The Prism Cole Trotta Pro longboard is making waves in the downhill skateboarding scene, and for good reason. This board, designed in collaboration with pro rider Cole Trotta, aims to be a versatile “do-it-all” deck suitable for city cruising, ollies, and high-speed freeriding. This review dives deep into the features, performance, and overall value of the Trotta Pro, offering insights for both beginners and experienced riders.
A Closer Look at the Prism Skate Co.
Prism Skate Co. has established itself as a skater-run brand known for producing quality decks and captivating media content. Their engaging YouTube videos offer a glimpse into the brand’s identity and passion for downhill skateboarding. With a reputation for good value and strong marketing, Prism boards are often a popular choice for riders of all levels. The brand’s consistent output of high-quality content and their dedication to the sport has garnered a loyal following within the longboarding community.
Interview with Cole Trotta: Behind the Design
The Cole Trotta Pro is the result of Cole’s vision for a board that can handle a variety of riding styles. In an interview, Cole shares his inspiration and design goals for this board:
- Versatility: The core concept behind the Trotta Pro was to create a board that could perform well in diverse skating environments, from casual city cruises to high-speed downhill runs.
- Comfort and Control: Cole aimed to make the board accessible and comfortable for riders of all skill levels, emphasizing a user-friendly design.
- Kicktail Performance: A crucial design element was the perfect kicktail, which Cole believes enhances the board’s versatility and responsiveness.
- Nimbleness and Stability: Finding the ideal balance between nimbleness and stability was crucial, leading to the board’s specific dimensions and construction.
- Durable Construction: The board’s construction was carefully considered to ensure stability at high speeds and during slides.
Cole’s goal was to create a deck that feels comfortable and performs well, regardless of skill level. He recommends setting the board up with Caliber trucks and Blood Orange wheels, allowing for customization to suit individual riding styles and preferences.
Prism Cole Trotta Pro: Detailed Review
Key Specifications
- Length: 38.5″
- Width: 9.75″
- Wheelbases: 22.875″ – 27″
- Construction: 8 plies of Canadian maple with a high-density top veneer
- Shape: Single kick with a subtle taper
- Concave: Mellow radial
The Prism Cole Trotta Pro is designed to be a comfortable and versatile freeride deck, suitable for riders of all skill levels. Its mellow concave, multiple wheelbase options, and functional kicktail make it adaptable to various riding styles and terrains.
Riding Experience
The Trotta Pro offers a comfortable and ergonomic riding experience, allowing for multiple foot positions without feeling restrictive. The mellow radial concave is a key feature that enhances riding without being overly aggressive. This design allows for both comfortable cruising and confident slides. The multiple wheelbase options allow riders to fine-tune the board to their preferences, with a longer wheelbase for stability at speed and shorter wheelbases for quicker turns. The taper is subtle and doesn’t negatively affect the riding experience.
Prism Trotta Pro DeckThe comfortable concave on the Prism Trotta Pro guides foot placement without being restrictive.
One potential drawback is that the mellow concave might not offer the same level of “lock-in” as more aggressive designs. However, this can be mitigated by using a coarse griptape. Additionally, some riders might find the board a bit flat, especially if they are used to more pronounced concaves. However, the overall comfort and versatility of the board more than make up for this.
Riding the Prism Trotta ProRiding the Prism Trotta Pro demonstrates its versatility on diverse terrains.
The board’s construction is solid and durable, capable of withstanding impacts. However, the deck exhibits slightly more torsional flex than expected from a single-kick maple board. While this doesn’t appear to hinder performance, it is worth noting.
Key Features in Detail
- Concave: The mellow radial concave offers a comfortable ride, enhancing the experience without being restrictive, contributing to a board that’s easy to cruise on, but still capable of advanced maneuvers.
- Wheelbase Options: The multiple wheelbase options provide great adjustability, catering to different riding styles and preferences, which allows for fine tuning the board’s stability and turning responsiveness.
- Kicktail: The steep kicktail, though initially unusual, proves functional for ollies and navigating urban obstacles, adding to the board’s versatility and playfulness.
- Construction: The 8-ply Canadian maple construction is durable, but has a touch of torsional flex, although this does not significantly impact the overall riding experience.
- Flush Mounting: The flush mounting is well-executed, enhancing the board’s overall performance and aesthetics.
Close-up of the concave on the Cole Trotta ProThe mellow radial concave of the Cole Trotta Pro ensures a comfortable and versatile ride.
Potential Downsides
- Torsional Flex: The board has some torsional flex, which might not be ideal for riders who prefer a super stiff deck, though it doesn’t noticeably affect performance.
- Mellow Concave: Riders who prefer a more aggressive concave might find this board too flat, though this can be adjusted with the right grip tape.
- Initial Foot Placement: Some riders may initially experience a slight adjustment period in finding their foot position due to the mellow concave, but this is quickly overcome with practice.
Front Wheel Flare on the Trotta ProThe front wheel flare on the Trotta Pro adds to its overall design and functionality.
Is it worth the price?
At a price of $176, the Prism Cole Trotta Pro is a solid value, offering quality construction and versatile performance. Though some might find it slightly expensive compared to other Prism decks, the durability and overall riding experience justify the cost. The board’s design makes it an investment that will provide long-lasting performance and enjoyment.
Rear Concave of the Prism Trotta ProThe rear concave on the Prism Trotta Pro is designed for comfort and control.
Who is the Prism Trotta Pro for?
The Prism Trotta Pro is an excellent choice for a wide range of riders, from beginners to experienced freeriders. The board’s versatility and comfortable design make it a great option for:
- Beginners: The mellow concave and multiple wheelbase options provide a stable and forgiving platform for learning.
- Intermediate Riders: The board’s adaptability allows riders to explore different styles and refine their skills.
- Advanced Riders: The Trotta Pro offers ample performance for freeriding and downhill skating, making it a great choice for experienced riders seeking versatility.
However, riders with smaller feet might find the deck a bit too wide. In this case, the Landyachtz Freedive may be a better alternative.
Flush Mounting on a Prism/Madrid BoardThe flush mounting on the Prism/Madrid board enhances its stability and performance.
Recommended Setups
The reviewer highlights two setup options, demonstrating the board’s versatility:
Setup 1:
- Wheelbase: 25 inches
- Trucks: Valkyrie Voxters (160-170mm hanger width, 45/45 baseplate angles)
- Bushings: Venom HPF barrels
- Risers: 1/4 inch
- Wheels: Various
Valkyrie trucks on a Prism BoardValkyrie trucks on a Prism Board, a recommended setup for optimal performance.
Setup 2:
- Wheelbase: 25 inches
- Trucks: Caliber trucks (158mm or 180mm hanger width, 44/44 baseplate angles)
- Bushings: Venom HPF barrels
- Risers: 1/8 inch
- Wheels: Various
Caliber trucks on the Prism Trotta ProCaliber trucks on the Prism Trotta Pro provide a stable and versatile setup.
These setups are not definitive and can be adjusted based on individual preferences and riding styles. However, they show the board’s versatility.
Final Thoughts
The Prism Cole Trotta Pro is a well-designed and versatile longboard deck that delivers on its promise of being a “do-it-all” board. Its comfortable concave, multiple wheelbase options, and functional kicktail make it a joy to ride in various settings. While it might have a touch more torsional flex than some riders prefer, this doesn’t hinder the overall performance, and actually adds a touch of forgiveness to the freeriding experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the Trotta Pro is a great choice that is worth considering.
Kicktail on the Trotta ProThe kicktail on the Trotta Pro is functional for ollies and navigating obstacles.
The Prism Cole Trotta Pro is a testament to the design philosophy of combining performance with comfort, and is a great example of what modern freeride longboards should strive to achieve.
Riding the Trotta ProRiding the Trotta Pro showcases its performance and versatility.
Back flush mounting on the Prism board the Cole TrottaThe back flush mounting on the Prism board the Cole Trotta ensures a smooth and secure ride.
Front part of the boardThe front part of the board showing its subtle taper and quality construction.
Trotta Pro SignageThe Trotta Pro signage, highlighting its branding and design.
Prism boardRiding a Prism board, demonstrating its stability and performance.
