Soft Top Longboards: The Ultimate Guide to Comfortable Cruising
Soft top longboards are increasingly popular among both beginners and experienced riders seeking a comfortable and forgiving riding experience. Unlike traditional hard-deck longboards, soft top longboards feature a padded surface that enhances grip, reduces vibrations, and minimizes the impact of falls. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top longboards, from their construction and benefits to selecting the right board for your needs. Whether you’re looking to cruise along the boardwalk or learn basic longboarding skills, a soft top longboard might be the perfect choice.
What is a Soft Top Longboard?
A soft top longboard, as the name suggests, is a longboard with a deck covered in a soft, textured material. This material is typically made from EVA foam or similar closed-cell foam, providing a cushioned surface that is more comfortable than the hard wood or composite decks found on traditional longboards. The soft top is usually bonded to a rigid core, often made of wood or a composite material, to maintain the board’s structural integrity and responsiveness. This combination of soft top and rigid core offers a unique blend of comfort and performance.
Key Features of Soft Top Longboards
- Comfortable Deck: The soft top provides a cushioned surface that reduces foot fatigue and enhances grip.
- Enhanced Grip: The textured surface of the soft top provides excellent traction, even when wet.
- Forgiving Ride: The padded surface absorbs vibrations and reduces the impact of falls, making it ideal for beginners.
- Durable Construction: The combination of a soft top and rigid core ensures the board can withstand regular use.
- Versatile Performance: Suitable for cruising, carving, and learning basic longboarding skills.
Benefits of Riding a Soft Top Longboard
Choosing a soft top longboard offers several advantages over traditional longboards, particularly for beginners and casual riders. Here are some of the key benefits:
Increased Comfort
The primary benefit of a soft top longboard is the enhanced comfort it provides. The cushioned deck reduces foot fatigue, allowing you to ride for longer periods without discomfort. This is especially beneficial for beginners who may not be used to the constant vibrations and impacts of riding a hard-deck longboard. The soft top also makes it more comfortable to ride barefoot, which can be a great option for cruising along the beach.
Improved Grip and Stability
The textured surface of the soft top provides excellent grip, even when the board is wet. This is particularly important for beginners who are still developing their balance and coordination. The enhanced grip helps prevent slipping and sliding, making it easier to maintain control of the board. Additionally, the soft top can provide a more stable platform for learning new tricks and maneuvers.
Enhanced Safety
The soft top material offers a more forgiving surface in the event of a fall. The padded deck absorbs some of the impact, reducing the risk of injury. This is especially beneficial for beginners who are more likely to fall as they learn to ride. The improved grip also contributes to enhanced safety by reducing the likelihood of slipping and losing control.
Durability and Longevity
While the soft top material may seem delicate, it is actually quite durable and resistant to wear and tear. High-quality soft top longboards are constructed with closed-cell foam, which is waterproof and resistant to UV damage. This means that the board can withstand exposure to the elements without deteriorating. Additionally, the rigid core provides structural support, ensuring that the board can withstand the stresses of regular use.
Versatility
Soft top longboards are versatile boards that can be used for a variety of riding styles. They are particularly well-suited for cruising, carving, and learning basic longboarding skills. The comfortable deck and forgiving ride make them ideal for casual riders who want to enjoy a leisurely ride along the boardwalk. However, they can also be used for more advanced riding styles, such as downhill and freestyle, depending on the specific design and construction of the board. Some soft top longboards even feature drop-through truck mounts, which lower the center of gravity and enhance stability for high-speed riding.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Longboard
Selecting the right soft top longboard depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a board:
Board Size and Shape
Soft top longboards come in a variety of sizes and shapes, each designed for a specific riding style. Longer boards (over 40 inches) are generally more stable and easier to ride, making them ideal for beginners. Shorter boards (under 40 inches) are more maneuverable and responsive, making them better suited for carving and freestyle riding. The shape of the board also affects its performance. Pintail boards are classic longboard shapes that are great for cruising, while drop-through boards are designed for high-speed riding. Consider your riding style and skill level when choosing the size and shape of your soft top longboard.
Deck Material and Construction
The deck material and construction play a crucial role in the performance and durability of the soft top longboard. The soft top material should be made from high-quality EVA foam or similar closed-cell foam that is waterproof and resistant to UV damage. The rigid core should be made from wood or a composite material that provides structural support and responsiveness. Look for boards with multiple layers of wood or fiberglass reinforcement for added strength and durability. Check the quality of the bonding between the soft top and the rigid core to ensure that the two components are securely attached.
Trucks and Wheels
The trucks and wheels are essential components that affect the handling and performance of the soft top longboard. The trucks should be made from durable materials such as aluminum or steel and should be mounted securely to the deck. The wheels should be made from high-quality polyurethane and should be the appropriate size and durometer for your riding style. Softer wheels (lower durometer) provide a smoother ride and better grip, while harder wheels (higher durometer) are faster and more durable. Consider the type of riding you will be doing when choosing the trucks and wheels for your soft top longboard.
Riding Style and Skill Level
Your riding style and skill level should also influence your choice of soft top longboard. Beginners should look for boards that are stable and easy to ride, such as longer pintail boards with soft wheels. More experienced riders may prefer shorter, more maneuverable boards with harder wheels for carving and freestyle riding. Consider your current skill level and the type of riding you want to do when choosing a soft top longboard.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard
Proper maintenance is essential for prolonging the life of your soft top longboard and ensuring optimal performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your board:
Cleaning the Soft Top
Regularly clean the soft top to remove dirt, debris, and grime. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft brush to scrub the surface. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the board to dry completely before storing it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the soft top material.
Storing Your Board
Store your soft top longboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the soft top material to fade and deteriorate. Avoid storing the board in damp or humid conditions, as this can promote mold and mildew growth. Consider using a board bag to protect your soft top longboard from scratches and dings during storage and transportation.
Checking and Tightening Hardware
Regularly check the hardware on your soft top longboard, including the trucks, wheels, and mounting bolts. Make sure that all the bolts are tightened securely to prevent loosening during riding. Loose hardware can affect the handling and stability of the board, so it is important to keep everything properly tightened. Use a skate tool or wrench to tighten the bolts as needed.
Replacing Worn Parts
Replace worn parts as needed to maintain the performance and safety of your soft top longboard. Worn wheels can affect the grip and handling of the board, so it is important to replace them when they become too worn. Damaged trucks or mounting bolts should also be replaced to prevent accidents. Regularly inspect your board for signs of wear and tear and replace any worn parts as needed.
Conclusion
Soft top longboards offer a comfortable, forgiving, and versatile riding experience that is perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike. With their cushioned decks, enhanced grip, and durable construction, soft top longboards are ideal for cruising, carving, and learning basic longboarding skills. By choosing the right board and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy years of fun and comfortable riding. Whether you’re looking to explore your local boardwalk or learn new tricks, a soft top longboard is a great choice for anyone who loves to ride. Remember to consider factors like board size, deck material, trucks, and wheels when selecting your soft top longboard. Happy cruising!
[See also: Longboard Buying Guide]
[See also: Best Longboard Trucks]
[See also: Longboard Wheel Guide]
