Soft Top Longboards: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Cruising
Soft top longboards have surged in popularity among both beginner and experienced riders, offering a unique blend of comfort, stability, and fun. Unlike traditional hard-top longboards, these boards feature a soft, cushioned deck that enhances the riding experience, making them ideal for cruising, carving, and even some light downhill riding. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of soft top longboards, exploring their benefits, key features, how to choose the right one, and maintenance tips to keep your board in top condition.
What are Soft Top Longboards?
A soft top longboard is characterized by its deck, which is typically made from a combination of materials including expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, fiberglass, and a soft, grippy outer layer made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam or similar materials. This construction provides a comfortable and forgiving riding surface, reducing vibrations and making it easier to maintain balance. The softness of the deck also helps to absorb impacts, making it a great choice for beginners who are still learning to ride. The forgiving nature of a soft top longboard provides a comfortable ride.
Benefits of Riding a Soft Top Longboard
- Comfort: The soft deck provides superior cushioning, reducing foot fatigue and making long rides more enjoyable.
- Stability: The wider deck and soft surface offer enhanced stability, making it easier to learn and maintain balance.
- Durability: While soft, these boards are surprisingly durable and resistant to dings and scratches, thanks to their layered construction.
- Beginner-Friendly: The forgiving nature of soft top longboards makes them ideal for beginners who are just starting to learn.
- Versatility: Suitable for cruising, carving, and even some light downhill riding, offering a versatile riding experience.
Key Features to Look For
Deck Material and Construction
The deck is the heart of any longboard. When choosing a soft top longboard, look for decks made with high-quality EPS foam cores, reinforced with fiberglass layers for added strength and durability. The outer layer should be made of a soft, grippy material like EVA foam, which provides excellent traction even when wet.
Deck Size and Shape
Soft top longboards come in various sizes and shapes, each designed for different riding styles. Longer boards (40 inches or more) offer greater stability and are ideal for cruising, while shorter boards (36-40 inches) are more maneuverable and better suited for carving. Consider the shape of the deck as well; pintail shapes are classic for cruising, while drop-through decks offer a lower center of gravity for enhanced stability. A good soft top longboard will complement your riding style.
Trucks and Wheels
The trucks and wheels play a crucial role in the overall performance of your soft top longboard. Look for trucks made from high-quality aluminum, which are both lightweight and durable. The wheels should be soft and wide (70mm or larger) for a smooth and comfortable ride. Softer wheels absorb bumps and vibrations, providing a more enjoyable experience, especially on rough surfaces.
Grip and Traction
The grip and traction of your soft top longboard are essential for safety and control. Ensure that the deck has a textured surface or grip tape to prevent slipping. EVA foam decks typically offer excellent grip, even when wet, but you may want to add additional grip tape in certain areas for extra security. Check to see if the soft top longboard you’re interested in offers sufficient grip for your desired riding style.
How to Choose the Right Soft Top Longboard
Consider Your Riding Style
Before purchasing a soft top longboard, consider your riding style and what you plan to use the board for. Are you primarily interested in cruising along the boardwalk? Or do you want to carve up hills and practice tricks? Different boards are designed for different purposes, so choose one that aligns with your riding preferences.
Assess Your Skill Level
Your skill level is another important factor to consider. If you’re a beginner, look for a longer, wider board with soft wheels, which will provide greater stability and make it easier to learn. Experienced riders may prefer a shorter, more maneuverable board with stiffer wheels for enhanced performance. A soft top longboard can be a great choice for any skill level.
Set a Budget
Soft top longboards range in price from around $100 to $300 or more, depending on the quality of the materials and construction. Set a budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending. Keep in mind that investing in a higher-quality board will often result in a more enjoyable and durable riding experience.
Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations
Before making a purchase, take the time to read reviews and seek recommendations from other riders. Online forums, social media groups, and local skate shops are great resources for gathering information and getting advice. Pay attention to what other riders have to say about the performance, durability, and overall quality of different soft top longboards.
Top Soft Top Longboard Brands
- Wavestorm: Known for their affordable and durable soft top longboards, Wavestorm is a popular choice for beginners.
- GoldCoast: GoldCoast offers a range of high-quality soft top longboards with stylish designs and excellent performance.
- California Board Company (CBC): CBC is known for their innovative designs and durable construction, making them a great choice for riders of all skill levels.
Maintenance Tips for Your Soft Top Longboard
Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your soft top longboard in top condition. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the deck and wheels, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the soft deck material. Consider investing in a specialized longboard cleaner to keep your soft top longboard looking great.
Storage
When not in use, store your soft top longboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the deck to fade and crack. A board bag can also help to protect your board from dust, dirt, and scratches.
Inspecting and Tightening Hardware
Regularly inspect the trucks, wheels, and other hardware for signs of wear and tear. Tighten any loose bolts or screws to ensure that your board is safe and stable. Replace any worn-out parts as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Wheel Care
Keep your wheels clean and free of debris to ensure a smooth and consistent ride. Rotate your wheels regularly to prevent uneven wear. If your wheels become damaged or worn out, replace them with new ones to maintain optimal performance. Consider cleaning the bearings as well, to help the wheels of your soft top longboard spin smoothly.
Safety Tips for Riding Soft Top Longboards
- Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet when riding a soft top longboard, regardless of your skill level. Head injuries are common in skateboarding and longboarding accidents, so protecting your head is essential.
- Use Protective Gear: Consider wearing other protective gear, such as knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, especially if you’re a beginner.
- Ride in Safe Areas: Choose safe areas to ride, away from traffic and other hazards. Avoid riding on busy streets or in areas with a lot of pedestrians.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards, such as potholes, cracks, and other obstacles.
- Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt tricks or maneuvers that are beyond your skill level. Start slowly and gradually progress as you become more comfortable and confident.
The Future of Soft Top Longboards
As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative and high-performance soft top longboards in the future. Manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new materials and designs to improve the comfort, durability, and performance of these boards. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, a soft top longboard is a great way to enjoy the thrill of longboarding with added comfort and stability. [See also: Longboard Wheel Guide] The ongoing development of soft top longboards suggests they will continue to evolve and become even more popular.
Conclusion
Soft top longboards offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience, combining comfort, stability, and durability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a forgiving board to learn on or an experienced rider seeking a comfortable cruising option, a soft top longboard is an excellent choice. By considering your riding style, skill level, and budget, you can find the perfect board to suit your needs and enjoy countless hours of fun on the road. Remember to prioritize safety and maintain your board properly to ensure a long-lasting and enjoyable riding experience. Choosing the right soft top longboard can open up a whole new world of comfortable cruising.
