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Longboard Soft Top: The Ultimate Guide to Comfort and Performance

The world of longboarding offers a diverse range of options, catering to different riding styles and preferences. Among these, the longboard soft top stands out for its unique blend of comfort, stability, and accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an easy entry point or an experienced rider seeking a more relaxed cruising experience, a longboard soft top could be the perfect choice. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about longboard soft tops, from their construction and benefits to the best models and maintenance tips.

What is a Longboard Soft Top?

A longboard soft top, as the name suggests, is a longboard featuring a deck covered with a soft, textured material. This material is typically made of EVA foam (Ethylene-vinyl acetate), similar to what you’d find on a surfboard or yoga mat. Unlike traditional longboards with hard, often slippery decks, the longboard soft top provides a cushioned and grippy surface. This makes it more comfortable to ride, especially for longer distances, and enhances stability, particularly for beginners.

Benefits of Riding a Longboard Soft Top

There are several key advantages to choosing a longboard soft top:

Comfort: The soft deck material provides a comfortable riding experience, reducing foot fatigue and allowing for longer sessions.
Grip: The textured surface offers excellent grip, even when wet, minimizing the risk of slipping. This is a major advantage for beginners and those who ride in various weather conditions.
Stability: The increased grip and cushioned feel contribute to enhanced stability, making it easier to maintain balance and control.
Durability: While the soft top itself is not indestructible, it provides a protective layer for the underlying deck, making it more resistant to scratches and dings.
Beginner-Friendly: The forgiving nature of a longboard soft top makes it an ideal choice for beginners learning to ride. The increased stability and grip build confidence and accelerate the learning process.
Versatility: While often associated with cruising, longboard soft tops can be used for various riding styles, including carving, commuting, and even some freestyle tricks.

Construction of a Longboard Soft Top

A typical longboard soft top consists of several layers:

EVA Foam Top Layer: This is the soft, textured surface that provides comfort and grip. The thickness and density of the EVA foam can vary, affecting the overall feel of the board.
Fiberglass or Wood Core: Beneath the EVA foam lies a core made of fiberglass or wood (often maple). This core provides the board with its structural integrity and flex.
Bottom Layer: The bottom layer is typically made of a durable material like fiberglass or plastic, providing a smooth surface for gliding.

Choosing the Right Longboard Soft Top

When selecting a longboard soft top, consider the following factors:

Length: Longer boards are generally more stable and easier to ride, while shorter boards are more maneuverable. Choose a length that suits your riding style and experience level.
Width: A wider deck provides more stability and foot room, which is especially beneficial for beginners.
Flex: The amount of flex in the board affects its responsiveness and feel. Softer flex boards are more forgiving and comfortable for cruising, while stiffer flex boards offer more control and responsiveness for carving and tricks.
Trucks: The trucks are the axles that connect the wheels to the board. Quality trucks are essential for smooth turning and stability. Consider the truck angle and bushing hardness when choosing trucks.
Wheels: The size and durometer (hardness) of the wheels affect the board’s speed, grip, and ride quality. Softer wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip, while harder wheels are faster and more durable.
Your Riding Style: What kind of riding do you plan to do? Cruising, carving, commuting, or freestyle? The best longboard soft top for you will depend on your intended use.

Top Longboard Soft Top Models on the Market

Here are a few popular longboard soft top models to consider:

Wavestorm 9’6″ Longboard: While primarily known for surfboards, Wavestorm also offers a longboard soft top version that’s incredibly durable and beginner-friendly.
California Board Company (CBC) Cruiser: CBC offers a range of longboard soft tops designed for cruising and carving. Their boards are known for their quality construction and stylish designs.
South Bay Board Co. Guppy: The Guppy is a shorter longboard soft top designed for easy turning and maneuverability. It’s a great option for riders who want a more playful and responsive board.

Maintaining Your Longboard Soft Top

To keep your longboard soft top in good condition, follow these maintenance tips:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse the board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and dirt.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the EVA foam.
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect the board for any signs of damage, such as tears or cracks in the EVA foam. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
Clean the Deck: Occasionally clean the deck with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime.
Tighten Hardware: Periodically check and tighten the trucks and wheel nuts to ensure they are secure.

Advanced Riding Techniques on a Longboard Soft Top

While longboard soft tops are excellent for beginners and casual cruisers, they can also be used for more advanced riding techniques. Here are a few things to try:

Carving: Use your body weight to lean into turns and carve smooth lines on the pavement. The soft top provides excellent grip, allowing you to push your carving skills to the limit.
Dancing: Longboards offer plenty of space for performing dance moves. Experiment with different steps and combinations to create your own unique style.
Freestyle: While not ideal for technical tricks, longboard soft tops can be used for basic freestyle maneuvers like kickturns and cross-stepping.

Safety Considerations for Longboard Soft Tops

Safety should always be a top priority when riding a longboard. Here are some essential safety tips:

Wear a Helmet: A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear. Choose a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards.
Use Protective Gear: Consider wearing knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards to protect yourself from injuries.
Choose Safe Riding Locations: Avoid riding in traffic or on crowded sidewalks. Choose smooth, paved surfaces with minimal obstacles.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of pedestrians, cars, and other hazards.
Learn to Brake: Mastering different braking techniques, such as foot braking and sliding, is crucial for controlling your speed and avoiding collisions.
Start Slow: If you’re a beginner, start slow and gradually increase your speed as you gain confidence and experience.

Longboard Soft Tops vs. Traditional Longboards

The key difference between a longboard soft top and a traditional longboard lies in the deck material. Traditional longboards typically have hard decks made of wood or fiberglass, while longboard soft tops feature a soft, textured EVA foam deck. This difference in material affects the board’s comfort, grip, and stability. [See also: Different Types of Longboards]

Longboard soft tops are generally more comfortable and beginner-friendly, while traditional longboards offer more responsiveness and control for advanced riding styles. The choice between the two depends on your personal preferences and riding goals. [See also: Longboard Buying Guide]

The Future of Longboard Soft Tops

The longboard soft top market is constantly evolving, with manufacturers developing new materials and designs to improve performance and durability. As more people discover the benefits of longboard soft tops, their popularity is likely to continue to grow. We can expect to see more innovative designs and features in the future, making longboard soft tops even more versatile and accessible.

Conclusion: Is a Longboard Soft Top Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comfortable, stable, and beginner-friendly longboard, a longboard soft top is an excellent choice. Its soft deck provides a cushioned and grippy surface, making it easier to learn and enjoy the ride. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider seeking a more relaxed cruising experience, a longboard soft top can offer a unique and rewarding riding experience. Consider your riding style, preferences, and budget when choosing a longboard soft top, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect board for your needs. [See also: Longboarding for Beginners]