Soft Top Longboards: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Cruising
Soft top longboards are rapidly gaining popularity among both beginner and experienced riders. These boards offer a unique blend of comfort, stability, and performance, making them an excellent choice for cruising, carving, and even some light downhill riding. This guide will delve into the world of soft top longboards, exploring their construction, benefits, key features to consider, and how to choose the perfect board for your needs. Whether you’re just starting or looking to add a new dimension to your longboarding experience, understanding the nuances of soft top longboards is crucial.
What are Soft Top Longboards?
Traditional longboards typically feature a hard deck made of wood, often maple, with a grip tape surface. Soft top longboards, on the other hand, incorporate a softer, more forgiving material on the deck, often a type of foam like EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or similar closed-cell foams. This soft layer provides cushioning and grip, enhancing comfort and control, especially for longer rides.
The core of a soft top longboard is still usually constructed from wood or composite materials to provide the necessary rigidity and support. However, the addition of the soft top layer significantly alters the riding experience. They are often mistaken for beginner boards, but many experienced riders appreciate the comfortable ride a soft top longboard offers.
Benefits of Riding a Soft Top Longboard
- Enhanced Comfort: The primary advantage of a soft top longboard is the increased comfort it provides. The soft deck absorbs vibrations and impacts, reducing fatigue and making longer rides more enjoyable.
- Improved Grip: The textured surface of the soft top material offers excellent grip, even without shoes. This can be particularly appealing for riders who enjoy cruising barefoot or prefer a more natural feel.
- Increased Stability: The soft deck can provide a slightly more forgiving feel, helping riders maintain balance and control, especially when encountering uneven surfaces. Many find soft top longboards to be very stable.
- Beginner-Friendly: The forgiving nature of soft top longboards makes them an excellent choice for beginners. The added comfort and grip can boost confidence and make the learning process more enjoyable.
- Durability: Modern soft top longboards are surprisingly durable. The soft top material is resistant to water damage and can withstand significant wear and tear.
- Versatility: While primarily designed for cruising, soft top longboards can also be used for carving and even some light downhill riding.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Longboard
When selecting a soft top longboard, several key features should be considered to ensure you choose a board that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Deck Size and Shape
The size and shape of the deck play a significant role in the board’s performance and feel. Longer decks (40 inches or more) offer greater stability and are ideal for cruising and beginners. Shorter decks (36-40 inches) are more maneuverable and better suited for carving. The deck shape can also influence the board’s responsiveness and stability. Common shapes include pintails, drop-throughs, and cruisers.
Soft Top Material
The type of soft top material used can affect the board’s comfort, grip, and durability. EVA foam is a popular choice due to its excellent cushioning and water resistance. Other materials include closed-cell foams and textured rubber. Look for a material that is comfortable to the touch, provides good grip, and is resistant to wear and tear. The quality of the soft top longboard’s material is paramount.
Core Construction
The core of the longboard provides the necessary rigidity and support. Most soft top longboards feature a wood core, typically made of maple. However, some boards may use composite materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber for added strength and durability. A well-constructed core is essential for ensuring the board’s longevity and performance.
Trucks and Wheels
The trucks and wheels are crucial components that affect the board’s handling and ride quality. Wider trucks offer greater stability, while narrower trucks provide more maneuverability. The wheel size and durometer (hardness) also play a role. Larger, softer wheels provide a smoother ride and are better for cruising, while smaller, harder wheels offer more grip and are better for carving. Consider the quality of the trucks and wheels when evaluating a soft top longboard.
Weight Capacity
Always check the weight capacity of the longboard to ensure it can safely support your weight. Exceeding the weight limit can damage the board and compromise your safety. A good soft top longboard will clearly state its weight capacity.
Types of Soft Top Longboards
While all soft top longboards share the common feature of a soft deck, there are different types designed for specific riding styles.
Cruiser Soft Top Longboards
These boards are designed for relaxed cruising and commuting. They typically feature a longer deck, wider trucks, and softer wheels for a smooth and comfortable ride. Cruiser soft top longboards are perfect for exploring your neighborhood or enjoying a leisurely ride along the boardwalk.
Carving Soft Top Longboards
Carving soft top longboards are designed for making smooth, flowing turns. They typically feature a shorter deck, narrower trucks, and harder wheels for more responsive handling. These boards are ideal for riders who enjoy carving down hills or navigating winding paths.
Hybrid Soft Top Longboards
Hybrid soft top longboards combine features of both cruiser and carving boards. They offer a balance of stability and maneuverability, making them suitable for a variety of riding styles. These boards are a good choice for riders who want a versatile longboard that can handle different terrains and riding conditions.
Tips for Riding a Soft Top Longboard
To get the most out of your soft top longboard, consider these tips:
- Start with the Basics: If you’re a beginner, start by practicing basic skills like balancing, pushing, and turning in a safe, open area.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as knee pads and elbow pads, to protect yourself from injuries.
- Maintain Your Board: Regularly inspect your board for any signs of damage and perform necessary maintenance, such as tightening the trucks and cleaning the wheels.
- Choose the Right Location: Select riding locations that are appropriate for your skill level and the type of longboard you’re using. Avoid riding in traffic or on crowded sidewalks.
- Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become on your soft top longboard.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard
Proper maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your soft top longboard and ensuring optimal performance.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the soft top deck with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Storage: Store your longboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. This will help prevent damage to the soft top material and the core.
- Truck Maintenance: Periodically check the trucks for any signs of wear or damage. Tighten the nuts and bolts as needed and lubricate the pivot cups to ensure smooth turning.
- Wheel Maintenance: Clean the wheels regularly to remove dirt and debris. Check the bearings for any signs of wear and replace them if necessary.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect the entire board for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or delamination. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Are Soft Top Longboards Right for You?
Deciding whether a soft top longboard is right for you depends on your riding style, experience level, and personal preferences. If you prioritize comfort, stability, and ease of use, a soft top longboard is an excellent choice. They are particularly well-suited for beginners, casual cruisers, and riders who enjoy riding barefoot.
However, if you’re an experienced rider looking for maximum performance and responsiveness, you may prefer a traditional hard deck longboard. Ultimately, the best way to determine if a soft top longboard is right for you is to try one out and see how it feels. [See also: Best Longboard Wheels for Cruising] [See also: How to Choose the Right Longboard Trucks]
Where to Buy Soft Top Longboards
Soft top longboards are available at many local skate shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When purchasing a soft top longboard online, be sure to check the product descriptions carefully and read customer reviews to ensure you’re getting a quality product. Some popular brands that offer soft top longboards include Wavestorm, California Board Company, and South Bay Board Co. Researching different brands and comparing prices can help you find the best deal on a soft top longboard that meets your needs and budget.
Conclusion
Soft top longboards offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience, combining comfort, stability, and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, a soft top longboard can be a great addition to your quiver. By understanding the key features to consider and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can choose the perfect soft top longboard for your needs and enjoy countless hours of comfortable cruising.
