Longboard DH: Why should I use a compact deck?

Over the past few years, we have observed that the use of short and narrow boards has become increasingly common for downhill longboarding. After much hesitation, I finally decided to try it out, and here are my thoughts...

Contrary to my preconceptions, I discovered that short boards are not necessarily less stable, provided they are properly tuned. Modern downhill (DH) boards often offer a wide range of wheelbase options, allowing the front foot to be positioned directly above the truck, thereby enhancing responsiveness and grip.

Compact boards require a special setup, preferably with narrow trucks and a sharp angle at the front (50°) and a shallow angle at the back. This makes the board completely directional and extremely stable at high speeds.

These small boards impress with their stability. The grip in turns is more powerful than with longer boards because the rider's weight is directly over the trucks. The transition from grip to slide is very precise and requires a certain level of technical skill and experience.

For shredders (aka fans of power slides), adding a weight (gravity plate) under the board helps initiate the slide and allows for longer, more controlled slides.

To ensure better support, we recommend using a foot stop at the front (such as the Riptide Slab) and a torque block at the rear.

In conclusion, narrow boards are extremely effective for those seeking performance and speed. The stability and grip power are simply astonishing if a few assembly rules are followed. We recommend this type of board for experienced skaters. If you prefer carving over speed, opt for longer boards; for everyone else, don’t hesitate and go for it!