With all the stresses teens have today, it’s good to have some sort of outlet to let loose and let the worries of school, work, friends, relationships, parents and let everything else just fade in the background. Some students may draw, some may write, some may even make voodoo dolls of their friends and acquaintances to use for rituals in their closet shrines. Longboarding is that outlet for many students here at Albert Lea High School.

Longboarding is essentially skateboarding but with a more laid-back feel. It’s not about the pushing, the speed or the tricks. It’s more about the kick and the distance you can go just gliding. Local longboarders, juniors Regin Reyes and Lawrence Pederson, know plenty about that. For them it’s not just something to do after school with friends. It’s a hobby they can see themselves continuing for years to come and probably well into college.

“It’s a great way of getting around town,” said Pedersen “Especially with gas prices nowadays.”

Though it saves on gas money in the summer months, a new longboard can cost 100 to 500 dollars. It’s not just the longboards themselves you have to worry about money-wise. It’s the parts, too. Wheels alone can cost upward of $100 per set.

Both Reyes and Pederson agree, there’s nothing like the feeling of being able to glide forever on one swift kick.

“It feels almost like you’re surfing,” Reyes said. “It’s just so smooth and easy.”

Though it can save you from spending half your paychecks on gas next spring, it might take one or two to actually get one. In the long run it’s an activity that’s low-intensity, relaxing and something you can use to get around with ease, be it around town, your college campus or even just down the street to a friend’s house. Longboarding is something more people are beginning to enjoy and looks like it’ll be around for years to come.