Seismic Lokton griptape has garnered a reputation for its exceptional grip, especially among downhill longboarders. But does it live up to the hype? This in-depth review explores the nuances of Lokton griptape, examining its grip, durability, application, and overall performance to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your riding style.
Seismic Lokton Griptape: An In-Depth Review
Grippiness: Unmatched Bite and Hold
The standout feature of Seismic Lokton griptape, particularly the 36-grit version, is its incredible grip. It doesn’t just offer friction; it provides a noticeable “bite” that locks your feet firmly in place. This initial grab is what sets Lokton apart from other grip tapes, offering a level of security that inspires confidence, especially when tackling high speeds and aggressive maneuvers. The 60-grit version offers a similar bite but allows for easier foot adjustments, making it a good option if you prefer a bit more freedom of movement.
Close-up of Seismic Lokton griptape showing its coarse texture
The sharpness of Lokton is considerable, making it feel grippier than many other options on the market. This extreme sharpness also means that you’ll want to be careful when handling your board, as it can be quite abrasive.
Durability: Built to Last
One of the primary advantages of Seismic Lokton griptape is its exceptional durability. Unlike many other grip tapes, Lokton doesn’t wear down quickly. While it may lose a small percentage of its sharpness over an extended period (around 6 months to a year), it far surpasses the longevity of other brands. For example, Vicious grip tape can lose a significant amount of grip in just weeks, while even a good option like Cuei grip can degrade in a few months. Lokton’s ability to retain its grip makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Landyachtz El peligro Longboard with Seismic Lokton Griptape
Flaking and Bald Spots: Minimal Issues
The flaking and wear issues common with other grip tapes are minimal with Lokton. Even with aggressive use and brake soles, it doesn’t readily flake or become bald. It’s worth noting that the cutout versions of Lokton can experience minor flaking on the rails and areas of frequent foot movement but these are superficial and don’t noticeably impact performance.
Close-up of Seismic Lokton griptape showing some minor flaking on cutouts
Application: A Tricky Adhesive
The pressure-sensitive adhesive used by Seismic Lokton can be a bit tricky to work with. It doesn’t adhere easily and requires firm pressure to ensure a good bond. The best approach is to apply the grip tape and then stand on it, or go for a ride soon after application. Some users resort to superglue or heat to enhance adhesion, although applying pressure seems to be the most effective method.
Concave and Flexibility: The Paper Backing Challenge
One of the main drawbacks of Seismic Lokton is its inflexible paper backing. This makes it difficult to apply on boards with steep concave features or rails. The paper backing doesn’t wrap well, which can be a significant challenge. The cutout versions of Lokton offer a better option, providing some flexibility, but it still doesn’t match the ease of application found in grip tapes with plastic backings.
Foot Shifting: Requires Deliberate Movements
The aggressive grip of Lokton means that shifting your feet requires deliberate movements. This can take some getting used to, and it might be unsettling, particularly at high speeds. However, most riders adapt to this and learn to shift their feet without compromising stability.
Solid Sheets vs. Cutouts: Which is Right for You?
The choice between solid sheets and cutouts depends on your priorities:
Solid Sheets
- Provide superior grip, especially when combined with brake soles.
- Offer a more “locked-in” feel.
- Are slightly more challenging to apply.
- Are generally more affordable.
Cutout Sheets
- Are more flexible and easier to apply, especially on complex deck shapes.
- Are slightly less grippy than solid sheets.
- Are usually more expensive.
- Offer a more stylish look.
The difference in grip is noticeable, but not huge and many people don’t find it to be a deciding factor.
Landyachtz Small Blind longboard with solid Seismic Lokton Griptape
60-Grit vs. 36-Grit: Choosing Your Grip Level
The 60-grit version of Seismic Lokton offers a strong initial bite, but it’s not as grippy as the 36-grit version. This makes foot adjustments easier. The 60-grit grip is a versatile option that’s great for freeriding, where you need a secure feeling but also want to be able to move your feet. It’s also a good option for the back foot on a downhill setup, as it provides sufficient grip without being overly abrasive.
Comet Orbiter with 60 grit seismic Lokton griptape
The 36-grit version, on the other hand, provides maximum grip, which is ideal for aggressive downhill riding and when using brake soles. Many riders find that the 36-grit is too grippy for some situations, such as freeriding.
Personal Setups and Recommendations
Here are a few sample board setups that utilize Seismic Lokton griptape effectively:
- Landyachtz Freedive Reef: 60-grit for versatility and freeride capabilities.
- Comet Orbiter: 60-grit for a good balance of grip and foot mobility.
- Landyachtz Small Blind: 36-grit Honeycomb for maximum grip.
- Landyachtz El Peligro: 36-grit on the front foot for maximum control, and 60-grit on the back foot for a good balance of grip and shoe preservation.
Landyachtz Freedive Longboard with Seismic Lokton Griptape
Conclusion: Is Seismic Lokton the Right Grip for You?
Despite a few challenges with application and flexibility, Seismic Lokton griptape is arguably one of the best grip tapes on the market, especially for downhill longboarding. Its exceptional grip, impressive durability, and minimal flaking make it a top contender for any serious rider. If you’re looking for maximum grip and long-lasting performance, Seismic Lokton is worth the investment. While it may require some adjustment, the secure feeling and confidence it provides make it an undefeated choice for many.
