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Soft Top Longboards: A Comprehensive Guide to Comfortable Cruising

Soft top longboards have surged in popularity, offering a unique blend of comfort, stability, and accessibility for riders of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned longboarder looking for a more relaxed ride or a beginner just starting out, a soft top longboard might be the perfect choice. This guide will delve into the world of soft top longboards, exploring their benefits, features, and how to choose the right one for your needs. We’ll also cover maintenance tips and address frequently asked questions to ensure you get the most out of your soft top longboard experience.

What are Soft Top Longboards?

Unlike traditional longboards with hard, often slick, decks, soft top longboards feature a deck covered in a soft, textured material, typically EVA foam. This foam provides a comfortable, grippy surface that enhances stability and reduces the risk of slipping, especially for beginners. The core construction of a soft top longboard usually consists of a durable material like wood or composite, providing the necessary strength and rigidity for riding.

Benefits of Soft Top Longboards

Enhanced Comfort: The soft deck material provides a cushioned feel underfoot, making long rides more comfortable and enjoyable. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not be used to the vibrations and impact of riding a traditional longboard.
Improved Grip: The textured surface of a soft top longboard offers superior grip, even when wet. This increased grip enhances stability and control, reducing the risk of slipping and falling.
Increased Stability: The combination of a soft, grippy deck and a wider stance promotes stability, making soft top longboards ideal for beginners and those looking for a more relaxed cruising experience.
Beginner-Friendly: The forgiving nature of soft top longboards makes them an excellent choice for beginners. The increased stability and grip provide a confidence-boosting experience, allowing new riders to learn the basics more easily.
Versatility: While often associated with cruising, soft top longboards can also be used for various other riding styles, including carving and even some light downhill.
Durability: Many soft top longboards are built with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The soft top itself can also protect the underlying deck from scratches and dings.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Longboard

Deck Size and Shape

The size and shape of the deck play a crucial role in the performance and feel of a soft top longboard. Longer decks (over 40 inches) generally offer more stability and are better suited for cruising, while shorter decks (around 36-40 inches) are more maneuverable and ideal for carving. The shape of the deck can also influence its riding characteristics. Pin-tail shapes are common for cruising, while drop-through decks offer a lower center of gravity for increased stability.

Trucks and Wheels

The trucks and wheels are essential components that affect the turning radius, speed, and overall ride quality of a soft top longboard. Look for trucks made from durable materials like aluminum or steel. Wheel size and durometer (hardness) also matter. Larger, softer wheels provide a smoother ride and better grip, while smaller, harder wheels offer faster acceleration and more slide potential.

Deck Material

While the top layer is soft foam, the core of the soft top longboard is usually constructed from wood (maple is common) or composite materials. Wood decks offer a classic feel and good flex, while composite decks are often lighter and more durable. Consider the weight and flex characteristics of the deck material when making your decision.

Soft Top Material

The most common material used for the soft top is EVA foam. The thickness and texture of the EVA foam can vary between different boards. Look for a soft top longboard with a foam that feels comfortable underfoot and provides good grip. Some soft top longboards feature additional layers of padding or texturing for enhanced comfort and grip.

Soft Top Longboards vs. Traditional Longboards

The key difference between soft top longboards and traditional longboards lies in the deck material. Traditional longboards typically have hard decks made from wood or composite materials, often with a grip tape surface. Soft top longboards, on the other hand, feature a soft, foam-covered deck. This difference in deck material results in several key differences in performance and feel:

Comfort: Soft top longboards offer significantly more comfort than traditional longboards, especially for long rides.
Grip: The soft, textured deck of a soft top longboard provides superior grip compared to traditional grip tape.
Stability: Soft top longboards tend to be more stable, making them easier to ride for beginners.
Durability: While both types of longboards can be durable, soft top longboards may be more resistant to scratches and dings on the deck surface.
Performance: Traditional longboards generally offer better performance for advanced riding styles like downhill and sliding.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your soft top longboard in good condition and ensuring its longevity. Here are some tips:

Clean the deck regularly: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the soft top deck. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Store your longboard properly: Store your soft top longboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Check the trucks and wheels: Regularly inspect the trucks and wheels for wear and tear. Tighten any loose bolts and replace worn-out parts as needed.
Protect the soft top: Consider using a longboard bag to protect the soft top from scratches and damage during transport.

Who are Soft Top Longboards For?

Soft top longboards are an excellent choice for:

Beginners: The increased stability and grip make them ideal for learning the basics of longboarding.
Casual Cruisers: The comfortable ride and forgiving nature make them perfect for leisurely rides around town or along the beach.
Those Seeking Comfort: If you prioritize comfort over performance, a soft top longboard is a great option.
Families: Soft top longboards can be a fun and safe activity for the whole family.

Where to Buy Soft Top Longboards

Soft top longboards are available at most reputable skate shops, online retailers, and sporting goods stores. Be sure to compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase. Consider visiting a local skate shop to try out different boards and get expert advice.

Conclusion

Soft top longboards offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience, combining comfort, stability, and accessibility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, a soft top longboard can be a great addition to your quiver. By considering the key features, benefits, and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can choose the right soft top longboard for your needs and enjoy countless hours of comfortable cruising. Remember to always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet and pads, when riding your longboard. Consider exploring different riding styles and [See also: Longboard Tricks for Beginners] to further enhance your longboarding journey.