Longboarding is a passion of many of us, but do you know about your favorite longboard’s intricate parts? If no, then you are at the right place. Today, we are going to discuss one of the significant parts of a longboard. What is the bottom of the longboard called? It is a commonly asked question these days. The bottom of your favorite longboard is known as a deck. Like all other parts, the deck affects your overall performance in every aspect.
Variety of Decks
There are many unique ways to ride on a longboard, and a deck can be of different types to meet your needs. A wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles is available in the market. But to choose the suitable one, you will need to know everything about a deck. The material, size, and shape of a deck decide how you will ride. First of all, we will discuss the deck construction.
Deck Construction
There are several materials used in the construction of a deck, among which some of them are getting popular these days; here they are:
- Maple
Most of the least expensive decks are made up of maple wood with 8 or 9 plys. Some of the longboards are even 4 ply maple and fiberglass on the top for the increased flex.
- Bamboo
This one is a bit expensive choice but is known to be stiffer and more durable. It can be flexy in some longboards but rigid in some as well. It is also a reason behind its popularity. Its combination with fiberglass makes the deck sturdier and stronger.
- Birch
Manufacturers also use birch for deck construction because of easy plying, but it’s not that common, like maple and bamboo.
Longboards can be of premium materials like fiberglass, carbon fibers, urethane, cork, etc. it depends on your needs and the longboard’s cost. Mostly, fiberglass is used on the top for more flex.
Deck Shapes
To match your riding needs, there are various deck shapes and styles. The most common deck types for an ideal longboard are:
- Directional
- Symmetrical
Directional:
Directional longboards have a deck type that allows you to only move in a single direction, which is forward. These are good choices for some, but not so exciting in many cases. Pitail, cruisers, carvers, and downhill boards are a type of directional ones, mostly.
Symmetrical:
Want some extra fun while riding a longboard? Go for the symmetrical or twin longboard deck type. You can enjoy sliding in different directions while using these boards.
Deck Styles
Now, coming towards the different deck styles to understand everything about the bottom of your longboard.
Top Mount
It is a traditional and least expensive deck style with an increased center of gravity. By top mount, it means the deck is mounted on the top of the trucks for better turning leverage, making it a versatile board for all freestyle riders and cruisers.
Drop Through
The name itself tells us the construction. The trucks are mounted through the deck, making it less exhausting for the rider because of the decreased space between deck and ground. It is the right style for long-distance and sturdy commuting.
Drop Deck
Unlike other styles, the drop deck looks a bit weird because the trucks are top-mounted here. The place where you set your foot is below the trucks for better stability and increased convenience while braking and turning.
Double Drop
A unique combo of drop deck and drop through, these double drop boards are good to go but rare to see. They are not so common because of the costly and challenging construction.
Deck Shapes
Deck shapes contribute an excellent part to your thrilling performance. Among multiple shapes, the following are the most demanding ones:
Concave
A suitable concave means you are safe and stable while riding on the board. Such boards have a bit higher edges for better grip. The concave amount depends on your riding style.
Kicktail
Kicktail means a lift-up edge. It can be on both sides or a single side of your skateboard, depending on if it’s symmetrical or directional board. Having a kicktail means you are free to perform various tricks.
Cutouts
Wheel cutouts are the best ways to prevent wheel bites. They help the wheels avoid contact between them and the deck, resulting in better turning responses without any mishaps.
W-concave
It is basically a double concave style for an expert rider. Usually, it is not available for all the boards, but only with double concave sections for some of the expensive longboards.
Wrapping Up
Now that you are well-aware of the deck and all the related factors, you will not face any problem while choosing the best longboard for yourself. The appropriate bottom of the longboard matters the most to make your rides extremely fantastic and fun-filled.
