Longboarding The District

I just bought my first longboard with the intent to ride it between work locations in Washington, DC. Parking being what it is (expensive), it doesn't really make sense to buy two parking passes; one for each workplace. Especially if you only have to work one of those jobs a few hours a couple days each week. Rather, I planned to buy just one parking pass and skateboard to the other location when necessary. I've been giving this a lot of thought over the past few months. I initially thought I'd ride my bike and just lock it outside the buildings where I work. The only problem is that I don't exactly trust people and I kinda like my bike. I don't really have a "beater" bike that I don't care about being stolen or thrashed and purchasing a new bike would be an expensive alternative. Looking further into things, I realized that a skateboard would be handy enough that I could ride it to-and-from and easily pick it up and take it inside with me. What's more, it'd be cost efficient! This would solve so many problems! Only there's one hitch: I don't exactly know how to ride a skateboard.

To paint the full picture, I just recently celebrated my 30th birthday and am as active now as I was when I was a teenager (for the most part!). I have noticed a number of changes that come with getting older, however. For instance: not rebounding after injury, not taking a fall so pleasantly at higher speeds, and general stiffness after most physically rigorous activities. So, why not purchase a skateboard and ride it on the busy streets of Washington, DC? I hope you get the picture!

I've never really been known for making the safest decision and I often enjoy a good thrill despite better judgement. Taken together it's no wonder I've had my fair share of spills over the last, say, 30 years (I really hope I get at least 30 more!). Nevertheless, I am now the proud owner of a Landyachtz Battle Axe 40". Secretly, I have wanted a longboard for quite some time. I've never really been into skateboarding. You know, the shortboard deck you see kids defacing public buildings with as they scrape their trucks across benches, walls, and handrails. Yeah, I'm not into that! But what has always appealed to me are smooth rides and maybe a little speed. Check it out:




I'm willing to bet none of the folks in that video picked up their first longboard in their 30s. In fact, none of them have reached 25, probably... So I'm not sure what will happen at this point, but I have a helmet, some pads, and health insurance! I've already given it a couple tries and haven't died... yet. I'm trying to figure out what works best for me but I currently seem to favor riding fakie (or goofy as some of the kids say). I find I can switch it up and ride dominant foot forward and vice-versa, depending on what I'm doing. However,  I still get the wobbles when the terrain is steep - less so when I'm riding fakie.

I'll be sure to check back and report my progress. So far, I really like it! I only wish I had a few years experience under my belt and stood confidently on my board. But for now, I'll take it one day at a time.

Secret Life of Walter Mitty