding and Minority manages it well. If it matters, then the Minority Downhill Maple Longboard is for you. This longboard uses classic downhill drop-through design for its deck. It’s 40-inch by 9-inch and made of 100% maple wood. The deck can carry up to 200 pounds of weight. Moreover, 70mm wheels work well with ABEC-9 bearings.
Wheels are polyurethane and ABEC-9 is best in industrial bearings. Also, 7-inch reverse kingpin aluminum trucks add more appeal.
What more, you can easily adjust the truck’s angle for maneuverability. Minority Downhill has all the features of longboards best for downhill. Most importantly, you can get this one at a very low price.
Key Features
- 100% Canadian maple wood deck.
- Reverse kingpin aluminum trucks.
- High rebound polyurethane wheels.
- Highest industrial grade bearings.
Pros:
- Decent options for downhill.
- Durable top-notch materials.
- Design as environment-friendly.
Cons:
- Not suitable for riders up to 200 pounds.
Verdict: Minority Downhill is a decent option for downhill longboarding. You also use the best longboards for cruising & carving.
Things To Consider When Choosing Longboard
We already reviewed drop-through longboard from different brands. But, choosing the best longboard isn’t very easy. You have to think about various things before buying one. Here we discuss some points you should consider:
Drop Down Longboard vs. Drop Through
The drop through vs drop down mainly differ in design and functions. Drop down are less stable than the drop-through longboard. But, durable design and comfortable ride. So, it’s comparatively easy for any riders to get a foothold in this board. Drop down boards are better for pushing than the drop through boards. It’s a stylish selection for a smooth and long ride.
Although, you didn’t get everything in drop through boards. But, it’s most preferable for freeride, cruising and more. On the contrary, the drop-down is desirable for downhill riding.
Drop down vs Drop Through: Drop down has some differences from the drop through. Usually, the trucks mount across the drop through deck. Because of it, the truck base plate belongs to the upper side of the deck.
Besides, the drop-down deck comes with a dropped shape. Drop down has better stability than any longboards. Riding with the lower ground is another good advantage. Drop down vs Drop through has few differences in design and functions. Drop through are mostly famous for freeride and cruising. But, drop downs are widely used in downhill riding. It’s because of their better balance on the surface.
Drop Through Longboard vs. Top Mount
The main difference between these two is the speed. Drop through has high-speed riding for their lower position. So, you can easily go through superior speeds. Any rider can get an adequate grip and easily push. As a result, they can stay a long time in drop through longboards. On the other hand, Top mount has a high grip and control in downhill.
Its trucks are connected within the deck’s bottom. This makes it surely super for skills. However, Drop through and Top Mount both have dissimilarities. But, without doubt one the thing is most common between them. Both of these two are ready for a reliable ride.
What is a drop-through longboard?
The truck of a drop-through design is mounted on the deck. The drop-through longboard has a special deck. You don’t need any specific trucks for it. They come with the hole cut in where the board truck goes. Moreover, the longboard has large cutouts in its wheels for avoiding wheelbite. Reverse KingPin trucks are another notable feature. Moreover, the base plate is mounted in the top hole of the longboard. Afterward, stick your hanger back again while replacing the top bushing. Lastly, sometimes the trucks need to be tightened for the first use.
Drop Through Longboard Buying Guide
Deck: Deck is the backbone of a longboard. The rider will stand on the deck while riding. Longboard decks are usually longer than skateboards. Various sizes and shapes are available for different longboarding styles. In general, longer decks are for downhill and cruising. Slightly shorter sizes are used for freeride & freestyle.
Wheel: Wheels are medium between the road and riders. It’s a vital part of going on the longboard with speed. The size and hardness may differ from brand to brand. The important thing is whether it will fit your longboard or not. Amongst common size of longboard wheels is 70mm diameter.
Hardness is another important thing for longboard wheels. Harder wheels are hard to control for longboarding. Medium-hard is the best for balance to longboard wheels.
Usually, drop-through longboard wheels are made from polyurethane material. So, these are high rebound wheels for longboarding.
Bearing: Bearings are added to the wheels and allow them to rotate freely. ABEC is the standard of longboard bearings ratings. A high-speed bearing is perfect for downhill riding. Longboard bearings are made from different kinds of material such as steel, ceramic, etc. But, steel bearings are durable and economical as industry standard. Also, regular maintenance of the bearings is important for smooth rolling.
Trucks: Trucks are considered the soul of a longboard. It’s one of the vital parts as you can’t go far with the best trucks. Reverse KingPin trucks are the most popular longboard trucks. On the other hand, standard kingpin trucks are suitable for smaller setups. Every longboard needs two trucks, measured by axle or hanger width. The longboard trucks are different from skateboard trucks. The only purpose of these trucks is similar.
Price: You can easily get a longboard for under 100 dollars. Usually, this price range is best for beginners. They’re trying to learn the sports and don’t need any updated board.
But, if you’re experts in the game, then go for a high-quality longboard. Quality products cost a lot more than the low price. You can go through 150 to 450 dollars. Within this price, you will find all the top-notch parts of longboards.
In sum, the price of the longboard is based on the skill of the riders. Learners can go for cheaper ones, but experts need an updated version. The difference between economical and expensive will be felt clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is a drop-through longboard?
- A drop-through longboard is a type of longboard design where the trucks are mounted through the deck, allowing the deck to sit lower to the ground. This design enhances stability and makes it easier for riders to push, slide, and commute.
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What are the advantages of a drop-through design?
- Drop-through longboards offer enhanced stability at high speeds, making them ideal for downhill riding. The lower deck provides a lower center of gravity, making it easier for riders to push and slide while maintaining control.
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Who should use a drop-through longboard?
- Drop-through longboards are suitable for a variety of riders. They are particularly favored by those who enjoy downhill riding, cruising, and commuting. The stability and ease of pushing make them suitable for riders of various skill levels.
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Are drop-through longboards suitable for tricks and freestyle riding?
- While drop-through longboards excel in stability and speed, they are not typically designed for tricks and freestyle riding. Riders interested in performing tricks might prefer a different type of longboard, such as a top-mount or double-drop deck.
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How do drop-through longboards compare to other longboard types?
- Drop-through longboards differ from top-mount and double-drop longboards in terms of deck height and riding style. Drop-throughs provide a lower center of gravity, offering stability at high speeds, while top-mounts may provide more maneuverability for tricks.
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Can you customize the trucks and wheels on a drop-through longboard?
- Yes, most drop-through longboards allow for customization of trucks and wheels. Swapping out components like trucks and wheels can alter the ride feel, allowing riders to tailor the longboard to their preferences and riding style.
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What are the recommended safety measures for using a drop-through longboard?
- Safety is paramount. Riders should wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads. Additionally, it’s crucial to check the longboard regularly for any signs of wear, tighten bolts, and ensure that all components are in good condition before each ride.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve explored the various options in our drop-through longboard review, it’s time to find the perfect one that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Each item on our list excels in its own way, catering to different riding styles and skill levels.
Take a moment to consider your own standing as a rider—whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast looking for high-speed downhill rides or a beginner seeking stability for smooth commuting. Assess your specific requirements and preferences, and then make your selection with confidence.
Our comprehensive drop-through longboard review is intended to serve as a helpful guide in your decision-making process. So, without hesitation, hand-pick the longboard that resonates with your riding aspirations and needs.
Happy Longboarding! May your chosen drop-through longboard bring you thrilling rides and countless moments of enjoyment as you navigate the terrain with style and ease.
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