A freeboard is kind of specialist skateboard designed to closely simulate the behavior of a snowboard.
It has 6 wheels; two spring locked center wheels, and four slightly raised conventional wheels. The central axis wheels are able to turn freely in all directions, which allows the freeboard to slide laterally as long as no other wheel touches the ground. By exerting some pressure on the edge wheels, the freeboarder is able to control the board. The central wheels thus mimic the deck of the snowboard, while the outer wheels mimic the two steel edges.
Freebording is an awesome awesome hobby. It's so much fun. If you longboard, you should consider trying this instead. This board allows for control when carving, you just need to carve hard to slow down.
Videos:Freebord - Stop for a DimeThis video is not only funny as hell, but very informative as to how the freebord works. At any time, 4 of the 6 wheels are touching the ground. The center two wheels, and then two of the outer wheels. This lets the user turn left and right just as if you were on a snowboard.
The video also demonstrates how easy it is to push while on it as well, which was my main concern before buying one. The bindings are really not as restrictive as you'd think they would be.
Freebord Pro Team in CaliforniaYoung and Old in SwitzerlandFreebord A-team in AustriaThese guys are amazing. They are the best "borders" you will find.
Every freebords is upwards of $200 dollars, but they are of very high quality. The deck is made out of bamboo, which gives you a light, yet tough deck. The bindings are hard plastic, which is whatever. The trucks are really nice, they are very much like a longboard's trucks. I would HIGHLY recommend getting the Speedball Bearings as they are the best bearings I've ever used on any board, freebord or not, ever.
So, discuss freebording in general. :D
