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Soft Top Longboards: The Ultimate Guide to Cruising Comfort and Performance

Soft top longboards have surged in popularity among beginner and experienced riders alike, offering a unique blend of comfort, stability, and performance. Whether you’re carving down coastal roads or just cruising around the neighborhood, a soft top longboard can significantly enhance your riding experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into the specifics of soft top longboards, covering their construction, benefits, ideal uses, and factors to consider when choosing the right board for you. We aim to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision and enjoy the smooth ride a soft top longboard offers.

What are Soft Top Longboards?

Unlike traditional hard-top longboards made from layers of wood or fiberglass, soft top longboards feature a deck covered with a soft, grippy foam material. This foam layer provides superior comfort underfoot and enhances traction, making them particularly appealing for riders who prioritize a comfortable and forgiving ride. The core of a soft top longboard is typically constructed from EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam, similar to what’s used in surfboards, providing lightweight buoyancy and durability. The deck’s soft exterior often consists of EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) foam, known for its shock absorption and water resistance. This combination of materials offers a comfortable and safe riding experience. They are designed to be forgiving, making them a great choice for beginners learning the ropes, or seasoned riders looking for a more relaxed ride.

Benefits of Riding a Soft Top Longboard

Soft top longboards offer a plethora of advantages, making them a popular choice for riders of all skill levels:

Enhanced Comfort: The soft foam deck provides a cushioned feel, reducing foot fatigue during long rides. This is especially beneficial for beginners who are still developing their balance and stamina.
Improved Grip: The textured foam surface offers excellent grip, even when wet. This increased traction allows for greater control and stability, enhancing safety.
Increased Forgiveness: The soft deck absorbs vibrations and bumps, providing a smoother and more forgiving ride. This is particularly helpful for riders who are new to longboarding or who ride on uneven surfaces.
Durability: While the soft top might seem less durable than a hard-top, modern soft top longboards are built with robust materials that can withstand regular use. The EPS core is lightweight yet strong, and the EVA foam is resistant to water damage and wear.
Beginner-Friendly: The forgiving nature and increased stability of soft top longboards make them an excellent choice for beginners. The soft deck reduces the risk of injury from falls, and the enhanced grip makes it easier to learn basic maneuvers.
Versatility: Soft top longboards are versatile enough to be used for cruising, carving, and even some light downhill riding. Their forgiving nature makes them suitable for a variety of terrains and riding styles.

Who Should Ride a Soft Top Longboard?

Soft top longboards are ideal for a wide range of riders, including:

Beginners: As mentioned earlier, the forgiving nature and stability of soft top longboards make them perfect for beginners who are just starting to learn how to ride.
Casual Cruisers: If you enjoy leisurely rides around town or along boardwalks, a soft top longboard provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Families: Soft top longboards are a great option for families with children who want to learn to longboard together. The soft deck reduces the risk of injury, and the stable platform makes it easier for kids to get the hang of riding.
Surfers: Many surfers use soft top longboards for cross-training when the waves are flat. The board’s stability and smooth ride mimic the feel of riding a wave, helping surfers maintain their balance and coordination.
Anyone Seeking Comfort: Anyone who values comfort and a smooth ride will appreciate the benefits of a soft top longboard. Whether you have sensitive feet or simply prefer a more cushioned feel, a soft top longboard can enhance your riding experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Longboard

When selecting a soft top longboard, several factors should be taken into account to ensure you choose the right board for your needs:

Board Length

Longboard length typically ranges from 36 to 46 inches or more. Longer boards are generally more stable and easier to ride, making them a good choice for beginners and cruisers. Shorter boards are more maneuverable and responsive, making them suitable for carving and more advanced riding styles. Consider your riding style and skill level when choosing the appropriate board length. For example, a longer soft top longboard would be better for cruising, while a shorter one might be preferred for carving.

Board Width

Wider boards offer greater stability and foot placement options, while narrower boards are more responsive and easier to turn. A wider soft top longboard is often recommended for beginners as it provides a more secure platform.

Wheel Size and Durometer

Wheel size and durometer (hardness) significantly affect the ride quality of a longboard. Larger wheels roll over cracks and bumps more easily, providing a smoother ride. Softer wheels (lower durometer) offer better grip and shock absorption, while harder wheels (higher durometer) are faster and more durable. For soft top longboards, softer wheels are generally preferred as they complement the board’s forgiving nature and enhance comfort. The ideal wheel size also depends on the riding surface. Smoother surfaces benefit from larger wheels, while rougher surfaces do well with smaller, more manageable wheels.

Truck Type and Angle

Trucks are the metal axles that connect the wheels to the deck. Different truck types and angles affect the board’s turning radius and stability. Reverse kingpin trucks are commonly used on longboards as they provide greater stability and a smoother turning experience. The truck angle also affects the board’s responsiveness. Lower angles provide more stability, while higher angles offer sharper turns. The quality of the trucks is also crucial, as better quality trucks offer improved durability and performance. Considering the type of riding you’ll be doing will help determine the most suitable truck configuration.

Deck Shape and Concave

The deck shape and concave (the curvature of the deck) affect the board’s stability, grip, and responsiveness. Flat decks are more stable and easier to walk on, while concave decks provide better grip and control during turns. Drop-through decks, where the trucks are mounted through the deck, lower the board’s center of gravity, increasing stability. The deck shape contributes significantly to the overall feel of the ride, so it’s important to consider personal preference. A slight concave can enhance foot placement and control, particularly during carving.

Material Quality

The quality of the materials used in the construction of a soft top longboard directly impacts its durability and performance. Look for boards with a high-density EPS core and a durable EVA foam deck. The trucks and wheels should also be made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. Investing in a well-constructed board will ensure a longer lifespan and a more enjoyable riding experience. Check reviews and product specifications to ensure you’re getting a board made with quality materials.

Popular Soft Top Longboard Brands

Several brands specialize in producing high-quality soft top longboards. Some popular brands include:

Wavestorm: Known for their affordable and durable soft top surfboards, Wavestorm also offers a range of soft top longboards that are perfect for beginners and casual cruisers.
California Board Company (CBC): CBC offers a variety of soft top longboards with different shapes and sizes to suit various riding styles.
South Bay Board Co.: South Bay Board Co. specializes in soft top surfboards and longboards, offering high-quality products with innovative designs.
Foamie: Foamie focuses on creating fun and accessible soft top boards for all skill levels.

Tips for Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard

To ensure your soft top longboard lasts for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and dirt.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the foam and cause it to warp.
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your board for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears in the foam. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
Clean the Deck: Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the deck regularly. This will help remove dirt and grime and keep the foam looking its best.
Maintain the Trucks and Wheels: Keep the trucks and wheels clean and lubricated to ensure smooth performance. Tighten the truck bolts as needed to prevent wobbling.

The Future of Soft Top Longboards

As technology advances, we can expect to see further innovations in soft top longboard design and materials. Manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new foam formulations and construction techniques to improve the performance, durability, and sustainability of these boards. We may also see the integration of smart features, such as sensors that track your speed, distance, and riding style. The future of soft top longboards is bright, with endless possibilities for innovation and improvement. Soft top longboards provide a user-friendly and comfortable experience for riders of all levels, ensuring their continued popularity in the longboarding community.

In conclusion, soft top longboards offer a unique and enjoyable riding experience that is perfect for beginners, casual cruisers, and anyone who values comfort and stability. By understanding the benefits, factors to consider, and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can choose the right soft top longboard for your needs and enjoy countless hours of smooth and comfortable riding. These boards are not only fun but also a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill, improve your balance, or simply enjoy a relaxing ride, a soft top longboard is an excellent choice.

[See also: Longboard Buying Guide]
[See also: Best Longboard Wheels for Cruising]
[See also: Longboard Maintenance Tips]