Skateboard tops

Tops for skateboards - choose the right one in the Sportano shopThe skateboard top, often simply referred to as the 'board', is a key component of any skateboard. It is what we place our feet on while riding, perform tricks and feel the connection with the ground. Its shape, size, material and construction have a direct impact on how the skateboard responds to our movements and the manoeuvrability it offers us.Types of tops: a variety of forms for different riding styles RidingSkateboard tops are extremely varied and are tailored to the needs of specific riding styles. A key aspect of choosing a top is determining what purpose you want to use it for. Among the most popular types of tops are: Street tops these short and relatively narrow tops are designed with urban street riding in mind. They are ideal for performing tricks, jumps and riding on stairs or railings. vert tops: these are boards designed for riding vertical ramps, or so-called half-pipes. They have more stiffness and are often slightly wider than traditional street tops. Cruiser tops: designed for comfortable long distance riding. They often have rounded edges and are wider for stability and a smoother ride. Longboard tops: longer and wider than most traditional skateboards, ideal for downhill and long distance riding. They can come in a variety of shapes including pintail, drop-through or fishtail. Freestyle tops: designed to perform complex tricks, they have a symmetrical shape and are often fitted with additional features such as a nose and tail to facilitate confident manoeuvres. When choosing a skateboard top, it is worth paying attention not only to its shape but also to the material of construction, which can affect its weight, durability and the way it responds to different manoeuvres. The final choice depends on the skater's individual preferences and the environment in which he or she skates most often.Materials used in production: from traditional wood to compositesWhen we think of skateboards, the first thought is often of traditional maple wood, which for decades has been the primary material in the production of tops. Maple wood is prized for its durability, flexibility and natural 'bounce'. However, as technology has advanced and the needs of skateboarders have evolved, manufacturers have begun to experiment with different materials in search of better performance and durability. Composites, such as carbon or glass fibre, have gained popularity in the skateboarding industry. Carbon fibre is lightweight yet extremely strong, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a durable but lightweight board. Fibreglass, although heavier than carbon, also offers exceptional strength and can be combined with other materials such as wood to create a composite top with excellent riding characteristics. In addition, the use of such materials allows the creation of more advanced shapes and profiles that would not be possible with wood alone. However, we should not forget other types of wood, such as bamboo, which has become increasingly popular among environmentally conscious skateboarders. Bamboo is a renewable raw material that is also durable and flexible, making it an excellent choice for those who want to combine sustainable choices with performance.Construction and layering: how the construction of a tabletop affects the its durabilityThe key to the strength and durability of a skateboard top is its layered construction. Most skateboards consist of several thin layers of wood or other material that are laminated together. This laminating process not only strengthens the board, but also allows manufacturers to manipulate its flexibility and torsional response. An important element of ply construction is the direction of the fibres in each layer. Interlacing the layers so that the fibres in one layer are aligned perpendicular to the fibres in the adjacent layer greatly increases strength and resistance to breakage. As a result, skateboards are able to withstand the enormous pressures and stresses that occur when riding and performing tricks. Equally important in the construction of the top are the adhesives used to laminate the layers. The adhesives must not only be strong, but also flexible to allow the board to bend and twist confidently without the risk of delamination. High-quality adhesives are resistant to moisture and temperature, ensuring that the worktop will last for many years of heavy use. Over the years, manufacturers have also experimented with different thicknesses and number of layers in the worktops to find the perfect balance between durability and flexibility. Some boards may only have three or four layers, while others may have seven or more. Choosing the right thickness and number of layers depends on the skateboarder's preference and what manoeuvres they plan to perform.