From graphics of psychedelic sunflowers in all hues of the rainbow to racy women, draped suggestively over the bottom of boards, the colors and statements of long boards have brought new excitement to the streets of Westport. Whether it is a weekend or after school, if the sun is out, so are the boarders. Cruising, dancing, and carving up the southeast region of Westport, longboarders have made their mark on the town by taking a new trend to the next level.

Longboarding is a form of skateboarding, but ask any longboarder and they’ll tell you it’s a more advanced form.

“Longboarding is a lot smoother than skateboarding because the board is bigger and the wheels are bigger,” said Alec Wrubel ’13, adding that the whole point of long boarding is that it’s supposed to be “like surfing, but on land.”

Griffin Noyer ’13 has been longboarding ever since an old friend brought out the longboarder in him by showing him that this sport was easy but could always be improved on, thus providing a fun challenge.

Alex Zuckerman ’13 also chooses longboarding. “Long boarding is a smoother ride than skateboarding. You just cruise. It’s not frustrating like learning skateboard tricks.”

Another reason Zuckerman would choose his New York-made longboard over a skate board is the stereo types associated with skate boarding. “There isn’t really a reputation with long boarders. Anyone can really be a long boarder. You don’t have to dress the part or do any of that stupid stuff.”

Zuckerman also appreciates the group aspect of longboarding. “It’s almost like a sports team,” he said, adding that, “definitely, going longboarding with people, you get to know them better.”

Alec Wrubel ’13 added that longboarding, to him, is just as much of a sport as anything else. “Longboarding is Staples football,” Wrubel said. Noyer appreciates what a group dynamic can add to a session. “It’s always a great group of kids,” said Noyer, “and that makes skating a lot more fun.” Fellow longboarder Jake Shore ’13 sums up his passion for long boarding in simple terms. “I love it and it relieves my stress.”

Article from Inklingsnews.com
Written By  Cheyenne Haslett