When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Eastside Longboards
Why Eastside Longboards is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Eastside Longboards is a premier longboard production shop located in Portland, Oregon, established in 2003 by seasoned longboard instructor Robin McGuirk. Known for its dedication to crafting high-quality longboard skateboards, the company operates as a production shop and offers convenient curbside service near S.E. 65th and Foster. Their product range includes a variety of longboard decks and complete longboards such as the Tabor, DK DropKick, Mach 3, and Relic models, alongside specialized components like the H2O Rain wheels. The business emphasizes quality and expert craftsmanship, catering to skateboarding enthusiasts from beginners to advanced riders. With an impressive 4.9 rating from 88 reviews, Eastside Longboards stands out not only for its quality products but also for its community trust and expert guidance. It is a great place to meet up with friends who share a passion for skating, thanks to its welcoming local atmosphere and focus on performance-driven designs. The shop's Portland roots and commitment to customer satisfaction make it a vital spot for those interested in longboard culture and skateboarding lifestyles.
Here's what people think of Eastside Longboards
As of recent, Eastside Longboards holds a 4.9-star rating based on 88 reviews.
User reviews of Eastside Longboards overwhelmingly praise the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of their products, reflecting the company's long-standing expertise in the field. Customers commonly highlight the responsiveness and helpfulness of the staff, especially their willingness to provide expert advice and personalized service despite being a production-only shop with no walk-in facilities. Many reviewers appreciate the curbside service's convenience and efficient handling of orders. Positive feedback also notes the durability and performance of the boards and wheels, often referring to their superior design suitable for various skating styles and conditions. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention the limitation of the non-walk-in model, which requires appointments or curbside pickups, potentially causing some inconvenience for those wanting to browse or test in person. A few responses indicate longer wait times for custom orders or specific items due to their bespoke production process. However, these critiques are rare and generally mitigated by the overall high product quality and attentive customer service. In conclusion, Eastside Longboards enjoys a stellar reputation for delivering excellent longboards with professional service, making it a trusted and favored destination for Portland's skateboarding community and beyond.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Rachael Holland
Robin is fantastic! My children and I recently participated in two longboarding classes with him, and it was an amazing experience. He is incredibly patient and understanding, and my kids had so much fun. I'm looking forward to signing up for more classes when we return to town. I highly recommend him for individuals of all ages and fitness levels!
Sunny Bleckinger
Gorgeous boards, perfect ride. Robin is super knowledgeable, gave my kid plenty of time to pick what he wanted, even gave him a quick lesson and checked in on us a few weeks later. Highly recommend!
Matt Trevino
If you want one of his boards and you live anywhere within your range. Drive past any skate shop and get it from the source. Robin will take care of you in person! I was impressed you could get setup right there where he is pressing the boards!! As local as it gets. He really took care of me when I needed it. He is so integrated in the area and he is well respected. I am looking forward to a formal class geared toward the local area. I am commuting in Portland with a bag for work or groceries! Very impressed with his presentation of necessary skills. Basically get it from the source!! 12 pack of Ranier on the bottom and 2 wall hangings 🤓
Bridger Wineman
I took Longboarding 101 from Robin and had a great time. He's a master teacher and knows how to describe and demonstrate all the core skills and nuances of getting down the hill safely and with style. Lots of fun and a great crew to learn with and tailored activities for each student. Wednesdays are the highlight of each week. He even prepped me to join Maryhill University, which was an amazing experience. I also have one of Robin's longboards, the DK Dropkick which he helped me set up for different riding styles. Highly recommend!
Kate Steckmest
I started out in Robin's 101 class as an absolute beginner in April. I showed up the first day never having stood on the board I had just bought- I was afraid it would slide out from under me or something. I spent the two hours practising pushing, turning, and safe ways to fall in the flat parking lot. I felt supported, in control, and ready for more. I took 101 classes a couple more times consecutively after that and mastered turning, toeside and heelside emergency shutdowns, etc. Robin always gave just enough input so that I knew what to do. A couple of months later, I took a private lesson from him to prepare for riding Maryhill and he rode in front of me so that I could feel safe going at higher speeds and trying out my new board, the Eastside Relic, which Robin set up for me with the right wheels, trucks, etc. and had everything adjusted just right for my needs. At Maryhill last weekend (see pic), the first time I rode from the top, I went with another person who had taken his class and we followed his line down. I felt calm and under control even on a hill that really challenged me because I trusted that Robin knew our levels and abilities well and would only push us up to our limits in which we were safe. I'm now in the 201 class in which we ride Tabor from the top at higher speeds and practice drafting, shutdown slides on the hairpin, etc. It's pure joy! I love the community that longboarding has brought into my life and I can't wait to see what the next things this sport has in store for me. I can't recommend Eastside enough- contact them for equipment, lessons, and group classes and Robin will get you set up!
How to reach Eastside Longboards
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Website: None
Why rally at Eastside Longboards with your friends? Eastside Longboards is a premier destination for longboarding enthusiasts and anyone looking for an engaging, fun, and dynamic meetup spot. Located near SE 65th and Foster in Portland, Oregon, it offers much more than just a retail experience—it is a vibrant hub of longboarding culture and community that encourages social connection through shared passion. Whether you're an experienced rider or a group looking to try something new and exciting, Eastside Longboards provides an ideal atmosphere with high-quality gear, expert advice, and a welcoming environment. The shop operates as a production facility, crafting their own custom longboards since 2003, which ensures that every piece is crafted with care and expertise. What makes it especially great for groups is the availability of lessons and group events, such as riding sessions and cone course challenges, fostering camaraderie and making it easy for friends and families to bond over a shared activity. The team's dedication to customer service and support is reflected in their impressive 4.9 rating from 88 reviews, highlighting consistent satisfaction. Meeting up here guarantees not only gear and expertise but also a memorable, community-driven experience perfect for rallies and fun outings with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Eastside Longboards, and why is it perfect for group meetups? Eastside Longboards offers a variety of activities that cater to both beginners and seasoned riders, making it excellent for group dynamics. One of the standout offerings is their longboarding lessons, held regularly, especially in spring and summer, where groups can learn to ride together at Mt. Tabor, a scenic local spot. These lessons are tailored for different skill levels, boosting confidence and enjoyment for everyone involved. The shop also hosts special events and sets up cone courses for practicing slalom and freestyle riding, giving groups challenges and fun competitions. This encourages team spirit and gives friends a shared goal to work towards. Beyond riding, the shop’s environment is conducive to socializing with knowledgeable staff available for sound advice and help selecting the perfect gear customized to your needs. Since it is not a traditional walk-in retail store but a production shop, visitors get a unique firsthand look at how longboards are made, which adds an educational and interactive element to the visit. The combination of hands-on learning, quality products, and vibrant community events makes Eastside Longboards the ideal meet-up spot for groups wanting an active and memorable outing.
Why is Eastside Longboards considered a trusted and high-quality brand in the longboard community? Since 2003, Eastside Longboards has built a solid reputation in the Pacific Northwest and beyond by consistently delivering handcrafted, quality longboards. Their commitment to craftsmanship and the culture of longboarding is evident in their partnerships with respected retail shops like Daddies Board Shop, which first carried their boards in 2005, helping to introduce and grow longboarding in Portland. Support from larger retailers like Muir Skate and presence at significant downhill and freeride longboarding events further reinforce the brand’s industry credibility. Eastside Longboards is known for sponsoring numerous local and national events, which nurtures rider development and builds a strong community around their products. Their team includes local pros and ambassadors, some of whom have progressed to international prominence, demonstrating the brand’s supportive environment. The product line is appreciated for its durability, design, and price point, making it accessible for many while retaining a high-quality standard. This history of community involvement and consistent quality places Eastside Longboards among the most trusted names in the sport for those seeking reliable and expertly made longboards.
How does Eastside Longboards support and engage with the local longboarding community? Engagement with the local community is central to Eastside Longboards’ mission. The shop is actively involved in sponsoring and supporting many longboarding events across Oregon and Washington. These events range from casual meetups to competitive downhill and freeride races, which provide riders of all levels opportunities to test their skills in safe, controlled environments. Eastside’s weekly group rides at Mt. Tabor not only encourage safe riding practices but also foster community connections, helping newcomers integrate and veterans share their knowledge. Beyond organized rides, Eastside encourages riders to participate in their specially designed cone courses and fun group challenges, bringing an interactive element to meetups. They also cultivate talent within their local rider team, offering pathways for riders to advance their skills and even move into professional longboarding careers. Their ambassador program reaches globally, showing their commitment to spreading longboarding culture and supporting riders worldwide. This extensive support ensures that when groups rally at Eastside Longboards, they are stepping into a vibrant, engaging community that prioritizes inclusion, skill development, and shared passion.
Why is Eastside Longboards an ideal venue for family and friend gatherings beyond just skateboarding? Eastside Longboards offers much more than just the thrill of riding; it provides a holistic experience that makes it an outstanding venue for social gatherings. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for families who want to introduce kids or teens to a fun, active sport in a safe and encouraging environment. The lessons are structured to accommodate all ages and skill levels, making it easy for families and friend groups to participate together. Moreover, the production shop aspect means visitors can enjoy seeing the craftsmanship behind the boards, adding an interactive and educational dimension. This sense of discovery enhances the group experience and sparks curiosity, especially among younger attendees. The shop's events, such as fun runs, races, and cone slalom courses, are inherently designed to be enjoyed as team activities, fostering friendly competition and group bonding. For groups looking for an authentic, active, and memorable outing that blends sport, education, and community spirit, Eastside Longboards truly stands out as a perfect choice.
How does the customer service experience enhance group meetups at Eastside Longboards? The customer service at Eastside Longboards is frequently praised, contributing significantly to the overall group experience. Visitors often highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff who take the time to offer personalized board selections and hardware recommendations, ensuring every rider has the right gear for their style and level. This attention to detail reduces the intimidation newcomers often feel and helps groups feel confident and prepared as they take on lessons or group rides. Staff members like Robin have been mentioned for going the extra mile to assist customers, which shows the genuine care Eastside Longboards invests in its community. The shop's commitment to small, skater-owned brand values translates into a welcoming environment where guests feel supported and appreciated. For groups, this translates into an easy and enjoyable process of gearing up and learning, as everyone’s individual needs are respected and met with expertise. This exceptional service helps transform meetups into delightful, worry-free experiences focused on fun and friendship.
What makes Eastside Longboards stand out from other skateboard shops? Eastside Longboards stands out primarily because they are a production shop, not just a retail outlet. This means that the boards you see and buy are handcrafted locally, which supports authenticity and ensures high standards of quality. Unlike generic walk-in shops, this in-house crafting process allows buyers to witness or learn about the creation process, lending a unique transparency and connection with the product. The company’s deep roots in the Oregon and wider Northwest longboarding scene give it a heritage and community focus unmatched by larger commercial retailers. Moreover, their broad involvement in sponsoring events and fostering professional talent shows a commitment to the culture, not just commercial sales. This blend of craftsmanship, community sponsorship, and personalized service culminates in a comprehensive longboarding experience that fosters loyalty and trust among riders. For groups, this means they are engaging with a business that lives and breathes longboarding culture and actively nurtures it — far beyond a simple transaction.
What can you expect from Eastside Longboards events and lessons? Eastside Longboards organizes regular events and group lessons designed to engage riders at all experience levels, which is perfect for group meetups. Their lessons typically take place at Mt. Tabor, offering riders a beautiful, technically suitable environment to develop skills such as carving, cruising, sliding, and downhill riding safely. These sessions often include setting up cone courses to practice slalom techniques, adding fun and challenge for participants. Special events, like group rides and timed challenges, bring an element of friendly competition, encouraging group camaraderie and team spirit. Because the lessons are frequently held on weeknights in pleasant weather months, groups can plan meetups that combine learning, exercise, and socializing. Additionally, these events are supported by experienced riders and shop professionals, ensuring safety and offering constructive feedback. This professional guidance makes the experience rewarding, motivating groups to keep riding and improving together.
How accessible is Eastside Longboards for newcomers or non-riders? Eastside Longboards prides itself on being accessible to newcomers and non-riders, which makes it an excellent choice for groups with mixed experience levels. Their lessons are designed to be approachable, focusing on building confidence and basic skills without pressure. The staff helps customers choose boards that suit beginners, providing safety tips and support to minimize the learning curve. Even those who aren’t ready to ride can benefit from observing the board-making process or attending community events to get a feel for the longboarding culture before fully participating. The welcoming community atmosphere further helps newcomers feel included and supported. For families or friend groups looking for a new, inclusive activity, Eastside Longboards’ blend of education, expertly built equipment, and community spirit ensures everyone can participate, have fun, and feel accomplished.
Why is the local setting around Eastside Longboards beneficial for a longboarding meetup? Eastside Longboards is ideally situated near Mt. Tabor in Portland, a prime location for meeting up and enjoying longboarding. Mt. Tabor offers plenty of safe, well-maintained roads and paths, perfect for practicing and leisurely rides in a beautiful park setting. This urban park setting provides a pleasant outdoor backdrop with convenient access from the shop, which makes logistics for group meetups straightforward. Being in Portland, the shop is part of a city with a strong urban longboarding culture and excellent weather conditions during spring and summer, amplifying the outdoor experience. Close proximity to a vibrant community and other recreational amenities means groups can combine longboarding with food, sightseeing, or other fun activities in the neighborhood. This setting greatly enhances the appeal of Eastside Longboards as a meetup location since it provides both the facilities and natural environment needed for an enjoyable and comprehensive day out.