The Vanguard is the original longboard from Loaded Boards. Own a piece of history with the Loaded Vanguard, the board that launched Loaded into an incredible industry leader.
The symmetrical shape allows for a balanced platform and all around riding. Weighting and un-weighting the deck through turns allows the board to flex and store energy. This energy is then released when the turn is completed, creating a truly one of a kind experience.
You could say this board is "loaded" with potential energy.
Board Construction
The Loaded Vanguard is made from bamboo and fiberglass, creating an incredibly strong and resilient skateboard deck.
The deck contains epoxy and tri-axle fiberglass that sandwich a vertically laminated bamboo core. This is then pressed together under intense strain to form the concave and convex cambers. The liveliness and responsiveness paired with the high energy potential make this deck unbelievably fun.
Choosing a Flex Pattern
First, we recommend deciding whether you want the 42" or 38" model. The 42" is more of a cruiser, while the 38" is more maneuverable and quick.
After deciding on a length, match your weight to the flex chart below. If you are in between flexes, we recommend going stiffer if you want a more stable ride and softer if you want a more maneuverable and lively ride.
Additionally, if you want to do tricks on your Vanguard, you should probably choose a stiffer flex as the stiffness aids in landings and board pop-ability.
Flex Ratings
Loaded offers five flexes integrated within two lengths for a highly personalized ride.
| Flex Rating | Length | Recommended Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| Flex 1 | 42" (107 cm) | 175 - 230+ lbs (80 - 105+ kg) |
| Flex 2 | 42" (107 cm) | 150 - 210+ lbs (68 - 95+ kg) |
| Flex 3 | 38" (98 cm) | 150 - 200+ lbs (68 - 90+ kg) |
| Flex 4 | 38" (98 cm) | 120 - 170+ lbs (55 - 77+ kg) |
| Flex 5 | 38" (98 cm) | 80 - 140+ lbs (35 - 65+ kg) |
Speed and Downhill
We recommend keeping speeds under 25 mph on the Vanguard. The flexiness of this deck that makes it so much fun to carve also makes it very twitchy with speed. This board was designed for carving pleasure, not speed!
Vanguard Complete In Heat built with:
- Complete In Heat
- Paris V2 Trucks - 50° | 180mm | Black
- Orangatang In Heat Wheels - 75mm | 80a | Orange
- Loaded Jehu v2 Bearings - 8mm
Vanguard Complete Durian built with:
- Complete Durian
- Paris V2 Trucks - 50° | 180mm | Black
- Orangatang Durian Wheels - 75mm | 83a | Purple
- Loaded Jehu v2 Bearings - 8mm
Graphic Inspiration
The first Vanguard was designed by Alex Liki of Sao Paulo, Brazil for the Vanguard Graphic Contest. The graphic was then reworked by Pablo and Diana of Nana Studios.
It is meant to encompass the flow and lively feel of the Vanguard.
Specifications
- Length: 38" (Flex 3, 4, and 5) or 42" (Flex 1 and 2)
- Width: 8.5"
- Wheelbase: 31.50" or 35.00" (depending on length)
- Concave: Mild
- Nose / Tail: No / No
- Rocker / Camber: No / Yes
- Construction: Bamboo / Epoxy / Fiberglass
- Special Features: Five (5) flex ratings for full custom ride