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Soft Top Longboards: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Cruising

Soft top longboards have surged in popularity among both beginners and experienced riders seeking a comfortable and forgiving ride. These boards, characterized by their soft, textured deck, offer a unique blend of stability, cushioning, and grip, making them ideal for cruising, carving, and even some light downhill riding. This guide will delve into the features, benefits, and considerations when choosing a soft top longboard, ensuring you make an informed decision for your next skating adventure.

What are Soft Top Longboards?

Unlike traditional hard-deck longboards made from wood or composite materials, soft top longboards feature a deck covered in a soft, grippy material, often EVA foam. This material provides a more comfortable surface for your feet, reducing fatigue and enhancing control. The soft top also absorbs vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride, especially on rough surfaces. Many soft top longboards incorporate a traditional wood core beneath the soft top layer, providing structure and rigidity. This combination of soft and hard materials delivers the best of both worlds: comfort and performance.

Benefits of Riding Soft Top Longboards

Enhanced Comfort: The primary advantage of soft top longboards is their superior comfort. The soft deck cushions your feet, making longer rides more enjoyable.
Improved Grip: The textured surface of the soft top provides excellent grip, even when wet. This reduces the risk of slipping and enhances control, particularly for beginners.
Vibration Absorption: Soft top longboards effectively absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, resulting in a smoother and more stable ride.
Increased Forgiveness: The soft deck is more forgiving than a hard deck, making it easier to recover from minor balance issues. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who are still developing their skills.
Durability: While the soft top material is comfortable, it’s also surprisingly durable. Many high-quality soft top longboards are designed to withstand regular use and resist wear and tear.
Beginner-Friendly: The comfort, grip, and forgiveness of soft top longboards make them an excellent choice for beginners who are just starting to learn how to ride.

Key Features to Consider

Deck Construction

The construction of the deck is a critical factor in the performance and durability of a soft top longboard. Look for boards with a solid wood core, typically made from maple or bamboo. This core provides the necessary rigidity and strength. The soft top layer should be made from high-quality EVA foam or a similar material that is both comfortable and durable. The best soft top longboard decks will seamlessly integrate the soft top and core for optimal performance.

Deck Shape and Size

The shape and size of the deck influence the board’s stability, maneuverability, and overall riding experience. Longer boards offer greater stability and are ideal for cruising, while shorter boards are more maneuverable and better suited for carving. Consider your riding style and experience level when choosing the deck shape and size. Pin tail shapes are classic and great for cruising, while drop-through decks offer a lower center of gravity for added stability.

Trucks and Wheels

The trucks and wheels play a crucial role in the board’s handling and performance. Look for trucks made from durable materials like aluminum or steel. The width of the trucks should match the width of the deck for optimal stability. The wheels should be made from high-quality polyurethane (PU) and have a durometer (hardness) rating that suits your riding style. Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide a smoother ride and better grip, while harder wheels (higher durometer) are faster and more durable. The right wheels will drastically improve your soft top longboard experience.

Bearings

Bearings are small components that allow the wheels to spin freely. High-quality bearings can significantly improve the board’s speed and efficiency. Look for bearings with a high ABEC rating (e.g., ABEC 7 or ABEC 9) for smoother and faster performance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating the bearings, can help extend their lifespan and maintain their performance. Proper maintenance will ensure your soft top longboard continues to ride smoothly.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Longboard for You

Consider Your Riding Style

Before purchasing a soft top longboard, consider your riding style and intended use. Are you primarily interested in cruising, carving, or downhill riding? Each riding style requires a different type of board. Cruising boards are typically longer and more stable, while carving boards are shorter and more maneuverable. Downhill boards are designed for speed and stability at high speeds. Consider how often you plan to ride your soft top longboard.

Assess Your Experience Level

Your experience level is another important factor to consider. Beginners should choose a board that is stable, forgiving, and easy to control. Longer boards with softer wheels are generally a good choice for beginners. Experienced riders may prefer a more responsive and maneuverable board. Soft top longboards are great for all skill levels but choosing the right size and shape will help you advance your skills.

Set a Budget

Soft top longboards range in price from around $100 to $300 or more. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it. Keep in mind that higher-priced boards typically offer better quality materials and construction, which can translate to improved performance and durability. However, there are also many excellent budget-friendly options available. Researching different soft top longboard brands can help you find a board that fits your budget and needs.

Top Soft Top Longboard Brands

Several brands offer high-quality soft top longboards. Some of the most popular and reputable brands include:

Wavestorm: Known for their affordable and durable soft top surfboards and longboards, Wavestorm is a popular choice for beginners.
California Board Company (CBC): CBC offers a wide range of soft top longboards designed for cruising and carving.
South Bay Board Co.: Specializing in soft top boards, South Bay Board Co. offers a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different riding styles.
Gold Coast: Gold Coast offers stylish and high-performance soft top longboards for riders of all skill levels.

Maintenance and Care for Your Soft Top Longboard

To keep your soft top longboard in good condition, it’s important to perform regular maintenance and care. Here are some tips:

Clean the Deck: Regularly clean the soft top deck with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the soft top material.
Protect from Sunlight: Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent the soft top from fading or deteriorating.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect the deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings for any signs of damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.
Clean and Lubricate Bearings: Clean and lubricate the bearings regularly to maintain their performance. Use a bearing cleaning kit and lubricant specifically designed for skateboard bearings.
Tighten Hardware: Check and tighten all nuts and bolts regularly to ensure that the board is properly assembled and safe to ride.

Safety Tips for Riding Soft Top Longboards

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

Wear a Helmet: Always wear a helmet when riding a longboard, regardless of your skill level.
Wear Protective Gear: Consider wearing other protective gear, such as knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards, especially if you are a beginner.
Choose Safe Riding Locations: Ride in designated areas or on smooth, paved surfaces away from traffic. Avoid riding on busy streets or in areas with obstacles.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of pedestrians, cars, and other hazards.
Learn to Brake Safely: Practice braking techniques, such as foot braking and sliding, in a safe and controlled environment.
Start Slowly: If you are a beginner, start slowly and gradually increase your speed and skill level as you become more comfortable.
Never Ride Under the Influence: Never ride a longboard under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Soft Top Longboards: A Comfortable and Fun Way to Cruise

Soft top longboards offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience, combining comfort, grip, and forgiveness. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a forgiving board to learn on or an experienced rider seeking a more comfortable cruising experience, a soft top longboard is an excellent choice. By considering the key features, choosing the right board for your needs, and following proper maintenance and safety guidelines, you can enjoy countless hours of fun and comfortable riding. So, grab your helmet, find a smooth stretch of pavement, and experience the joy of cruising on a soft top longboard! Finding the perfect soft top longboards for your needs can be a rewarding experience.