Drop Down Longboard Shape
A drop down longboard shape is a variation of a freestyle longboard shape. The shape of a drop down longboard is very distinct. The deck curves down from the truck mounts and literally drops the standing platform down.
Most drop down longboard shape decks are around 40″ in length by 9″ wide but can be shorter or longer. A drop down longboard is a top mounted deck, meaning the deck is mounted on top of the trucks and wheels.
The main feature of the drop down longboard deck that separates it from other longboard shapes is the obvious drop in the deck. The size of the drop down can vary from a 1/2″ micro drop to a dramatic 2″ drop. This drop feature provides a few different perks to a rider that other longboard shapes cannot.
Perks of a Drop Down Longboard Shape
The drop in the longboard deck creates a small wall in front of the trucks. A rider can use this feature to assist them with slides by pressing the side of their foot against the wall. By doing this with both feet a rider can “lock” themselves into the longboard. This feeling can be compared to being locked into the bindings of a snowboard. For this reason many snowboarders really like the drop down longboard shape.
Another defining feature of the drop down longboard shape makes the riders platform lower to the ground providing a low center of gravity. This lower center of gravity is a huge help when sliding on a longboard. Snow boarders are used to being able to slide across the snow which allows
them to easily ride switch. With experience, a drop down longboard deck and the right wheels a longboarder can almost mimic the feel of riding a snowboard on a longboard.
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Having the riding platform closer to the ground also makes for a more stable ride at high speeds, preventing speed wobbles. Since most slides are performed at high speeds, this is an important feature to look for when considering a longboard shape for sliding.
Riders may also prefer having a drop down deck simply because the riding platform is lower to the ground. Some riders like being low to the ground because they are more comfortable kicking when the ground is nearer. Having a lower longboard deck can also make it easier to foot break because a rider does not have to squat as low on one leg.
Drop Down Longboard Shape Materials
A drop down longboard can be made of a variety of materials. Traditionally, skateboards are made of wood. Different brands and different companies use different types of wood to make longboards. But overall, a drop down deck should be made of hard wood and is usually made with more layers (plies) of wood. This ensures a very strong, sturdy board that will carry momentum and speed well.
Is a Drop Down Longboard Shape Right for You?
A drop down longboard shape is a great longboard for someone who is looking for a sturdy longboard that is low to the ground. Or for someone who would like to perform slides.
Check out our longboard shop at Lost Coast Longboarding to see what hand painted longboards we have in stock! If we don’t have what your looking for, we would be happy to help you create your own custom longboard order! We can build a board to suit your needs and we will provide you with a one of a kind longboard complete with hand painted artwork!
Thanks for Reading!
We hope you found this drop down longboard shape article informative! If you have any additional questions or comments, let us know in the comment section below.
And if you’d like information about other longboard shapes:
If you’d like to see some of our longboarding adventure articles, check out the links below:
- Best Skatepark for Longboarding: Frisco Skatepark
- Longboarding the Scenic Beartooth Highway
- Arroyo Grande Pump Track Near Las Vegas
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