Summer Longboarding on the Apex 40 DiamondDrop (and others)

Jack Darby and Kyle Gallagher have been busy this summer. Busy having more fun. Combined footage from early summer longboard adventures, a visit to team mate Jon Sevik's slidejam and road trip trek to meet up with the rest of the team at the 2012 Original Team picnic.
Edit; Jack Darby
Featuring riders; Jack Darby, Kyle Gallagher, Jacob Marquis, Jon Sevik, Carl Knight, Brett Zer0 Ciabattini, Daniel Harris, Davey Harris, Alex McKenzie + more.
Original Skateboards; Apex 40 DiamondDrop (photos now available: www.facebook.co... ), Derringer 28, Apex 34 DoubleConcave, Symmetrical Top-Mount Proto, Asymmetrical Top-Mount Proto.
More at; www.originalska...

[@originalskateboards]

Longboarding is slowly growing as a sport, and I think we should all be stoked for that! The sport is being pushed and expanded into many different types of directions, and it's not always just cruising and carving anymore. No matter what sport you do, there's always going to be that kid that thinks his deck, or whatever else, is broken because of a minor chip or maintenance problem. Don't let something like this ruin it for you. Remember, the nature of longboarding is to go out and have fun.

[@originalskateboards]

That was one of the custom prototypes that we were rocking prior to the release of the DiamondDrop last September. Remember that this video came out before the board was released so a lot of the riding you see here was on proto boards (though many of them were production identical aside from the paint and artwork).

[@originalskateboards]

We longboard because it gives us a feeling that isn't quite the same as riding a street deck. Some people will argue that it's all the same, but put yourself on a longboard and cruise around for a bit and you'll most likely be hooked. It happened to all of us, and it's this feeling that keeps us coming back for more. We longboard because it makes us never want to stop. You might be able to get a similar feeling on a street board, but it's a completely different experience. Shred on! - Bish

[@originalskateboards]

Stoked on the support ADS. It's always good to have a goal to work towards, just don't forget that enjoying the time with YOUR crew is always the best way to have fun. Here's hoping to merge those crews and ride together one day.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey Banga, the short mini is called the Derringer 28, we just re-released it in July but it is one of the classic decks that we first brought out back in the spring of 2003 (our first video ever, in 2005, has a ton of Derringer footage in it). I whole heatedly recommend the deck to anyone looking for a fun little cruiser carver.

[@originalskateboards]

Thanks for the awesome comment and the constant support! Keep riding :) -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

Hey, The diamond drop is rad because it's designed for many styles of riding, with high speed freeride as its main focus. It's build to withstand intense impact, while holding its shape for a VERY long time. The drop keeps your feet super locked in during slides, while the nose/kick tails allow for some freestyle variation. Hope this helps! - Bish

[@originalskateboards]

I believe the wheels are the Never Summer Drifts 81a. I could be wrong but I believe Jack was telling me how much he enjoyed them while he was visiting.

[@originalskateboards]

The standard bearings that come with all Original completes are Abec 3s. We also offer upgrades such as Bones Reds, Bones Super Reds, Bones Swiss, and Bones Ceramics. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

I hope so too HS. That said after 10 years of answering question, helping riders, and designing boards, I can tell you that the helping riders section of that isn't getting old for me. It will always be fun to do our best to create boards that we love (that you guys hopefully love as well) and then talk about the effort / engage with the people riding them. It will be for me anyway and I place to do it for as long as I can. Thanks for noticing. _Scott

[@originalskateboards]

A few of them are. The asymmetrical topmount is the Arbiter 36 while the symmetrical is the Maven 35. The Arbiter comes out today (probably late in the day) while the Maven is about 2 weeks out.

[@originalskateboards]

I don't know about the best boards but we make boards for the exact style of riding that we do every day. Stoked to hear you are liking them though. A pintail with S10s is about as hard carving as you can build a board, no matter who makes it. Great to hear you are having fun with that thing. Moving from there to the Apex I think you will also enjoy the fact that the Apex still holds a lot of carving potential. You might want to move to Caliber trucks on your Apex 40 for better sliding etc

[@originalskateboards]

Thanks for the good word- always more to come. -Joel

[@originalskateboards]

That'll be the Derringer 28. 28 x 9 inches, quad axial fiberglass for a snappy flex, geared to be a pure carver for flatland and small hills. Super fun little deck for when you don't want to carry something big.

[@originalskateboards]

check out the Pintail series! They are great for people who are just starting out because they're super easy to learn on. They are meant for cruising and carving purposes. The Pintails also come in 4 different sizes depending on your height and weight.

[@originalskateboards]

Much much much appreciated! Keep and shredding and enjoy the board! Shred onnnn!!!! - Bish

[@originalskateboards]

Hi Nick! 3:38 would be the Maven 35. It's an awesome freeriding and downhill board that's dropped low to the ground for easy slide initiation and stability. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

Yup! It comes in a bunch of colors! It's on our website under the mini longboards section if you want to check it out. It's a ton of fun!

[@originalskateboards]

Yep. The Penny deck is 21 or so inches long. The Penny Nickle is 27 inches long but only has a very short wheelbase. The Derringer is both longer (28 inches long), wider (9 inches wide) and more beefy with almost the entire deck being wheelbase (that means you will get a big board feel out of a tiny deck, unlike the ride you get on the pennys). Basically its a more serious carving solution even though its a smaller board (for us).

[@originalskateboards]

Yes you got it exactly :) a new topmount we are working on! I'm super stoked on it! _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

The Freeride 38 with rocker concave would be a great board for you. It's low and stable during higher speeds, and the rocker pushes out the trucks making slides easy! -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

The Pintail 43 will allow you to have a wider stance, and it will keep you stable. I suggest putting some white heavy tension springs in your trucks for some added stability. You can go with the S8 trucks if you're looking for a more aggressive carve, or the S10 trucks which make wider, more stable carves. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

The Apex and the Freerides are the two most versatile boards that we have had in our quivers here at Original over the last year or so. Obviously there are other boards (both from Original and elsewhere) that we ride but honestly the majority of what we have done has been on those two. That said the two new topmounts are taking a solid slot in highspeed freeride / downhil, they are out being ridden by the team (making appearances in this video) and set for release in September.

[@originalskateboards]

Yes! We ship for $60.00 USD for trucks, decks, and completes. Shipping is free for small components! This does not include any import/duty fees that may apply upon delivery.

[@originalskateboards]

It's different. The thing about Drops, of any sort, is that they loosen up the slide initiation while adding some stability. For a beginner learning to slide, thats a good thing. Both Apexes have drops; the DoubleConcave (micro drop; 0.25 inches) and the DiamondDrop (full drop 0.925 inches). The Arbiter (for instance) has no drop. The flip side of that is that a topmount (no drop) like the Arbiter will have better grip at speed and more fine tuned control.

[@Sk8willyp]

hey i just wanted to let you guys know that you are the ones that got me into longboarding in 2012 and i wanted to thank you guys for the videos and this one is gonna get me through the winter ... cant wait for the spring to learn those slide shuvits ... thanks guys. you helped me find a passion.

[@originalskateboards]

Height and weight helps us choose a board that would be a good size for someone. Also, know what type of riding the rider is looking to do will also help us choose a board. For you, I recommend checking out our Pintail series if you're just starting out. They come in 4 different sizes depending on your height and weight.

[@originalskateboards]

Check out the Pintail series. They come in 4 different sizes depending on your height and weight, and they are meant for cruising and carving. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

The Apex 40 with double concave would be a great board for your size and the type of riding you're looking to do. It's a great board for all types of riding

[@originalskateboards]

From time to time we absolutely due. 81a is my personal favorite classic thane duro option.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey Devin, Just remember that it's not better or worse, it is just newer. Really it is personal preference. Bish still prefers his DoubleConcave when offered the Diamond so its all about what is right for you, not necessarily what the sexy hot newness is. My best advice to anyone is always to find someone with the board you want, and stand on it : )

[@originalskateboards]

I would suggest an Apex 40- likely the Diamond drop. It has one of the best concaves for locking your feet in, kicks for tricks, and has some stiffness for hills and freeride. -Joel

[@originalskateboards]

We've considered it! We wanted to make them for the Apex series first, since those boards are meant to be thrashed around because they are freestyle specific boards. Making nose guards for the freerides wasn't really a priority before but it seems like lots of people have been asking for them. I'll pass on your request! -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

We have a few videos coming out in the future! As for the Apex 40, it really depends on the type of riding you're looking to do. It's a pretty big board if you're looking to use it for freestyle tricks at your height. You would be better off with the 34 or waiting for the Apex 37. As for the nose guards, you need to drill them into the board to mount them properly.

[@originalskateboards]

Yep! This is actually the first video on our channel to show a glimpse of the Arbiter. There are many shots of the team riding it in here.

[@originalskateboards]

We don't ship on weekends, but usually the board leaves either the same day or the next business day. From there it takes 3 to 5 days to get to Europe!

[@originalskateboards]

For your height and weight I recommend going with the Pintail 43. It will allow you to have a wider stance, and it will be a bit more stable since it's made with 9 plys. You should also stick with the S8 trucks but you may want to put either the red or white tension springs in the trucks for some added stability. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

I agree with rtrogers13, the Drop Freeride 41 will be perfect! I love that board and the drops are super comfy and give you a lot of lock in when going fast and doing big stand ups! Have fun, you will love the board _Molly

[@XH1tokiriX]

I love how you guys constantly reply to people's answers in the comment section of your videos. Even though many of them are repeats. It shows a lot of heart and sincerity and even though I haven't asked a question, I appreciate the help you guys give out. Keep being awesome!

[@originalskateboards]

I know it sounds small, but the Derringer 28 would be perfect for you. It's great for cruising and carving, and it's small enough to bring into work or store somewhere without taking up too much space.

[@originalskateboards]

The board being carried up the hill at 2:05 is not an Original board though it does look something like the new Maven 35 that will be releasing in about 2 weeks. The rider (Jon Sevik) who does the super nasty backside 360 slide shuv is on the Apex 40 DiamondDrop.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey! Switching to Orangatang Fat Free's is a great idea! The difference is the hardness of the wheel... the softer the wheel the smoother the ride and the more it grips. The harder the wheel the ride will be a little "bumpier" not as smooth and the wheel will slide easier. All of the Fat Frees slide very well but I would suggest the 83a! Those are my favorite for sure and have a great slide while being great for cruising :) Have fun _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

Sounds like a great board for you! The Pintails are sticking around, so if you can't get one now you should have no problem after winter.

[@originalskateboards]

We make it, though as I mentioned, it has a black dip paint job and a pretty sweet graphic on it now. The board is the Apex 40 DiamondDrop, hit up one of our dealers or you can find the board and all the colors of noseguards at the Original Skateboards website.

[@originalskateboards]

Ah man thats rough. I think we have all been there with one injury or another. I did my ACL two years ago and I am still re-habbing. Get well soon and get back out there. Skate safe!

[@originalskateboards]

Hey, I pretty sure Jack used a Cannon t2i or t3i for filming this. For a good beginner board, I would recommend one of our Pintails. They are great for riders that want to cruise, carve and commute. If you are looking for a board to slide with and push your speed, check out our Freerides and if you want an all around board check out our Apex's. As you said for just starting out, Pintails are the way to go!

[@originalskateboards]

Sure! I will recommend the Apex 40 AV Rocker! The size and mellow flex will be perfect for your size and weight. Also this board complements freestyle perfectly while also being great for freeriding! So it would be great for you and your street skating backround. Have fun and skate safe! _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

Those two goals are on opposite sides of a boards capabilities. You have two options; get a board that's good for downhill and make up for poor flatland performance through pumping skill, OR grab a board thats great for flatland and make up the lost stability with good balance / downhill skill. Personally I think the safest way to go would be to get a good downhill deck, like the Arbiter 36, and then mount your trucks on the shortest wheelbase when you are on flats.

[@originalskateboards]

Here is the thing, I am in a similar situation. I ride the DiamondDrop most of the time. I take the Maven out only when I know most of my riding will be 35 to 45mph or any time I am racing a faster coarse. The DiamondDrop is a great deck because it is so versatile but you don't need kicks when you are hauling. If you are getting into higher speed stuff the Maven is great, or if you just don't care about kicktails. For more mixed all around stuff I'd take my DD Apex everytime.

[@originalskateboards]

Nah that one was just something we did to screw around at the broadway bomb one year. Usually every year we go we bring some extras so if you see our guys at the bomb, be sure to ask if we have any extra shirts. We aren't there to give away 1000 and force everyone to wear them, but its just a fun thing for fans and friends.

[@originalskateboards]

Hmmm I see what your saying. The Pintails are great for cruising and carving and having fun, but you can do a lot more tricks on the Apex's. For you, I would suggest the Apex 40 AV Rocker with Bear trucks! Loosen up your trucks so you get a nice surfy feel for carving around and pumping through the city! Then the boards size and kicks will be great in case you want to do some cross stepping, shuvits and tricks! I think you would love that board! Let me know what you think :) _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

Hey!!! Well heres a little tip- for wheels the harder the wheel the more bumpy the ride is but the easier they slide. The softer the wheel the smoother the slide but they are grippier (the hardness is in duro like on wheels you will se 81a or 78a.) My favorite all around wheel is the Abec 11 flashback 81a. And for trucks I would recommend Calibers. You can ride them loose and cruise around or you can freeride and freestyle on them and they are very stable! Have fun (: _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

Derringer 28, just re-released in July. Check it out, one of my all time favorites for just screwing around.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey, you and d3cepti0nhd are exactly right, it is mostly preference. Personally from Abec11 I love 78a grippins for all around freeride. From O-tang the 83a and 86a fat frees are awesome for tech and low speed freeriding. Volantes Checkers are also a great choice for all around freeride. Eventaully after trying many sets of wheels you'll find out what releases and hooks up the way you want them to.

[@originalskateboards]

It all depends on the type of riding you're looking to do! If you are interested in mostly freestyle riding then I suggest going with the Apex 40 AV Rocker concave. If you think you want to do more freeriding and DH, then I'd say go with the Diamond Drop.

[@originalskateboards]

I would suggest the Double concave for you. I believe it is the most well rounded of the Apex. So you will fell great while your sliding, cruising, doing freestyle or anything else! Good luck with your new job also!

[@originalskateboards]

For hills there is no question (for me) that the DiamondDrop has the advantage. That said even having ridden the DiamondDrop extensively Bish still likes his DoubleConcave best in almost every situation I have seen him in (outside of racing / pure downhill / freeride for which he rides the Maven 35 which is not yet out). So! If you are absolutely doing hills I would recommend the DiamondDrop but don't feel like it is the only choice. If you can ride both then decide, that is always best.

[@originalskateboards]

Hi James! Stoked to hear you want to get a board! For you, I suggest checking out the Pintail 43! It's great for cruising, carving, and some smaller hills. Check out our Pintail video to see how they ride! -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

Yes, in that case go for the Freeride 38 RC! It will suit you very well, stay stoked! _Molly

[@originalskateboards]

Hey, You might want to look into one of our Apex series boards, or one of the Freeride series as a more affordable option. The Apex 40 sounds like it would fit well with you, and it's my personal favorite board on our line. The alternative option is a Freeride 41 which is made of maple as opposed to maple+fiberglass+carbon fiber in the Apex 40. Both boards come in different concave options for you! -Bish

[@originalskateboards]

I would suggest the Diamond Drop Apex 40- great for freestyle, good for freeride, and just a solid board all around. You could also consider a Double Drop Apex 40- or one of the 34s if your shorter. -Joel

[@originalskateboards]

Octane Sports used to stock the stuff though I haven't been working with the shops for a little while. We also ship direct which runs at $60.00USD flatrate and takes 3 to 7 days to arrive in the U.K.

[@originalskateboards]

Yup! It's a Derringer, and it looks like Bear trucks.

[@originalskateboards]

That would amazing for you!!! The Apex 40 Diamond Drop is going to be a board good for all situations. All of the Apex 40 series boards are going to be good for just about everything. The diamond will be great to learn on, then push your limits with all the different styles! And its very light and great for commuting around school. Let me know if you have any more questions! _Molly

[@LongboardEC]

This is the definition of a sick longboarding video Everyone looks like they're having a blast Great Filming Great Song Great Footage!

[@TheFlowNova]

I've been skating the regular skateboard decks for just about 8 years now, and I've never set foot on a long board. This video definitely makes me want to try it out. It looks like so much fun.

[@originalskateboards]

You mean you don't want Original TRUCKS for downhill, which we completely agree with you. However, we have just released some awesome boards for downhill riding and we have them with some bushing trucks. Check out our newest line of boards such as the Arbiter, Maven, Dropped Beasts and Apex 40 Diamond Drop. They all handle high speeds VERY well. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

Id go with the Drop Freeride 41 over the RC. Its going to have the low platform for pushing and riding hills. The deeper concave also locks your feet in for slides. -Joel

[@SmoothHitt]

Just incase you didn't know, Bish, you are everyones favorite original rider. Thanks so much for the extra videos and work you put in. All my friends love my orange home depot slide gloves. XD

[@originalskateboards]

Each to his own, I saw a DiamondDrop setup with white paris, 70mm these and the white guards and it looked super BA. Just depends on what you are going for and on what floats your boat...er... board.

[@originalskateboards]

The mini is the Derringer 28. Check it out on our site, it comes in a bunch of awesome colors. The Diamond drop we are working hard to have released within the next few weeks.

[@originalskateboards]

Looks like mostly the asym topmount proto (the Maven 35) but there are other decks mixed in there. With so many boards coming out at this point riders are just riding which ever they like. Bish for instance still prefers the DoubleConcave, within the crew on this video some prefer one topmount to another or prefer the DiamondDrop to either. Starting to be more about personal preference for us here at Original, which is a good thing.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey! That looks like the Orange DERRINGER 28. It's a super fun carving board! -Lindsay

[@Erikperik93]

Epic music and video, as always! Love the feeling I get from these videos.

[@originalskateboards]

A cruiser with skateboard trucks is really just a skateboard with a pointy nose. In my opinion if you are going to get into buying a cruiser at least get one that gives you a little carve via a longboard truck. That said if you REALLY want to carve check out something like the Derringer 28 (which is shown a couple of times in this video). Thats basically a small carving longboard as opposed to a slightly larger traditional skate deck which is what you get most of the time in a cruiser.

[@originalskateboards]

If you're looking to do freestyle and freeriding then I personally suggest going with the Double Concave, and then adding the PK nose guards to help out with freestyle.

[@originalskateboards]

If you go to Original's website, click on products, and to the right, click on hardware- you'll see the PK Nose Guards. -Lindsay

[@ktait98]

Wow man never really thought of it that way, I've watched a few more of your vids and the more I watch, the more I understand what it's all about! Cheers Bish!

[@originalskateboards]

The key for the DiamondDrop is freestyle. For freestyle it's going to destroy most of the other viable freeride / freestyle options. BUT you have to want freestyle performance. With all of that in mind, I think that the fact that you are looking for some freeride and mild DH would push me toward recommending the DiamondDrop over the DC... unless you aren't doing much freestyle in which case you could go with the Drop Freeride 41 or even the new Maven.

[@Km24673]

this is my favorite longboard video

[@originalskateboards]

that would be the Derringer 28 which was just released a few weeks ago!

[@switchblade308]

You guys are awesome. I wish I could longboard that good.

[@anlilars]

True, but I have to admid that I am full off envy too see you guys being able too longboard on car-free roads that are in good condition.

[@originalskateboards]

Well they are different boards and different people like each. Personally I believe the DiamondDrop is a much better board for basically everything, BUT I like drop decks. If you don't like drop decks you very well may prefer the AvRocker or the DoubleConcave. But for me, there is no substitute ANYWHERE for the DiamondDrop, it is a super unique concept and it is absolutely killer for crossover freestyle / freeride.

[@originalskateboards]

Hey John! We're currently remodeling our website, so right now we don't have those pictures that you're looking for. But we can help you decide which trucks would be best for you if you let us know what kind of riding you're looking to do with the Derringer. And if you want to know what the trucks look like, I'm sure we can easily link you to a site with photos. -Lindsay

[@bobjones-jj2mj]

Oh wow. Thats a huge improvement from other 9 ply boards, so heavy to kick out!

[@originalskateboards]

Well, first off keep in mind that these are both great boards, but completely different. I have some time on the switchblade and I liked it a lot as a long wheelbase drop. That said the freestyle capacity is pretty much zero. The freestyle capacity, durability, and combined freestyle / freeride capabilities are really the main reason you would choose the Apex 40 Diamond. So! If you want to throw some freestyle in there along with your freeride / slides, the Apex 40 would be great.

[@originalskateboards]

Sometimes we accidentally scratch a board during or after graphic application. Since we want every board you guys buy to be perfect we would never feel right selling a scratched / blemmished board for full price. Graphic blems have a scratch or other aesthetic blemmish that causes them to be 100% structurally but slightly less than 100% aesthetically. So we give offer them at a discount.

[@originalskateboards]

Check out the Drop Freeride 41 or the Maven- They are two boards designed for freeride and will help you get into sliding. -Joel

[@originalskateboards]

Hey, I think you should check out an Apex 40, or a Freeride 41. The Apex is a great board for freeriding and tricks that is super durable and fun. The Freeride will be great for freeriding, some tricks, and is a bit heavier so it will be easier to gain some momentum down hills. Hope this helps! -Bish

[@GoLongboard1021]

that one guy at 2:10 in the deadmou5 shirt does that big spin and lands like it was nothing looks soooo cool

[@originalskateboards]

Actually we are getting Manhattan's in this week- the should go up on line in a day or two. -Joel

[@originalskateboards]

Caps locking hard on this one ; ) Sounds like something like the Pintail 37 or Pintail 40 would have you covered as far as performance is concerned. Those two boards are really just cruisers / carvers and they are a great inexpensive way to get on board for the first time. That said, for sliding etc (like you see in this video) you probably want to look at something like the Freeride 41 or Drop Freeride 41. Either will be easier to slide and a more reliable board to progress forward on.

[@XChaoticDestiny]

Then good for him! If that is true then he's probably shredding hard, and loving it all the while. We all miss you guys together, but life happens, you know? Hope you're all doing well out there on the Original team! Thanks for clearing things up. ha

[@RTRogers13]

Hey bro, for me, I just feel much more free on a longboard. I can enjoy myself much more on a longboard. I like the feeling of being able to walk across my board, dance on it, then go fly down a hill and go sideways and get a sense of freedom. Nothing can compare to the feeling of gliding down a hill sideways. It's a rush.

[@originalskateboards]

The DK Apex 37 with kicks will be out in September, keep an eye out : )

[@originalskateboards]

Check out the Arbiter 36! It's great for downhill and freeriding. -Lindsay

[@originalskateboards]

Lol thats a tall order for sure lol half pipe, 50mph and kickflips do not always go together and particularly not for newer riders. My suggestion would be to get two boards. One for skating street and half pipe, one for downhill. Its probably cheaper than getting one to do everything and you will have better performance in either discipline. Skateboarding is a quiver based sport, make sure you have the right boards to go in that quiver. Check out the Arbiter 36 for the downhill stuff!

[@originalskateboards]

Hey! Carl was shredding the symmetrical topmount proto we are working on!!! _Molly

[@cuponkbeasts]

This is my favorite video i cant stop watching it also good music selection