What Is A Drop Through Longboard

A drop-through longboard is a type of longboard that has a lowered deck, which allows the rider to be closer to the ground. Unlike other longboard shapes, the deck of a drop-through longboard aligns with the truck’s baseplates, providing various benefits for riders.

One notable feature of a drop-through longboard is the notches cut out above the wheels. These notches help to prevent wheel bite, which can occur when the wheels come into contact with the deck while turning. By avoiding wheel bite, riders can enjoy a smoother and more responsive ride.

The drop-through design also provides excellent stability at high speeds, making drop-through longboards highly suitable for downhill riding and cruising. The lowered deck lowers the center of gravity, resulting in a stable and balanced ride. This stability is particularly beneficial for technical riding styles that involve sharp turns, slides, and maneuvers.

Drop-through Longboard Pros and Cons

If you are a beginner or looking for a versatile board for commuting and high-speed runs, a drop-through longboard may be the perfect choice for you. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of this type of board:

Pros:

• Versatility: Drop-through longboards are more versatile compared to drop-down longboards. They are suitable for various riding styles, including cruising, downhill racing, and technical riding.
• Stability at High Speeds: The drop-through design provides excellent stability at high speeds. The lowered deck lowers the center of gravity, resulting in a stable and balanced ride.
• Easy to Push: The low ride height of the drop-through longboard makes it easier to push, especially for commuting or long-distance riding.
• Flexibility: The deck of a drop-through longboard is more flexible, enhancing the overall riding experience.
• Easier Turns: Compared to drop-down longboards, drop-through boards are easier to turn. The design allows for smoother and more responsive maneuvering.

Cons:

• Harder to Slide: Due to their stable nature, drop-through longboards are more difficult to slide with compared to other types of boards. Sliding requires more practice and technique.
• Difficulty in Taking Sharp Corners: While drop-through longboards offer stability, they can be a bit challenging when it comes to taking sharp corners. Riders may need to adjust their technique and be more cautious.
• Limited Trick Capabilities: If you are into tricks and technical skating, drop-through longboards may not be the best choice. Their design prioritizes stability and cruising rather than trick performance.

Is a Drop-through Longboard Good for Cruising?

A drop-through longboard is an excellent choice for cruising. With its unique shape and design, this board offers a stable and enjoyable ride for those looking to cruise around town or commute to work.

The drop-through shape of the longboard allows for a lower ride height, which makes it easier to push and provides a more comfortable and efficient cruising experience. The lowered center of gravity also enhances stability at higher speeds, giving riders confidence and control.

While the drop-through longboard is primarily designed for cruising, it can also handle high speeds exceptionally well. Its stable nature ensures a smooth and controlled ride, perfect for long-distance cruising or even downhill riding. However, it may not be the best choice for tight turns or trick-based riding styles.

Drop-through vs drop-down: key differences

Drop-through and drop-down are two different shapes of longboard decks, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are the key differences between drop-through and drop-down longboards:

1. Mounting Style:

– Drop-through: The trucks are mounted through the deck, with the baseplates sitting on top of the deck. This results in the trucks being positioned lower than the deck.

– Drop-down: The deck has a noticeable drop in the wood near the truck mounts. The trucks’ baseplates are higher than the deck, while the rest of the truck sits below the deck.

2. Center of Gravity:

– Drop-through: The lower positioning of the trucks gives drop-through longboards a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability at high speeds.

– Drop-down: The drop in the deck creates a lower standing platform, also contributing to a lower center of gravity and increased stability.

3. Construction:

– Drop-through: These boards often have a lighter construction, utilizing fewer layers of hybrid maple and fiberglass.

– Drop-down: Drop-down decks are typically constructed with heavier materials, such as 9 to 11 plies of Canadian Maple with possible fiberglass layers, to compensate for the weakness caused by the drops.

4. Deck Shape and Size:

– Drop-through: Drop-throughs come in various sizes, typically ranging from 33″ to 42″. These boards offer more foot space as the deck is flat without any drops.

– Drop-down: Drop-down decks tend to be larger, often above 37″. The foot platform is shorter, suspended between the trucks, which limits the available foot space.

5. Wheel Clearance:

– Drop-through: Since the trucks sit below the deck, drop-through longboards usually have larger wheel cutouts or even wheel flares, allowing for larger wheels and better clearance.

– Drop-down: Some drop-down and drop-through boards feature wheel flares to increase wheel clearance, resulting in the ability to use bigger wheels for faster and smoother rolling.

Drop-through longboards offer a lower center of gravity, stability at high speeds, and more foot space, making them ideal for cruising and downhill riding. On the other hand, drop-down longboards provide a lower-standing platform and often have a heavier construction, suitable for technical riding and riders who prefer a more compact and stable ride. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and riding style when choosing between drop-through and drop-down longboards.

Drop-through vs drop down for different riding styles

When it comes to choosing the right longboard for your riding style, understanding the differences between drop-through and drop-down boards is crucial. Each design offers unique features that cater to specific riding preferences. Here’s a breakdown of how these two styles perform in different riding styles:

1. Carving and Tight Turns:

– Drop-Through: A drop-through longboard allows for better carving and tighter turns due to the rider’s feet sitting at the same height as the truck mounts. The deck’s higher position also provides more leverage over the trucks, enhancing maneuverability.

– Drop-Down: While drop-down boards offer stability at high speeds, they may be less ideal for carving and tight turns. The lower deck height reduces the leverage over the trucks, resulting in slightly less maneuverability.

2. Long Distance Pushing:

– Drop-Through: Although drop-through boards are versatile for all-around riding, including cruising and carving, they may not be the best option for serious long-distance pushing. The deck’s higher position can make it more challenging to maintain consistent pushing motions over extended distances.

– Drop-Down: Drop-down decks, particularly ultra-low riders or double drops, are well-suited for serious long-distance pushing. The lower ride height provides stability and efficient pushing motions for extended rides.

3. Urban Commuting:

– Drop-Through: For city commuting, a drop-through longboard is generally more suitable and versatile. Its higher deck position allows for easier rolling over cracks and bumps and facilitates hopping on and off sidewalks.

– Drop-Down: While not as ideal for urban commuting, drop-down boards can still be used. However, they may be more prone to bottoming out on rough pavement with numerous bumps.

4. Freeride and Sliding:

– Drop-Through: A drop-through longboard offers more levera

Drop-through Vs Drop-down For Beginners

A drop-through longboard is a suitable option for beginners who may struggle with balance and pushing on a longboard. The low ride height of a drop-through board offers stability and can assist beginners in building confidence and overcoming any apprehension about riding a longboard.

The foot pockets created by the drops provide a secure fit for your feet, making it easier to push and giving you a lower center of gravity. This design also helps when learning to gain speed on gentle slopes.

On the other hand, a drop-down longboard is an excellent option for newer riders who are already comfortable with basic pushing and moving around on a longboard but may not be ready for slopes just yet. The low center of gravity offered by a drop-down board helps beginners get comfortable with increasing speed on gentle slopes, gradually building their riding skills.

FAQs

Conclusion:

A drop through longboard is not just a piece of equipment, but a gateway to a whole new world of exhilarating experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this versatile board will take your skills to new heights and make every ride a thrilling adventure.

So, strap on your helmet, grab your board, and let the wind carry you to new horizons. Get ready to drop through the limits and embrace the freedom of the longboarding lifestyle!