Longboard Soft Top: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Cruising
The world of longboarding offers a diverse range of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping downhill rides to leisurely cruises along the boardwalk. For those seeking a more comfortable and forgiving ride, the longboard soft top emerges as an excellent choice. These boards, characterized by their soft, textured decks, provide enhanced grip and cushioning, making them ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of longboard soft tops, exploring their benefits, construction, and the factors to consider when choosing the perfect one for your needs.
What is a Longboard Soft Top?
A longboard soft top, as the name suggests, features a deck covered in a soft, grippy material, typically EVA foam or a similar synthetic compound. Unlike traditional longboards with hard maple decks and grip tape, longboard soft tops offer a more forgiving surface that’s easier on the feet and provides better traction, especially in wet conditions. This design makes them particularly appealing to beginners who are still developing their balance and coordination. The padded surface also absorbs vibrations, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride, even on rougher terrain.
Benefits of a Longboard Soft Top
The advantages of choosing a longboard soft top are numerous:
- Enhanced Comfort: The soft deck provides cushioning, reducing foot fatigue and making longer rides more enjoyable.
- Improved Grip: The textured surface offers excellent traction, even when wet, minimizing the risk of slipping.
- Increased Forgiveness: The softer deck is more forgiving of mistakes, making it easier for beginners to learn and maintain their balance.
- Reduced Vibration: The padded surface absorbs vibrations, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride on uneven surfaces.
- Durability: Many longboard soft tops are constructed with durable materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use.
- Beginner-Friendly: The stability and forgiving nature of these boards make them an excellent choice for those new to longboarding.
- Versatility: While ideal for cruising, longboard soft tops can also be used for carving and light downhill riding.
Construction and Materials
Understanding the construction of a longboard soft top is crucial for making an informed purchase. These boards typically consist of several key components:
- Core: The core of the board is usually made of lightweight EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam or a similar material. This provides buoyancy and structural integrity.
- Deck Covering: The soft top layer is typically made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam or a similar synthetic material. This provides the cushioning and grip that characterize longboard soft tops.
- Reinforcements: Many longboard soft tops include fiberglass or epoxy reinforcements to enhance their strength and durability.
- Trucks: The trucks are the metal axles that attach the wheels to the board. They are typically made of aluminum or steel.
- Wheels: The wheels are made of polyurethane and come in various sizes and durometers (hardness). Softer wheels provide a smoother ride, while harder wheels offer better speed and grip.
Choosing the Right Longboard Soft Top
Selecting the perfect longboard soft top requires careful consideration of several factors:
Riding Style
Consider your intended riding style. Are you primarily interested in cruising, carving, or light downhill riding? A longer board will provide more stability for cruising, while a shorter board will be more maneuverable for carving. [See also: Longboard Carving Techniques]
Board Length
Longboard soft tops come in various lengths, typically ranging from 36 to 48 inches. Longer boards offer more stability and are better suited for cruising, while shorter boards are more maneuverable and easier to carry. For beginners, a longer board (around 40-42 inches) is generally recommended.
Deck Shape
The shape of the deck can also influence the riding experience. Pintail decks are classic longboard shapes that offer good stability and control. Drop-through decks lower the center of gravity, making the board more stable and easier to push. [See also: Understanding Longboard Deck Shapes]
Wheel Durometer
Wheel durometer refers to the hardness of the wheels. Softer wheels (78A-82A) provide a smoother ride and better grip, while harder wheels (83A and above) offer better speed and durability. For longboard soft tops, softer wheels are generally preferred for their comfort and grip.
Trucks
The trucks are a critical component of the longboard soft top, affecting its stability and turning ability. Reverse kingpin trucks are commonly used on longboards and offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability. [See also: Choosing the Right Longboard Trucks]
Your Budget
Longboard soft tops range in price from around $100 to $300 or more. Consider your budget and choose a board that offers the best value for your money. It’s often better to invest in a higher-quality board that will last longer and provide a better riding experience.
Maintaining Your Longboard Soft Top
Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your longboard soft top. Here are a few tips:
- Clean the deck regularly: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the soft top deck. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Store the board in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the foam deck.
- Check the trucks and wheels regularly: Make sure the trucks are properly tightened and the wheels are spinning freely. Lubricate the bearings as needed.
- Replace worn parts: Replace worn wheels, bearings, or trucks as needed to maintain the board’s performance.
Longboard Soft Top: A Comfortable and Accessible Option
The longboard soft top offers a comfortable, forgiving, and accessible entry point into the world of longboarding. With its soft, grippy deck and stable design, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and experienced riders alike who are looking for a smooth and enjoyable cruising experience. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can choose the perfect longboard soft top to suit your individual needs and preferences, and embark on countless hours of fun and exploration.
Where to Buy Longboard Soft Tops
Longboard soft tops can be purchased from various retailers, including:
- Local skate shops
- Online retailers such as Amazon, Skate Warehouse, and Zumiez
- Sporting goods stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Academy Sports + Outdoors
Be sure to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the longboard soft top is a fantastic option for those seeking a comfortable, stable, and enjoyable longboarding experience. Its forgiving nature and enhanced grip make it ideal for beginners, while its smooth ride and versatile design appeal to experienced riders as well. With proper care and maintenance, a longboard soft top can provide years of fun and exploration. So, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a more comfortable alternative to traditional longboards, consider giving a longboard soft top a try. You might just find your new favorite way to cruise!
